Amongst the scenic and spiritual valleys of Himachal Pradesh lies the mystical Prashar Lake. Located near Mandi, the lake is a sacred destination nestled between soaring, snowbound mountains of the Dhauladhar Ranges of Kullu. The three storied temple stands tall on the banks. This thirteenth-century old pagoda is in honour of the Rishi, Prashar. The lake holds mythological importance that dates back to the era of Pandavas. The mystery of a floating island on the lake, the mesmerizing vistas, and the serene tranquillity echoes in the surroundings of the lake.
The jade blue water of the lake overlooks river Beas. Prashar is a popular destination and a must-visit location for travellers who feel bliss enveloped in mother nature. Tourists looking for adventure can engage in camping and trekking in and around the vicinity. The site is a marvellous natural phenomenon that will leave you perplexed yet mystified. The panoramic views of the valley and the landscape encircling the lake of Prashar is enthanting to tourists and the locals. You can visit the lake at any time of the year. Commonly visited during summers, travelling to the lake in the winter is a fascinating experience. During the winter, the lake is frozen and the valley is entirely blanketed by snow.
Prashar Lake, also known as Prashar Lake, finds a small mention in Indian Mythology. In the Mahabharata, the lake was created post the battle of Mahabharat by the Pandavas for Kamrunag. He was a deity and a teacher. It was formed to build a home for Dev Kamrunag who was mesmerized by the tranquillity the valley offered. People believe that, on the request of the deity, Bheem, the strongest Pandav, pushed the mountain peak and denting an oval lake.
The postcard-worthy Prashar Lake is famous for the mystery behind its existence. The lake comprises of water (80%) and dry land (20%). The calculation is said to be an anatomical representation of the earth. The floating dry island in the lake is believed to have a link with the revolving of our planet. The island has fueled a curiosity in many and has become a subject for research and study. Locals believe that the sinkage of the dry land in the lake will mark the end of planet earth and the life in it. Another element that remains a mystery is the depth of the oval-shaped body of water body.
When it comes to what to do at the lake, it’s absolutely nothing! You can drink in the serenity, calmness, and beauty of the valley adjacent to the lake. Rest your soul in the cool breeze and the hushed whispers of the icy mountains. Observe the flora and fauna around the lake. Relax and rejuvenate yourself from within. Additionally, there are a few things that you can do and experience when you visit Prashar.
The ancient temple was built during the rule of King Bansen who ruled Mandi in the 13th century. The temple was built in devotion to Prashar Rishi who is said to have meditated in the valley beside the lake. Made from Deodar trees, it depicts the Himachali style of architecture. The Pagoda temple is a traditionally tiered structure that is typical to Hindu and Buddhist temples. The grand lake of Prashar provides a glorious backdrop to the ancient temple.
Bhimakali Temple located at about 60km from the lake is dedicated to the goddess Bhimakali. The Yadava Clan constructed the pagoda. Situated at the banks of the gushing river of Beas, it has a view of towns below, snow-capped mountains, and the tranquil valley. The temple depicts the architectural style of Kath-Kuni unique to the Yadava dynasty. According to folklore, the estate hosted the legendary battle between Lord Krishna and Banasura, the lord of demons. You can also visit a museum that is inside the pagoda.
The lake of Prashar offers trekking, hiking, and camping trails. It is the perfect spot if you seek adventure complemented by the goodness of nature. Many adventure trails can be found the lake all year round.
Lush pastures and magnificent mountains surround the lake. Many trails will lead you to Prashar and beyond. You will not want to miss the experience of trekking through forests and valleys dotted with many creeks. A hike to the lake usually has Mandi town as the starting point. In total it would take you about 3 to 5 hours to reach Prashar depending on the route you take. It is recommended to consult experts or local travel agents as the rough terrain and high altitude weather of the lake requires guidance to reach it. The trek to the lake is blessed with a panoramic view of the Himalayan ranges and the Kullu valley.
Hampta Pass is about 30km from the lake. The trek is recommended to first-timers as the route is simple and more comfortable to follow through as compared to the many other trekking trails to Prashar in the Kullu valley. The pass is breathtakingly beautiful with open land stretching far and wide. The Hampta Pass provides picturesque views of lakes, forests, mountains, and bright blue sky as far as the eye can see. If you are enthusiastic about photography, then this trek will be ideal for you. You will get to capture the complete essence of the valley, a landscape that looks like a painted canvas.
The lake is famous for camping. It is an experience like no other to spend a night at the lake’s bank with a glittering blanket of stars above. You can go camping by the lake and the valley with guides or on your own as well. There is plenty of open space at Prashar and in the landscape surrounding it.
The quaint town of Mandi near Prashar has many shops and street vendors that sell everything from garments and ornaments to food. You will find many shops selling handicraft items that are unique to Kullu and Himachal at large. You can purchase souvenirs as well as tribal silver jewellery from the markets. You will find woven and embroidered garments worn traditionally in the state. You will find shops and markets scattered across Mandi.
To bring home a part of Himachal’s taste, you will find quality dry fruits, spices, and other products in the markets.
The region around Prashar offers authentic Pahari cuisine. You will find sublime dishes listed in the menus of street vendors a well as restaurants. Pahari cuisine is known to be wholesome, flavourful, and healthy. The dishes comprise of local produce along with some seasonal specials. The Himachali food is flavoured and seasoned with exotic spices like cardamom and saffron to name a few. You can feast on some slow-cooked spiced lentils, aromatic curries, and savoury meat gravies. All of them are served with steamed rice or roti. To keep you warm in the winter you can sip on the local rice beer.
By Air: Bhuntar Airport is the nearest airport from Mandi. It is located about 60km away in Kullu. The airport connects to Delhi and Chandigarh. There are buses and taxi services to Mandi that are available at the airport.
By Road: By bus, Mandi connects to major cities like Chandigarh, Delhi, and Shimla. Upon reaching Mandi, you can take a bus from Bagi, the local stop near the lake. You can hire taxis or rental cars from nearby towns like Manali to drive down to the lake. The road is scenic and in good condition to a great extent.
By Rail: The nearest railway station from Mandi is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, located 55 km away. Two passenger trains halt at the station on their way to Pathankot.
The location of the lake is on a high altitude terrain. The weather there is likely to be on the colder side all year long. However, the severity of the cold differs from season to season. The summers are pleasant, and the chilly air is comfortable. Monsoons bring moderate to heavy rainfall to the region. In winters, the temperature drops below zero degrees causing the lake to freeze entirely or partially.
Prashar Lake is charming all year long as every season creates a unique experience. Your visit to the lake can be planned on the basis of the kind of experience you want to have when you are standing by the lake. If you’re going to Prashar to witness the lush green of the valley, then you can visit during April, May, and September. If you want to feel the chilling beauty of the snow-covered lake, then you can plan a trip anytime from November to February based on the weather forecast. The lake is a delight to visit, either way.
The Kullu valley region and the lake are the ultimate destinations for photographers and enthusiasts alike. The lake has clear, cerulean water surrounded by a duvet of foliage during summertime. When the temperature hits below zero degrees, the lake and the snowfield around the lake are a divine sight blanketed in white. Hence, there are no restrictions on photography.
Prashar Lake has a spiritual aura beautifully complemented by nature and calmness. The lake is usually busy with tourists, explorers, and campers. Even though there is a rise in the number of tourists each season, you will find that the purity and serenity doesn’t wear off.
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