| Manimahesh Lake |
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| Location |
Pir Panjal range, Himachal Pradesh |
| Primary outflows |
Manimahesh Ganga (tributary of Ravi) |
| Basin countries |
India |
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| Surface elevation |
4080 m |
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| Frozen |
October through June |
Manimahesh Lake (also known as Dal Lake, Manimahesh), situated in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas, is a high altitude lake (el. 4080 m.). The Manimahesh Kailash peak that stands high close to the lake is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva (Hindu deity). This place is believed to be second to the Lake Manasarovar in its religious significance.
The route to Manimahesh is via Chamba, Himachal Pradesh and Bharmour. Motorable road ends at Hadsar, about 12 km from Bharmour. The rest of the path is to be covered on foot, about 13 km of steep climb by the banks of Manimahesh Ganga, which originates from the Manimahesh Kailash peak. During the annual pilgrimage in August - September, numerous night-shelters and eateries spring up by the trekking route. Night-shelter is also available at village Dhancho, about 6 km from Hadsar on the way to Manimahesh, round the year. Another less frequented trekking route originates from Holi, which is connected to Chamba.
The name Manimahesh signifies a jewel (Mani) on Lord Shiva's (Mahesh'es) crown. Local people claim that the moon-rays reflected from the jewel can be seen from Manimahesh Lake on clear full-moon nights (which is a rare occasion). It is more likely to be the light reflected from the glacier that adorns the peak, like a serpent on Shiva's neck.
See also
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