Introduction: The Jewel of Garhwal
Nestled in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand, Tehri Lake is a stunning expanse of blue water that has transformed the landscape of the region. Often called the “Jewel of Garhwal,” this magnificent reservoir is the result of the Tehri Dam, the tallest dam in India and one of the tallest in the world. With a surface area of 52 square kilometres, Tehri Lake is one of the largest man-made lakes in Asia.
What makes Tehri Lake truly remarkable is its setting. The water spreads across a wide valley, surrounded by hills on all sides, creating a landscape that feels open and expansive rather than enclosed. Unlike river destinations such as Rishikesh, where movement is linear, Tehri Lake feels still and vast. It is a place where you can witness the scale of human engineering set against the backdrop of nature’s grandeur.
Whether you are an adventure enthusiast seeking water sports, a traveller looking for a serene weekend getaway, or someone interested in one of India’s most ambitious engineering projects, Tehri Lake offers an experience unlike any other in Uttarakhand.
History: The Story of Tehri Dam and the Submerged Town
The Vision Behind the Dam
The idea of constructing a dam on the Bhagirathi River was first explored in 1961 under Jawaharlal Nehru’s ministry. The design was completed in 1972 with a planned 600 MW capacity power plant. Construction finally began in 1978 after feasibility studies, but the project was delayed due to financial, environmental, and social concerns.
In 1986, technical and financial assistance was provided by the USSR, but this was interrupted years later by political instability. India was forced to take control of the project, and in 1988, the Tehri Hydro Development Corporation (THDC) was formed to manage the dam.
Construction and Completion
The Tehri Dam is a multi-purpose rock and earth-fill embankment dam on the Bhagirathi River in New Tehri, Tehri Garhwal district. With a height of 260.5 meters (855 feet), it is the tallest dam in India and the 13th-tallest dam in the world. The dam’s length is 575 meters, crest width 20 meters, and base width 1,128 meters.
The construction of the dam led to the submergence of the old Tehri town, a historic settlement with a rich cultural heritage. More than 125 villages and towns were submerged, and approximately 100,000 people were displaced—making it one of the largest human resettlement projects in India. The reservoir, now known as Tehri Lake, was filled as the dam became operational in 2006.
The Anti-Tehri Dam Movement
The Tehri Dam project was not without controversy. It became the subject of protests by environmental organisations and local people of the region. Virendra Dutt Saklani, a lawyer and founder of the Anti-Tehri Dam Struggle Committee, was among the first to highlight the consequences associated with the large project.
The most prominent figure in the anti-dam movement was Sunderlal Bahuguna, a renowned environmental activist who led protests from the 1980s until 2004. The protest was against the displacement of town inhabitants and the environmental consequences of locating such a large dam in the fragile ecosystem of the Himalayan foothills. Concerns were also raised about the dam’s geological stability, as it lies in the Central Himalayan Seismic Gap, a major geologic fault zone.
Despite the protests and concerns, the dam was completed, and the reservoir was filled. Today, it stands as a testament to both human engineering ambition and the complex social and environmental trade-offs that accompany large development projects.
New Tehri: The Reborn Town
The old Tehri town now lies submerged beneath the lake’s waters. In its place, New Tehri was constructed to house the displaced population. It is described as India’s first well-planned modern hill town and now serves as an education hub and bazaar for nearby villages.
The town was featured in the Bollywood movie “Batti Gul Meter Chalu” starring Shahid Kapoor, Shraddha Kapoor, and Yami Gautam, bringing its unique story to a wider audience.
Tehri Lake Festival 2026: A Celebration of Adventure and Culture
The Tehri Lake has become the centrepiece of one of India’s most exciting winter travel events. The Himalayan O2 – The Tehri Lake Festival is an annual celebration that has put this destination firmly on the tourism map.
Festival Dates for 2026
The extraordinary event is set to take place from March 6 to 9, 2026. It is organised by the district administration of Tehri Garhwal in collaboration with the Uttarakhand Tourism Development Board (UTDB).
Festival Highlights
Significance of the Festival
The festival, which goes by the slogan “where freedom meets the mountains,” is part of Uttarakhand’s Gham Tapo Tourism Initiative—a winter tourism campaign endorsed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, designed to boost tourism in the state and promote year-round travel beyond the traditional pilgrimage routes.
