It all started with one of those random plans I made with friends – a late night trip to Haridwar and Rishikesh. The idea of watching the sunrise from Tehri Lake hadn’t even crossed our minds before. We were in Haridwar and as the clock struck midnight, our chatty group set out for an outing. The plan was simple: reach Rishikesh via Haridwar, relax on the banks of the Ganga River and return before sunrise. But life, as always, had better plans.
Somewhere along the way, someone suggested we drive further. “Let’s go to Tehri,” said to us, and the next thing we saw was that we were on a winding mountain road leading to Tehri Lake, located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand. Little did I know that I was about to witness the most breathtaking sunrise from Tehri Lake that will forever be etched in my memory.

What I had seen only on the Internet, Instagram or YouTube till now was just moments away from being witnessed in reality.
Midnight Conversations: How We Ended Up at Tehri Lake
The best plans are the unplanned ones, right? Here’s a sneak peek into the fun chats that led us to witness the most magical sunrise from Tehri Lake.
The Road to Rishikesh
- Friend-1: “Guys, this late night drive is exactly what we needed. Rishikesh will be very peaceful at night.”
- Me: “Yeah, but it’s always Rishikesh. Don’t you think we should go somewhere else tonight?” Let’s do something crazy
- Friend-2: “Crazy? Like what? Midnight rafting on the Ganga?!” (Laughing jokingly)
- Me: “No, I mean, let’s keep driving. How about Tehri Lake?”
- Friend-1: “Tehri Lake? Do you really know? It’s so far.”
- Me: “Come on, there are just two more hours. Imagine watching the sunrise there.”
- Friend-2: “Oh my god, sunrise from Tehri Lake? It sounds like a dream! Let’s do it!”
- Friend-1: “You guys are crazy… but okay, I’m ready!”
The Final Stretch to Tehri
- Friend-1: “It’s too dark here. Are we sure this is the right way?”
- Me: “Trust me, it will be worth it. Wait till you see the sunrise from Tehri Lake.” I have seen it on social media till now.
- Friend-2: “I hope there is a cafe or something open when we reach there. I want tea!”
- Friend-1: “Tea or not, it must be good. You’re hyping it up too much!”
- Me: “Just wait. You’ll thank me when the sunlight hits the water.”
Sunrise Bliss
- Friend-2: [screaming] “Guys, look! The first rays of the sun!”
- Friend-1: [speechless] “Wow… it looks like the lake is glowing. This is crazy!”
- Me: “I told you. Sunrise from Tehri Lake is pure magic.” (Although I also saw it for the first time in reality but I had seen it on social media.)
- Friend-2: “This is the best random plan we have ever had. Someone take a picture quickly!”
- Me: “No picture can do justice to this. You just have to be here to feel it.”
- Friend-1: “Okay, now who is ready for some water sports after this?”
- Friend-2: “Join me for jet skiing, but first… tea. Please!”
The First Glimpse of Tehri Lake
When we reached Koti Colony, near the THDC (Tehri Hydro Development Corporation Ltd.), it was still pitch dark. The crisp mountain air was biting cold, but the excitement of what lay ahead kept us wide awake. As the sky began to lighten, we walked toward the edge of the lake. And then it happened —
The first rays of sunlight hit the still water of Tehri Lake, painting it with hues of gold, orange, and red.
I was awestruck. Imagine standing there, the vast lake stretching out in front of you, surrounded by majestic hills, with the golden glow of the sunrise from Tehri Lake making everything look like a scene straight out of a scenery. It wasn’t just beautiful; it felt like a moment of pure magic.
Location: Where Heaven Meets Earth
Tehri Lake is located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, India, about 260 kilometers from Delhi. Nestled amidst the Himalayan foothills, it is part of the Tehri Dam reservoir, one of the largest in Asia. The lake, a sparkling gem amid lush green mountains, is a haven for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and photographers.
Koti Colony, near the old Tehri area, is a hub for water sports and the perfect spot to experience this sunrise spectacle.
