Floating Island Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake is approximately 45 kms from Mandi and 70 km from Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. The Lake is located at a height of 2730 m (9000 ft) above sea level. With deep blue waters, the lake is held sacred to the sage Prashar and he is supposed to have meditated there. There is a three storied pagoda like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar. The temple was built in the thirteenth century. The lake has a floating island in it. It is said to be unclear how deep the lake is.The lake has a total circumference of 1.5 km. Set in the midst of lush green valley, the Prashar Lake appears like a gem of the valley. The place is a real treat for the nature lovers. The valley which is covered in greenery throughout the year, turns into completely white during winter when it snows heavily. The place is flooded with the tourists all the year round.

The road from here is a dirt track, passes through thick, dark but beautiful forest. There are a number of water crossings. You should not be surprised if you don’t see any human or vehicle for many miles. Though there are some small villages en route. Temple is around half a mile walk up the hill on a autumn burnt dry grass. The lake and temple area is maintained by a trust and is fenced all around with barbed wire. There are small iron gates to enter the area. After walking half a mile, the first glimpse of the lake and pagoda shaped temple is a pretty sight. After paying my respect at the temple, walked around the lake and went up a nearby hill. At one point, the hike and angle of the climb was such that I felt like falling and rolling down the hill on my back. There are two approaches for Prashar Lake. One is from the town of Mandi, from where you can start your journey to Prashar lake either by your own personal vehicle or hired cabs.

You can spend your night at the PWD Guest House at Prashar Lake. The other road is from Bajaura (Kullu). You can hire a cab from Kullu or Bhuntar. From Bajoura the route is through Kandi, Bagi, and then Prashar. The road is quite good, and pleasant full of greenery. On reaching the highest hill in the area I felt like a winner. The panoramic view of the Himalayas and Valleys was just amazing .In my thoughts I thanked my friends and Team who had built my dream describing the beauty of the place and planting a seed in my mind. Here I was, living that dream. I closed my eyes and sat in silence for a while at the hill to absorb the beauty of the place. I did not knew how time just flew by. I saw people leave the place and soon the lake area was giving a deserted look.