Vasuki Tal Trek

Vasuki Tal is a high-altitude glacier lake located in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand amidst the Garhwal Himalayas. It is located at an altitude of 4135 meters (13566 feet) above sea level at the base of Mt. Satopanth.  As it is a glacier lake the water is crystal clear. Due to its location with views of surrounding Himalayas Vasuki Tal is a very popular trekking destination for adventure enthusiasts providing stunning views of Garhwal peaks like Bhagirathi, Shivling, Meru, Thalaysagar, Satopanth. Vasuki Tal is named after serpent king Vasuki who according to Hindu mythology assisted in churning of the cosmic ocean.

The Vasuki Tal trek is a high-altitude trek and is a moderate to severe difficulty trek. It is a 7–9-day trek, covering a distance of around 63-65 km, and reaches an altitude of 14642 feet. The route passes over glaciers and morraines and offers stunning views of some famous peaks of Garhwal like Bhagirathi, Shivling, Meru, Thalaysagar, Satopanth.

The best time to undertake the trek is during the spring and summer months, from May to mid-June and from September to mid-October.

History Of Vasuki Tal

The name Vasuki Tal is derived from the serpent king Vasuki who assisted in the churning of the cosmic ocean. It is also here that Lord Vishnu bathed.

The Pandavas also passed Vasuki lake on their journey after the epic battle.

King Nahusha who was cursed by sages attained salvation at Vasuki Lake. Due to its mythological significance and its close proximity to Kedarnath Vasuki Tal becomes a popular destination in adventure seekers seeking spirituality.

Highlights Of Vasuki Tal Trek

Abundance Natural Beauty - As it’s a high altitude trek the ascend to the region provides stunning views of Garhwal peaks like Bhagirathi, Shivling, Meru, Thalaysagar, Satopanth. The lake itself offers crystal clear water and often reflects the surrounding mountain peaks in it.

In the season one can spot abundance of Himalayan flora like Brahma Kamal floating in the lake water. The trek passes through a wide variety of terrains, forests, glaciers and green meadows.

Gaumukh 

Gaumukh literally means “Mouth of a cow”, a glacial snout which is the origin of river Ganga from its source the Bhagirathi river. It is a sacred site for Hindus and one can reach Gaumukh enroute Vasuki tal trek on day 3/4. Only a limited number or people are allowed to trek the region owing to climatic disturbances. Hence one can see the splendid nature at its pure form.

Tapovan

Tapovan is a high altitude beautiful meadow located 14640 feet above sea level. It encircles the base of Mt. Shivling and thus becomes a perfect campsite enroute Vasuki Tal Trek. One can take in the green meadows, bubbling streams and Himalayan flora like wildflowers. While reaching Tapovan one will be greeted with sights of Bharal (blue mountain goats) which are indigenous to the region.

Difficulty Level Of Vasuki Tal Trek

Vasuki Tal Trek is a high-altitude trek of 4135 meters and is considered moderate to challenging in difficulty level. The trek is of about 65kms spanning 7- 8 days covering steep ascents and at time unpredictable weather conditions.

The Vasuki Tal trek is generally considered moderate to challenging. It requires good physical fitness due to steep ascents, rocky terrain, high altitude, and potential for unpredictable weather. At high terrain one will even be required to traverse the region on snow or ice.

The trek is not suitable for families with young kids less 10 yrs old due to its uneven terrain and long walking hours. Acclimatization is also crucial as nights at high-altitude can be colder than expectations. During summer time, temperatures are comfortable but unpredictable weather can add difficulties.

For climbing technicalities, there are no major technical sections, so no particular mountaineering skills are required but a prior trekking experience is beneficial while undertaking this trek. The guidance of a professional mountaineer or experienced guide is important here. Solo trekking is not advisable. Trekkers should make the preparations after seeing all perspectives.

Best Time To Visit Vasuki Tal Trek

Summer months of May – June and Late September October is the best time to trek Vasuki Tal. During these months the weather is pleasant and accessible for trekking. The day time temperature ranges from 10- 20 degree C and night time temperature can fall as low as even 0 degree owing to its high altitude.

Months of monsoon July – August early September should be avoided due to danger of landslides and slippery terrains.

This trek is not advisable during winter months due to extreme cold temperatures with heavy snowfall and icy terrains.

How To Reach For Vasuki Tal Trek

The starting point for the Vasuki trek is Dehradun. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant airport which is in Dehradun itself. From Dehradun it is 8-9 hr drive to Gangotri which is nearly 235kms in distance.

Dehradun is well connected to all major cities of Uttarakhand and major cities like Delhi and Chandigarh.

Vasuki Tal trek starts from Gangotri and it is a 65kms trek and takes about 8 days.

Things To Carry For Vasuki Tal Trek

As with all treks one should pack all the trek essentials like a study backpack, good quality trekking shoes, comfortable yet warm clothing including waterproof jacket, thermals which can be easily layered according to your needs. Apart from this one should also carry a headlamp, torch, sunglasses and sunscreen. Some provisions of food and water must also be taken care of before beginning the trek.  A first aid kit should definitely be included in your backpack which should include all your basic medicines and even specific medicines if you take it on regular basis. A government Id proof like Aadhar Card must also be carried whilst trekking. All permits and necessary permissions must be taken and sorted before the trek starts.