OT Staff & Waquar Habib
This transboundary salt lake freezes into vast blue-white expanses in deep winter; couples and photographers linger on the ice for surreal vistas, sunrise colours and quiet Himalayan solitude.
A high-altitude freshwater lake that freezes at peak winter; watch nomadic Changpa life, migratory birds by spring and mirror-like ice reflections framed by desolate, wind-sculpted ridgelines.
Sacred, high-altitude Gurudongmar partially freezes in winter under snow-capped peaks; pilgrims and visitors respect its sanctity while marvelling at crisp, otherworldly alpine panoramas.
One of India’s highest lakes, Cholamu becomes a frozen, remote plateau in winter; extreme cold, thin air and rugged approaches reward experienced high-altitude travellers.
Close to Gangtok, Tsomgo often freezes in winter; its icy surface, surrounding prayer flags and nearby monasteries create accessible, photogenic alpine scenes for day visitors.
The crescent-shaped Moon Lake freezes over in winter; remote treks and high-camp nights yield crystalline ice, starry skies and genuine Spiti Valley stillness for seasoned travellers.
Near Bara-Lacha La, Suraj Tal’s high-altitude basin often freezes in winter; its turquoise-turned-ice and dramatic pass-scapes attract adventurous road-trippers and alpine photographers.
In severe cold spells Dal’s shallows can freeze along edges; winter transforms shikara scenes into quiet, snow-rimmed vistas and local life adapts to the chill.