Suraj Tal, Spiti Valley

Suraj Tal lies beneath the Bara-lacha-la Pass in the Lahaul Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh. It originates from the Bhaga tributary of the Chandrabhaga River. Suraj Tal is situated at an altitude of 4950 meters above sea level. The lake holds the distinction of being the third highest in India and the 21st highest globally. The lake is famous for its clear water that mirrors the snowy mountains and glaciers.

Its name is derived from the Hindi words "Suraj", meaning Sun, and "Tal", meaning lake. So, it is known as the Lake of the Sun God. People believe that taking a dip in its sacred waters can cleanse all your sins. It is a popular destination for tourists who love road trips, trekking, and motorcycling adventures, and it is also famous for camping. 

Suraj Tal Lake is a major highlight that falls along the famous Manali- Leh trail. Photographers love this place as its scenic beauty looks like it has come out straight from a fairytale. In winter, the lake becomes even more stunning as the surrounding mountains are covered in snow. Suraj Tal Lake is a must-visit spot for travellers and adventure lovers.

• Witness the beauty of Suraj Tal Lake, with its emerald-green waters and panoramic views.
• Go on a thrilling hike around the lake, where every step offers beautiful views that will mesmerize you.
• Capture photographs and marvel at the reflections of the snow-capped mountain peaks in the clear waters of the lake.
• Enjoy a picnic and camping experience in the calm atmosphere of the lake, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. 
• Take a dip in the waters of Suraj Tal Lake, which is believed to purify one from all sins.

Suraj Tal doesn’t have a train, bus or flight connectivity but it is well connected with road, and you can easily reach here by hiring a taxi or cab from Keylong.

By road: Suraj Tal is located at around 65 kilometre from Keylong. Keylong district is easily accessible through road from National Highway NH 21, also renowned as Leh-Manali highway. This is the most prominent road link for the inhabitants of Lahaul Spiti. The road that leads to Suraj Tal is only 3 km away from Bara-lacha la pass. This scenic route extending from Rohtang Pass to the district of Leh is totally inaccessible during winters.

The best time to visit Suraj Tal is between April to mid-May when the snow starts melting, and the weather of this place becomes extremely pleasant. You can also visit this place during mid-May to mid-July when the summer is in its full swing and hordes of tourists visit this place to enjoy its ethereal beauty. 

During Winters: You should avoid visiting Suraj Tal during winters as the roads through which you can enter Suraj Tal are also blocked during winters due to the inhospitable environment. Also, the temperature falls beyond -2 degrees Celsius and the entire water body gets covered with snow.

During Monsoon: You should also avoid visiting Suraj Tal between July to September as this place experiences incessant torrential rainfall during monsoon coupled with dangerous landslides. Most of the roads that allow you to enter this place are also blocked during monsoon owing to the chances of calamities.

- Location: Lahaul Valley, Keylong, Himachal

- Elevation: 4950 meters

- Altitude: High, the third highest lake in India

- Distance from Spiti: 16.0 km

- Distance from Manali: 187.2 km

About Bhaga Valley

Bhaga Valley, also known as the Stod valley has formed from Surya Tal up to Tandi, and it begins from the south-western foot of Baralacha Pass. It is located in Lahaul and is completely uninhabited and barren up to Darcha. After Darcha this valley broadens out, and you’ll find a few more settlements in the areas beyond this region. As you move ahead from Darcha, you’ll find small villages after every seven to eight-kilometre.

This valley is called Stod from Darcha to Kolong and Gnat from Keylong to Keylong. Suraj Tal lake, which is touted as the third largest lake across India is located in the Bhaga Valley and it is one of the most splendid lakes that the visitors truly admire. Bhaga valley also offers the trekking enthusiasts an instant adrenaline rush as it is flanked with some of the most scenic trails that can be conquered by both experienced as well as the beginner trekkers. The entire valley gets covered with snow in the winter, and it seems like a sheet of white ice. Adding to it are the pine trees and lush greenery that makes it look like a wonderland of nature that every visitor must explore.

Tips for Visiting Suraj Tal

Here are a few tips that you must follow while visiting Suraj Tal: 

1. Make sure to carry your snow boots and a comfortable pair of shoes for long walks near Suraj Tal.

2. Dress in layers so that you don’t get hit by cough and cold due to the cold climate prevailing here.

3. Carry snacks along with you so that you can level up your energy in between the trip.

4. Carry a map so that you don’t get lost on the way due to darkness or other emergency factors.

5. Research about the area beforehand so that you can be aware of the difficulties that might arise on your way.