Why in News?
Recent reports from March 11, 2026, highlight that the lake is significantly shrinking in both size and depth due to climate change. Shifting precipitation patterns—specifically more rain and less snow—have caused loose soil and "moraine" material to slide into the lake, leading to excessive silting.
Geographical Details
- Location: Situated in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India, within the Nanda Devi National Park.
- Altitude: Perched at an elevation of approximately 5,029 metres (16,500 feet) in the Garhwal Himalayas.
- Physical Features: A small, shallow glacial lake (about 40 metres in diameter) located at the base of Mt. Trishul and Nanda Ghunti. It remains frozen for most of the year.
The "Skeleton Lake" Mystery
- The Discovery: Hundreds of human skeletons were first officially rediscovered in 1942 by a forest ranger, Hari Kishan Madhwal.
- DNA Revelations (2019 Study): Landmark genetic research debunked the theory of a single catastrophic event. Findings revealed three distinct groups:
- Group A (~800 CE): Individuals of South Asian ancestry who likely died over several centuries.
- Group B (~1800 CE): A group with Eastern Mediterranean (Greek/Crete) ancestry who died in a single event nearly 1,000 years later.
- Group C (~1800 CE): At least one individual with Southeast Asian ancestry.
- Cause of Death: Many skulls show blunt force trauma consistent with being struck from above by large, round objects. The leading scientific theory suggests a massive hailstorm with "cricket ball-sized" hailstones.
Cultural and Mythological Significance
- Local Legend: Folk songs describe a royal procession led by Raja Jasdhaval of Kanauj and his wife, who angered the goddess Nanda Devi. In her wrath, she rained down "iron balls" (hail) to strike them down for their lack of humility.
- Pilgrimage Route: The lake lies on the path of the Nanda Devi Raj Jat, a major pilgrimage held once every 12 years.
Tourism and Trekking
- Trek Grade: Classified as Moderate to Difficult due to high altitude and steep terrain.
- Best Time: May to June (to see melting ice and skeletons) or September to October (for clear weather and crisp mountain views).
- Key Landmarks: The trek passes through the stunning Ali Bugyal and Bedni Bugyal, which are among the largest high-altitude meadows in Asia.
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