Fall in Love with the Serene Beauty of Rewalsar Lake

The Lake of Rewalsar , a sacred site for Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists alike. Rewalsar Lake is a sacred place with a natural lake which spans over a square kilometer and even floats reed islands. There are Hindu, Buddhist and Sikh shrines around the lake. According to legend, the Guru Padmasambhava flew in and set up a bunch of monasteries after he landed.

People of all religions come for the Holy bath on Baisakhi. It is home to the Gurudwara that was established in 1930 by Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi. There are Hindu lakeside temples in honor of deities Krishna, Shiva and the sage Lomas. Situated 10 Km from Rewalsar, temple of Naina Mata exists on a hill top and is known locally as Temple Jailrug. They believe that the eye of Sati was here, and so they built a temple at this place to Naina Devi.

Trekking is also a way to reach this place. On the way to Naina devi temple there is another lake is seen called Kunt Bhayo dedicated after Kunti, mother of Pandavas. It is said that Arjun made this lake to quench the thirst of his mother. There are six other , sar lakes in this area where every lake is of legend. These lakes conserve maximum amount of water during the monsoons.

Attractions of Rewalsar Lake

1. Rewalsar Lake
2. The Zoo in Rewalsar
3. Monastery of Rewalsar
4. Free floating island
5. Gurudwara rewalsar sahib
6. Lomas Rishi Temple 
7.  Statue of Guru Rinpoche / Padmasambhava

Rewalsar Lake

The Rewalsar Lake is the main center of Rewalsar and it is located in the middle part of Rewalsar. It is also called Kamal Sarovar which means Pond have a scene like lotus flower. The Buddhists consider it as their “Haridwar”. The water of Rewalsar Lake is use in the form of Gangajal by treating it and the patients are cured. The lake also has sacred fishes like Indian Coot, Brown Coot, White Breasted Kingfisher fish are found in The Rewalsar lake.

Rewalsar’s Zoo

This Mini Zoo is of 5 acre zoo at Rewalsar, which has local species of birds and animals. It was set up in Apr 1983, is the main rescue center for injured or accidently caught animals from surrounding areas with recognition of Central Zoo Authority MoEF & CC Govt. of India. This Zoo today also have Barking deer, Sambar Deer,Goral,Sambar, Porcupine and Himalayan Black Bear.

Rewalsar‘s Monastery

There are two Buddhist monasteries in Rewalsar, which are the Drikung Kagyu Monastery and Tso-Pema Orgyen Heru-kai NymaMonastery. Over 50 nuns also live in the holy caves, practicing in retreat.

Gurudwara Rewalsar Sahib

The Gurdwara Rewalsar Sahib was built to commemorate the visit of Guru Gobind Singh. He came here to take the help of hill kings in war against Mughals and spent 30 days there. This Gurdwara was constructed by Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi in 1930. This is the bathing ghat people visit on Baisakhi.

Lomas Rishi Temple

The Temple of Lomas Rishi, another attractive place near Rewalsar. According to lore, Lomas Rishi sat in meditation inside this cave So It is also known as Tapobhoomi of Lomas Rishi. 

Statue of Guru Rinpoche / Padmasambhava

One of the most beautiful attractions here is a gigantic statue of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) at Rewalsar. This grand statue of Guru Rinpoche is another identity of Rewalsar

The soul of Guru Padmasambhava is vibrated to live on the lustrous mounds that periodically occur at Rewalsar Lake from bank-to-bank.

The natives of Tibet residing here at Rewalsar come to worship Guru Rinpoche and people pay homage.

Things You Should Also Consider Doing In Rewalsar Special

When we are somewhere, every place has its own Catch! There are some remarkable and sacred things about Rewalsar that everyone should be aware of. Below is the list of those top and special things to do:

1. Taking a walk around the lake

According to the documents, whoever comes here must walk around the Rewalsar Lake and it is believed that all sins are removed by walking here.

2. Rewalsar Lake water Bath

Taking a dip in this water is also very auspicious as it is holy.

3. Feeding the monkey and fishes

Feeding monkey, fishes: An act of Benevolence.

