Lakes of Himachal Pradesh Top 25+ Natural Or Artifical Lakes
Top 25+ Lakes of Himachal Pradesh: Natural and Artificial Wonders
Explore the diverse and picturesque lakes of Himachal Pradesh, each offering unique features and captivating beauty. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top lakes in this stunning region:
Parashar Lake
- Location: Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 2,730 meters
- Features: Lies 49 km east of Mandi town. It has a three-storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to sage Parashara situated on its bank. The lake is notable for its floating island.
- Famous For: The floating island in the lake.
- Wikipedia: Parashar Lake
Suraj Tal
- Location: Lahaul and Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh
- Length: 800 meters
- Elevation: Below the 4,890 meters high Bara-lacha-la pass
- Notable: The third-highest lake in India and the 21st-highest in the world.
- Wikipedia: Suraj Tal
Chandra Taal
- Location: Upper Chandra Valley, Lahaul and Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh
- Notable: Near the source of the Chandra River. Despite the rugged and inhospitable surroundings, it is in a protected niche with some flowers and wildlife in summer.
- Famous For: Its picturesque location and natural beauty.
- Wikipedia: Chandra Taal
lakes of Himachal Pradesh
lakes in Himachal
lakes of Mandi District
Kareri Lake
- Location: Southern spur of the Dhauladhar Range, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance from Dharamsala: Approximately 9 km northwest
- Type: Shallow high elevation freshwater lake
- Wikipedia: Kareri Lake
Khajjiar Lake
- Location: Khajjiar, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 1,951 meters
- Features: Set in a huge grassy landscape surrounded by evergreen cedar trees from all sides.
- Famous For: Often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India.”
- Wikipedia: Khajjiar Lake : Situated in the center of the Khajjiar glade, surrounded by cedar forests. Known as “Mini Switzerland.”
Wildlife: Limited wildlife due to its small size; mainly a scenic spot.
Activities: Ideal for picnics and leisurely walks.
Nearby Attractions: Kalatop sanctuary and Dalhousie.
Nako Lake
- Location: Pooh sub-division, Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 3,662 meters
- Features: Forms part of the boundary of Nako village.
- Wikipedia: Nako Lake
Rewalsar Lake
- Location: Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 1,360 meters
- Features: Shoreline of about 735 meters; also known as Tso Pema.
- Famous For: Its sacredness and historical significance.
- Wikipedia: Rewalsar Lake
Manimahesh Lake
- Location: Near Manimahesh Kailash Peak, Pir Panjal Range, Bharmour subdivision, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh
- Significance: Religious importance next to Lake Manasarovar in Tibet.
- Famous For: Its association with the Manimahesh Yatra pilgrimage.
- Wikipedia: Manimahesh Lake
Gobind Sagar
- Location: Una and Bilaspur districts, Himachal Pradesh
- Features: Reservoir formed by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River; named in honor of Guru Gobind Singh.
- Famous For: Being a significant reservoir and a major site for hydroelectric power generation.
- Wikipedia: Gobind Sagar
- Located in District Bilaspur and Una, Gobind Sagar is created by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River. This expansive reservoir is 90 km long and covers around 170 sq. km. It serves as a haven for waterfowl and supports 51 fish species. Popular activities include water sports and regattas. Nearby attractions are the Naina Devi Shrine and Bilaspur Forts, with Bilaspur town providing accommodations.
Dal Lake
- Location: Near Tota Rani village, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh
- Features: Small mid-altitude lake; “Dal” means ‘lake’ in several western Himalayan languages.
- Famous For: Its serene beauty and local significance.
- Wikipedia: Dal Lake
- At nearly 4000 meters in District Chamba, Lama Dal Lake is a sacred site in the Dhauladhar range, part of a group of seven lakes. It is a revered location for local trekkers and pilgrims. The lake’s exact depth remains unknown, adding to its mystique. Accommodations are available in Chamba and Bharmaur.
- Mahakali Lake
Situated at 4080 meters between Sano and Gudial in District Chamba, Mahakali Lake is sacred to the goddess Maha Kali. It is larger than Khajjiar and Manimahesh lakes and is a significant pilgrimage site. Accommodations can be found in Chamba and Bharmaur. Renuka Lake
- Location: Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 672 meters
- Features: Largest lake in Himachal Pradesh with a circumference of about 3,214 meters; designated as a Ramsar site since November 2005.
- Famous For: Its large size and ecological importance.
- Wikipedia: Renuka Lake
Bhrigu Lake
- Location: Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 4,300 meters
- Distance from Gulaba village: Approximately 6 kilometers east of Rohtang Pass.
- Famous For: Its scenic beauty and trekking route.
