Tehri Lake
General Overview: Tehri Lake is a massive artificial reservoir formed by the damming of the Bhagirathi and Bhilangana rivers, and it has quickly evolved into a premier destination for water sports in North India. Spanning an area of approximately 42 square kilometers, the lake's still, blue waters p rovide an ideal playground for adventure enthusiasts. At an elevation of 1700 meters, it offers a unique alpine boating experience that is different from the lakes of the plains. The Uttarakhand government has heavily promoted this spot to boost tourism, leading to the establishment of world-class facilities for activities like jet skiing, kayaking, and banana boat rides. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, large motorboats and houseboats are available for scenic cruises around the reservoir. The lake is surrounded by towering hills, which protect the water from strong winds, ensuring a relatively smooth surface for sports. One of the most iconic sights at the lake is the Dobra-Chanti Bridge, India's longest motorable single-lane suspension bridge, which spans across the water. The lakefront at Koti Colony is the main hub for all activities, featuring kiosks, seating areas, and changing rooms. In recent years, the Tehri Lake Festival has become a major annual event, attracting national and international tourists for aerial and water-based competitions. The lake is not just about thrills; it also offers quiet corners where one can sit and enjoy the serenity of the water against the mountain backdrop. Photography enthusiasts find the lake particularly attractive during the "golden hour" when the setting sun turns the water into a sheet of liquid gold. It is a perfect blend of natural beauty and man-made recreational infrastructure, making it a highlight of any trip to Kanatal or New Tehri.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
Duration: 4 to 6 Hours.Place Type:
Category: Adventure & Water Sports.Entry Fees:
Lake Entry: Entry to the Koti Colony lakefront area is usually free, but parking for vehicles costs around Rs.50. Most people spend money on the actual activities rather than an entry ticket to the lakeside.
Activity Prices: Water sports ar...Lake Entry: Entry to the Koti Colony lakefront area is usually free, but parking for vehicles costs around Rs.50. Most people spend money on the actual activities rather than an entry ticket to the lakeside.
Activity Prices: Water sports are priced per activity. Jet skiing costs around Rs.500-Rs.700, banana boat rides are Rs.300-Rs.500, and motorboat cruises are Rs.200-Rs.400 per person. Prices are regulated by the local adventure tourism association.Timing:
Regular Timings: Water sports activities usually start at 9:00 AM and continue until 5:30 PM or until sunset. Operations may be suspended during heavy rain or high winds for safety reasons.
Ideal Visit Time: Arriving by 10:00 AM is recommen...Regular Timings: Water sports activities usually start at 9:00 AM and continue until 5:30 PM or until sunset. Operations may be suspended during heavy rain or high winds for safety reasons.
Ideal Visit Time: Arriving by 10:00 AM is recommended to beat the afternoon crowds and to enjoy the water when it is at its calmest. Late afternoons are also beautiful for motorboat cruises to catch the sunset.Special Events:
Event:
Tehri Lake Festival: This is a mega-event held annually (usually in February or March). It features international water sports competitions, aerial displays, and cultural nights. It has become a landmark event on the Indian tourism c...Event:
Tehri Lake Festival: This is a mega-event held annually (usually in February or March). It features international water sports competitions, aerial displays, and cultural nights. It has become a landmark event on the Indian tourism calendar.
National Kayaking Championship: The lake frequently hosts national-level rowing and kayaking competitions. Watching professional athletes navigate the mountain waters is a thrilling experience for spectators and promotes the sport in the region.Best Photo Spots:
Spot:
Floating Docks at Koti Colony: Capture the vibrant colors of the jet skis and boats against the emerald water. The action shots of people enjoying water sports provide dynamic and lively content for travel albums.
Read MoreSpot:
Floating Docks at Koti Colony: Capture the vibrant colors of the jet skis and boats against the emerald water. The action shots of people enjoying water sports provide dynamic and lively content for travel albums.
Dobra-Chanti Bridge: The bridge is a stunning subject, especially at night when it is lit up. A long-exposure shot from the lakeshore will capture the glowing bridge and its reflection on the dark water.
Spot:
Mid-Lake Houseboat View: If you are on a boat, capture the 360-degree view of the surrounding hills closing in on the water. It gives a sense of being in a massive flooded valley, which is a powerful visual.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
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Jet Skiing and Speed Boating: For those who love speed, jet skiing across the blue waters is a must. The instructors provide life jackets and basic training, making it safe for beginners. Speed boats are also available for groups who want a fast-paced tour of the lake.
Kayaking and Canoeing: If you prefer a slower pace, rent a kayak and paddle through the quiet coves of the lake. It is a great way to explore the shoreline and enjoy the serenity of the water. Early mornings are best for this activity when the water is calm.
Banana Boat and Bumper Rides: These are perfect for groups of friends and families. Being pulled behind a speed boat on an inflatable tube is full of splashes and laughter. It is a great way to bond and enjoy the water together in a safe environment.
Read MoreJet Skiing and Speed Boating: For those who love speed, jet skiing across the blue waters is a must. The instructors provide life jackets and basic training, making it safe for beginners. Speed boats are also available for groups who want a fast-paced tour of the lake.
Kayaking and Canoeing: If you prefer a slower pace, rent a kayak and paddle through the quiet coves of the lake. It is a great way to explore the shoreline and enjoy the serenity of the water. Early mornings are best for this activity when the water is calm.
Banana Boat and Bumper Rides: These are perfect for groups of friends and families. Being pulled behind a speed boat on an inflatable tube is full of splashes and laughter. It is a great way to bond and enjoy the water together in a safe environment.
