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Prashar Lake in summer is an enchanting getaway amidst the Dhauladhar ranges in Himachal Pradesh. Famous for its floating island and the century-old Prashar Rishi temple, the lake is surrounded by thickets of cedar forests and rolling meadows. In summers, the snow melts in the Prashar lake, exposing a verdant landscape and visible trails, perfect for hiking and photography. The panoramic views of the Pir Panjal, Kinnaur and Dhauladhar ranges enhance the captivating allure of this lake.
Quick Details About Parashar Lake
Location: Prashar Dhar, Himachal Pradesh
Altitude: 2,730 meters
Best Time To Visit: May to June
Temperature: 10 – 25°C in summers
Trek Distance: 7.5 km from Baggi Village
Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate
Nearest Town: Mandi (50 km away)
Location
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Prashar Lake is situated in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, at an elevation of 2,730 meters (8,957 ft) above sea level. It is deep in the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas, 50 km north of Mandi town. Surrounded by dense cedar forests and rolling alpine meadows, offering breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Kinnaur ranges abound. The lake’s floating island and the Prashar Rishi Temple, which dates from the 14th century, make it a spiritual and natural wonder. Even though it is in a far-off region, it has access via trekking and motorable roads in summertime.
How To Reach
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport) is the nearest airport (70 km). Rent a cab from Bhuntar to Mandi or drive from Mandi to Prashar Lake. The best flight connectivity is from Chandigarh Airport (230 km) and you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Mandi.
By Rail: The nearest railway station, Joginder Nagar (115 km distant), is not well connected. A more convenient option is to take a train to Chandigarh or Kalka and then take a bus or taxi to Mandi.
By Road: Take a taxi or local bus from Mandi to Baggi Village (35 km). Travel 7.5 km from Baggi to Prashar Lake, passing through meadows and forests for 3 to 5 hours. You can also drive straight up to Prashar Lake during the summer months due to an open motorable road.
Things To Do At Prashar Lake In Summer
Here are the best things to do at Prashar Lake in summer, offering the breathtaking views and a perfect summer escape:
1. Trek Through Lush Forest Trails
Photo: Tường Chopper / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Baggi to Prashar Lake trek (7.5 km) is a beautiful summer trek that winds through dense cedar trees and charming meadows and mountain streams. The trail leads through wildflowers, with stunning views of the Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal and Kinnaur ranges. The gentle climb also makes it perfect for first-timers. Though, veteran trekkers can also explore alternate routes from Jwalapur or Sukhsar Lake. In summer, there are dry, solid paths instead of slippery, winter trails. Get up early and catch a spectacular sunrise behind the Himalayas from the hilltop above the lake, as golden light floods the valley.
2. Camp Under A Starlit Sky
Photo: Deniz Özgür / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Camping near Prashar Lake in summer is an unforgettable experience. Where winter’s bitter cold puts your fortitude to the test, summer nights are cool yet comfortable, perfect for tents. Local operators plot campsites with bonfires and Himachali food that make for a rustic Himalayan getaway. The lack of city lights makes for a perfect stargazing location, with the Milky Way and shooting stars visible on clear nights. Fall asleep under a slate-blue sky filled with stars and wake up to glimpses of misty mountains. The lake’s perfect reflections make camping here one of the best ways to experience the place.
3. Explore The Floating Island And Prashar Temple
Photo: Sahiltanwar10 / Wikimedia Commons
Prashar Lake is known for its mystical floating island, which shifts positions frequently. The reason for its movement has not yet been determined by scientists. The Prashar Rishi Temple, a 14th-century wooden wonder constructed by Raja Ban Sen of Mandi, adjoins the lake. The temple’s elaborate Kath Kuni architecture (wood and stone craftsmanship) is a treat for the eyes. The temple is dedicated to sage Prashar, who is said to have meditated here. You can also engage with the resident priest to learn about the lake’s spiritual significance and local legends.
Places To Visit Near Prashar Lake In Summer
Visit the following places near Parashar Lake in summer and experience the beauty of Himachal Pradesh during your amazing trip:
1. Kamrunag Lake And Temple
Photo: Dhiman.ashishpro / Wikimedia Commons
Kamrunag Lake is a sacred lake situated deep in the forests of the Mandi district, 3,334 meters above sea level. The place is serene with deodar trees and views of both the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges. Devotees flock to the Kamrunag Temple, showcasing a mysterious and beautiful legend of hidden treasures. Pilgrims supposedly throw gold and silver into the lake, which pleases the local deity there. Rohanda (the base village) is a 6 km uphill trek to Kamrunag and welcomes you with pristine waters, fresh mountain air and tranquillity.
Distance From Prashar Lake: 45 km
Trek Distance: 6 km from Rohanda
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM ( for the temple)
2. Tunga Mata Temple
Photo: Ms Sarah Welch / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Perched on a hilltop above the pristine Prashar Lake, Tunga Mata Temple provides a breathtaking view of the Dhauladhar range and Beas River valley. The hike up to the temple is an upwardly sloping, rocky-path trail and refreshing, cool mountain air. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and has spiritual importance for locals, who feel that a visit fortifies one’s resolve and courage. The back end of the temple is not very crowded, where you can meditate and take pictures. The best time to visit this place is in the early morning as the sun rises over the valley and the whole place shines in golden colour.