The four-day event brings together families, artists, adventurers, and performers to participate in a multi-dimensional celebration amid the stunning foothills of the Himalayas. Over 100 hotels across the district have partnered with the organisers to provide affordable accommodations for festival visitors.
Geography and Location
Geographic Coordinates
- Latitude: 30°22′40″ N
- Longitude: 78°28′50″ E
- Elevation: Approximately 600–800 meters above sea level (lake level varies with dam operations)
Location
Tehri Lake is situated in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, approximately:
- 75–80 km from Rishikesh
- 90 km from Dehradun
- 300 km from Delhi
The lake is formed by the Tehri Dam on the Bhagirathi River, which is one of the two headstreams of the sacred Ganga. The reservoir stretches across a wide valley, creating a vast water body with a surface area of 52 square kilometres.
How to Reach Tehri Lake
By Air
Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approximately 85–91 km from Tehri Lake)
- Airlines: Regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major Indian cities
- Travel Time: 2.5–3 hours by taxi from the airport
- Route: Jolly Grant → Dehradun → Tehri
From the airport, hire a private taxi directly to Tehri Lake or New Tehri. The journey offers scenic mountain views as you climb into the Garhwal Himalayas.
By Train
Nearest Railway Stations:
| Station | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Rishikesh | 76 km | 2–3 hours by road |
| Haridwar | 71 km | 2–3 hours by road |
From either station, taxis and buses are readily available for the drive to Tehri Lake.
By Road
Tehri Lake is well-connected by road to major cities in North India:
| Starting Point | Distance | Travel Time | Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 300 km | 7–8 hours | Delhi → Meerut → Muzaffarnagar → Roorkee → Haridwar → Rishikesh → Tehri |
| Dehradun | 90 km | 2.5–3 hours | Dehradun → Rishikesh → Tehri |
| Rishikesh | 75–80 km | 2–3 hours | Rishikesh → Tehri |
| Haridwar | 71 km | 2–3 hours | Haridwar → Rishikesh → Tehri |
Road Conditions: The roads are generally good, but the mountain stretch can be winding. An early start is recommended for day trips, as the round-trip travel time can take 6–8 hours.
Bus Services: Regular state transport and private buses operate from Rishikesh and Haridwar to Tehri.
Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance (km) |
|---|---|
| Delhi | 300 |
| Dehradun | 90 |
| Rishikesh | 75–80 |
| Haridwar | 71 |
| Mussoorie | 50 |
| Chamba | 25 |
| New Tehri | 5–10 |
| Nainital | 220 |
Weather and Best Time to Visit
Climate Overview
Tehri Lake experiences a pleasant climate year-round, with distinct seasons. The location in the foothills means temperatures are moderate but can vary.
Month-by-Month Temperature Guide
| Month | Average Min (°C) | Average Max (°C) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 5–8 | 15–18 | Cool, clear skies |
| February | 8–12 | 18–22 | Pleasant, spring begins |
| March | 12–16 | 22–28 | Warm, ideal for activities |
| April | 16–20 | 28–34 | Warm, peak tourist season |
| May | 20–24 | 30–36 | Hot but manageable with lake breeze |
| June | 22–26 | 30–34 | Warm, pre-monsoon showers |
| July | 20–24 | 26–30 | Monsoon, heavy rainfall |
| August | 20–24 | 26–30 | Monsoon, high humidity |
| September | 18–22 | 26–30 | Post-monsoon, pleasant |
| October | 14–18 | 24–28 | Cool, clear skies |
| November | 10–14 | 20–24 | Crisp, autumn charm |
| December | 6–10 | 16–20 | Cool, ideal for winter visits |
Best Time to Visit by Season
| Season | Months | Suitability | Conditions | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | March-June | ⭐ Excellent | 15°C–36°C, clear skies, lake breeze | Water sports, festivals (March), families |
| Autumn | September-November | ⭐ Excellent | 12°C–30°C, clear skies, pleasant weather | Photography, peaceful retreat |
| Winter | December-February | ⭐ Good | 5°C–22°C, cool, clear | Quiet visits, budget travel |
| Monsoon | July-August | ⚠️ Avoid | 20°C–30°C, heavy rainfall | Not recommended (landslides) |
When to See the Best Views
- October and November: The clearest skies and most comfortable temperatures
- March: The Tehri Lake Festival offers the most vibrant experience
- April-June: Best for water sports, though days can be warm
Things to Do at Tehri Lake
1. Water Sports and Adventure Activities
Tehri Lake has emerged as a premier destination for water sports in North India. The calm, expansive waters provide an ideal setting for various activities.
