Have you ever wondered how a lake can be named after a Bollywood actress? Well, that’s the case with Madhuri Lake, a beautiful high-altitude lake in the Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh. Madhuri Lake, also known as Sangetsar Lake, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Tawang, and for good reasons.
It offers stunning views of the snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and colorful flowers. It is also a place of historical and cultural significance, as it was the site of a fierce battle between India and China in 1962. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Madhuri Lake, including how to reach it, what to do there, and when to visit it.
How to Reach Madhuri Lake
Madhuri Lake is located about 35 km from Tawang town, at an altitude of 12,000 feet above sea level. The lake is accessible by road, but the road conditions are rough and challenging, especially during the winter months. Therefore, it is advisable to hire a local driver or a guide who knows the route well. Alternatively, you can also take a helicopter ride from Tawang to Madhuri Lake, which takes about 15 minutes and costs around Rs. 2000 per person. However, the helicopter service is subject to weather conditions and availability.
To visit Madhuri Lake, you need to obtain a special permit from the Indian Army, as the lake is located near the border with China. You can get the permit from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner in Tawang, or from the Army check post near the lake. You will need to submit a copy of your identity proof, such as Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID, along with two passport-sized photos. The permit is valid for one day only, and you need to carry it with you at all times while visiting the lake.
The best time to visit Madhuri Lake is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is not frozen. During this time, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake and its surroundings, and also indulge in some activities such as boating, fishing, camping, etc. However, if you want to see the lake in its frozen state, you can visit it from November to March, when the temperature drops below zero and the lake becomes a sheet of ice. During this time, you can witness the amazing phenomenon of ice bubbles forming on the surface of the lake, which look like pearls.
Things to Do at Madhuri Lake
Madhuri Lake is not only a place of natural beauty, but also a place of adventure and fun. There are many things to do at Madhuri Lake that will make your trip memorable and exciting. Here are some of them:
Boating:
One of the most popular activities at Madhuri Lake is boating. You can rent a boat from the Army canteen near the lake, and enjoy a relaxing ride on the calm waters of the lake. You can also admire the panoramic views of the mountains and the valleys from the boat, and spot some rare birds and animals along the way.
Fishing:
If you are fond of fishing, you can try your luck at Madhuri Lake, as the lake is home to some exotic fish species, such as trout, carp, and catfish. You can bring your own fishing equipment, or buy some from the local shops near the lake. You can also cook your catch at the nearby campsites, or take it back to your hotel.
Camping:
If you want to experience the thrill of staying close to nature, you can opt for camping at Madhuri Lake. There are several campsites near the lake, where you can pitch your own tent, or rent one from the locals. You can also enjoy a bonfire, a barbecue, and some music at night, under the starry sky.
Trekking:
If you are an adventure lover, you can go for trekking at Madhuri Lake, as there are many trails that lead to the lake from different directions. You can choose a trail that suits your level of difficulty, and explore the rugged terrain, the dense forests, and the hidden waterfalls along the way. You can also hire a local guide who can show you the best spots and tell you stories about the history and culture of the region.
Birdwatching:
If you are a bird lover, you can indulge in some birdwatching at Madhuri Lake, as the lake is a haven for many migratory and resident birds, such as black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, ruddy shelducks, Himalayan monals, etc. You can also spot some rare and endangered species, such as the red panda, the snow leopard, and the Tibetan wolf, if you are lucky.
Photography:
If you are a photography enthusiast, you can capture some stunning shots of Madhuri Lake and its surroundings, as the lake offers a variety of landscapes, colors, and moods. You can also take some selfies or group photos with the lake as the backdrop, and make your friends and family jealous of your trip.
Apart from these activities, you can also visit some of the attractions near Madhuri Lake, such as:
The Buddhist monastery: Near the lake, there is a small Buddhist monastery, where you can see some monks chanting and praying. You can also join them in their meditation, or seek their blessings. The monastery also has some beautiful paintings and sculptures of Buddha and other deities, which you can admire.
The war memorial: Near the lake, there is also a war memorial, where you can pay your respects to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the 1962 war between India and China. You can also see some of the weapons and equipment used by the soldiers, and read some of their stories and letters.
The hot springs: Near the lake, there are also some hot springs, where you can take a dip and relax your muscles. The hot springs are believed to have medicinal properties, and can cure some ailments and diseases. You can also enjoy the contrast of the hot and cold water, and feel refreshed and rejuvenated.
Tips for Visiting Madhuri Lake
Madhuri Lake is a wonderful destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. However, to make the most of your trip, you need to plan well and follow some tips. Here are some of them:
When to visit:
As mentioned earlier, the best time to visit Madhuri Lake is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is not frozen. However, if you want to see the lake in its frozen state, you can visit it from November to March, when the temperature drops below zero and the lake becomes a sheet of ice. However, you need to be prepared for the harsh weather conditions, and check the road status before you travel.
What to carry:
Depending on the season and the duration of your trip, you need to carry some essential items with you, such as:
A valid identity proof and a permit for visiting the lake
Warm clothes, woolen socks, gloves, caps, scarves, etc.
Waterproof shoes, boots, or sneakers
Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, etc.
A camera, a tripod, a power bank, etc.
A first-aid kit, some medicines, some snacks, some water, etc.
A tent, a sleeping bag, a torch, a lighter, etc. (if you are camping)
A fishing rod, a hook, a bait, etc. (if you are fishing)
A binocular, a bird guide, etc. (if you are birdwatching)
How to dress:
You need to dress according to the weather and the activity you are doing. You should wear layers of clothing that can keep you warm and comfortable. You should also wear waterproof shoes, boots, or sneakers that can protect your feet from the snow and the water. You should also wear sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, etc. to protect your skin and eyes from the sun and the wind.
Safety precautions and dos and don’ts:
You need to follow some safety precautions and dos and don’ts while visiting Madhuri Lake, such as:
Do not litter or pollute the lake or its surroundings, as it is a sacred and ecologically sensitive place
Do not feed or disturb the wildlife, as they may be aggressive or endangered
Do not venture too far from the lake or the campsites, as you may get lost or encounter some danger
Do not go near the border with China, as it is a restricted area and you may face legal consequences
Do respect the local culture and customs, and seek permission before entering the monastery or taking photos of the monks
Do carry some cash with you, as there are no ATMs or card machines near the lake
Do check the weather forecast and the road status before you travel, and be prepared for any changes or delays
Do enjoy the beauty and the serenity of Madhuri Lake, and make some unforgettable memories
Madhuri Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. It is a place where you can witness the wonders of nature, the history of war, and the charm of Bollywood. It is a place where you can experience the thrill of boating, fishing, camping, trekking, birdwatching, and photography. It is a place where you can relax, rejuvenate, and reconnect with yourself and your loved ones.
So, what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Madhuri Lake today, and discover the hidden gem of Tawang. And don’t forget to share your experience with us in the comments below.
