Vasudhara Lake is a _______.

The correct answer is Glacial lake.

Key Points

• Vasudhara Lake is a glacial lake located near the famous Vasudhara Falls in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.
• Glacial lakes are formed when glaciers erode the land and meltwater accumulates in the resulting depression.
• Vasudhara Lake lies in the Garhwal Himalayas, near the holy town of Badrinath, which is a part of the Chamoli district.
• The lake is fed by glacial meltwater from the surrounding peaks, a common characteristic of high-altitude glacial lakes.
• Its serene and pristine environment attracts trekkers and pilgrims, as it is located along the route to the sacred Satopanth Tal.

Additional Information

• Glacial Lake Definition:
  • Glacial lakes are typically formed when a glacier carves out a depression in the land, which later fills with water from melting ice and precipitation.
  • They are commonly found in high-altitude mountain ranges, such as the Himalayas, Alps, and Andes.
• Examples of Glacial Lakes:
  • Satopanth Tal (near Vasudhara Lake) in Uttarakhand, India.
  • Lake Louise in Canada and Gokyo Lakes in Nepal are other famous glacial lakes.
• Geological Importance of Glacial Lakes:
  • They provide insights into glacial activity, climate change, and the hydrology of mountainous regions.
  • These lakes also play a crucial role in water supply for downstream rivers and ecosystems.
• Potential Hazards of Glacial Lakes:
  • Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) can occur due to the sudden release of water, posing risks to downstream areas.
  • Monitoring and risk mitigation efforts are essential to prevent disasters in areas near glacial lakes.