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Manimahesh Lake

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Manimahesh in Himachal

Where Divinity Meets the Himalayas

Located in the heart of Himachal Pradesh’s Chamba district, the Manimahesh Yatra is not just a pilgrimage — it’s an emotion, a test of faith, and a connection with the divine. The centerpiece of this spiritual journey is the Manimahesh Lake, nestled at an altitude of 13,500 ft in the shadow of the Manimahesh Kailash Peak, believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva.

Every year, thousands of devotees and adventure lovers embark on this soul-stirring trek, particularly during August–September, in search of divine blessings and peace.

Bharmour – The Spiritual Gateway

Before starting the yatra, all devotees must pay a visit to Bharmour, also known as the “Land of Shiva”. The town is home to:

Chaurasi Temple Complex

An 84-shrine temple complex with idols of Lord Shiva, Narasimha, Lakshmi Devi, and others — the heart of Bharmour’s spiritual heritage.

Bharmani Mata Temple

Located 4 km uphill from Bharmour, this temple is a mandatory stop before beginning the yatra. Local belief says no one can complete the Manimahesh Yatra without first taking a dip in Bharmani’s sacred pool.

The Story Behind Manimahesh

The name “Manimahesh” means “the jewel of Lord Shiva”. Local beliefs say that Lord Shiva created this lake after his marriage to Parvati. The peak that overlooks the lake — Manimahesh Kailash — is considered so sacred that no one has ever successfully climbed it. All failed attempts are seen as Shiva’s will, preventing disturbance to his celestial dwelling.

The Shining Mani

On clear full-moon nights, it is said that a divine mani (jewel) can be seen shimmering at the top of the Kailash peak. This mystical glow is visible only to those truly blessed by Lord Shiva.

manimahesh

Location & Geography

Manimahesh Location Map
  • 📍 Region: Bharmour, Chamba District, Himachal Pradesh
  • 📏 Altitude: 13,500 ft (Lake) | 18,564 ft (Peak)
  • 🏙 Base Town: Bharmour (~7,000 ft)
  • 🚶 Trek Start Point: Hadsar (13 km from Bharmour)
  • 🧭 Coordinates: 32.4492° N, 76.5672° E

The Trek to Manimahesh Lake

🧭 Trek Route:

Hadsar → Dhancho → Gauri Kund/Shiv Karotri → Manimahesh Lake

  • Total Distance: 13 km one way
  • Trek Difficulty: Moderate
  • Best Season: August–September (during Yatra)

🏕️ Key Stops:

  • Hadsar: Trek start point
  • Dhancho (6 km): First camp with langars & waterfalls
  • Gauri Kund & Shiv Karotri: Sacred bathing spots
  • Manimahesh Lake: Final destination
Manimahesh Trek

Helicopter Service

  • 🚁 Route: Bharmour to Gauri Kund (near lake)
  • 🕒 Time: 8–10 minutes
  • 💰 Cost: ~₹6,500 (return)
  • 📅 Availability: During official Yatra season (book in advance)
Helicopter to Manimahesh

Best Time to Visit

🕉️ Manimahesh Yatra Dates 2025:

  • Start: August 15 (Krishna Janmashtami)
  • End: August 31 (Radhashtami)

🧊 Weather Notes:

  • May–June: Trek possible but cold and limited support
  • August–September: Ideal time (monsoon ends, clear views)
  • October onward: Route closes due to snow

Packing List

  • Thermal innerwear & fleece
  • Waterproof jacket / windcheater
  • Woolen cap & gloves
  • Warm socks & trekking shoes
  • Torch or headlamp
  • Power bank
  • Dry fruits/snacks
  • ID proof
  • First-aid kit / medicines
  • Sunglasses & sunscreen
  • Rain cover for bags
  • Reusable water bottle

Ritual Practices at the Lake

  • 🙏 Men bathe at Shiv Karotri, women at Gauri Kund
  • 💧 A dip in the lake is believed to purify the soul
  • 🕉️ Perform parikrama (circumambulation) barefoot
  • 🌾 Offer rice, flowers, and coins into the water
Rituals at Manimahesh

Travel Tips by IG Himachal

  • Spend at least one night in Bharmour to acclimatize
  • Hire local guides for safety, especially if it’s your first trek
  • Start early morning to avoid unpredictable afternoon weather
  • Avoid alcohol and smoking during the Yatra period
  • Travel in small, respectful groups to preserve sanctity
  • Carry your trash down — keep the mountains clean
  • Carry cash — network and ATMs may not be reliable in higher areas
  • Dress modestly and follow local customs at temples and sacred spots