Himachal Pradesh has not limited itself to the beautiful valleys, lush green lawns or dense forests; it has various lakes and passes that account for the serene side of this state. Just think that you and your beloved are sailing in the boat at some lake in Himachal, with awesome views of the mountains ranges! Well, this is one such moment that pacifies any emotion and provides calmness to the soul. Every visitor plans for a holiday to run away from the noisy atmosphere he is living in. And it is the peaceful atmosphere that attracts tourists like a magnet. Such serenity prevails in Himachal Pradesh.
At the lakes of Himachal Pradesh, one can enjoy boating, water sports or just sit quietly on the banks to enjoy the nature in its sweetest form. On the other side of the coin lies the passes in Himachal that provide various options of taking pleasure in trekking and other sports.
The quiet water of lakes signifies peace and tranquil environment. It takes the visitors’ thought process to a different world, where everything seems to be hushing. Such is the atmosphere prevailing at the lakes of Himachal Pradesh that are surrounded by some of the most stunning views of hills.
At the lakes of Himachal Pradesh, one can enjoy boating, water sports or just sit quietly on the banks to enjoy the nature in its sweetest form. On the other side of the coin lies the passes in Himachal that provide various options of taking pleasure in trekking and other sports.
Lakes in Himachal Pradesh
The quiet water of lakes signifies peace and tranquil environment. It takes the visitors’ thought process to a different world, where everything seems to be hushing. Such is the atmosphere prevailing at the lakes of Himachal Pradesh that are surrounded by some of the most stunning views of hills.
Suraj Tal Lake
Chandra Tal Lake
Nako Lake
Manimahesh Lake
Dashir Lake
Prashar Lake
Bhrigu Lake
Rewalsar Lake
Seruvalsar Lake
Gobind Sagar Lake
Suraj Tal Lake
Location : Lahaul and Spiti Region
Altitude : 4950 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Trekking on Zingzing Bar
Suraj Tal Lake is situated at a height of 4950 m below the summit of the Baralacha pass in the Lahaul region of Spiti and Lahaul district. The Baralacha Pass joins Mandi as well as Lahaul to Ladakh. Suraj Tal Lake, the source of Bhaga river, is located at the head of it. Believed religious water body, Suraj Tal Lake attracts quite a few pilgrims apart from the general tourists. Particularly in the months of summer, this place becomes a buzz with a huge number of tourists.
Altitude : 4950 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Trekking on Zingzing Bar
Suraj Tal Lake is situated at a height of 4950 m below the summit of the Baralacha pass in the Lahaul region of Spiti and Lahaul district. The Baralacha Pass joins Mandi as well as Lahaul to Ladakh. Suraj Tal Lake, the source of Bhaga river, is located at the head of it. Believed religious water body, Suraj Tal Lake attracts quite a few pilgrims apart from the general tourists. Particularly in the months of summer, this place becomes a buzz with a huge number of tourists.
Chandra Tal Lake
Location : 6 kms from Kunzum Pass in Lahaul & Spiti
Altitude : 4300 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions :Pilgrim Destination
Suraj Tal Lake is situated at a height of 4950 m below the summit of the Baralacha pass in the Lahaul region of Spiti and Lahaul district. The Baralacha Pass joins Mandi as well as Lahaul to Ladakh. Suraj Tal Lake, the source of Bhaga river, is located at the head of it. Believed religious water body, Suraj Tal Lake attracts quite a few pilgrims apart from the general tourists. Particularly in the months of summer, this place becomes a buzz with a huge number of tourists.
Altitude : 4300 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions :Pilgrim Destination
Suraj Tal Lake is situated at a height of 4950 m below the summit of the Baralacha pass in the Lahaul region of Spiti and Lahaul district. The Baralacha Pass joins Mandi as well as Lahaul to Ladakh. Suraj Tal Lake, the source of Bhaga river, is located at the head of it. Believed religious water body, Suraj Tal Lake attracts quite a few pilgrims apart from the general tourists. Particularly in the months of summer, this place becomes a buzz with a huge number of tourists.
Nako Lake
Location : Nako
Altitude : altitude varies from 2,550-6,791 meters
Prime Attractions : Lake
Nako Lake is Located in Pooh subdivision,it is 3662 meters above the sea level. The district of Kinnaur in which Nako Lake is situated is a picturesque landscape, perfect for a visit during the summer season to escape the warm blasts. Hemmed by Willow Trees and Poplar Trees, Nako Lake offers not only a soothing view to the nature lover, but also a serene resort to the religiously inclined. Willows and Poplars thrive best in the climate of Himachal Pradesh. Located nearby are the renowned Buddhist Temples and Monasteries.
