Prashar Lake

Parashar Lake
Parashar Lake
Parashar Lake Show map of Himachal Pradesh Parashar Lake Show map of India
Location	Mandi district
Coordinates	31.75426°N 77.10141°E / 31.75426; 77.10141
Type	Holomictic
Primary inflows	Rain water
Primary outflows	Evaporation
Basin countries	India

Surface area	1 ha (2.5 acres)
Surface elevation	2,730 m (8,960 ft)

References	www.hptdc.gov.in

History and mythology

The lake is named after the ancient Hindu sage Parashara, who considered the lake to be sacred and meditated there. The pagoda-style temple was built in the 14th century by Raja Ban Sen of Mandi in honor of the sage and thus, considering the Himachali architecture, the lake was named after him.^[1]

Every year, three grand fairs are held at Rishi Parashar's sacred site, further enhancing its religious significance. These major festivals—Kashi, Rishi Panchami, and Sauranahuli—attract numerous devotees. During these gatherings, deities from Shanor, Badar, Uttarshal, and other valleys arrive with their devotees, providing an opportunity for cultural exchange and strengthening the bonds between different communities.^[1]^{[citation needed]}

In Hindu mythology, the lake was created by Bhima, one of the Pandava brothers. After the Kurukshetra War, the Pandavas were returning with Lord Kamrunag. When they reached this place, Kamrunag loved the tranquil surroundings and decided to live here forever. Bhima rammed his elbow on one of the mountains and created a big dent in the land; this dent became the lake.^[1]^[2]

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Geography

The lake is located at an elevation of 2,730 m (8,960 ft) above sea level. It is situated within the Dhauladhar mountain range, and looks down on the fast flowing river Beas. The lake can be reached by road approximately 49 km (30 mi) from either Mandi or Bajaura in Kullu Also by Panarsa (jawalapur) road.^[3]^[4]

There is a round, floating island in the lake; it is composed of plant matter in various stages of decomposition, and is held afloat by the oxygen in its plants' roots. The floating island moves in all directions in the lake and covers 7% of the area of the lake.^{[citation needed]}

The lake has a perimeter of approximately 300 metres (980 ft);^[1] the maximum depth of the lake is unknown.^{[citation needed]}

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