Abode of the Gods IX - Trekking up to Saattaal

The perfunctory attempts at agriculture give way to the pine forest that gradually ascends to the snowy heights

Majestic

Lake I

Lake I

Lake I

Lake III: A benign appearing, marshy and treacherous bog where many a cow has quietly sunk into the mysterious depths

Lake IV: The floating branches and debris are the remnants of the trees wrenched down by the icy avalanches during winter

Lake V

Lake V

Lake I on the way back

A vertical 3 km ascent from Dharali takes you to this series of lakes - the result of melting snow. The water is crystal clear, icy and highly refreshing. There is a unique peaty flavour in it.

The air, though oxygen depleted, is ozoney and invigorating. The cliched 'babbling' brooks and wind 'sighing' through pines and cypresses are the only sounds that can be heard, apart from my wheezing and panting.

The floor is littered with tiny flowers, wild strawberries and strewn with all types of pine cones. Ferns uncurl after the frigid winter.

Lakes II has dried up and Lakes VI and VII existed in some mythical past. Local lore claims that true believers (of what?) may get to see these legendary water bodies. To set facts straight, thus, there are only three ponds - euphemistically called lakes - and a swamp.

Selfie Time for guide Shubham Negi