Serene Forest Lake Near Pauri Garhwal – Trekking, Camping & Nature Photography in Pristine Surroundings
Tarakund Lake is a beautiful and serene natural lake located near Pauri town in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Tucked away in dense oak and rhododendron forests at a scenic elevation, Tarakund is one of the lesser-known gems of Pauri Garhwal and is increasingly popular as an adventure camping destination. The calm, clear waters of the lake reflect the surrounding forest canopy and, on clear days, glimpses of the distant Himalayan peaks. The area around the lake is ideal for short nature treks, bird watching, and peaceful forest walks.
Tarakund is especially favoured by camping enthusiasts who set up tents on the grassy banks and spend nights under a brilliant star-lit sky, far from city lights. Campfires by the lake with the sounds of the forest are a signature experience. The lake also has religious significance for local communities — a small shrine near the lake is visited by devotees. The approach trek to Tarakund is moderately easy and passes through some of the finest forest scenery in Pauri Garhwal. Tarakund pairs well with Khirsu and Kandoliya Temple for a complete Pauri Garhwal circuit covering nature, spirituality, and adventure.
April to June for pleasant trekking and camping weather with rhododendron blooms. September to November for clear skies and crisp air. Monsoon (July–August) brings lush greenery but the trails can be slippery.
Nearest railway: Kotdwar (115 km) or Rishikesh (115 km). Taxi to Pauri, then trek or jeep to Tarakund.
Buses from Rishikesh and Kotdwar to Pauri; local transport or trek to Tarakund Lake.
Rishikesh to Pauri ~115 km; Dehradun to Pauri ~167 km via Srinagar Garhwal NH58.