Sattal Lake in Uttarakhand – All You Need to Know

Overview 

Sattal translates to ‘Seven Lakes’ is a group of seven interconnected fresh-water lakes in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand.

Located amidst an expanse of oak and pine trees this is one of the most beautiful oases of tranquillity and a haven for bird watchers and nature lovers.

Sattal with its natural beauty and scenic views offers tourists a chance to escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax amidst nature. 

About the Place  

Sattal consists of seven pristine lakes – Panna Tal, Ram Tal, Sita Tal, Nal Kevat Tal or Nal Damyanti Lake, Laxman Tal, Hanuman Tal and Garuda Tal.

The region is endowed with bio-diversity resources and supports a variety of flora and fauna. The crystal-clear water combined with the serene atmosphere makes Sattal a perfect destination for camping, kayaking and photography. 

Related Information  

Timings (Operational Hours) – 09:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Entry Fee – Free 

  • Shikara Ride – INR 220 per person for a half-hour ride
  • Paddle Ride – INR 220 per person for a one-hour ride

Time Required – 1-2 hours 

Best Time to Visit – March to June & September to November  

How to Get There  

  • By Air – Pantnagar Airport is the nearest located at a distance of 55 km.  
  • By Train – The closest railroad is the Kathgodam Railway Station at about 33-kilometer distance.  
  • By Road, Sattal is connected to other cities and towns, such as Nainital, which is 22 km away, and Haldwani, which is 40 km away. 

Nearest Restaurants  

  • The Sattal Cafe – A cosy restaurant located at the shore of a lake with great food options and amazing views.
  • Journey Restro Cafe – Amazing food and breathtaking views make it a popular choice for tourists visiting Sattal Lake. 

Nearest Markets  

  • Bhimtal Market – It is a popular market nearby that is famous amongst tourists for authentic souvenirs.
  • Nainital’s Mall Road – Just a few kilometres from the lake it is a perfect shoppers paradise. 

 Hotels – Best Places to Stay  

  • The Fern Hillside Resort – A lavish resort with all the luxurious amenities surrounded by nature makes for a perfect stay. 
  • Sattal Forest Resort – Perfect for travellers seeking a rustic experience amidst forests.

History of Sattal Lake 

The name Sattal originates from a cluster of seven picturesque lakes, all of which are steeped in deep mythological significance.

Locals believe this serene location was the resting place of the Pandavas during their period of exile. Later, the British colonisers acknowledged the charm of Sattal and developed it as a summer retreat, mainly due to its cool climate, lush greenery, and tranquil beauty.

Main Attraction

  • Butterfly Museum – A very interesting place for the exhibition of unique specimens of butterflies.  
  • Subhash Dhara – A natural freshwater spring found in the middle of a dense forest.  
  • Kayaking and Bird Watching – Sattal is a bird watcher’s paradise and the best place for kayaking.  

Travel Tips 

  • Carry your binoculars along with you if you are a birdwatcher. 
  • Use comfortable trekking shoes to go out and enjoy nearby trails.  
  • Do not litter around as Sattal is an eco-sensitive region.  

More About Sattal Lake 

Located at the Himalayan foothills, Sattal is a haven for nature lovers as it boasts more than 500 species of birds, 20 species of mammals and many varieties of insects.

The serene lakes here also serve as important breeding grounds for many migratory birds. This vibrant hotspot of biodiversity has inspired innumerable explorers, photographers and conservationists to visit and preserve its fragile ecosystem for years now.

Conclusion

Sattal’s pristine natural beauty and diverse flora and fauna make it a top destination in Uttarakhand. Whether you’re kayaking across the tranquil lake, trekking through the dense forest trails, birdwatching, or simply immersing yourself in the peaceful surroundings, Sattal offers a serene escape that leaves a lasting impression on every visitor, making it an unforgettable experience.