Introduction
Nachiketa Taal: A Natural Wonder
Nestled amidst the pristine Himalayan landscape, Nachiketa Taal is a hidden gem that beckons travelers seeking solace in the lap of nature. This secluded lake, veiled in mystique, offers an untouched wilderness experience. In this 1000-word article, we will delve into the captivating allure of Nachiketa Taal, uncovering its rich history, unique ecosystem, and the adventure it offers to intrepid explorers.
A Glimpse of Nachiketa Taal’s History
Nachiketa, so the legend goes, was King Udalak’s son. Udalak once planned a yagya and made the decision to provide his favourite goods to the Brahmins who were invited. Nachiketa, his five-year-old son, observed his father donate broken cows and useless items. He explained to his father that this sort of philanthropy is illegal. You’ve chosen to contribute your favourite items, therefore since I’m also your favourite, please donate to me. Udalak informed Nachiketa that I would be donating you to Yama after Nachiketa had repeatedly asked the same question. They waited for Yamraj for three days while he was hungry and thirsty in the domain of death. Yamraj was pleased and granted him boons. According to reports, Nachiketa’s Yama Dwar, which is next to this Nachiketa Taal, is where the conversation with Yama took place.
Getting There: The Journey to Nachiketa Taal
Chowrangikhal is a village at a distance of 29 Kms on Uttarkashi Rishikesh, Kedarnath road. Chowringikhal is a sparsely populated village, but it is the main stop for travelers returning from Gangotri to Kedarnath or Rishikesh. There are many places to eat and drink here and some handicraft shops too. There is also Siddha Peeth of Guru Chauranginath here.
Many routes from Chowringikhal take you to the top of the unknown beautiful bugyals and hills.
One of these less popular beautiful places is Nachiketa Tal. To reach Nachiketatal, one has to walk about 3 km from Chowringikhal. In the beginning, a fee of Rs 10 per person is charged in the post of the Forest Department. Apart from this, the Forest Department has no other role, you can understand it better after reaching Nachiketal.
Nachiketa Taal: A Jewel in the Mountains
The Nachiketa Tal access route is a broad, well-maintained walk. Nachiketa Tal is 2455 metres above sea level in height. The climb is precisely cut so that you can ascend the height without growing weary. This route is quite scenic as it winds through the lush Deodar, Banj, Buransh, Kafal, and Chir woods, among others. There are numerous species of birds throughout the entire forest. The forest is home to numerous wild animals, including ghural, kankar, tigers, and bears, according to the local people. The one sadhu who has been practising meditation in Nachiketa Tal for around 15 years also confirms this.
It takes 3 kilometres to reach Nachiketa Taal lake. Two sheds are also available for resting along the trip. Since drinking water is not available along the entire route, it must be prepared in Chowringikhal. This 200-meter-long, 30- to 35-meter-wide pool is 7 to 10 feet deep. There is no plan in place to clean the lake, which is completely covered in silt-soil and plants. Despite this, the combination of a natural pond and a lush forest brings about mental and visual tranquilly. The Nachiketa lake is home to big fish populations as well. The seeds of these fish are claimed to have been placed here by an Englishman.
Camping by the Lakeside
In Nachiketa Tal, there are no arrangements for overnight lodging. The Forest Department’s sole guest home is already on fire. However, the sadhanarat sadhu demands that you spend the night in his cabin here in the bush. Additionally, there are currently no restrictions on you erecting your tent here in the grassy field. For the overnight camping trip, every setup must be brought with you.
Nagpanchmi Festival
On Nag Panchami, local people organise a fair in Nachiketa Taal. On this day, everyone views soaking in the lake’s holy water as a good deed. Uddalak Rishi is supposed to have constructed Nachiketa Tal. Nachiketa, the son of Udalak Rishi, is commemorated by the name Nachiketa, which was given to this lake.
A small cave, also known as Yamdwar, and a legendary temple honouring the snake god are both located close to Nachiketa Tal. The local people have a lot of stories and legends about this location. According to legend, deities continue to take baths in Nachiketatal Lake, and at night, conch, bell, and gong echoes can be heard there. According to legend, Savitri brought her husband Satyavan back to life by keeping his body on this Yamdwa.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nachiketa Taal stands as a testament to the raw, unbridled beauty of nature. Its rich history, breathtaking scenery, and adventure offerings make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. As you plan your next escape, consider the allure of Nachiketa Taal, a place where serenity and adventure coexist in perfect harmony.
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FAQs
- Is Nachiketa Taal accessible throughout the year? Nachiketa Taal is usually accessible from May to October. During winter, heavy snowfall makes it challenging to reach the lake.
- Are there any accommodations near Nachiketa Taal? While there are no accommodations directly at the lake, you can find guesthouses and lodges in Uttarkashi, which is the base for visiting Nachiketa Taal.
- Can I swim in Nachiketa Taal? Swimming in Nachiketa Taal is discouraged to protect its fragile ecosystem. It’s best to enjoy the view and the surroundings without disturbing the lake.
- Is there a permit required to visit Nachiketa Taal? Yes, visitors are required to obtain a permit from the forest department before trekking to Nachiketa Taal. This permit helps in regulating the number of visitors and ensures the preservation of the area.
- What is the best time of day to visit Nachiketa Taal for photography? The early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting conditions for photography at Nachiketa Taal. The soft sunlight enhances the beauty of the surroundings.