The high-altitude lakes of Himachal Pradesh shimmer not just with glacial clarity, but with centuries-old legends. These waters are worshipped, trekked to with devotion, and believed to be living spirits in their own right. Here’s a journey through seven lakes steeped in myth and mystery.
1. 🕉️ Manimahesh Lake (Chamba District)
- Altitude: ~4,080 meters
- Legend: Said to be the abode of Lord Shiva, who created the lake after his marriage to Goddess Parvati. No one can climb the peak above it (Manimahesh Kailash)—those who try allegedly turn back mysteriously.
- Significance: A major pilgrimage site during the annual Manimahesh Yatra, when devotees bathe in its freezing waters to cleanse sins.
2. 🌊 Rewalsar Lake (Mandi District)
- Altitude: ~1,360 meters
- Legend: Associated with Guru Padmasambhava, who meditated here before heading to Tibet. A lake is said to have formed where he disappeared in fire but re-emerged untouched.
- Significance: Revered by Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs alike, with temples and monasteries dotting the lakefront.
3. 🔱 Nako Lake (Kinnaur District)
- Altitude: ~3,662 meters
- Legend: Locals believe spirits of local deities inhabit this serene lake, and nearby caves are associated with Guru Padmasambhava’s miracles.
- Significance: Surrounded by willows and a sacred footprint rock, the lake is both tranquil and mystic.
4. 🌕 Chandratal Lake (Lahaul-Spiti District)
- Altitude: ~4,300 meters
- Legend: The “Lake of the Moon” is believed to be where Indra’s chariot picked up Yudhishthira, granting him entry to heaven in human form.
- Significance: A trekker’s haven, Chandratal draws both adventurers and spiritual seekers. The water appears blue, green, or orange depending on time and light.
5. 🧘 Prashar Lake (Mandi District)
- Altitude: ~2,730 meters
- Legend: Named after sage Prashar, who meditated beside this lake. Its floating island is said to change position without scientific explanation.
- Significance: The surrounding temple has intricate Himachali architecture and is a beautiful blend of mysticism and craftsmanship.
6. 🔺 Dashair Lake (Near Rohtang Pass)
- Altitude: ~4,270 meters
- Legend: Considered sacred by locals who believe it cleanses bad karma. It’s also associated with tales of hidden serpents and unseen guardians.
- Significance: Trekking to Dashair is believed to bring blessings, especially before beginning a journey into Lahaul.
7. 🕊️ Lama Dal Lake (Chamba District)
- Altitude: ~3,960 meters
- Legend: Said to be favored by Lord Shiva. Pilgrims trek here during monsoon to offer prayers and witness the celestial vibes around seven connected lakes.
- Significance: A spiritual and scenic experience that merges extreme altitude with deep-rooted devotion.
🧭 Final Thought
These lakes are more than alpine beauty—they are pages from Himachal’s spiritual diary. Visiting them offers not just awe, but a quiet connection to stories told by shepherds, sages, and the wind itself.