Satopanth Tal Lake is a triangle-shaped lake situated about 14,000 ft from the sea level much beyond Badrinath and Mana Village. Apparently, it is not an ordinary lake and even the ancient scriptures are a testimony to its greatness.
Story and Mahabharat connection
The Legend is that the holy trinity featuring Lord Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva descends on earth during auspicious days to take a dip in this sacred lake and meditate here.
Perhaps, this explains why Satopanth Tal Lake is triangular. According to Mahabharata, it is through the passage of Satopanth Tal Lake that the five Pandava brothers and their wife Draupadi made their way to Swargarohini Peak, which is believed to be a way to heaven.
The Importance
Many saints have eulogised the lake and the area surrounding it to be highly charged with spiritual currents of ancient yogis and seers.
Might be the lucky ones who visit the lake site can witness the mighty Chaukhamba, Neelkanth, Balakun, Parvati and other mountain peaks.
Many of those who visit the lake worship it, perform rituals, and take a dip in its sanctifying waters. However the lake still remains clean due to constant vigilance and cleaning efforts carried out by the celestial entities.
There is believes that the birds living around the Satopanth Tal Lake are none other than the Gandharvas. who clean the lake of any unwanted stuff or litter left behind by visiting devotees.
There are many caves en route the trek that can be used by the trekkers for a halt. Hence, trekkers should also make a pit stop at Vasundhara falls. which is well known for its unusual source of its waters.
Trip Plan
Day 1: Reach Badrinath from Haridwar (310 km)
Day 2: Get acclimated to the weather of Badrinath. Visit Badrinath temple and other holy sites located closeby. Stay at Mana Village.
Day 3: Trek to Laxmivan from Mana Village. (9 km). Stay at a camp.
Day 4:Trek to Chakratirtha (11 km).
Day 5: Trek to Satopanth Tal–5 km–3/4 hours. Spend an hour and return to Chakratirtha–10 km– 8 hours.
Day 6: Trek from Chakratirtha to Mana (17 km). Return by car to Badrinath.
Day 7: Drive from Badrinath to Haridwar (310 km).
Useful tips
The best time to visit Satopanth Tal Lake is May, June, September and October. Advised to all tourist , For better acclimatization, reach Joshimath before Badrinath and stay there for a night.
Might tourists may opt to board the buses that start from Haridwar between 4 and 5 AM. We advice, to ensure your trek is successful, contact one of the trekking agencies that run tours to Satopanth Lake.
Remember, This trek does not involve any mule but relies only on human porters. This is also important to know that, The entire region from Mana to Satopanth Lake is low on oxygen content. So, it is advisable to acclimatize well before launching yourself for this yatra.
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