Shyamlatal is a climb of 28.2 kilometers (hors catégorie). Shyamlatal tops out at 1,376 m above sea level. It is located in Kakrali Gate, Uttarakhand, India. The average gradient is 5.6% with a maximum of 14.4%. The climb has 1579 meters of elevation gain.
Difficulty breakdown: This 28.2 km HC climb builds gradually. The first 5 km (1-2% gradient) act as a warm-up. Difficulty ramps up steadily between km 5 and km 15, with a demanding stretch at km 14-15-16-18 where the gradient hits 7%. The profile is uneven, alternating steep sections (6-7%) with recovery sections (2-3%), so you'll need to pace yourself carefully.
Pacing tips:
1. Settle into a rhythm early: Use the first kilometres at 1-2% to find a steady tempo without going too hard.
2. Save something for the key sections: Keep some energy in reserve for the steepest parts, especially the series around km 14-18 (7% gradients).
3. Make use of the easier stretches: Sections with a lower gradient (like km 16-17 or 21-22) are crucial for recovering a bit before the harder sections that follow.
Riders who have climbed to Shyamlatal describe a raw, authentic climb, far from the crowds. The road, narrow and twisty after the Sukhidang junction, winds through green forest and opens up jaw-dropping views over the Himalayan range. The surface, sometimes neglected, adds to the adventurous feel of the effort.
Reaching the lake feels like a reward in itself. Riders' accounts talk of a place of extraordinary peace, a "sukoon" where only the sounds of nature prevail. The vibe is calm, almost timeless, with the mountains reflected in the dark, natural waters of the lake, which some compare to "paradise" or a "hidden gem".
That serenity comes at a cost, though. Riders note a glaring lack of upkeep and infrastructure. They mention litter, abandoned buildings, and no shops or accommodation nearby. The place, beautiful as it is, seems to have been left to rot by the authorities.
For many, the ride is enriched by a visit to the highly respected Vivekananda Ashram, just 1.5 km from the lake. This haven of spirituality, founded by a disciple of Vivekananda, adds a contemplative dimension to the adventure, offering a place for meditation and deep recharging.
Imperfections aside, riders agree on the one-of-a-kind, unforgettable character of Shyamlatal. It's a climb that rewards the effort with total immersion in unspoiled nature, a real breath of fresh air and tranquillity for anyone looking to get off the beaten track.
28.2 km • 1579 m D+
VAM: average climbing speed, based on elevation gain
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