Altitude : altitude varies from 2,550-6,791 meters
Prime Attractions : Lake
Nako Lake is Located in Pooh subdivision,it is 3662 meters above the sea level. The district of Kinnaur in which Nako Lake is situated is a picturesque landscape, perfect for a visit during the summer season to escape the warm blasts. Hemmed by Willow Trees and Poplar Trees, Nako Lake offers not only a soothing view to the nature lover, but also a serene resort to the religiously inclined. Willows and Poplars thrive best in the climate of Himachal Pradesh. Located nearby are the renowned Buddhist Temples and Monasteries.
Manimahesh Lake
Location : 32 kms from Bharmaur
Altitude : 4080 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Temples, Mani Mahesh Yatra
Manimahesh Lake is Located in Chamba, it lies 4800 meters above the sea level. It is therefore a high altitude Lake in Himachal Pradesh. Chamba is famous for Minjar Fair held in August and is a famous pilgrim spot because of the presence of numerous temples and places of worship. Few Lakes in India are situated at such high altitude, like Manimahesh Lake and it is integrally linked to Indian Mythology.It is believed that Lord Shiva one of the three Lords in Hindu Trinity (known as Lord Brahma the creator, Lord Vishnu the Preserver and Lord Siva the destroyer) stays at Manimahesh Kailash.
Altitude : 4080 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Temples, Mani Mahesh Yatra
Manimahesh Lake is Located in Chamba, it lies 4800 meters above the sea level. It is therefore a high altitude Lake in Himachal Pradesh. Chamba is famous for Minjar Fair held in August and is a famous pilgrim spot because of the presence of numerous temples and places of worship. Few Lakes in India are situated at such high altitude, like Manimahesh Lake and it is integrally linked to Indian Mythology.It is believed that Lord Shiva one of the three Lords in Hindu Trinity (known as Lord Brahma the creator, Lord Vishnu the Preserver and Lord Siva the destroyer) stays at Manimahesh Kailash.
Dashir Lake
Location : Rothang Pass
Altitude : 4270 meters, it is located near Rohtang Pass
Prime Attractions : Lake, Snow Blanket
Dashir Lake situated at a high altitude, is one of the most beautiful lakes that can be found in the Himachali region. Located near Rohtang pass (which connects Kulu district with Lahaul) this lake is a veritable treasure trove for nature lover. Crystal clear cobalt water makes you see right through the lake.
Dashir Lake is held as pious by the locals and the water of the lake is believed to be curative in nature. The depth of the lake is three to four meters. Dashir Lake can be reached by the Manali highway.
Altitude : 4270 meters, it is located near Rohtang Pass
Prime Attractions : Lake, Snow Blanket
Dashir Lake situated at a high altitude, is one of the most beautiful lakes that can be found in the Himachali region. Located near Rohtang pass (which connects Kulu district with Lahaul) this lake is a veritable treasure trove for nature lover. Crystal clear cobalt water makes you see right through the lake.
Dashir Lake is held as pious by the locals and the water of the lake is believed to be curative in nature. The depth of the lake is three to four meters. Dashir Lake can be reached by the Manali highway.
Prashar Lake
Location : Mandi
Altitude : 2,730 metres above sea level and 42 km from the main Mandi town
Prime Attractions : Temples, Lakes, Deep Forests
Prashar lake at 2730 mtrs,is a beautiful journey amidst dense deep forests, meadows and snow clad heights. It is dedicated to sage Prashar and a three three tiered pagoda – like temple is near the lake.It is about 40 kms from the Mandi town which is located on Delhi-Manali national highways. The route has some beautiful villages and full of natural bounty. An annual fair is held every year in the summer month of june which is largely attended by local people.
It is believed that sage Prashar had meditated at this place.The lake offers a beautiful view of Snow-capped peaks of Lahaul-Spiti hills,Rohtand area and other nearby and distant hills.The area has a wildlife sanctuary with creatures like leopards ,bears and others.The lake has a moving small sized island that changes its position with time.It is wonderful place to explore.