4. Eating Momos

You must try momos here which are exclusive in Rewalsar.

5. Eating Kachori

Rewalsar Kachori – It is Roti with the stuffing of potato. You must taste this Kachori.

Some Of The Famous Festivals Celebrated in Rewalsar

Every festival is celebrated in Rewalsar but it has 2 very unique features of the festivals that fall on-months: February, March & April.

1. Vaisakhi, holds great importance for Sikh communities worldwide, marking the Sikh New Year and the formation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. It symbolizes unity, courage against oppression and a commitment to righteousness and equality. 

2. Tsechu Fair , a ceremony followed by Buddhists is celebrated in the month of March at Rewalsar town in Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh. Thousands of Buddhists from India and abroad assemble at the Rewalsar Lake in Mandi to celebrate the two-day Chessu Fair. The fair commemorates the birth anniversary of Guru PadmaSambhava, a sage guru  who meditated on the banks of the Rewalsar Lake for many years.

Weather In Rewalsar

The weather from May to October is the best as well and more comfortable with very decent temperature. The months of June to September have the most precipitation. During these months, the rains are extensive and regular.

Winters:

The cold months of the year are between November and February. The temperatures are usually in the region of 9 degrees Celsius during this time.

Spring:

The climate of the area is of sub tropical monsoon type. Spring (March and April) has a lovely climate where many colorful flowers bloom.

Summer:

June is the hottest month in Rewalsar.The months from March through April and then August ending till mid-October are the best time to visit Rewalsar due, as these have pleasant weather with clear air.

Best Time To Visit In Rewalsar

The best time to visit is between March to October. One can have a good time visiting all the attractions like Lakes, temples and hills in this season.

How To Reach In Rewalsar

By Train

The nearest railhead to Rewalsar is Joginder Nagar Thereafter, take a car/taxi or bus to reach the Rewalsar lake

Via Air

The closest airport to Rewalsar is Bhuntar (Kullu). Rewalsar to Bhuntar – 75 kms From the airport, one can take a cab to Rewalsar lake.

By Road

Rewalsar is 22 kms from Mandi. It is well linked to all major parts of the state as well as easily accessible by road. Rewalsar is well connected by road and Mandi, about 25 km away is the nearest town; buses and taxis are available between them.

Quick Travel Tips For Rewalsar Lake

1. Taxi and bus services are available for Rewalsar.
2. Hire a cab for one day to visit different places in town & outskirts.
3. Visit the waterfalls, Tso Pema Monastery and Rewalsar lake where Rinpoche left his footprints.
4. When you come during your visit wear- Comfortable Shoes– Dress accordingly.
5. They are monks & nuns, just by talking to them you will get to know a lot about the Buddhist culture.

Destination Nearby Rewalsar Lake

1. Kangra
2. Kalpa
3. Una
4. Shimla
5. Parwanoo
6. Chandigarh
7. Hoshiarpur
8. Paonta sahib
9. Shoghi
10. Solan
11. Mandi

FAQs Rewalsar Lake

Q.1. Why is Rewalsar lake famous ?

Ans.  Rewalsar has a square shaped natural lake which houses 3 floating reed islands and is home to numerous fishes. On the outskirts of Lake are Hindu, Buddhist and Sikh shrines. Legend tells us that the famous instructor and scholar Padmasambhava flew from Rewalsar to Tibet using his superhuman capabilities.

Q.2. Where is Rewalsar lake located ?

Ans.  The Rewalsar Lake (Tso Pema) is located in the mountains of Mandi district approximately 24 km from Ner Chowk, a place on the way to Manali. It is towards the southeast of the capital city at an altitude from 1360 meters or almost about 4460 feet above sea level.

Q.3. Is Rewalsar worth visiting?

Ans. The location of the town is picturesque, in a valley near stunning mountains and next to another lake. Its peaceful environment adds a value to for travelers.

Q.4. How high is Rewalsar Lake from sea level?

Ans. Rewalsar Lake At an altitude of around 1,360 meters (4,460 feet) in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. The high altitude makes for average temperatures and a beautiful quiet atmosphere surrounding the lake.