Distance From Prashar Lake: 6 km trek
Trek Difficulty: Moderate, steep ascent
3. Barot Valley
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
Barot Valley is a hidden gem in Himachal with crystal clear rivers, dense pine forests, and adventure sports. Running through the valley is the Uhl River, known for trout in its waters, and there is a government fish farm nearby. Barot is also a base for trekkers, with trails to Bada Bhangal and Kothi Kohar. The Water Power Project built during the British colonial period in the 1920s brings historical charm. This valley is perfect for camping, river crossings, nature walks, etc. It is a wonderful summer getaway for adventure and peace, as the road from Prashar to Barot is picturesque, passing through Jhatingri and Luhardi.
Distance From Prashar Lake: 95 km
Activities: Fishing, trekking, camping
4. Rewalsar Lake
Photo: Ritpr9 / Wikimedia Commons
Tso Pema, also known as Rewalsar Lake, is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs. The lake is a sacred site located amidst several monasteries and temples. This includes the notable Padmasambhava Cave, where Guru Rinpoche meditated. At its centre stands the 123-foot-tall Padmasambhava statue, which looms over the peaceful waters. You can feed the sacred fish, enjoy a quiet boat ride or visit the nearby Naina Devi temple. The lake’s sacred energy, coupled with its thick forest backdrop and floating reed islands, creates a serene place to visit near Prashar Lake in summer.
Distance From Prashar Lake: 85 km
Timings: Open 24*7, monasteries from 6 AM – 6 PM
5. Shikari Devi Temple
Photo: Narender Sharma, Blue Particle Solutions / Wikimedia Commons
Situated at an altitude of 3,350 meters, Shikari Devi Temple is an old stone temple without roofs. It is believed to be blessed by Goddess Durga to be exonerated from extreme climates. It is also considered one of the highest temples in Himachal with a 360° view of the Himalayas. It requires a few hours of hiking or can be accessed via a motorable road through Janjehli. The region is also home to diverse wildlife, such as Himalayan monals and black bears. It is of great mythological importance and attracts both pilgrims and trekkers.
Distance From Prashar Lake: 105 km
Trek Options: From Janjehli (16 km) or Karsog (8 km)
Where To Stay
Photo: Lucas Tran / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The Himachal Pradesh Tourism Department (HPPWD) Guest House close to the lake offers basic but requires prior booking. In Baggi Village, local homestays also offer home-cooked food with tents, for those who crave adventure, next to the lake. For budget accommodation and deluxe resorts, head to Mandi town (50 km). Accommodation near the lake offers stunning views of the sunrise and sunset made spectacular while navigating over the floating island and around the peaks.
Where To Eat
Photo: Tarun Adhikari 43 / Wikimedia Commons
The HPPWD Guest House serves simple, wholesome dal, rice and vegetables. Local dhabas around the lake serve up maggi, parathas, rajma-chawal and tea. Trekkers also bring packed food from Mandi or Baggi, where small eateries serve thalis. At many homestays, they offer local treats such as siddu and chana madra. Those camping should stock up on dry snacks and other essentials as there are limited food options open at night. The price of water bottles is high, so it’s better to carry a big refillable one.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ashish Gupta / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
If you are looking to travel on a budget to Parashar Lake in summer, the costs for a 2 day trip can be ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 per person, including bus fare, food, and accommodation. A mid-range trip with a private taxi and comfortable stay can cost around ₹5,000 – ₹7,000. A luxury trip including a premium stay with guided tours can go up to ₹10,000. The bus fare from Delhi to Mandi ranges from ₹900 – ₹1,300, and a taxi from Mandi to Prashar Lake costs around ₹3,000 (which you can split among fellow travellers). The camping and guesthouse accommodation costs ₹1,000 – ₹1,500 a night, and food costs ₹500 – ₹800 per day.
Tips For Travellers
- Bring warm layers because even in summer, temperatures drop at night.
- The 7.5 km trek from Baggi requires sturdy trekking shoes.
- If camping, make reservations in advance during peak season.
- It is advisable to bring a refillable water bottle, as water in plastic bottles is expensive.
- Begin your trek early at dawn so that you can avoid trekking in the hot afternoon sun and the strong winds at higher altitudes.
- Carry energy bars, nuts, and ORS to stay hydrated and maintain stamina if trekking.
- Bring a flashlight and a power bank as electricity is scarce.
- The lake is sacred, so refrain from swimming or tossing anything into the water.
- If you’re susceptible to altitude sickness, bring medication and plan to take breaks while trekking.
Prashar Lake in summer is a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and stunning scenery. Whether you choose to camp under the stars, hike through the lush forests, or discover the secrets of the floating island, the lake is a captivating getaway in the summer. Mindful commercialisation guarantees an offbeat, placid experience, perfect for nature lovers and solitude seekers. So, plan your visit to Himachal with TripXL and experience a memorable trip.
Cover Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