Altitude : 2,730 metres above sea level and 42 km from the main Mandi town
Prime Attractions : Temples, Lakes, Deep Forests
Prashar lake at 2730 mtrs,is a beautiful journey amidst dense deep forests, meadows and snow clad heights. It is dedicated to sage Prashar and a three three tiered pagoda – like temple is near the lake.It is about 40 kms from the Mandi town which is located on Delhi-Manali national highways. The route has some beautiful villages and full of natural bounty. An annual fair is held every year in the summer month of june which is largely attended by local people.
It is believed that sage Prashar had meditated at this place.The lake offers a beautiful view of Snow-capped peaks of Lahaul-Spiti hills,Rohtand area and other nearby and distant hills.The area has a wildlife sanctuary with creatures like leopards ,bears and others.The lake has a moving small sized island that changes its position with time.It is wonderful place to explore.
Bhrigu Lake
Location : Kullu District
Altitude : 4,235 metres above mean sea level
Prime Attractions : Trekking, Bhrigu Lake
In the district of Kullu lies the beautiful Bhrigu Lake at an elevation of 4235 meters. The Bhrigu Lake is located to the eastern side of Rohtang pass. It flows gently, and is just 6 kms. away from the Gulaba village. The serene atmosphere at this lake attracts the tourists. Lack of raucous crowd is also an added advantage.
The legend says that the name is derived from the famous saint Bhrigu. Thus, Bhrigu Lake is considered to be a sacred place. Many people worship the lake with full devotion. The devotees make their way to Bhrigu Lake while in Himachal Pradesh.
Altitude : 4,235 metres above mean sea level
Prime Attractions : Trekking, Bhrigu Lake
In the district of Kullu lies the beautiful Bhrigu Lake at an elevation of 4235 meters. The Bhrigu Lake is located to the eastern side of Rohtang pass. It flows gently, and is just 6 kms. away from the Gulaba village. The serene atmosphere at this lake attracts the tourists. Lack of raucous crowd is also an added advantage.
The legend says that the name is derived from the famous saint Bhrigu. Thus, Bhrigu Lake is considered to be a sacred place. Many people worship the lake with full devotion. The devotees make their way to Bhrigu Lake while in Himachal Pradesh.
Rewalsar Lake
Location :24 kms from Mandi Town
Altitude : 1360 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Monasteries, Temples
Rewalsar Lake is square in shape having a shoreline measuring 735 m. This lake has dense vegetation in its surrounding. This lake has got certain legends attached to it. According to one legend, this lake was founded when king Arshadhara of Zahor punished saint Padmasambhava and his own daughter. The saint was said to be burnt alive in an isolated place.
A smoke cover surrounded the place for about a week. Being surprised by this unusual event, the king came to the place himself. He was taken aback to find a lake at the location. Realizing his mistake, the king apologized to saint Padmasambhava and married his daughter to him. Since then, Rewalsar Lake has become a religious place for Buddhists. The Hindus too hold this lake sacred based on their own beliefs.
Altitude : 1360 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Monasteries, Temples
Rewalsar Lake is square in shape having a shoreline measuring 735 m. This lake has dense vegetation in its surrounding. This lake has got certain legends attached to it. According to one legend, this lake was founded when king Arshadhara of Zahor punished saint Padmasambhava and his own daughter. The saint was said to be burnt alive in an isolated place.
A smoke cover surrounded the place for about a week. Being surprised by this unusual event, the king came to the place himself. He was taken aback to find a lake at the location. Realizing his mistake, the king apologized to saint Padmasambhava and married his daughter to him. Since then, Rewalsar Lake has become a religious place for Buddhists. The Hindus too hold this lake sacred based on their own beliefs.
Seruvalsar Lake
Location :Kullu District
Altitude : 3,100 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Enjoy the Scenic Landscape
The Seruvalsar Lake is placed in the state of Himachal Pradesh in the district of Kullu. The Seruvalsar Lake in Himachal Pradesh is positioned at a high altitude and is 3,100 meters above the sea level. The Seruvalsar Lake in Himachal Pradesh is surrounded by a very dense forest cover, which enhances the beauty of the lake to a great extent. The beauty of the Seruvalsar Lake makes it an important spot of tourist attraction in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Altitude : 3,100 m Above Sea Level
Prime Attractions : Enjoy the Scenic Landscape
The Seruvalsar Lake is placed in the state of Himachal Pradesh in the district of Kullu. The Seruvalsar Lake in Himachal Pradesh is positioned at a high altitude and is 3,100 meters above the sea level. The Seruvalsar Lake in Himachal Pradesh is surrounded by a very dense forest cover, which enhances the beauty of the lake to a great extent. The beauty of the Seruvalsar Lake makes it an important spot of tourist attraction in the state of Himachal Pradesh.