Available Water Sports:
| Activity | Description | Best Season |
|---|---|---|
| Boating | Paddle boats, rowboats, and small yachts available for hire | March-October |
| Speed Boat Rides | Thrilling jet speed boat rides across the lake | March-October |
| Jet Skiing | High-speed watercraft for adventure enthusiasts | March-October |
| Water Skiing | Skiing across the water surface | March-October |
| Zorbing | Rolling in a large inflatable ball on water | March-October |
| Banana Boat Ride | Inflatable boat towed by speedboat | March-October |
| Bandwagon Boat Ride | Group water adventure | March-October |
| Kayaking | Paddle through the lake’s calm waters | March-October |
| White Water Rafting | Available on the Bhagirathi River during festivals | March-June, October-November |
| Paragliding | Soar above the lake for aerial views | March-June, September-November |
Note: Water sports activities are operated by authorised local operators and depend heavily on weather and lake conditions. Availability can change without notice, and it’s best to treat these activities as a bonus rather than a guarantee.
2. Tehri Lake Festival (March 6-9, 2026)
The annual Tehri Lake Festival is the highlight of the year, offering a blend of adventure, culture, and entertainment. The 2026 edition promises to be bigger than ever, with live performances by Amit Trivedi and The Pandavaas, rafting competitions, fashion shows, and much more.
3. Floating Huts Experience
One of the unique attractions at Tehri Lake is the Le ROI Floating Huts. These accommodations float on the lake itself, offering a one-of-a-kind experience with mesmerising views. Behind the floating huts is the Dobra Chanti Bridge, adding to the scenic beauty.
4. Photography
The combination of vast blue waters, surrounding hills, and changing light makes Tehri Lake a photographer’s paradise. Key spots include:
- Lakeside viewpoints for sunrise and sunset
- The Dobra Chanti Bridge
- New Tehri town from across the water
- Water sports action shots
5. New Tehri Town Exploration
New Tehri, built after the submergence of the old town, is India’s first planned modern hill town. It offers:
- Peaceful streets and scenic views
- Local bazaars with Kumaoni and Garhwali handicrafts
- A glimpse into the resettlement story of the displaced communities
- Featured in the Bollywood movie “Batti Gul Meter Chalu”
6. Trekking
The region around Tehri Lake is opening up for trekking. During the 2026 festival, eight new trekking trails will be unveiled, offering adventurers a chance to explore the pristine landscapes with the help of local guides.
7. Birdwatching
The lake attracts various migratory birds, especially during the winter months. The surrounding forests also host resident Himalayan bird species.
8. Relaxation and Picnics
The lakeside areas offer plenty of space for simply sitting and enjoying the view. The vast scale of the lake and the surrounding hills create a sense of peace that makes it perfect for a quiet getaway.
Local Cuisine: What to Eat in Tehri
Garhwali Specialties
| Dish | Description | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| Aloo ke Gutke | Spiced fried potatoes with local Kumaoni/Garhwali flavors | Local eateries, festival food stalls |
| Bhatt ki Churkani | Spiced fried potatoes with local Kumaoni/Garhwali flavours | Local restaurants |
| Kafuli | Spinach and fenugreek curry | Traditional meals |
| Chainsoo | Lentil-based dish from the region | Local restaurants |
| Jhangora Kheer | Sweet pudding made with local millet | Festival food stalls |
| Mandua Roti | Finger millet flatbread | Homestays, local eateries |
During the Festival
The Tehri Lake Festival features a dedicated Food Zone with a variety of street food, offering local delicacies and global cuisine. This is an excellent opportunity to sample the flavours of the region.
