Satopanth Tal Trek

Duration 7 Days / 6 Nights

Maximum Altitude 14,650 ft

Best time to visit May - Jun, Sept - Oct

Minimum Age 8+

Base Camp Badrinath

Accommodation type Alpine Tents

Satopanth Tal Trek - A journey to the legendary Himalayan Lake, while walking on the mythical path once traversed by the Pandavas to reach heaven. The Satopanth or the path of truth trails to the triangular Satopanth Lake with soothing evergreen color. Trekking away from the human settlements, the Satopanth Trek takes you into the realm of high mountains silence, gigantic massifs, mystic glaciers, mammoth waterfalls, and sequestered stony caves.

The Satopnath Trek starts with a driveway to Badrinath passing through all of the five major confluences or Prayags (Devparyag, Rudraprayag, Karnaparyag, Nandparyag, and Vishnuprayag) from the Hindu mythology. Further, the trek continues to reach Laxmiban via Mana Village, the last village of the country, crossing the mythological Bhim Pul over the gushing Saraswati River. Journeying to the sounds of the Alaknanda River, the Satopath trail continues passing the Vasudhara waterfall and Sehestradhara falls.

Satopanth Tal is a high-altitude lake near Badrinath Shrine in Uttarakhand's Chamoli district. This triangular lake is situated at an elevation of 4600 meters above sea level, adorned with snow-shrouded peaks and several mythological legends as well. Two legends, in particular, are well-known. Two legends, in particular, are well-known.

The words 'Sat-o' and 'Panth' imply 'truth' and 'path' and 'way,' respectively. Legend has it that the Mahabharata's Pandavas traversed this same 'road to paradise.' As a result, Satopanth Lake was named. The 'celestial chariot' to heaven is claimed to have been discovered near this lake by Yudhishtira. As a result, the lake is also known as 'Satyapanth.'

Another legend talks about Satopanth Lake's triangular shape. On the day of Ekadashi, locals believe that the Trinities - Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheshwara - visit Sathopanth Tal. Each of them takes a holy dip in this lake from a different corner. This is the reason why locals believe, the shape of Satopanth Tal is triangular.

Trekking through the Lakshmi van forest and open camping at the Chakratirtha meadow, the Satopanth trek witnesses the views of Chaukhamba, Swargarohini & Satopanth peaks. Feel the thrill, while hiking to the naturally created glacial bridge to Satopanth Lake. Enjoy unique flora and fauna with a spectacular view of Mt. Neelkanth and the views of Alkapuri (the source of Alaknanda) from the spot.

The entire trek passes through several massive mountains, small stones, and water streams that brush your feet throughout the trail. Abundant with mythological as well as breathtaking natural sites, the Satopanth Trek marks its end with your arrival at Rishikesh back from Badrinath.

Satopanth Tal Trek Best Time

The best months to go on the Satopanth lake hike are May to mid-July and September to October. You can view lush green meadows, gorgeous wildflowers, and crystal clear Satopanth lake from May through mid-July.

You can view the Alaknanda river at its best and the elegant Vasundhara waterfalls aggressively merging the Alaknanda river if you travel after the monsoon. Because this walk ascends to a height of 15100 feet, you should expect a lot of snow in the winter. As a result, trekking is not possible during the winter months.

The trail becomes exceedingly treacherous during the rainy season, making access to the lake difficult.

Satopanth Tal Trek Difficulty

The Satopanth lake hike is only suitable for experienced trekkers. The walk to Satopanth Tal Trek height is moderate to challenging in difficulty. This hike requires a high level of stamina and endurance.

There is also a significant amount of elevation gain in Satopanth Tal Trek altitude. As a result, you must have prior Himalayan trekking expertise as well as knowledge of higher-altitude trekking. Without correct education, Acute Mountain Sickness can be fatal.

Emergency Helplines for Satopanth Tal Trek

In the event of any emergency, the nearest Government Hospital is situated 4 kilometers from the Mana village and 4 kilometers from Badrinath.

Police Station: The nearest police station from Mana village is the Badrinath police station. The community is 4.6 kilometers away.

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF): During any emergency, you can either call the police or call the NDRF. They'll dispatch a rescue squad to assist you.

ERSS: For any type of emergency assistance, dial 112 for the Pan-India Emergency Response Support System (ERSS).

Satopanth Trek - 7D/6N

Day 1: Rishikesh to Badrinath

Drive: 305 km (9-10 hours)

Meal: Dinner

Stay: Stay in a hotel/guest house on a sharing basis.

Report at a scheduled spot at 8 am, meet our representative and start your drive to Joshimath.
Pass through all 5 confluence points (Devparyag, Rudraprayag, Karnaparyag, Nandparyag + 1)
Reach Badrinath and check in to the hotel/guest house. In the evening head out for a Badrinath market visit.

Day 2: Badrinath to Laxmiban

Altitude: 12,396 ft

Trek: 8 km (4-5 hours)