Ruinsara Tal is a pristine high-altitude glacial lake located in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand. Nestled at an altitude of 3,500 meters (11,482 feet), this lake is surrounded by lush green meadows, rhododendron forests, and towering peaks like Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Kalanag (Black Peak). The trek to Ruinsara Tal is a lesser-known yet stunning alternative to the famous Har Ki Dun trek, offering breathtaking landscapes and a deep cultural and wildlife experience.
Ruinsara Tal Trek Overview
- Ruinsara Tal Altitude: 3,500 meters (11,482 feet)
- Ruinsara Tal Trek Distance: Approx. 44 km (round trip)
- Ruinsara Tal Trek Difficulty Level: Moderate
- Ruinsara Tal Trek Time: 7 to 8 days
- Ruinsara Tal Trek Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000 per person (varies by package and season)
- Best Time to Visit: May–June & September–October
Best Time to Visit Ruinsara Tal
The best time to visit Ruinsara Tal is during May–June and September–October. During these months, the weather remains stable, the trails are clear, and the scenery is breathtaking. Avoid the monsoon season due to landslides and slippery trails, and winter due to heavy snowfall blocking the routes.
Ruinsara Tal Weather Conditions
The Ruinsara Tal weather varies according to the season:
- Summer (May – June): Pleasant days (10-15°C), cold nights (0-5°C)
- Monsoon (July – August): Avoid due to landslides and slippery trails.
- Autumn (September – October): Crisp weather, clear skies, and stunning views (5-10°C during the day, -5°C at night)
- Winter (November – April): Freezing conditions with heavy snowfall, making it difficult to access.
Altitude Gain on the Ruinsara Tal Trek
- Sankri (2,000m) – Starting point
- Seema (2,700m) – Moderate gain
- Devsu Bugyal (3,000m) – Gradual ascent
- Ruinsara Tal (3,500m) – Highest point of the trek
Ruinsara Tal Trek Difficulty Level
The Ruinsara Tal Trek difficulty level is moderate, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers. The trek involves a mix of gradual ascents, steep sections, and long trekking days. Proper acclimatization and physical fitness are recommended.
How to Reach Ruinsara Tal
From Delhi:
- Take an overnight bus or train from Delhi to Dehradun.
- From Dehradun, drive 210 km (7-8 hours) to Sankri, the base village for the trek.
- From Sankri, a short drive to Taluka marks the trek’s starting point.
From Dehradun:
- Hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to Sankri (7-8 hours drive).
- Drive from Sankri to Taluka and start the trek.
From Haridwar/Rishikesh:
- Take a taxi or bus to Dehradun.
- Continue from Dehradun to Sankri and then Taluka for the trek.
Cultural Immersion on Ruinsara Tal Trek
The Ruinsara Tal Trek from Delhi takes you through the culturally rich villages of the Har Ki Dun valley, including Osla, Gangad, and Seema. These villages are known for their ancient Himachali-style wooden temples, including the famous Duryodhana Temple at Osla, where the local people worship the Kauravas instead of the Pandavas. The villagers still follow traditional customs, and trekkers can witness their unique lifestyle, wooden houses, and warm hospitality.
Wildlife and Flora on the Trail
The Ruinsara Tal Trek passes through the Govind Pashu Vihar National Park, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna:
- Flora: Dense forests of rhododendrons, Bhojpatra, oak, and maple create a stunning landscape. Meadows like Devsu Bugyal offer breathtaking campsites.
- Fauna: The trail is home to rare Himalayan wildlife, including musk deer, Himalayan black bear, blue sheep, and the elusive snow leopard. Birdwatchers can spot species like monal pheasant, steppe eagle, and bearded vulture.
Ruinsara Tal Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Dehradun to Sankri (2,000m) (210 km, 7/8 hours drive)
Drive from Dehradun to Sankri, the base village for treks in Govind Pashu Vihar National Park.
Day 2: Sankri to Taluka (11 km drive) – Trek to Seema (2,700m) (12 km, 4/5 hours)
A scenic drive followed by a trek through forests of deodar, walnut, and chestnut trees.
Day 3: Seema to Devsu Bugyal (3,000m) (7 km, 3/4 hours)
Trek through beautiful meadows with views of snow-covered peaks.
Day 4: Devsu Bugyal to Ruinsara Tal (3,500m) (12 km, 6/7 hours)
A steep but rewarding trail leading to the serene Ruinsara Tal, surrounded by mountains.
Day 5: Rest Day at Ruinsara Tal
Enjoy the scenic beauty, explore the area, and acclimatize.
Day 6: Ruinsara Tal to Devsu Bugyal (12 km, 5/6 hours)
Retrace your steps through the meadows and forests.
Day 7: Devsu Bugyal to Taluka (18 km, 6/7 hours) – Drive to Sankri
Long but scenic descent back to civilization.
Day 8: Sankri to Dehradun (210 km, 7/8 hours drive)
Drive back to Dehradun, marking the end of the trek.
Why Choose the Ruinsara Tal Trek?
- Perfect Blend of Adventure and Culture: Experience Himalayan villages, temples, and local traditions.
- Stunning Landscape: Meadows, forests, rivers, and towering Himalayan peaks.
- Wildlife and Flora: Trek through Govind National Park, home to diverse species.
- Great Alternative to Har Ki Dun Trek: Less crowded yet equally mesmerizing.
- Ideal for Trekkers of All Levels: Moderate difficulty, making it accessible for beginners and experienced trekkers alike.
Conclusion
The Ruinsara Tal Trek is an offbeat gem in the Har Ki Dun Ruinsara Tal trek circuit. With its cultural richness, stunning landscapes, and serene atmosphere, it offers an unforgettable trekking experience. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway, a wildlife adventure, or an exploration of Garhwal’s rich heritage, Ruinsara Tal Trek is a perfect choice. Plan your trek today and witness the untouched beauty of the Uttarakhand Himalayas!
