Manimahesh Lake

If you are looking for a destination that combines adventure, spirituality and natural beauty, then Manimahesh Lake is the place for you. Located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, in the Bharmour subdivision of the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, Manimahesh Lake is a high-altitude lake (elevation 4,080 metres) that is considered only second in significance to the Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. Manimahesh literally means "Shiva's jewels". According to a local legend, on a full moon night, one can see the reflection of this jewel in the magnificent lake. Most of the year, it remains closed due to the snow. To reach the lake, one has to trek a distance of 13 km through enchanting mountains and greenery. The trek starts from Hadsar village or Holi village and offers scenic views of waterfalls, meadows and forests along the way.

The lake is situated in proximity to the virgin peak of Manimahesh Kailash Parbat, which is considered to be the holy abode of Lord Shiva. It is said that he created both the landforms as his marital home with Goddess Parvati, and he is believed to be residing here still. There is even a marble image dedicated to him in the periphery that is also called Chaumukha. The lake is also the venue of a highly revered pilgrimage trek undertaken during August/September corresponding to Bhadon month according to the Hindu calendar. It is known as Manimahesh Yatra. Thousands of devotees flock here to take a holy dip in the lake and seek blessings from Lord Shiva. The yatra culminates on Radha Ashtami day with a grand celebration at Bharmaur town. Manimahesh Lake is not just a place of worship but also a place of wonder. The lake changes its colour according to different seasons and times of the day. Sometimes it appears blue, sometimes green and sometimes grey. The reflection of Manimahesh Kailash Peak on its surface adds to its charm and mystique.