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The state of Himachal Pradesh is known for its hilly terrains, dense forests and the beautiful cover of nature all through. Tourists visiting this state are left mesmerised by its beauty and often say that it resembles a picture painted on canvas. Of the many attractions the state has to offer its tourists, the amazing lakes are prime attractions.
Though some of the lakes of Himachal Pradesh is the life source for the people living here, they also add tremendously to the beauty of the region. Some of the beautiful and scenic lakes of Himachal Pradesh includes Brighu Lake, Kareri Lake, Nako Lake, Dhankar Lake, Prashar Lake and many more. Here is a travel guide to some of the scenic lakes in Himachal Pradesh.
1. Brighu Lake
Brighu Lake is a high altitude lake located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at an elevation of about 4,235 mt above the sea level and lies east of the Rohtang Pass. According to legends the lake was held sacred by the great Hindu sage Bhrigu and he is said to have held penance on the banks of this lake. Today, the lake offers various routes for trekking enthusiasts and also offers a scenic view of the region. Tourists coming here can camp on the banks of the lake before continuing on their trekking expeditions.
Ice cover on top of Brighu Lake.
Photo Courtesy: DarthTang
2. Kareri Lake
Kareri Lake, perched at an elevation of 2,934 mt above the sea level, is a popular tourist destination in Kangra district of Himachal Pradesh. The melting snow from the Dhauladhar ranges is known to feed this lake. It offers a beautiful trekking route to the Dhauladhar Mountains and gets its name from the nearby village of Kareri. It is a perfect place to head to for a picnic with your family and you can also enjoy fishing in this lake. During the winter season the lake region is covered in snow and travellers coming here can enjoy the picturesque view of the snow-clad mountains here.
Stillness at Kareri Lake.
Photo Courtesy: Shalabh.w
3. Mahrana Pratap Sagar
The Maharana Pratap Sagar is located in the city of Pragpur and is a man-made lake built across the Beas river. Situated at an elevation of 450 mt, this lake has been declared as one of the 25 international wetland sites in India. The lake is named in honour of the renowned Indian warrior, Maharana Pratap. Also, known as the Pong Dam Lake or Pong Reservoir, it was established in the year 1975 and was later declared as a wildlife sanctuary owing to the numerous migratory birds that come to the region. Of all the birds that migrate to the reservoir, about 220 species are from Siberia and Central Asia. Some of the noted migratory birds that can be found here include the Surkhab, cranes, and Pintails. Animals like the sambar, barking deer, wild boars, and leopards are also found abundantly in the region. It is a haven for bird lovers, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Travellers coming here can enjoy the beauty of the lake and also admire its natural surroundings.
4. Chandra Tal
Chandra Tal is situated at an altitude of about 4,300 mt in the Himalayan region of Himachal Pradesh. The lake derives its name due to its crescent shape and is very popular amongst trekkers and campers. The most surprising thing about this lake is that there is no visible source of this lake but there is a visible outlet, indicating that water to this lake comes from underground. Travellers coming here can enjoy the rustic beauty that this lake emotes and also relax in its serene surroundings.
Water glistening during sunset at Chandra Tal.
Photo Courtesy: Anaesthetist
5. Manimahesh Lake
Manimahesh Lake is a high altitude lake at an elevation of 4,080 mt above the sea level and is situated close to the Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. The religious significance of this lake is that it is situated close to the Holy Lake Mansarovar in Tibet. The lake is the venue of a highly revered pilgrimage trek undertaken during the month of August and September and is known as the ‘Manimahesh Yatra'. According to popular legends it is believed that Lord Shiva created this lake after he married Goddess Parvati, who is worshiped as Mata Girja here. It is visited by a lot of devotees who come here to seek the blessing of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
Misty morning at the lake.
Photo Courtesy: Truewebsolution
6. Nako Lake
Nako Lake is situated in a small village of the same name in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh. A unique feature about this lake is that it remains covered with snow for most part of the year. The lake is surrounded by four temples and there is also a foot print here that is believed to have been of Lord Padmasambhava. Travellers coming to this lake can relax in its tranquillity and also visit the temples around here.
Picturesque view of Nako Lake.
Photo Courtesy: Sayantan Bhattacharya
7. Suraj Tal
Suraj Tal or Surya Tal is a sacred water-body that literally translates to 'Lake of the Sun God'. It lies at an elevation of about 4,890 mt above the sea level in the Lahaul and Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is the third-highest lake in India and the 21st highest lake in the world.
Travellers coming here will have to trek to this lake. It provides a picturesque view of the region which is bound to leave anyone speechless.
Tranquility at Suraj Tal.
Photo Courtesy: Ajay Panachickal
8. Renuka Lake
Renuka Lake, situated in the Nahan district of Himachal Prades is the largest lake of the state. According to a legend the Hindu Sage Jamdagni in a fit of anger ordered his son Parsurama to kill Renuka, his wife. Being an obedient son, Parsurama killed his mother. The two later realised their mistake and in remorse created a lake in the shape of a sleeping Renuka. The best time to visit this lake is in during the winter season when visitors can enjoy boating here. You can also visit the Renuka temple located on the banks of this lake and dedicated to Renuka.
Water Lilies on the lake.
Photo Courtesy: Fred Hsu
