Manimahesh Lake
Manimahesh Lake (also known as Dal Lake, Manimahesh) is a high altitude lake (elevation 4,080 metres (13,390 ft)) situated close to the Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, in the Bharmour subdivision of Chamba district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The religious significance of this lake is next to that of the Lake Manasarovar in Tibet.
| Manimahesh Lake | |
|---|---|
Manimahesh Lake Manimahesh Lake | |
| Location | Manimahesh range, Himachal Pradesh |
| Coordinates | 32°23′42″N 76°38′14″E |
| Primary outflows | Manimahesh Ganga (tributary of Ravi) |
| Basin countries | India |
| Surface elevation | 4,190 m (13,750 ft) |
| Frozen | October through June |
The lake is the venue of a highly revered pilgrimage trek undertaken during the month of August/September corresponding to the month of Bhadon according to Hindu calendar, on the eighth day of the New Moon period. It is known as the ‘Manimahesh Yatra’. The Government of Himachal Pradesh has declared it as a state-level pilgrimage.
There are two trekking routes to the lake. One is from Hadsar village that is mostly frequented by pilgrims and trekkers. This route is easier and has arrangements for basic food and accommodation during the pilgrimage season. The other one is from village Holi. This route climbs up further and then descends to the lake. There is no other habitation, except for a small village on this route.