According to local legends, Mansar Lake was created by Lord Sheshnag, the serpent god, by digging a hole with his tail. It is said that the lake is connected to the Nag temple at Bhimgarh, which is located about 8 km from the lake.
The lake is also associated with the legend of Raja Harishchandra, who is said to have bathed in the lake to purify himself after losing his kingdom and family. It is believed that taking a dip in the lake cleanses one's sins.
The lake has been mentioned in the ancient Hindu scriptures, including the Mahabharata and the Puranas. It is believed that the Pandavas visited the lake during their exile and offered prayers to Lord Shiva.
The present-day temple at the lake, dedicated to Sheshnag, is believed to have been built by Raja Gulab Singh, the founder of the Dogra dynasty, in the 19th century. The temple is an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, especially during the Baisakhi festival.
In addition to its religious significance, Mansar Lake is also a popular tourist destination. The lake is home to a variety of aquatic life, including fish and turtles, and is surrounded by dense forests that are home to several species of birds and animals.
The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has developed several facilities for tourists at the lake, including boating and camping facilities. The lake is also a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
Overall, Mansar Lake is an important site of cultural and religious significance in Jammu and Kashmir, and a beautiful natural wonder that attracts visitors from all over the world
Step 1: Plan your Trip Decide on the duration of your trip, budget, and mode of transportation. You can choose to travel by car, bus or taxi from nearby cities.
Step 2: Reach Mansar Lake Mansar Lake is located at a distance of 60 km from Jammu and is well connected by road. You can hire a taxi or take a bus from Jammu to reach Mansar Lake.
Step 3: Enjoy the Scenery Mansar Lake is surrounded by hills and greenery, which makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers. You can enjoy the beauty of the lake while taking a stroll around it.
Step 4: Visit the Temples There are several temples around Mansar Lake that you can visit, such as the Sheshnag Temple and the Narshima Temple. These temples are known for their architectural beauty and religious significance.
Step 5: Take a Boat Ride Boat rides are available at the lake, which is a great way to explore the lake and its surroundings. You can hire a boat and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake while sailing.
Step 6: Try Local Cuisine There are several food stalls around the lake that offer local cuisine such as rajma chawal, kadi chawal, and samosas. You can enjoy these delicious dishes while enjoying the scenic beauty of the lake.
Step 7: Visit Surinsar Lake Surinsar Lake is located just 24 km from Mansar Lake and is a must-visit destination. The lake is surrounded by hills and is a great spot for nature lovers.
Step 8: Shop for Souvenirs There are several shops around the lake that offer souvenirs and local handicrafts. You can shop for these souvenirs as a memory of your trip to Mansar Lake.
Step 9: Stay Overnight If you have time, you can choose to stay overnight at Mansar Lake. There are several accommodation options available such as hotels, guesthouses, and resorts.
Mansar Lake is a beautiful destination that offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure. You can follow these steps to plan your trip to Mansar Lake and make the most of your visit
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