Top 10 lakes to visit in Himachal Pradesh This Summer

Located at the very core of Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is one of the most sheen states in the northern India. It is known for its seasoned trekkers and avid travellers. And who wants to miss lofty hills, dense forests and beautiful cover of nature all through. Beyond the touristy hill stations of Himachal Pradesh, it has magical towns and isolated Himalayan lakes. Some of them are sacred pilgrimage destinations. So pack your bags and get ready for this adventurous journey. Here is the travel guide of scenic lakes in Himachal Pradesh.

1.Chandra Tal (4,300m)

Chandra Tal  is situated at an altitude of about 4300m (14,100 ft) in Spiti part of the Lahul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh. It is on the Samudra tapu plateau which overlooks the Chandra river. The lake derived its name due to its crescent shape. Best months to visit Chandra Tal is from late May to early October (pre-winter). Adventure seekers reach via Batal or Kunzum pass. There is a motorable road from Batal which is 14km (8.7 miles) away from Chandra tal. The road from Kunzum pass is approachable only on foot which is 8km (5.0 miles)  from Chandra tal. It has emerged as a trekkers’ paradise over the years. The lake invites a perfect location for stargazing.

2.Rewalsar Lake (1,360m)

Also known as “Tso Pema Lotus Lake”, Rewalsar lake is situated at an altitude of 1,360m (4,460 ft). Rewalsar is located in Mandi district, 22.5 km south-west from Mandi. It is shaped like a square. It is said, it was from Rewalsar that Guru Padmasambhava or Guru Rinpoche (Tibetian given name, the precious master) flew to Tibet and spread Mahayana Buddhism in Tibet. There are islands of floating reed on lakes and the spirit Of Padmasambhava is believed to reside in them. The Rewalsar lake is also linked with the epic episode of Mahabharata- the escape of Pandavas from the Burning Palace of wax.

3.Dhankar lake (4,270m)

The majestic Dhankar Lake lies above the monastery of Dhankar in Spiti at an altitude of about 4,270m (14,010 ft). It is approached by a 20 minutes trek from the monastery. The place is enveloped with barren cliffs which overlooks the enchanting confluence of Spiti and pin river.

4.Brighu Lake (4,330m)

The well known lake of Kullu district is a heaven for enthusiasts. It is located at an elevation of about 4,330m (14,100 ft) and lies east of the Rohtang Pass. According to a myth, the place was held sacred by the extraordinary Hindu sage Bhrigu and he is believed to have held repentance on the banks of this lake. Today, the lake offers various routes for trekkers and campers.

5.Nako Lake (3,662m)

Nako lake is hidden in the backyard of the village under the trees that enclose the small lake. It is about 3,662m (12014 ft) above the sea level. Located in the same name village Nako, Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, the unusual thing about this place, it remains covered with snow for most part of the year. The lake is surrounded by four Buddhist temples which has foot like impression ascribed to saint Padmasambhava. It is a sacred place for the people of these valleys.

6.Renuka Lake (672m)

Renuka is the largest lake of Himachal Pradesh, situated in the Sirmaur district, 38 km away from Nahan. According to myths, the Hindu sage Jamdagni infuriated by his wife, Renuka ordered his son, Parsurama to kill Renuka. Being an obedient son, he killed his mother. The two later realised the sin and in remorse created a lake in the shape of sleeping Renuka. The best time to visit this lake is during the winter seasons when visitors can enjoy boating. Travelers can also visit Renuka Temple also

7.Kareri Lake (2,994m)

Kareri lake is a popular tourist destination. It is one of a kind trekking spot and Kareri village is the base camp for trekkers in the Dhauladhars. The place is perched at an elevation of 2,934m (9,626 ft) above the sea level, situated in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The lake is ice-covered during winters and can be easily reached from near village Dharmshala.

8.Surya Tal (4,883m)

Surya Tal literally translates to “lake of the Sun God”. It is perched at an elevation of 4,883m (16,020.3 ft) above the sea level. Surya Tal is the third highest lake in India and the 21^st highest lake in the world located just below the Bara-lacha-la pass in the Lahaul and Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. The lake is the source of Bhaga river. Surya Tal is a sacred water-body and provide picturesque view of region to trekkers.

9.Prashar Lake (2,730m)

This is an ideal trek route for beginners and leaves them speechless. It is 45 km north of Mandi, a paved road leads travelers to Prashar via Baggi village. It provides a picturesque scene with the lake situated right in the center at the foot of surrounding short hills. Just beside the is a majestic Hindu temple belonging to the Prashar Rishi in whose name the holy lake is named. A must visit for nature lovers.

10.Manimahesh Lake (4,190m)

Manimahesh is a high altitude lake at an elevation of 4,190m (13,750 ft) and situated near the Manimahesh Kailash peak in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. The sacred significance of this place is that it is situated close to the holy Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. The highly revered pilgrimage trek is undertaken during the month of August and September, which is known as Manimahesh yatra. According to legends, the lake is created by Lord Shiva.