Deoria Tal
Published on November 05, 2024
The trek takes us across the district of Rudraprayag in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. Nestled amidst the Garhwal Himalayas and its enriching vegetation and wildlife, Chopta offers everyone something to take back home. The entire region abuts the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary. You will get mesmerising mountain views all around — with lots of snow as well, depending on the season. You will visit the highest Shiva temple in the world — Tungnath, at 12,000+ ft and summit Chandrashila trek Tungnath is one of the Panch Kedar temples devoted to Lord Shiva and is famed to be older than 1,000 years.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a peace seeker, or a traveler drawn to mystical places, the Deoria Tal Trek is a short yet soul-stirring journey that combines mythology, scenic beauty, and a deep sense of calm.
Where is Deoria Tal?
Deoria Tal (also spelled as Devariyatal or Deoriatal) is a high-altitude lake located at approximately 2,438 meters (8,000 feet) in the Rudraprayag district of Uttarakhand, India. The lake is surrounded by dense forest and offers a stunning view of Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, and other Himalayan peaks reflected in its mirror-like waters.
The base village for the trek is Sari, which lies about 12 km from Ukhimath and is accessible via road from Rishikesh, Haridwar, or Dehradun.
The Mythology: Where Gods Once Spoke
Deoria Tal is steeped in spiritual and mythological significance. According to the locals and ancient scriptures, this serene lake is believed to be the very place where Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava from the Mahabharata, encountered the divine spirit Yaksha.
The Yaksha Prashna Story:
As per the Mahabharata, during their exile, the Pandavas were wandering in the forest when they became extremely thirsty. One by one, four of the brothers found a beautiful lake and tried to drink from it — but a mysterious Yaksha (spirit) stopped them, asking them to answer his questions first. Ignoring the warning, they all collapsed, unconscious.
Finally, Yudhishthira arrived and respectfully engaged with the Yaksha, answering all his riddles with wisdom and humility. Impressed, the Yaksha revealed himself as Yama, the god of death and Yudhishthira’s father, and brought his brothers back to life.
Though many locations across India claim this legend, Deoria Tal is widely believed by locals to be the actual site of this divine encounter. The name “Deoria” comes from “Devasthal,” meaning abode of the gods.
The Trekking Experience
The trek to Deoria Tal is one of the easiest and most rewarding Himalayan treks, making it ideal for beginners, families, and solo travelers alike.
Trek Route:
• Starting Point: Sari Village (about 6,600 feet altitude)
• Trek Distance: Approx. 2.5 km (takes 1.5 to 2 hours)
• Trek Level: Easy
• Trail: Gradual ascent through rhododendron forests, terraced fields, and charming Himalayan villages
Upon reaching the lake, you’re greeted with absolute silence — broken only by birdsong or a gentle breeze. The still water reflects snow-clad peaks like a perfect mirror, especially during sunrise and early morning hours.
You can either camp by the lake (with permission from the forest department) or trek back to Sari the same day. It’s also a gateway to longer treks like Chopta–Tungnath–Chandrashila, for those wanting more adventure.
What Makes Deoria Tal Special?
• Peace & Spiritual Vibe: The untouched natural surroundings make it feel sacred, even without a temple or crowd.
• Stunning Views: On a clear day, you’ll see Chaukhamba, Bandarpoonch, Neelkanth, and other majestic peaks.
• Photography Heaven: The lake’s still waters offer picture-perfect reflections, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Camping Delight: With starry skies above and snow peaks reflecting in the water, it’s a magical overnight stay for trekkers.
• Rich Biodiversity: The area is part of the Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, home to birds, Himalayan langurs, and more.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for the Deoria Tal trek is from March to June and September to November.
• Winter (Dec–Feb): Snowfall makes the trek more adventurous but may require local guides and snow gear.
• Monsoon (July–Aug): Trails may be slippery and cloudy — not ideal for views or photography.
Essentials to Carry
• Warm layers (even in summer, nights are cold)
• Trekking shoes with grip
• Water bottle and snacks
• Sunscreen, cap, sunglasses
• Headlamp or torch (if camping)
• Power bank
• Valid ID & forest permit if staying overnight
How to Reach Deoria Tal
1. Delhi to Rishikesh/Haridwar (by train/bus)
2. Rishikesh to Ukhimath (via shared cabs or private vehicle)
3. Ukhimath to Sari Village (12 km drive)
4. Trek from Sari to Deoria Tal (2.5 km)
TourMyHoliday offers Delhi-to-Delhi Deoria Tal trek packages including transport, guide, meals, permits, and camping options.
Final Thoughts: A Trek That Stays With You
The Deoria Tal trek may not be the longest or the highest, but it’s one of those rare journeys that quietly leave a mark on your soul. The lake doesn’t just reflect the mountains — it reflects your thoughts, your peace, and your presence in that moment.
For those seeking a short escape into nature, without the noise and the rush, Deoria Tal is the answer.
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Book your Deoria Tal Trek with TourMyHoliday today.
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