Prashar Rishi Temple
Mandi, Himachal Pradesh · Rishi Prashar · Heritage Temple
Pagoda shrine on sacred Prashar Lake above Mandi, with a June lakeside fair.
At 2,730 metres above Mandi district, Prashar Lake holds a three-tiered pagoda-style temple to the sage Prashar, set against deep blue water that HP Tourism describes as sacred. The lake and shrine draw trekkers and pilgrims alike, with a lakeside fair each June and camping on the periphery when the road from Drang is open.
History
Tradition holds that rishi Prashar meditated beside the lake that now bears his name; the wooden pagoda temple is the focal point of devotion at the rim. HP Tourism lists the site as approachable from Drang, about 45 km from Mandi, with graded treks radiating into the surrounding hills.
In recent years Prashar has become a popular backpacking stop on the Mandi–Kullu circuit, balancing active worship at the June fair with overnight camping — visitors are expected to respect lake cleanliness and local restrictions on fishing.
Stories
The Sage Who Meditated Beside the Lake
Local tradition says the sage Parashara came to this lake in the Dhauladhar range to compose scriptures and perform penance, and that his tapasya made the region sacred. Parashara is traditionally regarded as the father of Vyasa, remembered as the author of the Mahabharata. A three-storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage stands on the lake's bank and is the centre of faith for a wide surrounding region.
A Floating Island at 2,730 Metres
Prashar Lake, also spelled Parashar, lies at an elevation of about 2,730 metres in Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, roughly 12 km north of Mandi town according to Wikipedia. It is a freshwater lake. The lake contains a floating island, which many visitors come to see alongside the temple. The temple on its bank is the focus of visits to the lake.
Good to know
Three-storied pagoda temple to sage Prashar at a high-altitude lake (HP Tourism)
June fair by the lakeside
About 45 km from Mandi via Drang; camping on periphery when permitted
Getting there
Road from Mandi toward Drang (approx. 45 km per HP Tourism). Nearest airport: Bhuntar (Kullu). Check seasonal road status before travel.
Best time to visit: May – Oct