PRASHAR LAKE

                          Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake lies 49 km north of Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India with a three storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar. The lake is located at a height of 2730 m above sea level. With deep blue waters, the lake is held sacred to the sage Prashar and he is regarded to have meditated there. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and looking down on the fast flowing river Beas, the lake can be approached via Drang.

Mythology

Mythology says that this lake was formed by Pandawas when they were on their way after Mahabharata with Deity Kamrunag (based on which this entire valley is know by Kamru Valley today) to find best place for their teacher, Dev Kamrunag and Deity love the isolation of this place so much that he decided to stay here for the rest of his life. On his request, Bheemsen one of the Pandava brothers formed the lake by pushing his elbow and forearm on the peak of the mountain. And that is the reason believed by locals after oval-shaped lake with depth unknown. Many a time in storms an almost 30-meter-tall cedar tree would fall into the lake to disappear. Today faith from all faiths of people brings them here. As an offering people throw money, silver coins and gold into the water. This place is available for visitors throughout the year except for winter months, i.e. Dec. through March. Now with increased faith and visitors there are few hotels available with basic facilities with reasonable price. 03 hrs (106 km) trek from Rohanda to Kamrunag Lake.

Understand

The three tiered Pagoda like temple nearby the lake is dedicated to sage Prashar. The lake is located at 2730 meters. There is big camping ground near the lake. There is small island in the lake which changes its position. The lake has religious significance and needs to be respected according to local traditions. It had become a good trekking spot lately because of its proximity to plains as well as peaceful and breathtaking views.

GET IN

By bus

There is a motorable road all the way up to the lake. You can take the 7.45 AM bus from Mandi which reaches Prashar lake (via Kataula and Bagi) at around 11.15 AM and returns from Prashar lake at 1.15 PM reaching Mandi at around 4.15 PM daily. Buses do not play in peak winters when it snows as the road is not in good condition. You can also take a bus till Bagi and trek through the forest.

By foot

You can start the trek from Bagi village (around 26 kms from Mandi via Kataula). Do note that there is another village named Baggi in Himachal Pradesh as well and Bagi is not to be confused with Baggi. Trek distance is 7.5 kms and it will take around 4-5 hours to trek all the way. The trek is mostly uphill and the route is not marked. It’s better to consult locals in case of confusion as they are friendly and helpful. Carry enough water with you for the trek as there is no water point once you start uphill. Kataula is relatively bigger village where you can find almost all the basic utility items including primary health facilities.

By taxi

Taxis can be hired from Mandi to Prashar lake which may cost around ₹1000 to ₹1500 depending on season and weather.  Bargaining is suggested.

See

Prashar lake is a day picnic spot for nearby locals. Enjoy the beautiful Dhauladhar ranges from the top and while en-route. Enjoy the sunrise and sunset views. Meditate and enjoy the nature. It snows at Prashar lake in winters (December end to February).

Do

Another 12 kms trek to Tunga Mata can be done.

Eat

There are a couple of small restaurants while serve basic food at very reasonable prices (₹60 for a meal) which might not be operational in winters. No place to eat en-route the trek path.

Drink

Since the lake is of religious importance, drinking alcohol is not allowed nearby and tourists are expected to respect the local traditions.

Sleep

There is a PWD and Forest rest house at the top. You can stay there in case the rooms are available. Electricity is available in both the rest houses and the rooms are large and clean. Toilets are equipped with geysers as well. Enquire about the availability of food before staying. There are a couple of small restaurants as well near the lake which might be closed in winters. A PWD rest house is located at Bagi as well but its a small one and the availability depends on the season and traffic. Kataula (around 22kms from Mandi) is the main village in this valley where you might get a place to stay overnight. Both the resthouses are available at ₹500 per night (Oct' 2014 price). Meal cost is extra.

Temple campus can also allow accommodation for free if asked for. Do not expect any luxury and facilities. There is large camping ground as well near the lake.