Gobind Sagar Lake
Location :Bilaspur
Altitude : 670 metres
Prime Attractions : Water Skiing, Sailing, Water Scooter Racing and Fishing, Kayaking
This lake is named in honour of Gobind Singh the tenth Sikh guru. One of the world’s highest gravity dams, the Bhakra rises 225.5 m above its lowest foundations. Its reservoir – the Gobind Sagar – is 90 kms long and encompasses an area of approximately 170 sq kms. As far back as 1962, the Gobind Sagar was declred a ‘water fowl refuge’ and even today, hosts a variety of water and shore birds.
Fishing is a regular activity and 51 species and sub-species have been recorded. In October and November, when the water level of the reservoir is at its peak, a series of regattas are also organised by the Department of Tourism and Civil aviation. Water-skiing, sailing, kayaking and water-scooter racing become available at this time.
Altitude : 670 metres
Prime Attractions : Water Skiing, Sailing, Water Scooter Racing and Fishing, Kayaking
This lake is named in honour of Gobind Singh the tenth Sikh guru. One of the world’s highest gravity dams, the Bhakra rises 225.5 m above its lowest foundations. Its reservoir – the Gobind Sagar – is 90 kms long and encompasses an area of approximately 170 sq kms. As far back as 1962, the Gobind Sagar was declred a ‘water fowl refuge’ and even today, hosts a variety of water and shore birds.
Fishing is a regular activity and 51 species and sub-species have been recorded. In October and November, when the water level of the reservoir is at its peak, a series of regattas are also organised by the Department of Tourism and Civil aviation. Water-skiing, sailing, kayaking and water-scooter racing become available at this time.
Passes in Himachal Pradesh
The passes of Himachal Pradesh act as a connection between the tourists and their peak of enjoyment. Himachal has some of the highest passes in the world that provide various options of taking pleasure in sports, such as Para-Gliding, Skiing, Trekking, Mountaineering and many more. One can also play snow games to add glitters to their holiday. This is not just the end; but it’s the beginning to certain moments that will last forever on your mind.Rohtang Pass
Kunzum Pass
Pin Parbati Pass
Baralacha Pass
Rohtang Pass
State : Manali-Keylong Road, 51-km from Manali
Best Season : June to September
Importance : Offers Immense Trekking Opportunities
Rohtang Pass, 51 kms from Manali. Located at a height of 3980 m. The Pass is open from June to November each year, and provides wonderful views of the entire surroundings. Just beyond the Pass is the Sonapani Glacier and the twin peak of Gaypan. The Beas Kund, the source of the Beas river, a holy site for Hindus, as the sage Vyas is said to have meditated at this spot, is also accessible from the Rohtang Pass. The road through the Kullu Valley, past Manali and over the Rohtang Pass to Keylong, and Lahul and on to Ladakh, has become very busy during the summer months as an alternate a military route following the Kargil Conflict in 1999 in addition to tensions in Kashmir. Traffic jams are common as military vehicles, trucks, and goods carriers try to navigate the tight roads and rough terrain, compounded by, snow and ice at certain points and the large number of tourists vehicles.
Best Season : June to September
Importance : Offers Immense Trekking Opportunities
Rohtang Pass, 51 kms from Manali. Located at a height of 3980 m. The Pass is open from June to November each year, and provides wonderful views of the entire surroundings. Just beyond the Pass is the Sonapani Glacier and the twin peak of Gaypan. The Beas Kund, the source of the Beas river, a holy site for Hindus, as the sage Vyas is said to have meditated at this spot, is also accessible from the Rohtang Pass. The road through the Kullu Valley, past Manali and over the Rohtang Pass to Keylong, and Lahul and on to Ladakh, has become very busy during the summer months as an alternate a military route following the Kargil Conflict in 1999 in addition to tensions in Kashmir. Traffic jams are common as military vehicles, trucks, and goods carriers try to navigate the tight roads and rough terrain, compounded by, snow and ice at certain points and the large number of tourists vehicles.
Kunzum Pass
Location : Lahaul and Kulu
Altitude :4590 meters above sea level
Prime Attractions : Temple, Breathtaking,
Kunzum Pass is the gateway to the entranceway to Spiti from Lahaul and Kulu. It is located at an altitude of about 4590 meters above sea level. The road to this pass promises to provide a panoramic view of the beautiful Bara- Sigri, the second longest glacier in the world. There is a temple dedicated to goddess Durga at the topmost point of his pass.
