Kanasar Lake
Published on April 07, 2025
Kanasar Lake Chakrata – Uttarakhand’s Secret Alpine Lake & Forest Camp (Complete Guide)
Kanasar Lake – The Hidden Emerald of Chakrata’s Deodar Kingdom
Location: 25 km from Chakrata town | Surrounded by 600-year-old deodar trees. Also called: Kanasar Taal / Kanasar Forest Lake Elevation: 8,200 ft (2,500 m) Lake size: Small natural pond (100 m circumference) – crystal clear & emerald green Best time 2026: March–June & September–November Entry: FREE | Camping allowed with permission
Imagine a tiny mirror-like lake tucked inside one of the oldest and thickest deodar forests in Asia, where trees are so tall and dense that sunlight falls in golden beams like in a fairy tale. That’s Kanasar Lake. Just 25 km from Chakrata, this is the perfect half-day escape for anyone who wants peace, photography, camping, and zero tourists.
The 600-Year-Old Deodar Forest & Local Legend
Kanasar is famous for its ancient deodar (Himalayan cedar) forest. Some trees are over 20 feet in girth and 600–800 years old. Locals call it “Devban” (Forest of the Gods).
Jaunsari folklore says: Long ago, a powerful sage named Kana Rishi meditated here for 12 years under a massive deodar tree. When he finally opened his eyes, his tears of joy fell and formed the lake. The forest gods blessed the water — anyone who drinks it with a pure heart gets their wishes fulfilled. Even today, villagers tie red threads on the “Kana Rishi Tree” (the biggest deodar beside the lake) and whisper their wishes.
British forest officers in the 1900s used this forest for ship masts — they called it “Kanasar Timber Reserve”. Thankfully, it’s fully protected now.

Why Kanasar Lake is Pure Magic
- Tallest deodar trees in Uttarakhand — feels like walking inside an ancient cathedral
- Emerald-green lake that reflects the sky and trees perfectly
- Zero commercialisation — not a single shop or stall
- Camping heaven — forest department allows tent stay (₹500–800/night with permit)
- Wildflower meadow in summer, golden grass in autumn, snow carpet in winter
- Birdwatcher’s paradise — Himalayan monal, koklass pheasant, woodpeckers
Complete Visit & Camping Details
Distance from Chakrata: 25 km (1 hour drive) Road condition: Fully motorable till lake parking (even hatchbacks reach) Walk: 200 metres from parking to lake (flat & easy) Time required: 3–5 hours (or full day with picnic/camping) Camping: Swiss tents & dome tents available (₹1,500–2,500/night with bonfire & meals) Permit: Required for overnight — get from Chakrata Forest Range Office (₹200/group)
2025 Updates:
- New wooden boardwalk around the lake
- Eco-toilets & dustbins installed
- Guided nature walks by Jaunsari locals (₹400/group)
Best Time to Visit Kanasar Lake
| Month | Lake Colour | Forest Vibe | Temperature | Highlight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| March–May | Bright emerald | Fresh green + rhododendron | 12–25 °C | Wildflower carpet |
| June–Aug | Deep green | Lush & misty | 15–27 °C | Full-force greenery |
| Sep–Nov | Mirror-like | Golden deodar needles | 8–20 °C | Best photography season |
| Dec–Feb | Frozen edges | Snow-dusted ancient trees | -5–12 °C | Winter camping & igloo vibes |
October = photographer’s dream (golden forest + clear reflections).
What to Carry
- Picnic mat + snacks (no shops)
- Warm jacket (forest is always 4–5 °C cooler)
- Camera + wide lens (for tree reflections)
- Red thread or coin (for the wish tree tradition)
- Torch & power bank (if camping)
- Reusable water bottle — lake water is drinkable!
Food & Camping Experience
- Forest department camp serves simple veg meals (₹200–300)
- Maggi & tea at parking (₹50)
- Many groups carry their own barbecue kit for bonfire nights
- Try local mandua (finger millet) roti with ghee — served by nearby villagers

Responsible Tourism Rules
- No plucking leaves or breaking branches
- Bonfire only in designated pits
- Carry back all plastic
- No loud music after 9 PM
- Do not feed monkeys
How to Reach from Delhi
Delhi → Dehradun → Chakrata → Kanasar (well-marked forest road) Total: 335 km | 8.5–9 hours Our packages include morning drop + evening pickup (or overnight camping add-on).
Final Words
Kanasar Lake is not just a water body — it is a living, breathing temple of 600-year-old deodars and centuries-old silence. One sip from the lake, one wish under the ancient tree, one night under a sky full of stars — and you’ll understand why the sages never left.
Still hidden. Still sacred. Still waiting for you.
Ready for the quietest, most beautiful day of your life? Book your Chakrata + Kanasar Lake package now → https://www.tourmyholiday.com/packageDetails/chktopkg
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