India isn’t just a land of monuments and mountains—it’s also home to lakes that carry secrets in their depths. Some shimmer like magical mirrors of the sky, while others guard eerie legends and untold histories beneath their calm surface. From a Himalayan lake hiding ancient skeletons to a crater born from a meteor strike, these mystical waters blur the line between nature, mythology, and mystery.
Here are six of India’s most mysterious lakes that promise not just views, but stories you’ll never forget.
1. Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand – The Skeleton Lake of the Himalayas
Perched at 16,500 feet, Roopkund looks like any other alpine lake—until the ice begins to melt. That’s when hundreds of human skeletons appear beneath its surface, dating back nearly a thousand years. Scientists call it the result of an ancient calamity, but locals believe it’s the curse of an angry goddess. Trekking to Roopkund is like stepping into a chilling time capsule wrapped in stunning Himalayan views.
2. Loktak Lake, Manipur – The Floating Wonder of the Northeast
Loktak isn’t just a lake—it’s alive. Known worldwide for its phumdis (floating islands made of vegetation and soil), this lake is a surreal patchwork of water and green carpets. Adding to its uniqueness, Loktak is also home to Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park on Earth. While scientists study its shifting nature, locals whisper about supernatural forces behind its ever-changing form. At sunset, as fishermen drift across in traditional boats, Loktak feels nothing short of magical.
3. Lonar Lake, Maharashtra – A Crater from the Cosmos
Around 50,000 years ago, a meteor crashed into the Earth, creating Lonar Lake—one of the only hyper-velocity impact lakes in the world. Its emerald waters often shift to pink, puzzling scientists and delighting visitors. Magnetic anomalies, unique algae, and stories of compasses malfunctioning here only add to its otherworldly charm. Walking around Lonar’s rim feels like stepping onto another planet.
4. Sheshnag Lake, Jammu & Kashmir – The Serpent’s Sacred Abode
According to legend, Sheshnag—the serpent king from Hindu mythology—rests in the depths of this emerald-green lake. Situated along the sacred Amarnath Yatra route, the lake is surrounded by meadows dotted with wildflowers and snow-capped peaks that seem to guard it. Locals believe its waters are holy, capable of cleansing sins. With its mythical aura and breathtaking setting, Sheshnag is both a pilgrimage and a wonder.
5. Chandratal Lake, Himachal Pradesh – The Enchanted Moon Lake
Shaped like a crescent moon, Chandratal is said to be where Lord Indra’s chariot carried Yudhishthira to heaven in the Mahabharata. Trekkers, however, come for its surreal beauty—crystal-clear waters that shift shades from turquoise to emerald to deep blue as the sun moves. Locals call it the Divine Lake, and some even believe fairies descend here on full-moon nights. Whether legend or landscape, Chandratal will leave you spellbound.
6. Parashar Lake, Himachal Pradesh – The Lake with a Floating Island
Nestled in the Kullu Valley, Parashar Lake is as mystical as it is scenic. Its biggest mystery? A floating circular island that drifts across its waters, changing position throughout the year. Attempts to measure its depth have failed, adding to the enigma. Beside the lake stands a centuries-old wooden temple dedicated to sage Parashar, further deepening its spiritual significance. This is the kind of place where myths feel alive.
Why These Lakes Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
These six lakes aren’t just stops on a map—they’re living stories where mythology, science, and natural beauty converge. They challenge the ordinary, spark curiosity, and remind travelers that sometimes the most unforgettable journeys lie in places where mystery lingers in the air.
So pack your camera, your trekking shoes, and a sense of wonder—because these lakes are not just to be seen, but to be felt.
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