Why Sunrise from Tehri Lake Feels So Special
You know how some moments in life feel too perfect to be real?
That’s exactly how the sunrise from Tehri Lake felt. The calmness of the water, the soft chirping of birds and the gentle warmth of the sun made it an experience beyond words.
It’s not just the view — it’s the feeling. Watching the sun slowly rise over the hills, its light reflecting on the water, made me feel a strange sense of peace. For a moment, it was as if time had stopped, and all that mattered was the beauty in front of me.
What Makes Tehri Lake a Must-Visit?
Adventure Water Sports
Tehri Lake isn’t just about soaking in the views; it’s also a hub for adventure lovers. After the sunrise, we decided to try out some water sports — and wow, what a blast!
Activities include
- Jet Skiing: Glide across the water and feel the wind rush past you.
- Kayaking: Paddle your way through the calm lake.
- Banana Boat Rides: Perfect for groups; hold on tight and try not to fall off!
- Speed Boating: If you’re into high-speed thrills, this one’s for you.
- Water Zorbing: Imagine walking (or rolling) on water — so much fun!
Trust me, there’s nothing like watching the sunrise from Tehri Lake and then diving straight into some adrenaline-pumping adventures.
Camping Under the Stars
If you’re staying overnight, you’ll love the campsites around Tehri Lake. After a day full of activities, sitting by a bonfire with the lake shimmering in the moonlight is an experience you won’t forget.
Photography
For photography enthusiasts, Tehri Lake offers endless opportunities. Capture the sunrise, the lush green surroundings, and the playful ripples on the water.
Boating
Enjoy a peaceful boating session while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
How to Reach Tehri Lake
By Road
Tehri Lake is easily accessible by road, making it a popular choice for road trips:
- From Haridwar (86 km): It’s a smooth 2 to 3-hour journey through scenic mountain roads.
- From Rishikesh (73 km): A picturesque 2-hour drive filled with breathtaking views.
- From Delhi (260 km): The journey takes around 6-7 hours by car or bus.
For convenience, regular buses and taxis operate from Haridwar and Rishikesh, ensuring a hassle-free trip.
By Train
The closest railway station is in Haridwar, well-connected to major cities across India. From Haridwar, you can hop on a bus or hire a taxi to cover the remaining distance.
By Air
The nearest airport to Tehri Lake is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun situated about 91 kilometers away. Taxis are readily available at the airport to take you directly to Tehri.
Best Time to Visit Tehri Lake
While the lake is stunning all year round, the best time to visit is between March and June and September to November. The weather is pleasant, and the sunrise from Tehri Lake is especially mesmerizing during these months.
Reliving the Magic
Even as I write this, I can’t help but smile, remembering the golden morning light dancing on the water. That moment was more than just a sunrise — it was a feeling of being completely alive, present, and in sync with nature.
If you’re planning a trip, take my word for it: don’t miss the sunrise from Tehri Lake. It’s one of those rare experiences that make you appreciate the simple yet profound beauty of life.
Why Tehri Lake Deserves a Spot on Your Travel List
Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone who just wants to escape the chaos of city life, Tehri Lake has something for everyone. From the thrill of water sports to the serenity of watching the sunrise from Tehri Lake, this place promises memories that will stay with you forever.
FAQs about Sunrise from Tehri Lake
Tehri Lake is located in the Tehri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, near Koti Colony.
The sunrise from Tehri Lake is mesmerizing due to its golden hues reflecting off the tranquil water, surrounded by lush hills.
You can enjoy water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, speed boating, banana boat rides, and water zorbing.
You can reach Tehri Lake by road from Haridwar or Rishikesh (about 2 hours). The nearest railway station is in Haridwar, and the closest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun.
Yes, there are campsites near Tehri Lake where you can enjoy stargazing and bonfires by the lake.
The best time to visit is between March and June or September and November for pleasant weather and stunning sunrises.
Absolutely! The lake offers activities for all ages, from relaxing by the water to exciting water sports.
Thank you for reading. Have any thoughts or questions? Feel free to comment, share, and engage.
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