Rewalsar Lake in Himachal Pradesh

Situated at a height of 1360m above sea-level, Rewalsar Lake is located at a distance of 24 km from the city of Mandi in Himachal Pradesh. A square shaped like lake is surrounded by mountain spur and dense vegetation. It appears like a dark jewel nestling between the high hills of Indian Himalayas. Apart from the scenic beauty of the lake, the spot is also famous among the Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists pilgrims, so it attracts a mix of pilgrims of all faiths.

For Tibetan Buddhists, Rewalsar is one of the places visited by Padmasambhava (Guru Rinpoche) on his mission to spread the dharma, while for Sikhs it’s associated with the life of Guru Gobind Singh. There are also a couple of Hindu temples dedicated to Krishna and Shiva.

This odd religious mix gives the place a great atmosphere – turbaned Punjabis rub shoulders with the occasional sadhu and the scenery is dotted with three major Buddhist gompas.

This lake is famous for its floating islands of reed. According to the myths, it is believed that all the seven of the reeds can be moved by breeze or prayer.

The Rewalsar Lake is lies in the hollow of a mountain and is considered as a holy lake to all the three communities.

Boating rides are arranged for the tourists in the Rewalsar Lake.

There’s some sacred caves to visit up in the hills (the view’s great from up there) and a wildlife reserve with a couple of Himalayan black bears but not much more. If wandering round the lake, feeding the fish, sitting in on a pooja and generally just enjoying the peace and quiet is enough for you, though, you’ll be fine.

How to reach Rewalsar Lake

The nearest airport at Bhuntar is 59 km. The broad-gauge railhead is at Pathankot at a distance of 210 km. From Pathankot the narrow gauge railway connects Joginder Nagar, 56 km from Mandi. From Chandigarh one can drive directly to Mandi via Ropar and Bilaspur, the distance is 203 km The drive takes around 5 hours. Luxury / Volvo coaches from Delhi and Shimla bound for Kullu – Manali travel via Mandi.

Climate

In winter, temperatures can hover around freezing point when heavy woollens are required. During summer, the climate is hot and cottons are recommended.