10 things you should know before you go to the picturesque Prashar Lake

Things the travel websites don’t tell you.

1. Try to travel on a weekday holiday than a long weekend.

2. Carry your own tent or book from these few options well in advance.

a) PWD guest house, contact 01905-222151 or email at EE-Mandiv1@hp.nic.in

b) Forest guest house, contact DFO office Mandi at 01905 – 235360 or RFO Kataula at Tel : 01905 – 269469, caretaker, Mr. Roop Singh at 94184 11746

c) Thrillophilia

d) Himachal Trekkers

3. For budget travellers commuting via buses to Mandi, reach the bus stand in Mandi early, to catch the HRTC bus at 8 AM to Baggi. The same bus then starts on its way back from the lake at 1 PM and reaches Mandi at approximately 5 PM.

4. If you aren’t carrying your own booze, the liquor shop just next to the bus stand in Mandi is open.

5. Carry comfortable trekking shoes as this is a slightly tedious 5-6 hour trek for beginners and you can hitch a cab on your way back which a sweet 45 minute drive from the top till Baggi.

6. There are paragliding options for 400 - 500 bucks.

7. The local dogs are very helpful and needy. Help them.

8. The young cook makes excellent Rajma chawal in the first shop you see as you reach the lake, and he has been handling the shop alone for a few years now.

9. Campsites are a great way to enjoy this beautiful lake. But, there are no washrooms. Keep your tissues handy.

10. The momos & chilli chutney at Krishna Cafe in Baggi are delicious.