Tehri Lake Side Bays: Uttarakhand’s Hidden Gem – Complete Travel Guide

Summary

• Tehri Lake Side Bays: Uttarakhand’s serene hidden treasure.
• Perfect for offbeat travelers seeking peace and quiet.
• Stunning lake views paired with untouched natural beauty.
• Affordable destination with budget-friendly stays and eats.
• Ideal spot for adventure and soulful relaxation.
• A rare escape from crowded tourist traps.

Tehri Lake Side Bays

I still remember the first time I stumbled upon Tehri Lake Side Bays. It was late afternoon, the golden hour casting long shadows over the calm, glassy waters of Tehri Lake, when I pulled over on a whim along the winding roads near New Tehri. The air was crisp, carrying the faint scent of pine, and a local chaiwallah at a tiny roadside stall near Koti Colony smiled as he handed me a steaming glass for just Rs 10. I sat on a rocky ledge, sipping that chai, mesmerized by the surreal turquoise expanse framed by rugged hills. This wasn’t just a lake—it felt like a secret whispered by the mountains.

What makes this place so underrated is how it hides in plain sight, overshadowed by more famous Uttarakhand spots like Nainital or Mussoorie. Yet, Tehri Lake Side Bays offers something raw and unpolished: bays and inlets along the lake where you can just sit, breathe, and forget the world. Think impromptu picnics by the water near Chamba or watching fishermen cast their nets at dawn near Bhagirathi Bay. If you’re craving a slice of tranquility with a dash of adventure, stick with me as I unravel the magic of this hidden gem.

Why Visit Tehri Lake Side Bays?

• Untouched Serenity — Unlike crowded hill stations, these bays offer quiet corners where you can hear nothing but the lapping of water.
• Mesmerizing Views — The turquoise hues of Tehri Lake against green hills create postcard-worthy vistas at every turn.
• Adventure Hub — From kayaking to trekking, the lake and surrounding trails cater to thrill-seekers on a budget.
• Cultural Peek — Interact with locals in nearby villages like Koti Colony for authentic Garhwali stories and hospitality.
• Affordable Escape — Meals, stays, and activities here won’t burn a hole in your pocket compared to mainstream destinations.
• Photographer’s Delight — Capture surreal reflections and dramatic sunsets without jostling for space with other tourists.
• Eco-Friendly Vibes — The area remains largely uncommercialized, letting you connect with nature in its purest form.

Top Things to Do & See

Bhagirathi Bay

Witness the confluence of the Bhagirathi River with Tehri Lake in a dramatic display of nature’s power. Insider tip: Visit at sunrise to spot local fishermen in action—bring a small tip (Rs 50) to join them for a quick boat ride.

Koti Colony Viewpoint

A lesser-known spot offering panoramic views of the lake surrounded by pine forests. Insider tip: Pack a picnic and head here in the late afternoon; locals often sell homemade snacks nearby for Rs 20–30.

Tehri Dam

Marvel at Asia’s second-highest dam, a feat of engineering with the lake as its shimmering backdrop. Insider tip: Walk to the nearby viewing gallery around 4 PM for fewer crowds and better light for photos.

Kayaking at Central Bay

Paddle through the calm waters with the hills towering around you for an unforgettable adventure. Insider tip: Rent kayaks from local operators near the main jetty for Rs 300 per hour—bargain if you’re in a group.

Chamba Hill Trails

Trek along easy paths near Chamba for stunning lake views and quiet forest walks. Insider tip: Ask locals for the “hidden waterfall” trail—it’s a 20-minute detour but worth the surprise.

Lakeside Camping at Dobra Bay

Spend a night under the stars with the gentle sound of water as your lullaby. Insider tip: Book campsites through local guides for Rs 800 per person, including a bonfire and basic meals.

How to Reach Tehri Lake Side Bays

Getting to Tehri Lake Side Bays is part of the adventure, with scenic drives and accessible routes from major Uttarakhand hubs. The nearest big town is New Tehri, about 15 km from the main bays. If you’re coming from farther away, start at Dehradun, the gateway to most hill destinations in this region. Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun is the closest air link, roughly 85 km away, with flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other cities. Taxis from the airport to New Tehri cost around Rs 2,500–3,000 for a one-way trip, taking about 3 hours via the Rishikesh-Chamba Road (NH-94).

By train, the nearest station is Rishikesh, 70 km from New Tehri. From Rishikesh Railway Station, hop on a shared jeep or private cab to New Tehri for Rs 150–200 per person or Rs 2,000 for a full car, respectively. The journey takes around 2.5 hours, winding through lush valleys and small Garhwali villages. If you’re driving, take NH-94 from Rishikesh towards Chamba, passing landmarks like the Devprayag confluence, where the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi rivers meet. The roads are mostly well-maintained, though narrow at spots, so drive cautiously, especially after dusk.

From New Tehri town, the bays are a short 20–30-minute drive or bike ride. Local autos charge Rs 100–150 to spots like Bhagirathi Bay or Koti Colony. For flexibility, rent a bike in New Tehri for Rs 500 per day from shops like Sharma Bike Rentals near the main bus stand. Pro tip: Fuel up in New Tehri as petrol pumps are sparse near the bays, and carry cash—ATMs can be unreliable.

Best Time to Visit

Tehri Lake Side Bays shines brightest between March to May and September to November, when the weather is pleasant with temperatures hovering between 15°C to 25°C. These shoulder months offer clear skies, perfect for lake views and outdoor activities like kayaking or trekking. Summer (June) can get warm, touching 30°C, but it’s still manageable with early morning or evening explorations. Winters (December to February) dip to 5°C–10°C, bringing a magical chill and occasional snowfall on higher trails, though roads can get slippery. Monsoon (July to August) is risky—landslides are common on NH-94, and the lake area turns muddy, making trekking or camping less enjoyable. If peace is your goal, aim for mid-week visits in shoulder seasons to dodge small weekend crowds from Dehradun.