Dining Tips
- Most accommodations offer meal packages
- Carry packaged snacks for day trips
- Food options around the lake are limited compared to city destinations
Accommodation Options
Tehri Lake and New Tehri offer a growing range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets.
Types of Accommodation
Best Areas to Stay
Booking Tips: For the Tehri Lake Festival (March 6-9, 2026), over 100 hotels across the district have partnered with the administration to provide accommodations. Book well in advance as availability becomes limited during festival dates.
Sample Itineraries
1-Day Tehri Lake Trip (From Rishikesh/Dehradun)
Day 1: Early Start and Lake Exploration
- Early Morning (5:00–6:00 AM): Depart from Rishikesh or Dehradun to beat traffic
- Late Morning (9:00–10:00 AM): Arrive at Tehri Lake, first view of the water
- Morning: Walk along the lakeside, photography, soak in the scale
- Afternoon: Lunch at local eatery, optional water sports (boating, jet ski)
- Late Afternoon: Visit New Tehri town, local market
- Evening: Depart for return journey (leave by 4:00–5:00 PM for daylight driving)
Note: A one-day trip is possible but involves 6–8 hours of travel. Starting early is essential.
2-Day Weekend Getaway (From Delhi)
Day 1: Travel and Evening Views
- Morning: Depart Delhi early (by 6:00 AM)
- Afternoon: Check into accommodation (floating huts or resort recommended)
- Evening: Sunset views at Tehri Lake, walk along the water
- Night: Dinner, stargazing
Day 2: Water Sports and Exploration
- Morning: Water sports activities (boating, jet skiing, banana boat)
- Afternoon: Visit New Tehri town, local market
- Evening: Depart for Delhi
3-Day Tehri Experience (With Festival)
Day 1: Arrival and Festival Kickoff
- Arrive, check in
- Evening: Festival opening, live music, cultural performances
Day 2: Adventure and Exploration
- Morning: Participate in adventure activities (rafting, kayaking, paragliding)
- Afternoon: Explore New Tehri, local culture
- Evening: DJ night, light and sound show
Day 3: Relaxation and Departure
- Morning: Photography, last-minute boating
- Afternoon: Depart
4-Day Combined Tehri-Mussoorie Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi → Mussoorie, Mall Road evening
Day 2: Mussoorie sightseeing (Kempty Falls, Gun Hill)
Day 3: Mussoorie → Tehri Lake (50 km), water sports, floating hut stay
Day 4: Tehri Lake → Rishikesh → Delhi
Nearby Places to Visit
Travel Tips and Important Information
Before You Go
- Check Festival Dates: If visiting in March, plan around the Himalayan O2 Festival (March 6-9, 2026)
- Weather Check: Mountain weather can change rapidly; check forecasts before departure
- Road Conditions: The mountain stretch is winding but manageable; allow extra time
- Advance Booking: Essential for festival dates and weekends
- Carry Cash: ATMs are limited; bring sufficient cash
During Your Stay
- Start Early: For a day trip, leave Rishikesh/Dehradun by 5:00–6:00 AM
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: Essential for walking along lakeside areas
- Dress in Layers: Even in summer, evenings can be cool
- Stay Hydrated: Carry water, especially for outdoor activities
- Respect Safety Rules: Always wear life jackets for water sports
Safety Tips
- Water Sports Safety: Follow instructions from operators, use safety gear, and independent swimming is discouraged due to depth
- Road Safety: Mountain roads require patience; avoid night driving
- Weather Awareness: Avoid lake activities during strong winds or storms
- Monsoon Travel: Avoid July-August due to landslide risk
Packing Checklist
| Season | Essentials |
|---|---|
| All Year | Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, reusable water bottle, power bank, camera, swimwear (for water sports) |
| Summer (Mar-Jun) | Light cotton clothes, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen |
| Monsoon (Jul-Aug) | Raincoat, waterproof footwear (avoid travel if possible) |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Light woollens for evenings, a jacket for mornings |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why is Tehri Lake famous?
A: Tehri Lake is famous for being the reservoir of the tallest dam in India, the Tehri Dam (260.5 meters high). It is one of the largest man-made lakes in Asia and has become a premier destination for water sports and adventure activities in Uttarakhand.
