54-791: Manimahesh Lake (also known as Dal Lake, Manimahesh) is a high altitude lake (elevation 4,080 metres (13,390 ft)) situated close to the Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas , in the Bharmour subdivision of Chamba district of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh . The religious significance of this lake is next to that of the Lake Manasarovar in Tibet . The lake
108-401: A boon, which gave powers to Bhasmasura under which Bhasmasura touching anyone would reduce that person to ashes. Bhasmasura wanted to try this boon on Shiva himself. He, therefore, followed Shiva to touch him and get rid of him. However, Shiva managed to escape and enter into the waterfall at Dhancho and take shelter in a cave behind the rolling waters of the fall. Bhasmasura could not get through
162-648: A confluence with Budhil at Hadsar. In view of so many streams originating from the Manimhesah Peak and the Manimhaesh Lake, and all of which are also linked to legends and the annual yatra pilgrimage, the Budhal or Budhil River is also highly venerated by the Gaddi elders and is nicknamed as 'Bhujl'. Pir Pinjal lies in the lesser Himalayan Zone, which forms the central part of the state of Himachal Pradesh. The peak lies along
216-479: A divine experience. En route, there is waterfall at Gauri Nallah known as the Dhancho fall. From Dhancho, it is a steep climb. This track has seen lot of improvements over the years. In the past the first climb was first done by crossing Dhancho nalla. It was so tough that people used to crawl to get across. Since they used to crawl like a monkey in this stretch it was known as 'Bandar Ghati' (monkey valley). Now this track
270-646: A mound overlooking the Bharmaur city. The Gaddis also believe that Shiva resides in the Mount Kailash for six months, whereafter he moves to the netherworld handing over the reigns to Vishnu. The day he departs to the netherworld is observed by the Gaddis reverentially every year, which is the Janmashtami day, the eighth day of the month of Bhadon (August), the birthday of Krishna (an incarnation of Vishnu). Shiva returned from
324-412: A small village on this route. There are several mythical legends narrated on the sanctity of this peak and the lake at its base. In one popular legend, it is believed that Lord Shiva created Manimahesh after he married Goddess Parvati , who is worshipped as Mata Girija. There are many other legends narrated linking Lord Shiva and his show of displeasure through avalanches and blizzards that occur in
378-606: A snake also attempted to climb the mountain but failed and was converted into stone. Devotees believe that they can view the peak only if the Lord wishes so. Bad weather covering the peak with clouds is also explained as a displeasure of the Lord. Manimahesh Kailash or Mountain Kailash is in the watershed of the Budhil valley, which forms part the mid-Himalayan range of hills near Kugti pass and at Harsar. The perpetually snow-covered glacial peak, at
432-409: A tough trek, follows a set ancient route with stops at the designated places. To facilitate this trek, pilgrims are provided with facilities of transport (jeeps up to road ends), food and medical facilities and so forth. It is a two-day trek to the lake from Hadsar with a night halt at Dhanchho . Tents are available for hire at Bharmour or Chamba, Himachal Pradesh . Ponies are hired by some devotees for
486-506: Is 26 kilometres (16 mi) from Bharmour in the Budhil valley. It is one of the major pilgrimage sites as well as a popular trekking destination in Himachal Pradesh. The Manimahesh Lake is at the base of the Kailash peak at 3,950 metres (12,960 ft) and is also held in deep veneration by people of Himachal Pradesh, particularly the Gaddi tribe of the region. In the month of Bhadon , on
540-405: Is June to October and it has a gentle grade. The path leading to the lake is well maintained. Halfway up this track is 6 kilometres (3.7 mi) of open and flat meadow land to Dhancho. Tented accommodation is available here during August–September. Night halt is preferred here. Free kitchens are opened by people to feed pilgrims. But many prefer to go and pitch their tents next to the lake to feel
594-480: Is a rare occasion). However, it has been inferred that such a phenomenon could be the result of reflection of light from the glacier that embellishes the peak in the form of a serpent around Shiva's neck. A legend in which Shiva himself is tricked is narrated. According to this narration linked to Dhancho where pilgrims spend a night on their way to Manimahesh Lake, Shiva, pleased with the devotion of one of his ardent devotees Bhasmasura (an asura or demon) bestowed
