Nestled in the Nainital district of Uttarakhand, Sattal (Seven Lakes) is a stunning yet lesser-explored hill station known for its pristine lakes, dense oak forests, and rich birdlife. Located at an altitude of 1,370 meters, Sattal Birding Tour is a paradise for nature lovers, birdwatchers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts.
Unlike the bustling tourist hubs of Nainital and Bhimtal, Sattal offers a serene and offbeat retreat, where you can enjoy kayaking, trekking, camping, and birdwatching. With its seven interconnected freshwater lakes, Sattal is one of the most picturesque lake destinations in India, offering a perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.
This Sattal Travel Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, birdwatching details, must-visit places, accommodations, distances, local cuisines, and travel routes from Delhi and Nainital.
How To Reach Sattal?
Sattal is well-connected to Delhi, Nainital, and Kathgodam via road, rail, and air.
By Road
Driving to Sattal is a scenic experience, passing through winding mountain roads, pine forests, and breathtaking lake views.
- From Delhi (300 km): A 6-7 hour drive via NH 9 through Haldwani → Bhimtal → Sattal.
- From Nainital (22 km): A 45-minute drive via Bhowali.
- From Kathgodam (26 km): A 1-hour drive via Bhimtal.
Regular buses and shared taxis operate from Delhi and Kathgodam to Sattal via Bhimtal and Nainital.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station (26 km), connected to Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. From Kathgodam, take a bus or taxi to Sattal.
By Air
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (60 km). From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Sattal.
Best Time For Sattal Birding Tour
Sattal is a year-round destination, offering unique experiences in every season.
- Spring & Summer (March to June): The best time for birdwatching, boating, and adventure activities, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 30°C.
- Monsoon (July to September): The valley turns lush green, but heavy rainfall may cause landslides. Best for peace seekers and nature lovers.
- Autumn (October to November): Ideal for clear Himalayan views and pleasant weather, with temperatures between 10°C to 20°C.
- Winter (December to February): Experience misty mornings, cool weather, and occasional snowfall, with temperatures dropping to 0°C to 15°C.
Recommended: Visit between March to June or October to November for the best experience.
Birding in Sattal
Sattal is a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to over 500 bird species, including resident and migratory birds. The dense forests and freshwater lakes make it one of India’s best birding destinations.
Popular Birds in Sattal:
- Himalayan Griffon
- Rufous-bellied Woodpecker
- Slaty-headed Parakeet
- Red-billed Blue Magpie
- Black-chinned Babbler
- Blue-throated Barbet
- Asian Paradise Flycatcher
- Great Barbet
Best Birdwatching Spots:
- Sattal Christian Ashram
- Studio Point (A popular bird-photography spot)
- Jhula Devi Trail
- Sattal Butterfly Museum
Best Time for Birding:
- March to June (Spring-Summer) & October to November (Autumn-Winter) are the best seasons to spot rare birds and photograph them.
For an enhanced experience, consider hiring a local birding guide who can help you identify species and explore hidden trails.
Sattal Hotels & Resorts
Sattal Birding Tour offers eco-resorts, lakeside lodges, budget stays, and camping options, ensuring a peaceful retreat amidst nature.
Luxury Resorts & Boutique Stays:
- The Lake Resort Sattal – A luxury eco-resort offering stunning lake views and birdwatching trails.
- Soulitude by the Riverside – A boutique retreat surrounded by pine forests and streams.
- Emerald Trail Sattal – A serene eco-stay with organic farm-to-table meals.
Mid-Range & Budget Hotels:
- Sattal Forest Resort – A mid-range hotel with cozy wooden cottages and modern amenities.
- Fishermen’s Lodge – A lakeside retreat offering comfortable stays with adventure activities.
- KMVN Tourist Rest House Sattal – A budget-friendly government-run guesthouse with a peaceful location.
Best Places To Visit In Sattal
1. Sattal Lake
The star attraction, consisting of seven interconnected freshwater lakes, surrounded by oak and pine forests.
2. Subhash Dhara
A hidden freshwater spring nestled in the forests, perfect for short treks and nature photography.
3. Butterfly Museum
A unique museum showcasing over 2,500 butterfly species, established by renowned lepidopterist Frederic Smetacek.
4. Christian Ashram
A historic retreat founded by Stanley Jones, offering serene landscapes and birdwatching trails.
5. Bhimtal (8 km from Sattal)
A larger lake town known for Bhimtal Lake, Aquarium Island, and adventure sports.
6. Garud Tal & Ram Tal
Two serene and lesser-known lakes near Sattal, ideal for picnics and photography.
Sattal Tour from Delhi
Sattal is a 6-hour drive from Delhi, making it an ideal weekend getaway.
- Distance: 300 km
- Travel Time: 6-7 hours
- Route: Delhi → Haldwani → Bhimtal → Sattal
2-Day Itinerary from Delhi
Day 1:
- Start early (6 AM) from Delhi.
- Breakfast at Haldwani (Try Aloo Puri & Kumaoni Raita!).
- Reach Sattal by noon, check into The Lake Resort Sattal.
- Visit Sattal Lake & Butterfly Museum.
- Sunset at Subhash Dhara.
Day 2:
- Early morning birdwatching at Studio Point.
- Boating at Bhimtal Lake.
- Return to Delhi by evening.
Sattal Tour from Nainital
Sattal is just 22 km from Nainital, making it a perfect day trip or overnight stay.
- Distance: 22 km
- Travel Time: 45 minutes
- Route: Nainital → Bhowali → Sattal
1-Day Itinerary from Nainital
- Start early (7 AM) from Nainital.
- Visit Sattal Lake & Christian Ashram.
- Lunch at Emerald Trail Sattal.
- Explore Butterfly Museum & return to Nainital by evening.
Sattal Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 300 km | 6-7 hrs |
| Nainital | 22 km | 45 min |
| Kathgodam | 26 km | 1 hr |
| Haldwani | 30 km | 1.5 hrs |
Sattal Local Cuisines
Sattal offers delicious Kumaoni cuisine, made with fresh, organic ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Aloo Ke Gutke – Spiced pahadi potatoes.
- Bhaang Ki Chutney – A tangy hemp seed chutney.
- Chainsoo – A black gram dal dish.
- Bal Mithai – A famous Kumaoni sweet.
Final Thoughts
Sattal is a hidden paradise in the Himalayas, offering a mix of adventure, tranquility, and nature exploration. Whether you’re boating on the lakes, trekking through forests, or birdwatching, this offbeat destination guarantees a peaceful and refreshing escape.
So pack your bags and explore the untouched beauty of Sattal! 🌿🏞️✨
