Prashar Lake

Parashar Lake
Parashar Lake
Parashar Lake Show map of Himachal Pradesh Parashar Lake Show map of India
Location	Mandi district
Coordinates	31°45′15″N 77°06′05″E / 31.75426°N 77.10141°E / 31.75426; 77.10141
Type	Holomictic
Primary inflows	Rain water
Primary outflows	Evaporation
Basin countries	India
Surface area	1 ha (2.5 acres)
Surface elevation	2,730 m (8,960 ft)
References	www.hptdc.gov.in

Prashar Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake located at an altitude of 2,730 meters in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is named after Rishi Prashar, one of the supreme gods of Himachal Pradesh, who is believed to have meditated here. The lake is known for its floating island, which mysteriously moves across the water.

A pagoda-style temple dedicated to Rishi Prashar stands on its banks, built in the 14th century by King Ban Sen. The lake and temple are important religious sites, attracting devotees seeking blessings from Rishi Prashar.

Situated in the stunning Dhauladhar mountain range, Rishi Parashar's sacred site is a center of deep spiritual significance for many. 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. Surrounded by towering mountains, the lake's clear waters have never been fully measured, making it a subject of intrigue. One of the lake's most fascinating features is the floating island that moves mysteriously from one side to the other, leaving everyone who sees it amazed. The lake also has fish swimming in its waters, adding to its charm.

Near the lake stands the Parashar Temple, built in the 14th century by Raja Ban Sen, the founder of the Mandi princely state. The temple, designed in Pagoda-style, is known for its beautiful carvings on the walls and pillars, which show Hindu gods, animals, trees, and flowers, showcasing the excellent craftsmanship of the region. The temple is open to devotees all year round, and visitors receive “Shesh” (sacred flowers) as a blessing, which they keep with great respect.

In addition to the natural beauty, the temple houses an idol of Rishi Parashar in its main sanctum, which draws devotees with its peaceful and spiritual presence. The Parashar Lake and Temple are truly a place of wonder, faith, and devotion for all who visit.

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.

Parashar, known locally as "Saur," is considered a sacred land of penance. During droughts or for ceremonial holy baths (Devsnan), divine chariots (Devrath) from surrounding valleys arrive at Rishi Parashar’s temple to seek his blessings. Revered as a unifying spiritual figure for the mid-eastern region of the former Mandi princely state, Maharishi Parashar is lovingly referred to as "Dadu" by the locals, signifying deep affection and respect.

In the Mandi-Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh, Rishi Parashar is revered as one of the supreme gods, holding a place of immense spiritual significance. His divine influence extends across multiple valleys, binding diverse communities through shared devotion.

Unlike other deities, who are worshipped with grand processions in ceremonial chariots (Devrath), Maharishi Parashar’s presence is symbolized by a sacred staff (Chhadi), signifying his unique and exalted status. His original seat (Kothi/Bhandar) is located in the village of Bandhi, near the sacred Parashar Lake.

It is believed that Sage Prashar meditated on the banks of this lake, hence it is named Prashar Lake. ^[1]

Prashar Lake is approximately 49 km (30 mi) by road from the town of Mandi. The maximum depth of the lake remains unknown.

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  Prashar Lake and temple, Jan '21
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  Dry winter view of Prashar Lake and temple
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  Prashar Lake frozen and snow-covered, Feb '14.
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  Aerial view, lake in centre, approach road from lower right corner, Feb '18
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  Aerial view, lake and temple in centre, Feb '18
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  Prashar Lake and temple, Nov. '20

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  Thistle plant (Cirsium wallichii)
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  Florets of Thistle (Cirsium wallichii)

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Prashar Lake.

Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Prashar Lake.

• Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department
• "Prashar Temple". DevBhumi. Retrieved 12 July 2023.