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#1732858328743648-478: Is a virgin peak. Bhasmasura In Hinduism , Bhasmasura ( Sanskrit : भस्मासुर , Bhasmāsura ) is an asura or demon, who was granted the power to burn up and immediately turn into ashes (bhasma) anyone whose head he touched with his hand. The asura was tricked by the Vishnu 's only female avatar , the enchantress Mohini , to turn himself into ashes. While Bhasmasura is a character who does not appear in
702-531: Is deified in the temple. The sippi caste have important role when the challas seeks the permission from this caste after that challas get dip into the wholly lake The holy pilgrimage to the Manimahesh Lake (revered by local people as resting place of Shiva) is supported by the Government of Himachal Pradesh, Manimahesh Pilgrimage Committee and several voluntary organizations. For the Gaddi tribal population of
756-431: Is mostly frequented by pilgrims and trekkers. This route is easier and has arrangements for basic food and accommodation during the pilgrimage season. The other one is from village Holi. This route climbs up further and then descends to the lake. There is no other habitation, except for a small village on this route. According to one popular legend, it is believed that Shiva created Manimahesh after he married Parvati , who
810-519: Is much improved and the newly constructed path is used. However, some still prefer to take the old route as an adventure and go through the Bandar Ghati. In the past, on the trek from Dhancho, the bridge over the Manimahesh river was crossed to reach the left bank of the valley. After 2 kilometres (1.2 mi), the river was again crossed, over another wooden bridge, to the right bank. From this point,
864-604: Is placed at the end of row and he is the last dancer to revolve his hands over his head. The Bhasmasura-type pose--with one hand atop the head and the other behind the back--is also common in women's dancing in the Bhojpuri region and, by extension, in Indo-Caribbean society, where it is a typical feature of chutney dancing. A few Indo-Caribbeans claim that this pose relates to the Bhasmasura myth. In Ramakien , The Thai version of
918-470: Is revered as the holy mountain of Chamba according to the staunch devotees of the Manimahesh Lake and the peak. The peak is visible from near Manimahesh Lake . There are two trekking routes to the lake. One is from Hadsar village that is mostly frequented by pilgrims and trekkers. The other route, village Holi, climbs up further and then descends to the lake. There is no other habitation, except for
972-579: Is stated to have become a nightmare to the whole world. Vishnu assumed the form of the ravishing Mohini, an attractive dancer, who allured him with her charm, and initiated a dance called the Muktanṛtya . During the course of this dance, Bhasmasura was forced to place his hand on his own head. The moment his hand touched his head, he was burnt to ashes. Based on the popular story, the dancers take different postures leading to them ultimately revolving both their hands on their heads. The dancer enacting Bhasmasura
1026-462: Is the venue of a highly revered pilgrimage trek undertaken during the month of August/September corresponding to the month of Bhadon according to the Hindu calendar , on the eighth day of the new moon period. It is known as the ‘ Manimahesh Yatra ’. The Government of Himachal Pradesh has declared it as a state-level pilgrimage. There are two trekking routes to the lake. One is from Hadsar village that
1080-410: Is worshipped as Mata Gorja. There are many legends narrated linking Shiva and his show of displeasure through acts of avalanches and blizzards that occur in the region. Legend also mentions that Shiva performed penance on the banks of Manimahesh Lake. In the same vein, it is mentioned that Gaddis (Shepherd), the tribes of this region, adopted Shiva as their deity. Gaddis are the people who reside in
1134-593: The Chamba district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh . It is the fifth most important peak among the group of five separate peaks in Himalayas in separate locations collectively known as the Panch Kailash or "Five Kailashas", other being Mount Kailash in first place, Adi Kailash in second, Shikhar Kailash (Shrikhand Mahadev Kailash) in third, and Kinnaur Kailash in fouth place in terms of importance. The peak
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#17328583287431188-408: The 'Shiv Karotri' (the bathing place of Shiva). The smaller part of the lake, which is hidden by the bushes, has lukewarm water and is called 'Gauri Kund', the bathing place of Parvati, Shiva's consort. Thus, men and women bathe in different parts of the lake. According to rites, the dip (called locally as naun ) in the lake is taken four times, if permitted or otherwise only once. In the periphery of
