Overview
Nachiketa Tal Trek – A Serene Lake in the Heart of Uttarkashi
Nestled amidst dense Oak and Pine forests, Nachiketa Tal is a tranquil lake located at an altitude of 2,457 meters in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, near the banks of the Bhagirathi River. Surrounded by natural beauty and spiritual significance, this serene destination is perfect for nature lovers and trekkers seeking peace and scenic views.
The trek is named after Nachiketa, the son of Sage Uddalak, who, according to mythology, discovered the truth of life and death at the young age of 10. Beside the lake stands a small Nag Devta temple, and during Nag Panchami, locals visit this sacred site to offer prayers.
What Makes Nachiketa Tal Trek Special?
Easy Trek, Ideal for Beginners and Families:
With a total trekking distance of 6 km, this route is gentle and does not pose risks of high-altitude sickness. It is perfect for those new to trekking or traveling with family.Panoramic Himalayan Views:
Witness breathtaking views of Himalayan peaks including Bandarpunch, along with lush meadows, serene lakes, and vibrant forests filled with flora and fauna.Experience Garhwali Culture:
Interact with locals and immerse yourself in Garhwali traditions, folklore, and stories that add depth to your journey.Magical in Every Season:
Winters: The lake and forest are draped in snow, creating a white wonderland.
Summers: Meadows bloom with wildflowers and the forest comes alive with color.
Key Highlights of Nachiketa Tal Trek
Duration: 2 Nights / 3 Days
Base Camp: Uttarkashi
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Trek Level: Easy
Altitude: 2,443 meters
Trek Distance: 6 km (on foot), 344 km (by road)
Temperature:
Summer: 8°C to 15°C (Day), 5°C to 12°C (Night)
Winter: 2°C to 5°C (Day), -1°C to -3°C (Night)
Short Itinerary
Day 1: Pickup from Dehradun Railway Station – Drive to Uttarkashi (150 km / 6–7 hrs). Overnight stay in a hotel.
Day 2: Drive to Chaurangikhal (22 km / 1–2 hrs) – Trek to Nachiketa Tal (3 km) – Explore the area – Return to Uttarkashi.
Day 3: Drive back to Dehradun (150 km / 6–7 hrs).
Iitinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Uttarkashi (Base Camp Arrival)
Distance: 150 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Mode of Travel: By taxi
Altitude: 3,799 feet (Uttarkashi)
Night Stay: Hotel (Twin-sharing basis)
Pickup will be arranged from Dehradun Railway Station between 6:00 to 7:00 AM. The journey to Uttarkashi offers stunning views of the Bhagirathi River and lush green forests. The route passes through scenic mountain terrain and small hill towns.
On reaching Uttarkashi, the base camp near the Asi Ganga River, check into your hotel and rest for the night.
Day 2: Trek to Nachiketa Tal via Chaurangikhal and Return to Uttarkashi
Drive Distance: 22 km (Uttarkashi to Chaurangikhal)
Trek Distance: 6 km (both ways)
Total Duration: 6–7 hours (including trek and travel)
Altitude: 2,443 meters (Nachiketa Tal)
Mode of Travel: By taxi + on foot
Night Stay: Hotel in Uttarkashi (Twin-sharing basis)
After breakfast, depart by vehicle to Chaurangikhal, the trek starting point (approx. 22 km drive). From here, begin the short but enchanting 3 km trek through dense Oak and Pine forests to reach the peaceful Nachiketa Tal.
Spend some quiet time at the lake, explore the surroundings, and soak in the panoramic Himalayan beauty. Later, trek back to Chaurangikhal, where transport will take you back to Uttarkashi. Overnight stay in the hotel.
Day 3: Uttarkashi to Dehradun (Return Journey)
Distance: 150 km
Duration: 6–7 hours
Mode of Travel: By taxi
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin the return journey to Dehradun. Enjoy the scenic drive once more and reach by approximately 4:00 PM.
Inclusion
What is Included In This Trek?
Transport Facility from Dehradun to Dehradun. Tempo Travllers or Bolero Taxi
Forest Permit and entrance fee
Accommodation in The Grand Shiva Hotel at Sankri Best Accommodation
Accommodation in tents on twin share basis
All meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, Coffee, Snacks, Soup and Dinner
High quality tents
Sleeping bags
Mattress
Liner
Separate Toilet tents – Ladies and Gents
Dining Tent
Dining Table
Kitchen team
Radio Walkie Talkie for Communication
Good Experience Trek Leader guide and Technical guide
Medical Kit
Oxygen Cylinders
Crampons and Gaiters
Trek essentials
Necessary Items to Carry on a Trek
1. Basic Trekking Gear
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Backpack (with rain cover) | 50–60L with padded straps |
| Daypack (with rain cover) | 20–30L (if off-loading backpack) |
| Trekking Poles / Walking Stick | 1 |
| Water Bottle | 2 thermos flasks (1L each) |
| Snacks | Energy bars, dry fruits, electrolyte |
2. Clothing Guide (Based on Season)
| Item | Summer | Winter |
|---|---|---|
| Quick-dry collared T-shirt | 2–3 | 2–3 (Full sleeves) |
| Fleece T-shirt (Full sleeves) | 2 | 2–3 |
| Fleece Jacket | 2 | 2 |
| Down Jacket | 1 (available on rent) | 1 (available on rent) |
| Thermal Inner (Top & Bottom) | 1 pair | 2 pairs |
| Quick-dry Trek Pants | 2–3 pairs | 2–3 pairs |
| Waterproof Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Woollen Gloves | 1 pair | 1 pair |
| Poncho / Rain Jacket & Pants | 1 | 1 |
| Lightweight Quick-dry Towel | 1 | 1 |
3. Head Gear
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Head Torch | 1 |
| Sun Cap | 1 |
| Woollen Cap | 1 |
| Balaclava | 1 |
| Buff / Neck Gaiter | 1 |
| Sunglasses | 1 |
4. Footwear
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Trekking Shoes (High ankle) | 1 pair |
| Flip-flops | 1 pair |
| Cotton Socks | 2–3 pairs |
| Woollen Socks | 2 pairs |
| Gaiters | 1 pair |
| Microspikes | 1 pair |
5. Personal Care Essentials
| Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Toothpaste | 1 |
| Toilet Paper | 1 roll |
| Hand Sanitizer | 1 |
| Lip Balm | 1 |
| Light Towel | 1 |
| Moisturizer | 1 |
| Sunscreen (SPF 30–40) | 1 |
6. Personal Medical Kit
Item | Quantity |
|---|---|
Pain Reliever | 1 strip |
Motion Sickness Medicine | 1 strip |
Fever/Headache Medicine | 1 strip |
Allergy Medicine | 1 strip |
Diarrhoea Medicine | 1 strip |
Cream/Spray for Sprains | 1 |
Antiseptic Cream | 1 |
ORS | 1–2 packets |
Band-aids | 5–6 |
Cotton | 1 small roll |
Gauze | 2 pieces |
Scissors | 1 |
Tweezers | 1 |
Elastic Bandage | 1 |
Diamox 125/250 mg | 1 strip |
Diamox 500 mg | 4–5 pills |
Nifedipine 20 mg | 1 strip |
Dexamethasone (4 mg) | 1 strip |