While coming back from this place, instead of returning to Manali, you can also plan a visit to Leh via the beautiful hill town of Keylong. On the way to Leh from Keylong there are various beautiful hill resorts of Baralacha La, Darcha, Tanglang La and Sarchu. There is a temple dedicated to goddess Durga at the topmost point of his pass. The view of the surrounding greenery that is available from this point is mesmerizing and breathtaking.
While on one hand there is the enthralling view of the Spiti valley, on the other hand you can see some of the marvelous peaks of the Chandra- Bhaga Range.On a trip to Kunzum Pass you can also visit some of the nearby tourist destinations. While coming back from this place, instead of returning to Manali, you can also plan a visit to Leh via the beautiful hill town of Keylong.
On the way to Leh from Keylong there are various beautiful hill resorts of Baralacha La, Darcha, Tanglang La and Sarchu. From Keylong you can also drive to Pangi Valley. This place provides a picturesque view of the gushing Chenab river.
Altitude :4590 meters above sea level
Prime Attractions : Temple, Breathtaking,
Kunzum Pass is the gateway to the entranceway to Spiti from Lahaul and Kulu. It is located at an altitude of about 4590 meters above sea level. The road to this pass promises to provide a panoramic view of the beautiful Bara- Sigri, the second longest glacier in the world. There is a temple dedicated to goddess Durga at the topmost point of his pass.
While coming back from this place, instead of returning to Manali, you can also plan a visit to Leh via the beautiful hill town of Keylong. On the way to Leh from Keylong there are various beautiful hill resorts of Baralacha La, Darcha, Tanglang La and Sarchu. There is a temple dedicated to goddess Durga at the topmost point of his pass. The view of the surrounding greenery that is available from this point is mesmerizing and breathtaking.
While on one hand there is the enthralling view of the Spiti valley, on the other hand you can see some of the marvelous peaks of the Chandra- Bhaga Range.On a trip to Kunzum Pass you can also visit some of the nearby tourist destinations. While coming back from this place, instead of returning to Manali, you can also plan a visit to Leh via the beautiful hill town of Keylong.
On the way to Leh from Keylong there are various beautiful hill resorts of Baralacha La, Darcha, Tanglang La and Sarchu. From Keylong you can also drive to Pangi Valley. This place provides a picturesque view of the gushing Chenab river.
Pin Parbati Pass
Duration: 17 days
Altitude : 5300 mts/17384 ft
Time of Journey : July – September end
This is one of the most spectacular treks in the region that takes one from the lush green Parvati valley in Kullu to the stark and barren Pin valley in Spiti. On the way is the high-altitude Maltalai lake and the Pin Parvati Pass.
The trek’s route borders the Pin Valley National Park, known for sighting of the elusive snow leopards and the Great Himalayan National Park that is famous for sightings of rare Himalayan birds like the Western Tragopan.
Altitude : 5300 mts/17384 ft
Time of Journey : July – September end
This is one of the most spectacular treks in the region that takes one from the lush green Parvati valley in Kullu to the stark and barren Pin valley in Spiti. On the way is the high-altitude Maltalai lake and the Pin Parvati Pass.
The trek’s route borders the Pin Valley National Park, known for sighting of the elusive snow leopards and the Great Himalayan National Park that is famous for sightings of rare Himalayan birds like the Western Tragopan.
Baralacha Pass
Location : From Spiti to Ladakh
Major Passes : 16,400 ft
Significance : Counted Among the Best Trekking Passes
Baralacha Pass is at an altitude of 4890 m and on the long Manali – Leh road that paves way for the Baralacha mountain ranges is this Baralacha Pass. This 8 kms long pass is popularly known as the pass ‘where many roads meet’. Signifying the dividing line between main Himalayas and Lahaul range, this pass further extends till Zanskar and is one of the best trekking passes in the world.
Major Passes : 16,400 ft
Significance : Counted Among the Best Trekking Passes
Baralacha Pass is at an altitude of 4890 m and on the long Manali – Leh road that paves way for the Baralacha mountain ranges is this Baralacha Pass. This 8 kms long pass is popularly known as the pass ‘where many roads meet’. Signifying the dividing line between main Himalayas and Lahaul range, this pass further extends till Zanskar and is one of the best trekking passes in the world.
