Mani Mahesh

Manimahesh Kailash Peak (5,653 meters) and the sacred Manimahesh Lake (4,080 meters) are located in the Bharmaur region of Chamba district, Himachal Pradesh, India. It is one of the five sacred Kailash peaks, collectively known as the Panch Kailash.

Mythalogical Importance and Story

According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva created Manimahesh Kailash after his marriage to Goddess Parvati.

  • The name ‘Manimahesh’ means “Jewel (Mani) of Lord Shiva.”
  • It is believed that the glittering jewel on Shiva’s forehead occasionally emits light, visible from Manimahesh Lake.
  • Legends say no human has ever climbed the Manimahesh peak — those who attempted were turned back by divine forces.

The Manimahesh Yatra is undertaken by thousands of Shiva devotees, especially during Janmashtami and Radhashtami.

History of Temple and Yatra

  • The Manimahesh Yatra has been an ancient pilgrimage tradition followed by local Gaddi tribes and Hindu devotees.
  • The Chaurasi Temple Complex in Bharmaur is historically linked with the Manimahesh pilgrimage.
  • The small temple at Manimahesh Lake is dedicated to Lord Shiva and stands as a testimony to devotion amidst nature’s grandeur.

Natural Beauty Surrounding the Temple

  • The path to Manimahesh is a trek through dense pine forests, rolling meadows, gushing streams, and glacial landscapes.
  • The stunning views of the snow-clad Manimahesh Kailash Peak reflecting in the crystal-clear lake is a mesmerizing, once-in-a-lifetime sight.
  • The region is rich with alpine flowers, rare herbs, and vibrant local culture.

Best Time to Visit Manimahesh

  • Ideal Season:
    • Mid-July to Mid-September (Yatra season)
    • Particularly during Janmashtami and Radhashtami festivals.
  • When to Avoid:
    • Monsoon (July early) — landslides, slippery trek.
    • After September end — harsh winters, trek route closes due to snow.

How to Reach Manimahesh Lake and Temple

Base Point of Trek To Manimahesh Lake And Temple

  • Hadsar village (approx. 14 km from Bharmaur town).

How to Reach the Base Point

  • By Air: The nearest airport is in Dharamshala, which is about 200 kilometers from Bharmour. Another option is Chandigarh Airport, which is about 400 kilometers away.
  • By Train: Nearest railway stations – Pathankot or Chakki Bank (about 165 km).
  • By Road:
    • To Bharmour: From Dharamshala or Pathankot, you can travel to Bharmour by road. The journey involves scenic mountain roads and may take several hours.
    • Pathankot → Chamba → Bharmaur → Hadsar (approx. 7–8 hours drive).
    • Taxis and buses are available till Bharmaur and private vehicles till Hadsar.
    • To Mani Mahesh Lake: From Bharmour, pilgrims must undertake a trek to reach the Mani Mahesh Lake. The trek involves navigating through rugged terrain and high altitudes.

Trekking Details

  • Trek Distance: Approx. 13-14 km from Hadsar to Manimahesh Lake.
  • Trek Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult.
  • Trek Route: Hadsar → Dhancho → Gauri Kund → Manimahesh Lake.

Duration

  • Up Trek: 6–8 hours depending on fitness.
  • Return Trek: 5–6 hours.
  • Some pilgrims do it in one day, but most prefer a two-day trek with an overnight stay at Dhancho or Gauri Kund.

Guide/Agency Requirement

  • Guides are optional but advisable for first-timers or during off-peak times.
  • Local guides are available at Bharmaur and Hadsar.
  • No specific agency is mandatory, but trekking in groups is safer.

Eateries on the Trek

  • Seasonal tea stalls and langars (community kitchens) are available at Dhancho and Gauri Kund.
  • Basic snacks like Maggi, tea, pakoras, and parathas are available.
  • During Yatra season, free food (langar) is served to pilgrims.

Permits: No special permits are generally required for the Mani Mahesh Yatra, but it is always advisable to check with local authorities or tour operators for any updates or regulations.

Temple Timings

  • There’s no fixed time, but the darshan is best between 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • Early morning is the best time to experience the divine serenity.

Where to Stay

  1. Budget Options
  • GMVN Guest House, Bharmaur
  • Basic Dharamshalas at Bharmaur
  • Tented accommodations at Dhancho during Yatra season.
  1. Mid-Range Accommodations
  • Hotels in Bharmaur town offering clean rooms, hot water, and meals.
  • Popular stays: Hotel Chamunda View, Manimahesh Residency.
  1. Luxury Stays
  • Chamba town (around 65 km) has some comfortable higher-end hotels.
  • Options like HPTDC Hotel Iravati, Chamba for luxury travelers.

Improtant Items to Carry for the Trek

  • Woollen clothes (thermal, fleece jackets, gloves, caps)
  • Trekking shoes
  • Raincoat/Poncho (weather is unpredictable)
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm
  • Reusable water bottles
  • Dry fruits, energy bars, ORS packets
  • Personal medications
  • Torch/headlamp
  • Walking stick (highly recommended)
  • Identity Proof (for any check posts)

Nearby Tourist Places

  • Chaurasi Temple Complex, Bharmaur
  • Bharmani Mata Temple (short trek from Bharmaur)
  • Chamba Town — Historical palaces and temples
  • Khajjiar (Mini Switzerland of India)
  • Dalhousie — Colonial charm and scenic landscapes
  • Sach Pass — Adventurous mountain pass (for experienced travelers)

Beauty of Road Journey

  • The drive from Pathankot → Chamba → Bharmaur → Hadsar is spectacular, offering:
    • Dense cedar and pine forests
    • River crossings along Ravi and Budhil Rivers
    • Waterfalls cascading from cliffs
    • Traditional wooden Himachali villages
  • Especially during monsoon or early fall, the valleys look heavenly lush green and misty!
→ Table of Content
Scroll to Top