Rudraprayag: In a significant push toward sustainable tourism in Uttarakhand’s hilly terrains, the state government has initiated a Rs 3.36 crore beautification and development project for Badhani Tal, a serene high-altitude lake nestled in Jakoli block of Rudraprayag district. The foundation stone for these works was laid on Tuesday under the state sector’s Tourism Development Infrastructure Construction Scheme, marking a key step to transform the site into a premier eco-tourism destination while preserving its rich mythological heritage.
The ceremonial groundbreaking was jointly performed by District Magistrate Prateek Jain, Rudraprayag MLA Bharat Chaudhary, and District Panchayat President Poonam Kathait. Prior to the event, local villagers extended a warm traditional welcome to the dignitaries, reflecting the community’s enthusiasm for the initiative. The proceedings began with Vedic rituals and prayers, invoking blessings for the project’s success. Following the foundation laying, the officials, along with local women representing the community’s maternal spirit, undertook a sacred circumambulation (parikrama) around the lake. This ritual underscored the event’s blend of development and cultural reverence, emphasizing the preservation of religious faith, folk traditions, and cultural values.
The proposed developments include the construction of a glass house for panoramic views, a dedicated cafe area to promote local cuisine, reinforced railings and footpaths for safe access, a multipurpose platform for cultural events and gatherings, and comprehensive lake beautification efforts. These enhancements aim to elevate Badhani Tal—affectionately known as Vishnu Tal—from a hidden gem to an attractive tourist hotspot, drawing nature lovers, pilgrims, and adventure seekers. The executing agency is the Rural Construction Department, Rudraprayag, with completion targeted within the next 18-24 months, aligning with the state’s broader eco-tourism roadmap.
Addressing the gathering, District Magistrate Prateek Jain highlighted the lake’s untapped potential. “Badhani Tal is a natural paradise brimming with tourism opportunities,” he said. “The district administration is committed to placing remote and pristine sites like this on the tourism map, creating employment avenues for local youth and bolstering the rural economy.” Jain praised the site’s pristine beauty and stressed the dual focus on tourism promotion and heritage conservation. “The area’s spiritual and cultural significance is ancient and profound. Our priority is to safeguard this religious, cultural, and spiritual legacy alongside development,” he added.
In a symbolic gesture toward environmental stewardship, Jain fed grains to the lake’s vibrant colorful fish—a local attraction—and urged attendees to maintain the site’s cleanliness and sanctity. “By centering Badhani Tal, our goal is to integrate the entire Bangar region into Uttarakhand’s tourism circuit,” he affirmed, calling for collective responsibility in protecting the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
Badhani Tal, revered as Vishnu Tal in local lore, holds deep mythological roots. Legends link its origin to the divine wedding of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati at the nearby Triyuginarayan temple. Folklore recounts that Lord Vishnu, to sanctify the union, drew water from his navel to form the lake, bestowing it with purifying powers. Believed to grant merit through bathing and darshan (auspicious viewing), the site hosts a vibrant annual fair during Baisakhi, drawing devotees from across Garhwal.
Geographically, the lake is perched at an elevation of approximately 7,000 feet, about 60 km from Rudraprayag town, offering breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Its crystal-clear waters teem with multicolored fish, adding to its allure as a biodiversity hotspot. However, limited infrastructure has kept it off mainstream tourist radars until now. This project aligns with Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami’s vision of ‘Him Himalaya Tourism,’ which seeks to promote 50 offbeat destinations by 2027, generating over 10,000 jobs in rural Uttarakhand.
MLA Bharat Chaudhary echoed the sentiment, noting, “This development will not only preserve our sacred sites but also empower women and youth through homestays and guiding services.” District Panchayat President Poonam Kathait emphasized community involvement: “Local women will play a key role in managing the cafe and cultural programs, ensuring sustainable income.”
The initiative is part of Uttarakhand’s Rs 500 crore annual tourism budget for 2025-26, focusing on eco-friendly infrastructure in sensitive zones. Experts hail it as a model for balancing growth with conservation, potentially boosting visitor footfall by 30% in the first year. As the sun set over the tranquil waters on Tuesday, Badhani Tal stood as a testament to Uttarakhand’s resolve: harmonizing progress with its timeless spiritual soul.