Houseboat Stay: For a unique experience, book a night on one of the houseboats or floating huts. Waking up to the sound of water lapping against the side and seeing the sun rise over the mountains from the middle of the lake is unforgettable.
Paragliding (Aero-Sports): During the festival season, paragliding over the lake is offered. Gliding through the mountain air with the vast blue reservoir beneath you is the ultimate adrenaline rush. It offers a perspective of the dam that few get to see.
Photography of the Bridge: The Dobra-Chanti Bridge is a major landmark on the lake. Photograph it from the water or from the shore. At night, the bridge is illuminated, creating a stunning reflection on the lake surface that is perfect for night photography.
Picnic by the Shore: The Koti Colony area has several spots where you can set up a picnic. Enjoy the cool breeze from the lake and watch the various water activities. There are local stalls selling tea and snacks, making it a convenient spot for a full day out.
Information
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Why Famous:
Water Sports Hub: It is famous as the "Goa of the Hills" due to its extensive range of water-based adventure activities. It has transformed the tourism landscape of Uttarakhand by providing an alternative to traditional hill station activities. The lake is the primary ven...Water Sports Hub: It is famous as the "Goa of the Hills" due to its extensive range of water-based adventure activities. It has transformed the tourism landscape of Uttarakhand by providing an alternative to traditional hill station activities. The lake is the primary venue for the annual Tehri Lake Festival.
The Floating Huts: The lake is renowned for its unique accommodation options, including floating huts and houseboats. This provides a one-of-a-kind experience of staying directly on the water in the middle of the mountains, which is a significant draw for honeymooners and luxury travelers. -
Architecture:
Architectural Style:
Modern Marine Infrastructure: The lake area features floating docks and pontoons made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to accommodate the varying water levels of the reservoir. The nearby Koti Colony hub uses modern l...Architectural Style:
Modern Marine Infrastructure: The lake area features floating docks and pontoons made of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) to accommodate the varying water levels of the reservoir. The nearby Koti Colony hub uses modern lakefront architecture with open kiosks and steel-framed shelters.
Lake Dimensions: The reservoir covers a surface area of 42 square kilometers. The water depth can reach up to 200 meters near the dam. The Dobra-Chanti Bridge, a nearby architectural marvel, has a total length of 725 meters, with a main suspension span of 440 meters, making it a dominant feature of the lake's landscape. -
How To Reach:
By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun, about 95 KMS away. You can take a pre-paid taxi from the airport which will take about 3. 5 hours to reach the Koti Colony lake area via Chamba.
By Train: Rishikesh is the nearest rail...By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant in Dehradun, about 95 KMS away. You can take a pre-paid taxi from the airport which will take about 3. 5 hours to reach the Koti Colony lake area via Chamba.
By Train: Rishikesh is the nearest railway station at a distance of about 75 KMS. From Rishikesh, you can find many shared taxis and buses going towards New Tehri. The lake is a short drive from the main town.
By Road: The lake is accessible via the Chamba-New Tehri road. From Kanatal, it is a 34 KMS drive. The roads are wide and in good condition, allowing for a comfortable journey even for those not used to mountain driving.
By Local Transport: Shared jeeps are the lifeline of the region. You can get a jeep from New Tehri to Koti Colony for a very small fare. Alternatively, you can hire a private taxi from your hotel in Kanatal for a round trip. -
Weather and Best Time to Visit:
Different Types of Seasons: Summer (March to June) is the prime time for water sports as the water is refreshing and the sun is bright. Winter (October to March) is great for the Tehri Lake Festival, though the water can be quite cold for activities like jet skiing.Different Types of Seasons: Summer (March to June) is the prime time for water sports as the water is refreshing and the sun is bright. Winter (October to March) is great for the Tehri Lake Festival, though the water can be quite cold for activities like jet skiing.
Different Parts of the Day: Morning (10:00 AM to 1:00 PM) is the best time for activities as the water is calm. Evening (4:00 PM to 6:00 PM) is ideal for a motorboat cruise to enjoy the sunset and the lighting of the Dobra-Chanti Bridge. -
Near Tourist Places:
1. New Tehri (10 KMS), 2. Dobra-Chanti Bridge (5 KMS), 3. Chamba (21 KMS), 4. Kanatal (34 KMS), 5. Dhanaulti (52 KMS), 6. Surkanda Devi (45 KMS), 7. Kodia Forest (35 KMS), 8. Rishikesh (80 KMS), 9. Tehri Dam Viewpoint (8 KMS), 10. Mussoorie (85 KMS).
Tourism Tips
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Health & Safety: Always wear the life jacket provided by the instructors during any water activity. Listen carefully to the safety briefing. If you are not a swimmer, inform the instructor so they can take extra care during activities like kayaking.
Read MoreHealth & Safety: Always wear the life jacket provided by the instructors during any water activity. Listen carefully to the safety briefing. If you are not a swimmer, inform the instructor so they can take extra care during activities like kayaking.
Packing: Bring a change of clothes and a towel, as you are likely to get wet during jet skiing or banana boat rides. Waterproof pouches for your phone and money are highly recommended to prevent water damage during the activities.
Accommodation: For the best experience, try the floating huts or houseboats for one night. Otherwise, there are many resorts and guest houses in Koti Colony and the main New Tehri town that cater to adventure tourists.
Cash & Connectivity: There are no ATMs directly at the lakeside; the nearest ones are in New Tehri. Carry sufficient cash for the activities as digital payments can be slow due to the fluctuating mobile network near the water.
Other Topics: Check the weather forecast before heading out; activities are often paused during thunderstorms. It is best to go in a group to share the costs of boat rentals. Respect the lake's environment by not throwing any plastic into the water.Reviews
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