Manimahesh trek is one of the most delightful trips in Himachal Pradesh. Mani Mahesh Yatra is a heavenly spot for Hindus. This place is also called Dal Lake, Manimahesh is a high-height lake rise of 4,080 meters 13,390 ft situated near the Manimahesh Kailash peak in the Pir Panjal valley of the Himalayas, in the Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh.

The significance of this lake is close to that of Lake Manasarovar in Tibet. The lake is the venue of a profoundly respected trek undertaken during August/September relating to the period of Bhadon as per the Hindu schedule, on the eighth day of the New Moon time frame. It is known as the ‘Manimahesh Yatra’. 

The lake is situated close to the Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the range ( Pir Panjal Range) of the Himalayas at an elevation of 4080 meters. The Dal lake is situated in Bharmour subdivision of Chamba district of Himachal.

History of Manimahesh Trek

According to legends, it is believed that after the wedding with Goddess Parvati who is also known as Mata Girija, lord Shiva made Manimahesh Peak. There is one more story that legends says that when lord Shiva went to Manimahesh Kailash, he gives a boon to goddess Brahmani Devi that the journey of devotees to Manimahesh Lake Trek wouldn’t be acceptable to him until and unless they don’t pay deference at Brahmani Mata temple and take a dip in sacred pool.

Keypoints of Manimahesh Trek

AREAChamba, Himachal Pradesh
DURATION6 – 7 Days
BEST SEASON May – September
GRADEDifficult
ALTITUDE3970 mts / 13,000 ft
APPROX TREKKING KM54 K.M
Keypoints of Manimahesh Trek

Highlights of Manimahesh Trek

  • Take blessings of lord Shiva at Manimahesh Lake.
  • Camp under the stars, on the lakeside of Manimahesh, amid the delightful mountains.
  • A rare occasion of the first sun’s beams falling on the Mani Mahesh top is found in the appearance of the lake-like saffron Tilak.
  • View the lofty mountains and valleys while journeying.
  • Enjoy the dazzling views of Pir Panjal peak.
Mountain View at Manimahesh
Peak View at Manimahesh
View at Manimahesh
Mountain View at Manimahesh
Road to Manimahesh
View at Manimahesh
Manimahesh Trek Gallery

Location of Manimahesh Trek

The Manimahesh Lake is situated, 26 kilometers from Bharmour in the Budhil valley, one of the main trek spots in Himachal Pradesh. The lake is arranged at a height of 13,000 feet at the foot of the Kailash top (18,564 ft).

Best Time To Visit Manimahesh Lake

The best time to visit Manimahesh for traveling would be from the period of April to September. The pilgrimage trek is usually started from Janamashtami (August) to Radha Ashtami (September).

How to Reach Manimahesh Lake?

By Train:

Closest Railway Station is Pathankot Cantt railway station which was known as Chakki bank before (Punjab).

By Air:

Closest air terminal is at Gaggal in Kangra which is 230 km away from Bharmour however, Jammu and Amritsar Air terminals are also doable to reach this place.

By Road:

Manimahesh is easily accessible by buses and cars to Bharmour and afterward by nearby cabs to Hadsar except for the last 13 km which can be covered on foot.

Itinerary of Manimahesh Trek

Day 01: Delhi-Dharamshala

Reach Pathankot promptly in the morning of the day and from here drives to Dharamshala. On arrival check-in into the hotel to freshen up and afterward explore the nearby destinations of Dharamshala.

Day 02: Dharamshala – Hardsar – Dancho

In the morning after breakfast, drive up to Hardsar and afterward further trip to Dancho. From Hardsar,  bit by bit rise to Dancho. It will take around three hrs to walk this 7 km trek. Take your dinner and spend your night in camp.

Day 03: Dancho – Manimahesh Lake

In the morning after breakfast, start your trek toward Manimahesh lake. Today you will move from Dancho to Manimahesh Lake. This is a long and slow climb. Take your Dinner and spend your night in camp.

Day 04: Manimahesh Lake – Dancho

 On reaching Manimahesh peak, explore the nearby area in the region then travel back to Dancho. Now you will travel downwards. Take your dinner and spend your night in camp.

Day 05: Dancho – Hardsar

In the first part of the day after breakfast journey back to Hardsar and from here drive to Dharamshala. On arrival, check in at the hotel and take some rest. 

Day 06: Hardsar – Dharamshala

From Hardsar drive back to dharmshala. Now, this is the end of the trip. Conclude your trip with good memories.

Frequently Asked Questions for Manimahesh Trek

What is the duration of the Manimahesh Yatra by helicopter?

Helicopter ride begins from Bharmour and it requires 7 minutes to come to the helipad at Manimahesh. Manimahesh Lake is only 1 km from Gauri Kund.

What is the significance of Manimahesh Kailash Yatra?

Lord Shiva is said to have meditated at Manimahesh Lake after his wedding with Goddess Parvati. Goddess Parvati is also said to have to take bath at Gauri Kund which, is close to Manimahesh Lake.

What is the fitness level required for the Manimahesh trek?

Adventurers should be very fit for Manimahesh Trip. Short traveling route usually requires 2-3 days with short-term setting up camp. More journeying routes can be long and last 40 km.

How difficult is Manimahesh’s Trek?

Manimahesh Trip can be considered a simple trek and anybody with a good degree of fitness can easily endeavor it.

Is Manimahesh’s journey safe?

Indeed, Mani Mahesh journey is extremely safe for explorers and pioneers as it has no intense terrains of the Himalayas, implying that you won’t run over any abrupt steep slopes.

Manimahesh Kailash Trek Essentials

  • Identity proof
  • Waterproof trekking suit
  • Basic Cutlery
  • Plastic covers
  • Energy drinks
  • Gloves and socks
  • Flashlight and umbrella
  • Backpack
  • Water bottles
  • Light food

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