About Suraj Tal Lake

Suraj Tal, also known as Surya Taal, is a sacred lake nestled in the magnificent valleys and mountains of the Lahaul and Spiti valley. It is considered one of the world’s highest lakes, ranking 21st globally and 3rd in India, and it is believed that a dip in its waters can cleanse one’s sins. The surrounding regions are mostly uninhabited due to the harsh climate, making it a peaceful and serene retreat for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.

The lake is also a popular destination for trekking and motorcycling enthusiasts, as it lies along the famous Manali-Leh path and encompasses the Baralacha-La-Pass, which is the starting point for several exciting treks. Adventurers often stop at Suraj Tal to take a break from their journey and set up camp for a comfortable stay.

Suraj Tal is not only a stunning natural wonder but also holds great religious and cultural significance. The breathtaking scenery, tranquil surroundings, and spiritual energy offer a chance to connect with nature and revitalize the soul. It is a dream location for photographers, birdwatchers, and wildlife enthusiasts, providing breathtaking views and opportunities to observe various birds and animals in their natural habitats.

Mythological Point

In Hindu mythology, Suraj Tal is believed to be the lake where the Sun God, Surya, stopped to rest while on his journey across the sky. It is said that he bathed in the lake to purify himself before continuing on his journey, and that his blessings still reside in the lake’s waters. The lake is therefore considered sacred by Hindus and is a popular pilgrimage site. Many devotees visit the lake to offer prayers and seek blessings, and it is believed that taking a dip in the lake can cleanse one’s sins and bring good fortune.
In addition to its religious significance, Suraj Tal is also revered for its natural beauty. The pristine waters, towering peaks, snow-covered landscapes, and spiritual aura make it a unique and sought-after destination. Visitors to the lake often trek to its shores, which can be a challenging journey, but the reward is worth it. The breathtaking views and peaceful surroundings offer a chance to connect with nature and rejuvenate the soul.

Places to Visit Around Suraj Tal

Suraj Tal is surrounded by breathtaking valleys and mountains, and there are several nearby places that are worth visiting while in the area. Some of the top places to visit around Suraj Tal include:

Baralacha-La-Pass: This high mountain pass is located on the route to Suraj Tal and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a popular starting point for several trekking routes, and it is also a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts and motorcyclists.
Jogini Falls: Jogini Waterfall is a beautiful and serene destination located in the Kullu Valley, near Manali. The waterfall cascades into the clear and pristine waters of the river Beas and is surrounded by steep cliffs and tall trees. The trek to the waterfall from the Vashisht Temple is scenic and passes through lush green forests and apple orchards. The waterfall is also believed to be the abode of the Hindu goddess Jogini and is a popular destination for divine seekers seeking blessings and spiritual connection. With its stunning natural beauty and spiritual significance, Jogini Waterfall is a must-visit destination.
Keylong: This small town is located just a few hours from Suraj Tal and is known for its traditional Bhotiya culture, old monasteries, and scenic beauty. It is a good place to stay and explore the surrounding areas, including Suraj Tal.
Chandra Tal: This stunning lake is located in the Spiti Valley and is known for its crystal clear waters and majestic mountain views. It is a popular trekking destination and is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in India.
Lahaul Valley: This valley is known for its pristine beauty, traditional Bhotiya culture, and historic monasteries. It is a great place to explore on foot and is home to several trekking routes, including the popular Baralacha-La trek.
Jispa: This small village is located on the banks of the Bhaga River and is known for its scenic beauty, traditional Bhotiya culture, and historic Buddhist monasteries. It is a great place to stay and explore the surrounding areas, including Suraj Tal and Chandra Tal.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in the area around Suraj Tal. The stunning scenery and rich cultural heritage of the region make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the area.

Famous Trek of Suraj Tal Lake

Suraj Tal Lake is surrounded by several popular trekking routes that offer a combination of challenging terrain and stunning natural beauty. Some of the most famous treks around the lake include:

Baralacha-La Pass Trek: This trek starts from the Baralacha-La Pass, located near Suraj Tal, and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek is considered to be one of the most challenging in the region, but it is also one of the most rewarding, with scenic landscapes and the chance to explore the remote villages of Lahaul and Spiti.
Chandra Taal Trek: This trek starts from Chandra Taal Lake and ends at Suraj Tal Lake. The route passes through several high-altitude passes and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The trek is considered to be a moderate-to-challenging trek, suitable for experienced trekkers.
Pin Parvati Pass Trek: This trek starts from the Parvati Valley in Himachal Pradesh and passes through several high-altitude passes, including the Baralacha-La Pass, before reaching the Suraj Tal Lake. The trek is considered to be one of the most challenging in the region, with steep and rocky terrain, but it is also one of the most rewarding, with breathtaking views and the chance to explore the remote villages of Lahaul and Spiti.
Manali to Ladakh Trek: This trek starts from Manali and ends in Ladakh, passing through the Suraj Tal Lake and several high-altitude passes, including the Baralacha-La Pass. The trek is considered to be one of the most challenging in India, but it is also one of the most rewarding, with stunning natural landscapes, cultural experiences, and the chance to explore the remote regions of Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh.

Regardless of which trek you choose, you can be sure of an unforgettable adventure filled with breathtaking scenery and challenging terrain.

Biking tours to Suraj Tal

Biking tours to Suraj Tal and its surrounding areas are a popular adventure activity for thrill-seekers and nature lovers. The Manali-Leh highway, which passes through Suraj Tal, offers stunning views of the mountains and valleys and is considered one of the most scenic routes for biking tours in India. The route is dotted with several high-altitude lakes, mountain passes, and picturesque villages, making it a perfect destination for a challenging and rewarding biking experience.

Along the route, you can stop at Suraj Tal, a serene and sacred lake, and set up camp for a night or two. The nearby Baralacha-La-Pass is also a popular destination for trekking and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

The biking tours to Suraj Tal are not for the faint of heart, as the route is challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness. However, the breathtaking views, serene natural beauty, and the thrill of adventure make it an unforgettable experience.

The Suraj Tal lake is originally fed from the glaciers and torrential streams which originate from the Bara-lacha-la pass and is 8 km long, famous as the “Pass with crossroads on the summit” since roads from Zanskar, Ladakh, Spiti, and Lahaul meet at this pass. Apart from the fact that the Suraj Tal and the Bhaga River originate from it, Bara-lacha-la Pass is also the source of the Chandra and Yunan Rivers in the northwest and north. This region is famous for its untouched natural beauty and draws the attention of locals as well as foreigners too towards it.