Manali Prashar Lake Tour

Manali Prashar Lake Taxi Service – The pristine blue Parashar Lake is located amidst the Dhauladhar ranges of Kullu. Other than its charismatic beauty, the place is famous for the three storied temple which is located on the bank of the lake. The temple is dedicated to the sage Parashara, and it is also believed that the saint meditated here for quite a long time. Bansen the king of Mandi got this temple built in the 13th century in Pagoda style. It is believed that the local temple of Prashar Rishi is made of one Deodar tree. The riveting “Himachali” architecture of the temple blends perfectly with the landscape.

Parashar Lake is located at an elevation of 2730 m above sea level. The lake is a perfect holiday destination, far away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Parashar Lake is nestled between the tall cedar trees. From the edge of the lake, tourists can see the glimpse of snow-capped mountains and water streams of the Sutlej River flowing towards the south.

As per the legends, when the Mahabharata ended, the Pandavas made their way with Dev Kamrunag to find a suitable place for their deity. They landed at this place where the lake is currently located. When the deity and Dev Kamrunag saw the place, they were enchanted by its beauty and decided to stay there for the rest of their lives.

There is a reason behind the oval shape of the lake. As per the legends, at the request of Dev Kamrunag (based on whom this entire valley is known by the name of Kamru Valley today), Bheem, one of the Pandavas, formed a lake in elliptical shape by pushing his forearm and elbow into the peak of the mountain.

The Legend
Located 104km from the town of manali; as per the legend, Prashar Lake was formed when Bheem (one of the Pandeva brothers from Mahabharata) formed the lake by pushing his elbow and forearm on the peak of the mountain on the request of Deity Kamrunag, who liked the place so much, that he decided to stay here for the rest of his life. Lake itself got the name from Sage Prashar, who had meditated here. In 14th century, the then King of Mandi, Raja Ban Sen, built a beautiful three storied pagoda shaped temple devoted to Prashar Rishi.

Food
There are a few dhabas and tea stalls near the temple, which offer basic food. FRH and PWD Guest House caretakers also cook food for their guests and charge a small amount for it.

Climate
Climate of Prashar Lake is pleasant throughout the year; though winter can be quite cold and road can get closed due to snowfall, making it impossible to reach to lake in vehicle and necessitating a trek through snow filled trail. Monsoon season too is unpredictable, yet beautiful and even though the road can get closed temporarily due to landslides, bus as well as taxis continue to bring day trippers and travelers to Prashar Lake, even in the rain season.