Satopanth Tal

Relevance and History

Located in the midst of snow capped peaks at an altitude of 16,000 ft. from sea-level, Satopanth Tal is 22 km ahead of Badrinath. Balakun Peak, Kuber Top, Mt. Nilkantha, and Mt. Swargarohini are the peaks visible en route. The lake remains under snow from the end of September to mid of May or sometimes end of June. The normal summer temperature remains around 12°C in day and 7°C to -5°C in night, while the winter temperature may drop to even -25°C in day and -36°C in night. The lake is considered to be of religious significance to the local people. Many people believe that the Tri-moortis, viz, Brahma, Vishnu and Mahesh, take bath in the lake on an auspicious day. Also the birds found here are believed to be Gandharvas disguised, who guard the lake against evils. They pick up the pollutants of the lake and thus keep the lake clean.

Trek Route

The trek to Satopanth starts from Mana, 3 km ahead of Badrinath. Crossing the river Alakananda, we have to trek the regular trekking route to Vasudhara, the trail ascends higher and one sees Vasudhara Falls at a distance on the other bank of Alakananda River. Then crossing a dangerous glacier, the local name of which is Dhano Glacier, one reaches Laxmivan, 5 km ahead of Vasudhara. The night stay is done at caves or tents, which is very essential on the route. Laxmiban is 13 km from Badrinath. The next day, if one starts early they can reach Chakratirth 5 km ahead, by crossing the Dhano Glacier, at mid-day. After taking a nap, one should immediately start for Sahasradara, 3 km ahead. The Satopanth Top from where Kuber Glacier, and Kuber Top is visible, is only 3 km from Sahasradhara. The back face of Mt. Nilkantha is visible from here. From here Satopanth Tal is only a 2 km trek.

Best Time to Visit

July to September is the ideal time for one to visit the tal.

How to Reach

By Road

Motorable road connects Satopanth tal upto Mana 3 km ahead of Badrinath. One can go treking to Satopanth tal from Mana. From here it is 18 Km trekking.

By Train

Rishikesh railway station is the nearest railhead 300 Km from Mana. Taxi or jeeps are available to Mana from Rishikesh railway station.

By Air

Jolly Grant airport Dehradun is the nearest airport 318 km from Mana through Rishikesh. Tourists find taxi or jeep to Mana from Jolly Grant airport.