1242-635: The Dhancho nala, rising from the snowy ranges of the southern flank of the peak, flows in northward direction; Androl stream carrying holy waters of the Manimahesh Lake flowing to the north of the peak and through the Barachundi Meadow, the Siv Karotar stream rises from the foot of the peak and joins Androl; and the Gauri stream from the Gauri Kund joins Androl. All these streams constitute the Dhancho nala that has
1296-587: The Gaddi Valley which is the name of the upper regions of Ravi River where the Mount Chamba Kailash lies. Further, according to the legend, the Shiva, who lived in Mount Kailash, the highest mountain of the state, gifted the Gaddis with a Chuhali topi (pointed cap), which they wear traditionally along with their other dress of chola (coat) and dora (a long black cord about 10–15 m long). The Gaddis started calling
1350-614: The Karwarsi pass or Jalsu pass via Tyari village, near Holi in Bharmour. The easiest and popular route is from Chamba via Bharmour. The most popular is the Bhanrlour–Hadsar-Manimahesh route which involves a 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) track from Hadsar village to the Manimahesh Lake. The highest altitude touched in this route is 4,115 metres (13,501 ft) and it takes two days with an overnight stay at Dhancho. Season to be undertaken
1404-571: The Laxmi Narayan temple and the Dashnami Akhara in Chamba town, with the sacred stick ('Chhari') of Gur Charpathnath carried by the pilgrims with participation of sadhus. The trek to the lake takes about 6 days. After the procession arrives at the lake, ceremonies are held all through the night. On the following day, pilgrims take a holy dip ( naun ) in the lake. After taking bath in the holy waters of
1458-460: The Puranas, his story is mentioned in regional literature. The asura is stated to have been born of the bhasma dust (ashes) on the body of Shiva . Pleased at the great devotion of the demon towards him, Shiva agreed to grant a boon of his choice. Bhasmasura sought the power to burn to ashes anybody on whose head he placed his hand. Shiva granted this to him. Bhasmasura became arrogant with the boon, and
1512-481: The Shiv Karotri. State priests of Bharmaur Brahmin family perform the worship ( Pujas ) in all temples within the lake precincts. Manimahesh Kailash Peak The Manimahesh Kailash Peak , 5,653 metres (18,547 ft), also known as Chamba Kailash , which stands towering high over the Manimahesh Lake , is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva , the Hindu deity . It is located in the Bharmour subdivision of
1566-399: The climb passes through many zigzag paths along flowered meadows. Birch trees are seen in the vicinity, which indicates a gain in altitude as the trek proceeds. Along this stretch of the trek route, there are a number community kitchens (eateries) at about 3,600 metres (11,800 ft) elevation. From this location, the trail to Manimahesh Lake could be discerned. The waterfall, flowing from
1620-455: The confluence of Budhil and Ravi rivers, up to Manimahesh. Manimahesh was also considered the abode of the Trimurti , namely, Shiva, Vishnu , and Brahma . Manimahesh was reckoned as the heaven ( Kailasha ) of Shiva. The waterfall seen at the Dhancho on the way to Manimahesh Lake, and which emanates from the lake, was considered as the heaven ( Vaikuntha ) of Vishnu. The heaven of Bramha is cited as
1674-406: The contrary and the fact that much taller peaks have been scaled, including Mount Everest . According to one legend, a local tribe, a Gaddi, tried to climb along with a herd of sheep and is believed to have been turned into stone along with his sheep. The series of minor peaks around the principal peak are believed to be the remnants of the shepherd and his sheep. Another legend narrated is that
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1728-400: The eighth day of the new moon period a fair is held in the precincts of the lake that attracts thousands of pilgrims. Manimahesh Kailash has not been successfully summitted by mountaineers and is thus remains a virgin peak. An attempt to climb the peak in 1968 by an Indo –Japanese team led by Nandini Patel was aborted. This failure is attributed to the divine prowess of the peak since it
1782-424: The glacier fields of the lake. However, on the way, the walk is through the valley of flowers and wild medicinal herbs up to the lake. The lake is situated at the centre of a snowy field touching the sacred peak. The lake is surrounded by sandy boulders, small hilly mounds and prickly dry bushes, and there is no sign of any grass. It is called Shiv Chaugan (play ground of Shiva). The lake appears as if it has penetrated