Where to Stay

Accommodation near Tehri Lake Side Bays caters to various budgets, mostly concentrated in New Tehri town or closer to the lake edges. For budget travelers, check out guesthouses like Hotel Shivalik in New Tehri, with basic rooms starting at Rs 800–1,000 per night near the main market. Mid-range options include Hotel Devansh near Baurari, offering lake-view rooms with modern amenities for Rs 2,000–2,500 per night. For a more immersive experience, opt for boutique stays or campsites like Lakeview Camps at Dobra Bay, where tents with basic facilities and bonfires cost Rs 1,500–2,000 per person, including meals. Book in advance for camps during peak months, as spots fill up fast. If you prefer homestays, ask locals in Koti Colony—some families offer clean rooms for Rs 1,000 per night with home-cooked Garhwali meals as a bonus.

Trip Cost Breakdown (3-Day Trip for 2 People)

Suggested Itineraries

• 2-Day Quick Escape
• Day 1: Arrive in New Tehri by noon, check into accommodation, and head to Bhagirathi Bay by 3 PM for sunset views. Evening chai and snacks at a local stall near Koti Colony (5–6 PM).
• Day 2: Early morning kayaking at Central Bay (7–9 AM), followed by a visit to Tehri Dam (10 AM–12 PM). Depart by 2 PM after lunch at a dhaba in New Tehri.
• 3-Day Deep Dive
• Day 1: Reach New Tehri by midday, settle in, and explore Koti Colony Viewpoint (3–5 PM). Relax with a lakeside walk near your stay in the evening (6–7 PM).
• Day 2: Start with a sunrise at Bhagirathi Bay (6–8 AM), then trek Chamba Hill Trails (9 AM–1 PM). Afternoon kayaking at Central Bay (3–5 PM), followed by dinner at a local eatery.
• Day 3: Visit Tehri Dam in the morning (8–10 AM), then set up a lakeside picnic at Dobra Bay (11 AM–1 PM). Head back by 3 PM after a leisurely lunch.

Ideal For

• Nature lovers seeking quiet landscapes and lakefront relaxation.
• Adventure enthusiasts looking for kayaking, trekking, and camping.
• Budget travelers wanting a scenic getaway without hefty costs.
• Photographers chasing dramatic hill-and-water frames.
• Couples or small groups craving a peaceful retreat.

Safety, Permits & Local Etiquette

• Inner Line Permit: No permits are required for Indian nationals to visit Tehri Lake Side Bays or surrounding areas.
• Mobile Connectivity: Networks like Airtel and Jio work decently in New Tehri, but signal drops near remote bays like Dobra. Carry a backup offline map.
• Solo Female Traveller: Generally safe during the day with locals being friendly; stick to populated areas after dark and avoid isolated trails alone.
• Do’s & Don’ts: Respect local customs by dressing modestly in villages. Avoid littering near the lake—carry a trash bag. Bargain politely with vendors, and always ask before photographing people.

Hidden Tips Only Repeat Visitors Know

• Visit Bhagirathi Bay on a weekday morning to avoid small crowds from weekend picnickers.
• Buy local honey and handmade woolens from stalls near Koti Colony—prices start at Rs 200.
• Carry a portable chair or mat for impromptu lakeside stops; seating isn’t always available.
• Chat with fishermen at Central Bay for free boat ride offers if you buy their fresh catch (Rs 100–150).
• Avoid overpriced bottled water—refill at dhabas for Rs 5 per liter with safe filtered options.
• Trek to the “hidden waterfall” near Chamba with a local guide for Rs 300—they know the shortcuts.
• Pack light layers; evenings get chilly even in summer near the lake.
• Stop at roadside dhabas like Mahesh Dhaba on NH-94 for the best aloo parathas at Rs 40 each.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Tehri Lake Side Bays worth visiting?

Absolutely, if you’re after a peaceful escape with stunning lake views. It’s far less crowded than Mussoorie or Nainital, offering a raw, natural charm. The bays are perfect for quiet picnics, adventure activities, or just unwinding by the water.

Q: How many days are enough for Tehri Lake Side Bays?

A 2-day trip covers the main bays and activities like kayaking or a dam visit. However, 3 days let you explore trails, camp overnight, and soak in the serenity at a leisurely pace. It depends on how deep you want to dive into the experience.

Q: Is Tehri Lake Side Bays safe for solo female travellers?

Yes, it’s relatively safe during daytime, with welcoming locals and a calm vibe. Stick to well-trodden areas like Central Bay or near New Tehri after dark. Always inform someone of your plans if trekking solo, and carry a charged phone.

Q: Which is better — Tehri Lake Side Bays or Nainital?

Tehri Lake Side Bays wins for solitude and raw beauty, ideal for offbeat travelers. Nainital, while charming, is more commercialized and crowded. Choose Tehri if you want quiet lake vibes; go for Nainital if you prefer bustling markets and amenities.

Q: Do I need permits for Tehri Lake Side Bays?

No permits are needed for Indian nationals to visit the bays or surrounding areas. It’s an open destination within Uttarakhand. Just carry a valid ID for hotel check-ins or random checks on highways like NH-94.

Q: Is Tehri Lake Side Bays expensive?

Not at all—it’s quite budget-friendly compared to popular hill stations. A 3-day trip for two can cost under Rs 15,000, including stays, food, and activities. Local transport and meals are cheap, and many natural spots are free to explore.