Kedartal

Kedartal (also known as Shivaa's Lake) is a glacial lake at an altitude of 4,750m (15,600 feet) in the Garhwal region of the Himalayas in India. The lake is fed by the snowfall over thalay Sagar (6,904m), Meru (6,672m), Bhrigupanth (6,772m) and other surrounding peaks, and is the source of Kedar Ganga, which in Hindu mythology is considered to be Shiva's contribution to Bhagirathi ( a source stream of the Ganges).

Kedartal, at a distance of 17km from Gangotri, is a popular trekking destination. Starting from Gangotri the route involves a steep rocky climb along the narrow Kedar Ganga en route to Bhojkharak, 8km away. From there its 4km to next available camping site of Kedarkharak, and a further 5km to Kedartal. The route passes through scenic Himalayan birch forests, butis made hazardous in places by falling rocks, high altitude and segment of steep ascent.

Kedartal is a tough but doable trek with Harsil as its base. It require planning.