1836-681: The head of its own range, is the source of the sacred lake of Manimahesh situated beneath it. Manimahesh Ganga River originates in a cascade from the lake and joins the Budhil River on its left bank. This hill range is a contiguous spur that conjoins the main range near the Bara Banghal pass of the Pir Panjal range. After the Budhal River rises from the slopes of the Kukti (Kugati) pass and Bada Bangal pass,
1890-566: The lake in the form of a fall at Dhancho. The mountain peak is a snow clad tribal glen of Brahamur in the Chamba district of manimahesh range. The highest peak is the Manimahesh Kailas, also called ‘Chamba Kailash' (elevation 5,656 metres or 18,556 ft) overlooking the lake. The lake, considered a glacial depression, is sourced by snow-melt waters from the surrounding hill slopes. Towards the end of June with ice beginning to melt, numerous small streams break up everywhere, which together with
1944-405: The lake, is also seen at this stage. A further trek of 1.5 kilometres (0.93 mi) through the grassy ridges leads to the Manimahesh Lake. Even though the Manimahesh Lake is of small size with shallow depth, its location, directly below Manimahesh Kailas peak and several other peaks and dangling glaciers, is an "inspiration even to the least devout pilgrim." Trekking in the last reach is through
1998-476: The lake, now there is a marble image of Shiva, which is worshipped by pilgrims. The image is called the Chaumukha. The lake and its surroundings present an impressive view. The still, clear and unpolluted waters of the lake reflect the snow-capped peaks that overlook the valley. There is also a small temple in the shikhara style on the periphery of the lake. A brass image of Lakshmi Devi known as Mahishasuramardini
2052-481: The lake, pilgrims circumambulate the lake three times as an act of reverence, seeking blessings of the Shiva. However, before taking a final dip in the Manimahesh Lake, women devotees take a dip at the Gauri Khund, which is situated about a mile short of the lake while men take bath at Shiv Karotri a part of the main lake. The belief is that Parvati, Shiva’s consort bathed at the Gauri Khund, while Shiva took his bath at
2106-442: The land of this mountainous region as 'Shiv Bhumi' ("Land of Shiva") and themselves as devotees of Shiva. The legend further states that before Shiva married Parvati at Lake Manasarovar and became the "universal parents of the universe", Shiva created the Mount Kailash in Himachal Pradesh and made it his abode. He made the Gaddis his devotees. The land where Gaddis lived extended from 15 miles (24 km) west of Bharmaur, upstream of
2160-409: The last 37 years, the glacier receded by 1,075 metres (3,527 ft) with an average retreat of 29.05 metres (95.3 ft)/year. The area vacated is estimated at 0.679 square kilometres (0.262 sq mi). It is said that no one could climb this pure peak because it is said to be abode by Lord Shiva. Once a Gaddi tried to climb the peak it was believed that he dreamt of Lord Shiva calling him on
2214-411: The lush green hills and the myriad of flowers give the place a truly remarkable view. The snow field at the base of the mountain is called by the local people as Shiva’s Chaugan Shiva's playground. According to a belief, Shiva stayed here with his consort Parvati. Manimahesh is approached from three routes. Pilgrims from Lahaul and Spiti pass through Kugti pass. Pilgrims from Kangra and Mandi take
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2268-462: The netherworld to Bharamaur at the end of February, before the night of his wedding and this day is observed as Maha Shivaratri ); Gaddis observe this also as a festive day since Shiva and Parvati returned to Mount Kailash in the Gaddi land. Etymology of 'Manimahesh' signifies a "jewel (Mani) on Shiva's (Mahesh's) crown". According to a local legend, the moon-rays reflected from the jewel can be seen from Manimahesh Lake on clear full moon night (which
2322-419: The north and extends over an area of 4.58 square kilometres (1.77 sq mi). The ice content of the glacier has been assessed as 0.137 cubic km. The composition of this proglacial region is reported to be a mixture of ground/recessional moraines with linear country outcrops protruding out. The glaciation must have extended up to a little downstream of Dhanchu as revealed by the terminal moraine hump. During
