Sattal, a group of seven interconnected fresh water lakes, is located in the Kumaon Lake region, in the district of Nainital in the Indian state of Uttarakhand. These lakes, surrounded by pine and oak forests, with the foothills of Himalayas rising above them, is located at an altitude of 4000 ft. Sattal meaning seven lakes in Hindi is just 23 km from Nainital.

A large portion of the forests here are protected, so the area teems with birdlife and is quiet and unspoilt. This is a great place for butterfly watching and nature walks in the midst of some of the most serenely beautiful scenery to be found anywhere. Birds like wood peckers, finches, eagles, warblers, kingfishers, magpies etc are some of the birds found here among nearly 500 species of bird life. There is a small church situated on the banks of the lakes which is part of the Sattal Mission Estate and Methodist Ashram, established by Rev. Stanley Jones, a Christian missionary. The estate also houses a small butterfly and insect museum. However, the main appeal of the place is the variety of adventure activities it offers. Sattal is the perfect place to indulge one’s craving for adventure sports and the excitement and thrill and satisfaction it affords. The rugged mountainous region offers opportunities for trekking, rappelling, and biking. River crossing, swimming, rafting, kayaking, mountain biking, camping, hiking, backpacking etc are a few of the variety of activities Sattal offers. Fishing is also a major attraction here, with the lakes teeming with carp and mahseer.

Those who have a taste for wildlife and adventure will find in Sattal a perfect holiday spot as also those who wish for a tranquil stay amidst beautiful surroundings. A trip to Sattal should be a part of the travel plans of any one who visits India.