Prashar Lake , or Parashar Lake, is a freshwater lake located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India at an altitude of 2,730 meters. It is named after
Rishi Parashar, an ancient Hindu sage and father of
Krishna Vyas, who is believed to have meditated here. The lake is a notable tourist hotspot for its
in-floating island, which is believed to mysteriously move across the lake during nighttime.
A pagoda-style temple stands on the banks of the lake which is dedicated to Rishi Parashara, built by King Ban Sen in the 14th century.
History
Situated in the stunning
Dhauladhar
Dhauladhar () () is a mountain range which is part of a Lower Himalayan Range, lesser Himalayan chain of mountains in northern India. It rises from the Siwalik Hills, Shivalik hills, to the north of Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, Kangra and Mandi, ...
mountain range, this sacred site is a center of deep spiritual significance for many, especially from Mandi and Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful Parashar Lake, located at an altitude of around 8,960 feet (2,760 meters) above sea level, remains a peaceful and mysterious place.
Every year, three grand fairs are held at Rishi Parashar's sacred site, further enhancing its religious significance. These major festivals—Kashi, Rishi Panchami, and Sauranahuli—attract numerous devotees. During these gatherings, deities from Shanor, Badar, Uttarshal, and other valleys arrive with their devotees, providing an opportunity for cultural exchange and strengthening the bonds between different communities.
Gallery
Views of Prashar Lake, Temple and surroundings
File:PrasharLake.jpg, Prashar Lake and temple, Jan '21
File:Prashar Lake, HP.jpg, Dry winter view of Prashar Lake and temple
File:Parashar Lake-Mandi-Himachal Pradesh-India.jpeg, Prashar Lake frozen and snow-covered, Feb '14.
File:Prashar_Approach_Aerial_Snow_Feb18_DSC04841.jpg, Aerial view, lake in centre, approach road from lower right corner, Feb '18
File:Prashar_Aerial_Snow_Feb18_DSC04841.jpg, Aerial view, lake and temple in centre, Feb '18
File:Prashar Lake Mandi Himachal Nov20 D72 19097.jpg, Prashar Lake and temple, Nov. '20
References
External links
Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department*
{{Lakes of Himachal Pradesh
Lakes of Himachal Pradesh
Geography of Mandi district
Sacred lakes of India