Q2: What is the best time to visit Tehri Lake?
A: The best time to visit is March to June (summer) and September to November (autumn). March is particularly special for the Tehri Lake Festival.
Q3: How far is Tehri Lake from Delhi?
A: The distance is approximately 300 km, with a travel time of 7–8 hours by road.
Q4: What water sports are available at Tehri Lake?
A: Activities include boating, jet skiing, speed boat rides, water skiing, zorbing, banana boat rides, kayaking, and, during the festival, white-water rafting and paragliding.
Q5: Is Tehri Lake worth a one-day trip?
A: Yes, but it requires an early start. From Rishikesh or Dehradun, a day trip is possible with 6–8 hours of travel. Starting by 5:00–6:00 AM is essential to have enough time at the lake.
Q6: What is the Tehri Lake Festival?
A: The Himalayan O2 – Tehri Lake Festival is an annual 4-day event (March 6-9, 2026) featuring adventure sports, live music, cultural performances, food zones, and competitions. It is organised by the Tehri Garhwal District Administration and Uttarakhand Tourism.
Q7: How do I reach Tehri Lake from Rishikesh?
A: By road, the distance is 75–80 km, taking 2–3 hours. Taxis and buses are available from Rishikesh.
Q8: Is there accommodation available at Tehri Lake?
A: Yes, options range from floating huts (Le ROI Floating Huts) to resorts and budget hotels in New Tehri. Over 100 hotels partner with the festival to provide accommodations.
Q9: What is the history behind Tehri Lake?
A: The lake was created by the Tehri Dam, built on the Bhagirathi River. Construction began in 1978 and was completed in 2006. The dam submerged the old Tehri town, displacing over 100,000 people and leading to the construction of New Tehri.
Q10: Is Tehri Lake suitable for families?
A: Yes, families can enjoy boating, lakeside walks, picnics, and the festival atmosphere. The area is peaceful and safe for children.
Q11: Are there guided tours available?
A: Yes, guided tours are available during the festival season. Information can be obtained from the tourism office or local operators.
Q12: What should I wear for water sports?
A: Wear comfortable, quick-dry clothing. Swimwear is appropriate for activities like jet skiing and banana boat rides. Life jackets are provided by operators.
Q13: Is there an entry fee for Tehri Lake?
A: There is no general entry fee for the lake. Some areas of the dam complex may have a nominal fee. Festival events may have separate registration requirements.
Q14: Can I visit Tehri Lake during the monsoon?
A: Monsoon (July-August) is generally not recommended due to heavy rainfall and the possibility of landslides in the region.
Q15: What are the nearest temples to Tehri Lake?
A: The Surkanda Devi Temple (approx. 35 km) and Chandrabadni Temple (approx. 40 km) are nearby Shakti shrines offering scenic Himalayan views.
Plan Your Tehri Lake Adventure with Discover Uttarakhand
At Discover Uttarakhand, we’ve been organising unforgettable journeys across Devbhoomi since 1997. As a trusted local operator with deep knowledge of Tehri Lake and the Garhwal region, we offer:
- ✅ Customised Tehri Lake tour packages (1 to 4 days)
- ✅ Tehri Lake Festival packages with accommodation and activity bookings
- ✅ Combined Tehri-Mussoorie-Rishikesh itineraries
- ✅ Comfortable transport with experienced hill drivers
- ✅ Verified accommodations, including floating huts
- ✅ Water sports and adventure activity arrangements
- ✅ 24/7 customer support throughout your journey
Recommended Tehri Lake Packages
| Package | Duration | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Tehri Lake Day Trip | 1 Day | Water sports, lakeside views, New Tehri |
| Tehri Lake Weekend | 2 Nights / 3 Days | Floating huts, boating, festival (March) |
| Tehri & Mussoorie Retreat | 3 Nights / 4 Days | Both destinations, Mall Road, water sports |
| Garhwal Explorer | 4 Nights / 5 Days | Tehri, Mussoorie, Rishikesh, Surkanda Devi |
Book your Tehri Lake adventure today and experience the unique charm of India’s largest man-made lake.
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