- Wikipedia: Bhrigu Lake
Dashir Lake
- Location: Near Rohtang Pass, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 4,270 meters
- Also known as: Sarkund
- Famous For: Its high altitude and picturesque setting.
- Wikipedia: Dashir Lake
Dhankar Lake
- Location: Spiti Valley, Lahaul-Spiti district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 4,140 meters
- Features: Lies above Dhankar monastery; accessible via a trek from the monastery.
- Famous For: Its remote location and spiritual significance.
- Wikipedia: Dhankar Lake
Maharana Pratap Sagar
- Location: Fatehpur, Jawali, and Dehra tehsil, Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh
- Features: Also known as Pong Reservoir or Pong Dam Lake; created by the highest earthfill dam in India on the Beas River.
- Famous For: Its role in irrigation and hydroelectric power.
- Wikipedia: Maharana Pratap Sagar
Features: An artificial reservoir created by the Pong Dam on the Beas River, spanning 180-400 sq. km depending on the season.
Wildlife: A sanctuary for over 220 bird species, including the red-necked grebe, and 27 fish species. Notable migratory birds visit annually.
Activities: Fishing, boating, and water sports such as kayaking and water-skiing.
Nearby Attractions: Hindu pilgrimage sites like Jawalamukhi and Chamunda Devi, and Buddhist monasteries in McLeodganj and Bir.
Seruvalsar Lake
- Location: Seraj Valley, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 3,100 meters
- Features: Surrounded by thick forest cover; accessible via Jalori Pass.
- Famous For: Its high-altitude setting and natural surroundings.
- Wikipedia: Seruvalsar Lake
Mahakali Lake
- Location: Between Sano and Gudial villages, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 4,080 meters
- Features: Remains frozen for 6 months from November to April.
- Famous For: Its seasonal ice cover and remote beauty.
- Wikipedia: Mahakali Lake
Lam Dal
- Location: Piura Dhar, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 3,960 meters
- Distance from Chamba town: 45 kilometers.
- Famous For: Its high-altitude location and trekking routes.
- Wikipedia: Lam Dal
Chandar Nahan
- Location: Rohru tehsil, Shimla district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 4,260 meters
- Features: Surrounded by snow for a long time; source of the river Pabbar.
- Famous For: Its snow-covered surroundings and source of the Pabbar River.
- Wikipedia: Chandar Nahan
Dehnasar Lake
- Location: Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh
- Features: A high-altitude freshwater lake; people gather here for holy baths during late August or early September.
- Famous For: The annual holy bath and religious significance.
- Wikipedia: Dehnasar Lake
- Kamrunag Lake
- Location: Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 3,334 meters
- Features: Located among the valleys of Balh and Dhauladhar range; accessible via a 6 km steep mountain trail from Rohanda.
- Famous For: Its remote setting and accessibility for trekkers.
- Wikipedia: Kamrunag Lake
Ghadhasaru Lake
- Location: Devikothi village, Churah tehsil, Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 3,470 meters
- Features: Located at the base of Gadasaru Peak.
- Famous For: Its high-altitude location and scenic beauty.
- Wikipedia: Ghadhasaru Lake
Macchial Lake
- Location: Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh
- Features: Low-altitude lake; considered sacred and named after Machinder Nath or Matasya Avtar.
- Famous For: Its sacredness and religious significance.
- Wikipedia: Macchial Lake
Deepak Tal
- Location: Near Bara Lacha La pass
- Elevation: Approximately 3,750 meters (12,300 feet)
- Features: Known for its calm waters reflecting the serene surroundings of snow-capped peaks and dusty hills.
- Famous For: Its tranquil beauty and reflection of the surrounding landscape.
- Wikipedia: Deepak Tal
Beas Kund
- Location: Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 3,700 meters
- Features: High-altitude alpine lake; origin of the Beas River; believed to be the place where Sage Vyas used to bathe.
- Famous For: Being the source of the Beas River and its association with Sage Vyas.
- Wikipedia: Beas Kund
Rukmani Kund
- Location: Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: Surrounded by Sivalik Hills Forest
- Features: Reservoir surrounded by mountains. According to legend, the lake was formed due to the sacrifice of a young woman named Rukmani.
- Famous For: Its historical and legendary significance related to the local legend of Rukmani.
- Wikipedia: Rukmani Kund
Sissu Lake
- Location: Sissu Valley, Himachal Pradesh
- Features: Man-made lake near the Sissu Waterfalls; popular for boating, trekking, and ziplining activities.
- Famous For: Its recreational activities and picturesque setting.