2376-449: The peak and Lord Shiva asked him to cut the sheep on every step he takes but asked not to look back. He started to climb the peak steps after steps he kept cutting the lambs he was carrying with him but few steps before reaching the peak he got confused that he was not carrying many sheep he killed and turned back. As soon as he looked back he turned into stone and couldn't climb. Since then, no one has ever tried to climb this peak and thus it
2430-409: The pilgrims on their shoulders) trek undertaken by pilgrims and sadhus. Pilgrims undertake the holy trek barefoot and cover a distance of 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) from the nearest road point of Hadsar to the Manimahesh Lake. Shiva is the presiding deity of the yatra. The colorful procession of the "chhari" is accompanied by singing and recitation of hymns in praise of Shiva. The Chhari trek, considered
2484-419: The place is broken only when the pilgrims visit the place in large numbers, an evening before the holy dip (locally known as naun ) in the lake. According to legend, Shiva performed penance for several hundred years here. The water cascades sprang out from his matted hair and took the form of the lake. The lake as formed appears like a saucer. It has two distinct parts. The larger part has icy cold water, called
2538-546: The practice of taking bath in the lake on Janmashtami day or Radhashtami day, fifteen days after the birth of Krishna. The lake, of glacial origin, is in the upper reaches of the Ghoi nala(refer Leomann maps:India Himalaya Map 4) which is a tributary of Budhil river, a tributary of the Ravi River in Himachal Pradesh. However, the lake is the source of a tributary of the Budhil River, known as ‘Manimahesh Ganga’. The stream originates from
2592-464: The region, pilgrimage to the lake is most holy. It is held every year during the Hindu month of Badon on Radhastami , the 15th day following the festival of Janmashtami , corresponding to the Gregorian month of August or September. The Yatra or Jatra, as it is called, is also popularly known as the 'Manimahesh Yatra'. It is heralded by a procession known locally as "holy chhari" (holy stick carried by
2646-495: The region. According to a local myth, Lord Shiva is believed to reside in Manimahesh Kailash. A rock formation in the form of a Shivling on this mountain is considered as the manifestation of Lord Shiva. The snow field at the base of the mountain is called by the local people as Shiva's Chaugan (play field). It is also believed that Manimahesh Kailash is invincible as no one has so far scaled it, in spite of claims to
2700-474: The rugged valley. On a clear day the reflection of the abode of Shiva, the Kailash Mountain can be seen on the lake surface. All the year round, the place remains desolate, without any inhabitants, because none dares to stay here. The air is fresh but icy cold. There are almost no fauna in the lake at its precincts – no ants, snakes or any kind of wild life. A few Bird species are sighted rarely. The silence of
2754-401: The trek. Direct trekking from Chamba is also an option undertaken by the devout, which is a nine-day trek; the route followed is Rakh (20 kilometres (12 mi)), Bharmaur, Hadsar (12 kilometres (7.5 mi)), Dhancho (7 kilometres (4.3 mi)) and Manimahesh (7.5 kilometres (4.7 mi)) with a brief halt at Bhiram Ghati. The return trip follows the same route. The holy trek starts from
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#17328583287432808-574: The water shed between the Chenab River on the one side and Ravi and Beas on the other side. A research study has been carried out on the glacial status of this peak and its range by the Geological Survey of India . It indicated that the Manimahesh Kailash peak is part of the range, which is 4.6 kilometres (2.9 mi) long. The average elevation of the studied peaks is 4,960 metres (16,270 ft). The glacial melt from this range flows towards
2862-458: The waterfall. Then, Vishnu intervened and killed Bhasmasura. Since then the waterfall is considered holy. A rare event of the first sun’s rays falling on the Manimahesh peak is seen in reflection in the lake like a saffron tilaka . This display in the lake has enhanced the legendary belief of the Gaddis on the sanctity of Manimahesh Lake at the base of the Mount Kailash, which they visit on an annual pilgrimage. This event has also contributed to
2916-408: The watershed formed by the Budhil and Ravi rivers takes the form of an inverted triangle with its base at Khadamukh. Budhil itself is formed by several streams which rise from different faces of the Manimahesh Kailas peak. The streams which rise from the peak are: the 'Bhujla' (derived from Bhuja meaning the arm) from the left flank of the peak, which meets Bhudil (also spelt Budhal) below Kukti village;
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