Dhankar Lake, also known as Suraj Tal, is a high-altitude lake in northern India's Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at an altitude of around 4,300 meters above sea level and is surrounded by towering peaks and stunning landscapes.
The lake is fed by the glaciers in the surrounding mountains and is known for its crystal-clear waters that reflect the beauty of the surrounding scenery. The lake is also home to various fish species, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
The trek to Dhankar Lake is quite challenging, as it involves a steep climb up the rocky terrain of the mountain. However, the stunning views of the Spiti Valley and the surrounding mountains make the effort worth it. The trek usually starts from the village of Dhankar, home to an ancient monastery dating back to the 12th century.
The trek to Dhankar Lake takes visitors through rugged terrain and past breathtaking vistas, including gurgling streams, lush green meadows, and towering peaks. Visitors can also spot wildlife along the way, including Himalayan ibex, blue sheep, and snow leopards.
Once visitors reach the lake, they can spend some time exploring the surrounding area and taking in the beauty of the landscape. Many visitors also choose to camp near the lake, as it offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and experience the peace and tranquillity of the high-altitude mountains.
Places To Visit Near Dhankar Lake:
Dhankar Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake located near the village of Dhankar in the Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. The lake is situated at an altitude of around 4,270 meters above sea level and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
Dhankar Monastery:
The Dhankar Monastery is an ancient Buddhist monastery located on a hilltop near the village of Dhankar. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the Spiti Valley, known for its beautiful murals, statues, and thangkas.
The Pin Valley National Park is located near Dhankar and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. The park is home to rare and endangered species like the snow leopard, Siberian ibex, and Himalayan blue sheep.
The Tabo Monastery is a UNESCO World Heritage Site 48 km from Dhankar Lake. It is one of the region's oldest and most famous monasteries and is known for its beautiful frescoes and murals.
Kaza is the Spiti Valley's largest town, around 36 km from Dhankar Lake. It is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty, ancient monasteries, and adventure activities like trekking and mountaineering.
Langza is a small village around 24 km from Dhankar Lake. It is known for its beautiful landscape and ancient fossils of marine creatures found in the surrounding hills.
Hikkim is a small village around 25 km from Dhankar Lake. It is known for having the world's highest post office and is a popular tourist destination among adventure enthusiasts.
Komik:
Komik is a small village around 30 km from Dhankar Lake. It is known as the highest village in Asia and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and valleys.
Chandratal Lake is a beautiful high-altitude lake around 130 km from Dhankar Lake. It is known for its stunning beauty and is a popular camping and trekking destination among adventure enthusiasts.