- Wikipedia: Sissu Lake
Sundernagar Lake (Suket Lake)
- Location: Sundernagar, Himachal Pradesh
- Features: Created by BBMB’s BSL Project; diverts water from the Beas River for power generation.
- Famous For: Its role in hydroelectric power generation and irrigation.
- Wikipedia: Sundernagar Lake
Nag Dal Lake
- Location: Near Indrahara Pass, Himachal Pradesh
- Elevation: 4,200 meters
- Features: Also known as King Cobra Lake; visited by devotees during the Manimahesh Yatra.
- Famous For: Its association with the Manimahesh Yatra and religious significance.
- Wikipedia: Nag Dal Lake
Manimahesh Lake
Location: District Chamba
Elevation: 4080 meters above sea level
Features: Sacred to Lord Shiva, located at the foot of Mount Kailash. Known for the annual fair held in August or September.
Wildlife: Limited due to high altitude; primarily a pilgrimage site.
Activities: Pilgrimage, trekking, and local fairs.
Nearby Attractions: Bharmaur and Chamba.- Kalasar Lake
Location: District Mandi
Elevation: 1755 meters above sea level
Features: Situated at the top of Rewalsar town, sometimes experiencing snowfall in winter.
Wildlife: Limited; primarily a scenic location.
Activities: Sightseeing and local exploration.
Nearby Attractions: Rewalsar town and surrounding areas. - Sukhsar Lake
Location: District Mandi
Elevation: 1760 meters above sea level
Features: A picturesque lake on the hilltop of Rewalsar town, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Wildlife: Limited; primarily a scenic spot.
Activities: Sightseeing and relaxation.
Nearby Attractions: Rewalsar town and local accommodations. - Dashir Lake
Location: District Kullu
Elevation: 4270 meters above sea level
Features: A high-altitude lake near Rohtang Pass, believed to cure bodily ailments.
Wildlife: Limited due to high altitude; primarily a sacred site.
Activities: Pilgrimage and trekking.
Nearby Attractions: Manali and Rohtang Pass.
Enchanting Lakes of Himachal Pradesh: A Brief Overview
Lakes of Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh, a picturesque state in northern India, is home to several stunning lakes nestled in the Himalayas. Key lakes include:
- Dal Lake in Dharamshala, known for its tranquil waters and surrounding forests.
- Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley, famous for its crescent shape and vibrant blue hue.
- Prashar Lake in Mandi, a sacred site surrounded by lush meadows.
- Rewalsar Lake in Mandi, an important pilgrimage destination with scenic beauty.
These lakes add to the natural splendor of Himachal Pradesh and offer visitors serene environments and cultural significance.
Q.1
Which lake is known for its floating island?
A. Suraj Tal
B. Khajjiar Lake
C. Parashar Lake
D. Chandra Taal
Answer: C. Parashar Lake
Explanation: Parashar Lake is famous for its floating island, which is a unique feature of this high-altitude lake in the Mandi district.
Q.2
What is the elevation of Suraj Tal?
A. 3,662 meters
B. 4,300 meters
C. 4,890 meters
D. 4,140 meters
Answer: C. 4,890 meters
Explanation: Suraj Tal is the third-highest lake in India, situated below the 4,890 meters high Bara-lacha-la pass.
Q.3
Which lake is often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India”?
A. Manimahesh Lake
B. Khajjiar Lake
C. Rewalsar Lake
D. Dal Lake
Answer: B. Khajjiar Lake
Explanation: Khajjiar Lake, located in Chamba district, is known as the “Mini Switzerland of India” due to its picturesque setting and lush greenery.
Q.4
What notable feature does Chandra Taal have?
A. Floating island
B. Crescent shape
C. Sacred temple
D. Pilgrimage site
Answer: B. Crescent shape
Explanation: Chandra Taal, located in Lahaul and Spiti district, is known for its crescent shape and vibrant blue color.
Q.5
Which lake is a major site for hydroelectric power generation and named in honor of Guru Gobind Singh?
A. Gobind Sagar
B. Rewalsar Lake
C. Nako Lake
D. Dal Lake
Answer: A. Gobind Sagar
Explanation: Gobind Sagar is created by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River and is named after Guru Gobind Singh. It is significant for hydroelectric power generation.
Q.6
Which lake is situated at the foot of Manimahesh Kailash Peak?
A. Chandra Taal
B. Rewalsar Lake
C. Manimahesh Lake
D. Bhrigu Lake
Answer: C. Manimahesh Lake
Explanation: Manimahesh Lake is located near the Manimahesh Kailash Peak in the Pir Panjal Range and is significant for its religious importance.
Q.7
What is the primary feature of Renuka Lake?
