| Parashar Lake | |
|---|---|
 Parashar Lake | |
  Parashar Lake  Parashar Lake | |
| Location | Mandi district |
| Coordinates | 31°45′15″N77°06′05″E / 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 |
Parashar Lake (also spelled Prashar Lake) is a freshwater lake located at an elevation of 2,730 metres (8,960 ft) in theMandi district ofHimachal Pradesh,India. It lies 12 km (7.5 mi) northeast of the town ofMandi, and has a three storiedpagoda-like temple dedicated to thesage Parashara situated on its bank.
The lake is a notable tourist hotspot for itsfloating island.
The lake is named after the ancient Hindu sageParashara, who considered the lake to be sacred and meditated there. Thepagoda-style temple was built in the 14th century by Raja Ban Sen of Mandi in honor of the sage and thus, considering theHimachali 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]
The lake is located at an elevation of 2,730 m (8,960 ft) above sea level. It is situated within theDhauladhar mountain range, and looks down on the fast flowing riverBeas. The lake can be reached by road approximately 49 km (30 mi) from eitherMandi or Bajaura inKullu Also by Panarsa (jawalapur) road.[2][3]
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]
| Low-altitude lakes | |
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| Mid-altitude lakes | |
| High-altitude lakes | |
| Reservoirs | |
| Related topics | |
