Below is an expanded look at some of the most breathtaking remote lakes in India that truly feel otherworldly.

1. Gurudongmar Lake, Sikkim

At 17,800 feet, Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes accessible by road. The journey itself feels like stepping into another dimension, with brown desert hills on one side and snow covered peaks on the other.

What Makes It Special

• The lake often freezes in winter, creating a glass like reflective surface.

• The colour of the lake shifts dramatically with sunlight, from deep sapphire to icy blue.

• The wind patterns create interesting ripples perfect for long exposure photography.

• There are spiritual legends associated with the lake, making it a place of quiet reverence.

Travel Insights

The oxygen levels are low at this altitude. Travellers usually stay in Lachen the night before to acclimatise. Early morning is the best time for photography due to calm light and softer shadows on the mountain ridge.

2. Loktak Lake, Manipur

Loktak is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is known across the world for its floating islands called phumdis. These circular islands drift gently, creating surreal patterns across the water surface.

Otherworldly Features

• Fishermen navigating between phumdis create incredible sunrise silhouette shots.

• The lake turns silver during winter, giving a metallic sheen that looks almost unreal.

• Keibul Lamjao National Park is literally floating on the lake, home to the rare sangai deer.

• The presence of stilt houses adds to the exotic beauty of the landscape.

Travel Insights

The lake is best experienced at dawn when the sky turns orange and pink. You can also hire small boats to explore the phumdi formations from close quarters.

3. Chandratal Lake, Himachal Pradesh

Chandratal or Moon Lake in Spiti Valley is remote, rugged, and awe inspiring. The lake sits in a crescent shape surrounded by barren mountains that look golden during sunset.

Why It Feels Unreal

• The water is so clear that the mountains cast a perfect inverted reflection.

• The sky is extremely clear, making it perfect for star trails and Milky Way shots.

• The surrounding cold desert landscape adds a dramatic tone to wide angle photographs.

Travel Insights

Camping is allowed near the lake in designated spots. The best shots are taken early morning when the water is still as glass.

4. Sheshnag Lake, Jammu and Kashmir

Sheshnag Lake lies along the Amarnath Yatra route, but much of the year it remains untouched by tourism. Deep greenish blue water sits perfectly beneath rugged peaks.

Best Features

• During summer, alpine flowers bloom around the lake creating a colourful carpet.

• The lake sits at the perfect angle for sunrise, giving a soft golden glow to its surface.

• The surrounding meadows provide ideal compositions for wide landscape shots.

Travel Insights

The trek to Sheshnag Lake is moderate but rewarding. Pony rides are available, but walking gives you better opportunities to stop and frame shots.

5. Tamenglong Hidden Lakes, Manipur

Tamenglong district houses several pristine lakes like Zeilad Lake, Nrou Lake, and Rakhao Lake. These lakes are remote, forested, and rarely visited by tourists.

What Makes Them Magical

• Mist rises from the water surface in the early morning, giving a fairytale look.

• These lakes are surrounded by dense tropical forests, making them perfect for nature videography.

• Birdlife is abundant, especially during winter months.

Travel Insights

Reaching these lakes often requires short hikes or village guidance. The remoteness ensures peaceful surroundings and natural ambience.

6. Kareri Lake, Himachal Pradesh

Kareri Lake is fed by the melted snow of the Dhauladhar range, making it one of the clearest lakes in India. The village trail leading to the lake is equally beautiful.

What Photographers Love

• The stones beneath the water are visible due to unbelievable clarity.

• Shepherd huts near the lake create rustic compositions.

• The changing colours of the lake give fresh frames throughout the day.

Travel Insights

Summer and post monsoon are the best seasons. October offers crisp air and golden light.

7. Dawki Lake Belt, Meghalaya

While Dawki River is famous, very few travellers explore the natural lakes that form between channels. The water here is clearer than glass.

Why It Stands Out

• Boats appear to float in mid air in photos due to water clarity.

• The lake floor is visible even in deeper sections.

• Limestone cliffs and overhanging forests add natural beauty.

Travel Insights

Plan a morning visit when sunlight penetrates the water creating bright emerald tones.

8. Lonar Crater Lake, Maharashtra

Formed by a meteor strike over 50,000 years ago, Lonar Lake is unlike any other water body in India. It sits inside a massive circular crater.

Unique Features

• The lake changes colour depending on microbial activity.

• The crater’s edge offers panoramic views ideal for drone photography.

• Temples around the crater add a historical element to the landscape.

Travel Insights

Visit during winter to avoid heat and dust. Early mornings offer the best lighting.

9. Sillery Lake, West Bengal

Sillery Lake is peaceful, surrounded by dense forest and small hamlets. It is ideal for travellers who want a break from busy tourist towns.

Why It Feels Serene

• The lake reflects forest silhouettes beautifully.

• Perfect for writers, creators, and couples looking for silence.

• Birdlife creates a soft natural soundscape.

Travel Insights

Stay in a homestay for genuine hospitality. Walk around the forest perimeter for better compositions.

10. Tso Moriri, Ladakh

Tso Moriri sits high in the Changthang region and feels like a world untouched by civilisation.

Why It Is Otherworldly

• The lake stretches across vast plains with snow peaks at a distance.

• The blue tones here are intense, shifting with the hour.

• Tibetan settlements nearby create cultural photography opportunities.

Travel Insights

Travellers should acclimatise properly. Late summer is ideal for clear skies.

Also read : Discovering Dwarkadhish Temple in Virar 

Extended Photography Tips for Remote Lakes

• Carry a lightweight tripod for reflection shots.

• Sunrise gives softer light, while sunset offers drama.

• Use ND filters for long exposure water textures.

• Keep batteries warm in cold high altitude areas.

• Frame wide compositions to capture the entire landscape.

Conclusion

Remote lakes in India feel like stepping into alternate worlds where silence, nature, and raw landscapes come together beautifully. Whether you love photography, road trips, trekking, or slow travel, these lakes offer experiences that stay with you forever.