A. Small size
B. Sacredness
C. Largest lake in Himachal Pradesh
D. High elevation
Answer: C. Largest lake in Himachal Pradesh
Explanation: Renuka Lake is the largest lake in Himachal Pradesh, with a circumference of about 3,214 meters.
Q.8
Which lake is located at the top of Rewalsar town?
A. Sukhsar Lake
B. Kamrunag Lake
C. Kalasar Lake
D. Macchial Lake
Answer: C. Kalasar Lake
Explanation: Kalasar Lake is situated at the top of Rewalsar town and experiences occasional snowfall in winter.
Q.9
Which high-altitude lake is known for its calm waters reflecting the surrounding peaks?
A. Beas Kund
B. Deepak Tal
C. Bhrigu Lake
D. Dhankar Lake
Answer: B. Deepak Tal
Explanation: Deepak Tal, located near Bara Lacha La pass, is known for its tranquil waters that reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Q.10
What is the primary attraction of Sissu Lake?
A. Sacred significance
B. Water sports
C. Boating and ziplining
D. Pilgrimage
Answer: C. Boating and ziplining
Explanation: Sissu Lake, near the Sissu Waterfalls, is popular for recreational activities such as boating and ziplining.
Q.11
Which lake is known for its association with the Manimahesh Yatra pilgrimage?
A. Mahakali Lake
B. Chandar Nahan
C. Nako Lake
D. Beas Kund
Answer: A. Mahakali Lake
Explanation: Mahakali Lake is significant for the Manimahesh Yatra pilgrimage and is sacred to the goddess Maha Kali.
Q.12
Which lake is located in Spiti Valley and lies above the Dhankar monastery?
A. Beas Kund
B. Dhankar Lake
C. Chandar Nahan
D. Sissu Lake
Answer: B. Dhankar Lake
Explanation: Dhankar Lake is situated above the Dhankar monastery in Spiti Valley and is accessible via a trek from the monastery.
Q.13
What feature distinguishes Bhrigu Lake?
A. Sacred temple
B. Crescent shape
C. High altitude
D. Floating island
Answer: C. High altitude
Explanation: Bhrigu Lake is known for its high altitude, located approximately 6 kilometers east of Rohtang Pass in Kullu district.
Q.14
Which lake in Himachal Pradesh is sacred and named after Machinder Nath?
A. Kamrunag Lake
B. Macchial Lake
C. Manimahesh Lake
D. Sukhsar Lake
Answer: B. Macchial Lake
Explanation: Macchial Lake, located in Mandi district, is considered sacred and named after Machinder Nath or Matasya Avtar.
Q.15
Which lake is surrounded by the Sivalik Hills Forest?
A. Rukmani Kund
B. Manimahesh Lake
C. Deepak Tal
D. Parashar Lake
Answer: A. Rukmani Kund
Explanation: Rukmani Kund is surrounded by the Sivalik Hills Forest and has historical significance related to the local legend of Rukmani.
Q.16
Which lake is located in the Seraj Valley and is surrounded by dense forests?
A. Seruvalsar Lake
B. Kamrunag Lake
C. Nako Lake
D. Sundernagar Lake
Answer: A. Seruvalsar Lake
Explanation: Seruvalsar Lake is surrounded by thick forest cover and is accessible via Jalori Pass.
Q.17
Which lake is notable for its picturesque location and vibrant blue hue?
A. Rewalsar Lake
B. Suraj Tal
C. Chandra Taal
D. Khajjiar Lake
Answer: C. Chandra Taal
Explanation: Chandra Taal is famous for its picturesque location and vibrant blue hue, situated near the source of the Chandra River.
Q.18
What is the elevation of Dhankar Lake?
A. 3,662 meters
B. 4,140 meters
C. 4,270 meters
D. 4,080 meters
Answer: B. 4,140 meters
Explanation: Dhankar Lake is located at an elevation of 4,140 meters in Spiti Valley.
Q.19
Which lake is associated with the legend of a young woman named Rukmani?
A. Rukmani Kund
B. Ghadhasaru Lake
C. Kamrunag Lake
D. Beas Kund
Answer: A. Rukmani Kund
Explanation: Rukmani Kund is associated with the legend of a young woman named Rukmani who is said to have sacrificed her life to form the lake.
Q.20
Which lake is known for its religious significance and is located in the Dhauladhar range?
A. Bhrigu Lake
B. Mahakali Lake
C. Manimahesh Lake
D. Sukhsar Lake
Answer: B. Mahakali Lake
Explanation: Mahakali Lake, located in the Dhauladhar range, is sacred to the goddess Maha Kali and is a significant pilgrimage site.