Holy Lake Beside Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib – Serene Pilgrimage Sarovar & Winter Bird Sanctuary in Udham Singh Nagar
Nanakmatta Lake (also called the Sarovar of Nanakmatta Sahib) is the sacred holy pond located within the premises of Gurudwara Nanakmatta Sahib in Udham Singh Nagar district, Uttarakhand. This serene and spiritually significant water body holds deep religious importance for Sikhs, as it is associated with the visit of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the founder of Sikhism. Pilgrims perform ritual bathing (ishnan) in the sacred waters of the sarovar as an act of spiritual purification before entering the gurudwara for prayers.
Beyond its religious importance, Nanakmatta Lake is also a significant bird sanctuary. The surrounding wetlands attract a large number of migratory birds during the winter months (November to February), including bar-headed geese, shovelers, mallards, teals, and several species of waders. The calm, mirror-like surface of the lake surrounded by the gurudwara's white marble architecture creates a deeply peaceful and photogenic setting. The combination of spiritual significance and natural beauty makes Nanakmatta Lake a unique destination in the Terai region of Uttarakhand.
October to March for pleasant weather and bird watching. November for Gurpurab celebrations. December to February for peak migratory bird season. The lake is beautiful year-round but especially serene early morning when birds are most active.
Nearest railway: Kichha (~15 km). Trains from Delhi, Lucknow, and Haridwar connect to Kichha station.
Buses from Rudrapur, Haldwani, and Haridwar. The gurudwara (and lake) is right in Nanakmatta town.
Drive from Haldwani (~65 km) or Haridwar (~230 km) via NH 734. Good roads in the Terai region.