Yulla Kanda Lake

Published on August 30, 2025

Yulla Kanda Lake – A High-Altitude Gem in the Himalayas

Hidden deep in the mountains of Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh lies Yulla Kanda Lake, a place that feels untouched by time. Located at an altitude of around 3,900 meters (12,800 feet), this lake is not just a natural wonder but also a spiritual destination. For travelers seeking peace, beauty, and adventure, Yulla Kanda Lake is truly a gem of the Himalayas.

A Lake Surrounded by Pure Wilderness

Yulla Kanda Lake sits like a mirror in the middle of high alpine meadows and rugged mountain slopes. The water is crystal clear, reflecting the blue sky, snowy peaks, and surrounding greenery. When you stand near the lake, you feel the fresh mountain breeze on your face, hear the rustle of grass in the wind, and realize how far you are from the noise of cities.

Unlike popular tourist spots that get crowded and noisy, Yulla Kanda is peaceful. The only sounds here are the chirping of birds, the ringing of distant bells from the Krishna temple nearby, and sometimes the soft tinkling of wind in prayer flags.

Why Yulla Kanda Lake is Special

1. Unspoiled natural beauty – The area has not been commercialized. There are no shops or hotels around the lake, which keeps it clean and pristine.

2. Spiritual importance – Locals believe the Pandavas from the Mahabharata visited this place during their exile. The nearby Krishna temple adds a sacred feeling to the entire area.

3. Adventure and solitude – To reach the lake, you need to trek through forests, meadows, and rocky trails. It is not an easy walk, but that’s what makes it exciting and peaceful.

The Journey to Yulla Kanda Lake

The trek usually starts from Yulla Khas Village, a small settlement in Kinnaur known for apple orchards and friendly locals. From here, the route gradually climbs through pine forests, across open bugyals (mountain meadows), and finally to the high-altitude basin where the lake rests.

The trek is about 10–12 km one way, and it takes around 6–7 hours of steady walking. You pass by streams, wildflowers, and scenic views of snow-covered Himalayan peaks. In late summer, the meadows around the lake bloom with colorful flowers, making the whole area look like a painting.

What You See at the Lake

• Crystal-clear waters – You can see the reflection of mountains and clouds in the lake.

• Krishna Temple nearby – A small but important shrine believed to be the highest Krishna temple in the world.

• Panoramic views – From the lake area, you can see distant peaks of Kinnaur and even parts of the Greater Himalayas.

• Wildlife and birds – You may spot Himalayan birds, butterflies, and sometimes mountain goats grazing on the slopes.

Best Time to Visit

The best months to visit are mid-May to mid-October. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are open. In early summer, there might still be patches of snow near the lake, while in late summer, the meadows are lush and full of flowers. After October, heavy snowfall makes the area inaccessible.

Tips for Travelers

• Carry warm clothes – Even in summer, temperatures drop sharply at night.

• Bring your own food and water – There are no stalls or shops on the way or near the lake.

• Wear trekking shoes – The route is uneven, so good shoes make walking safer.

• Travel with a local guide – They know the trail, the weather patterns, and local customs.

• Leave no trash behind – Help keep the lake as pure as you found it.

A Place for Spiritual Peace

Yulla Kanda Lake is not just about scenery—it’s also about feeling calm and connected to nature. Many pilgrims visit the Krishna temple here during Janmashtami (Lord Krishna’s birthday), and the lake area is used for prayers and meditation. Even if you’re not religious, the peaceful setting naturally makes you pause and reflect. Sitting quietly by the water, you can hear the wind, the flutter of prayer flags, and maybe even your own heartbeat.

Why Visit Yulla Kanda Lake?

• If you love trekking, the route offers adventure, stunning landscapes, and fresh mountain air.

• If you love nature photography, you’ll find perfect reflections, wildflowers, and snow peaks to capture.

• If you seek peace, the lake offers silence and solitude, far from the rush of crowded hill stations.

• If you’re spiritual, the Krishna temple and local legends make this place feel holy and timeless.

Nearby Attractions

• Rora Kanda Meadow – Another high-altitude pasture near the trekking route.

• Yulla Khas Village – Experience Kinnauri hospitality and culture at the base of the trek.

• Kalpa and Sangla Valleys – Beautiful towns in Kinnaur that can be combined with your trip.

• Chitkul – Known as the last village of India near the Tibetan border.

Final Thoughts

Yulla Kanda Lake is not just a spot on the map; it’s an experience. Reaching here requires effort, but the reward is priceless—a peaceful lake shining under the Himalayan sky, surrounded by nature in its purest form. Whether you come to trek, to pray, or simply to sit and breathe fresh mountain air, this high-altitude gem will leave you with memories that last forever.

This is a place where time seems to slow down, where the world feels big and your worries feel small. If you’re planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh and want to explore something beyond the usual tourist circuit, Yulla Kanda Lake is a perfect choice.