The World’s Highest Man-Made Lake Reflecting the Golden Peaks of the Garhwal Himalayas
Nestled right in the heart of Auli’s championship ski amphitheater at an altitude of 2,800 metres, the Auli Artificial Lake holds the prestigious title of being the highest man-made lake in the world. Conceptualized and created by the Uttarakhand government in collaboration with international winter sports consultants, the lake was engineered with a visionary dual purpose: to provide a vast reservoir of clean water to feed automated snow-making cannons (snow guns) during low-snow winters, and to create an idyllic scenic centerpiece for year-round mountain travelers.
Encircled by wooden walking decks and rustic stone embankments, the turquoise water of the lake acts as a flawless celestial mirror on still, windless mornings. Visitors can witness the iconic snow-clad ramparts of Nanda Devi, Kamet, Trishul, and Dunagiri reflected with photographic clarity on the lake’s glassy surface. In winter, as snow blankets the surrounding slopes, ice sheets delicately form along the lake’s perimeter, creating an alpine atmosphere reminiscent of the Swiss Alps.
The lake is located conveniently close to the GMVN tourist complex and the chairlift terminal. During ski championships, the artificial snow cannons draw water from this reservoir to coat the slalom slopes with high-density powder. In summer and autumn, the crystal-clear pool offers a peaceful oasis where travelers stroll along the water’s edge, watch changing cloud patterns across the peaks, and enjoy leisurely outdoor photography.
A marvel of high-altitude hydraulic engineering constructed at 2,800m to sustain international winter games in Uttarakhand.
Famous for creating razor-sharp reflections of Nanda Devi and Kamet on calm mornings, creating postcard-perfect photo opportunities.
Bordered by gentle beginner ski slopes, alpine huts, and chairlift lines, keeping visitors right in the center of the winter action.
Well-paved walking trails and benches wrap around the reservoir, ideal for relaxing walks, quiet reflection, and sunset gazing.
Set up your tripod at dawn when the water is perfectly still to capture the majestic golden reflection of Nanda Devi on the water.
During peak winter months, relax along the reservoir perimeter and watch ski trainees and professional athletes tackle the nearby slopes.
Watch the setting sun paint the surrounding snowy amphitheater in shades of apricot, violet, and fiery orange reflected across the pool.
Sit along the grassy banks in summer or on snow banks in winter with a warm thermos of tea, absorbing the immense Himalayan stillness.
Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (280 km). Travel to Joshimath, then ascend to Auli by ropeway or taxi.
Rishikesh railway station is ~255 km away with excellent road connectivity along the Char Dham highway (NH-7).
Located right next to the GMVN ski resort complex in Auli. It is easily reached on foot (5-minute stroll) from major hotels and resorts in Auli.
Early mornings (7:30 AM – 9:30 AM) offer the calmest waters with zero ripples, maximizing the perfection of the mountain reflection.
The lake is deep and engineered for water storage. Swimming, wading, or stepping onto frozen surface ice is strictly prohibited.
The pathways around the lake can accumulate slippery frost and hard-packed snow; wear boots with rubber lugs or slip-on microspikes.
This reservoir feeds the snow cannons and local utilities; avoid throwing any litter, coins, or organic waste into the water.
It was built by the state government to supply clean water to automated snow cannons, ensuring optimal snow coverage on ski runs during winter games.
No, entry is completely free. Visitors can stroll along the perimeter pathways without any ticket.
During severe cold spells in January and February, the top surface layer freezes into ice, while the deeper water remains liquid.
The lake is situated centrally within Auli, just a short 5 to 10 minute walk from the GMVN resort, Cliff Top Club, and nearby private resorts.
Plan your journey to the snowy heights and golden alpine meadows of Auli with our verified travel guides, weather forecasts, and route tips.