Prashar Lake
Parashar Lake is a freshwater lake located at an elevation of in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It lies northeast of the town of Mandi, and has a three storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Parashara situated on its bank.
The lake is a notable tourist hotspot for its floating island.
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.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.
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.
Geography
The lake is located at an elevation of 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 from either Mandi or Bajaura in Kullu Also by Panarsa road.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.
The lake has a perimeter of approximately ; the maximum depth of the lake is unknown.