Manimahesh Kailash, located in the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh at an altitude of about 5,653 meters (18,547 feet), is a sacred peak believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. Adjacent to the mountain lies the pristine Manimahesh Lake at around 4,080 meters, revered by devotees who undertake the Manimahesh Yatra during August–September. The peak is considered unclimbable and always remains shrouded in mystery and mist. According to legend, Shiva performed penance here after marrying Parvati. The lake reflects the divine peak, and a glimpse of it is believed to bring blessings and spiritual fulfillment.

1. Significance and Legend

Manimahesh means “Jewel of Shiva.” According to legend, after marrying Parvati, Lord Shiva created the Manimahesh Kailash peak and meditated there. The ‘mani’ (jewel) in Shiva’s crown is believed to emit light so radiant that it can sometimes be seen shimmering on full moon nights from the lake—a phenomenon regarded as a divine vision.

The mountain is considered sacred and unclimbable. Local belief holds that no human can reach its summit without divine blessing. Attempts to scale the peak have always ended in failure or tragedy, further reinforcing its mythic status.

2. Yatra Overview and Routes

There are two main routes to Manimahesh Lake:

A. Traditional Route via Bharmour and Hadsar

• Start Point: Bharmour (2,195 m)

• Distance: ~14 km from Hadsar to the lake

• Duration: 2-3 days on foot

B. Kugti Route (Tougher, Scenic, Less Crowded)

• For experienced trekkers and spiritual seekers

• Includes crossing high-altitude passes and remote terrain

Most pilgrims choose the Bharmour–Hadsar–Dhancho–Gauri Kund–Manimahesh Lake route due to its accessibility and government-organized amenities during the yatra.

3. Reaching Bharmour and Hadsar

The journey typically begins from Chamba, a scenic town in Himachal Pradesh, well connected by road from Pathankot and Dharamshala. From Chamba, you travel to Bharmour, a spiritual center known as the land of 84 temples (Chaurasi Mandir). Pilgrims often visit these temples and seek blessings before starting the trek.

From Bharmour, a 13 km drive brings you to Hadsar, the last motorable point. Beyond this, the trek to the holy lake begins.

4. The Trek: A Spiritual Ascent

Hadsar to Dhancho (~7 km)

This section includes a gradual but steady climb through forests and over bridges. You’ll pass gushing waterfalls, rocky paths, and green hills. Langars (free food stalls) and tent accommodations are set up by devotees and government bodies during the Yatra season. The atmosphere is lively, with chants of “Om Namah Shivaya” and “Har Har Mahadev” echoing through the valleys.

Dhancho, located in a wide meadow, serves as the main campsite for rest. The environment is cooler here, and many pilgrims spend the night to acclimatize.

Dhancho to Gauri Kund and Shiv Kalot (~4 km)

This is a steeper section, with more challenging terrain. As you ascend, you’ll see the powerful Dhancho waterfall cascading beside you. Soon, you’ll reach Gauri Kund, a sacred pool where women bathe to purify themselves before approaching the lake. Nearby is Shiv Kalot, where men bathe. The cold here becomes intense, and the altitude begins to impact breathing.

According to legend, Goddess Parvati bathed in Gauri Kund before worshipping Lord Shiva at Manimahesh. Devotees follow the same ritual in reverence.

Final Ascent to Manimahesh Lake (~3 km)

The final stretch is stark and surreal. You move above the treeline, into a rocky and glacial zone. The view opens up to the Manimahesh Lake, encircled by snow-covered peaks. The Kailash Peak towers in the backdrop—silent, imposing, and awe-inspiring.

You’ll notice thousands of small shivlings made by pilgrims from the surrounding black clay. The moment you see the reflection of the peak in the still waters of the lake is deeply moving—many kneel, cry, or sing praises of Lord Shiva.

5. Rituals and Spiritual Practices

At the lake, pilgrims perform aarti, light diyas (lamps), and offer flowers and bilva leaves. Bathing in the lake is believed to cleanse sins and fulfill wishes. The most important ritual is circumambulating the lake (Parikrama) while chanting mantras.

Many also meditate silently or perform Shiva Abhishekam (anointing Shiva Lingam) with glacial water.

Nearby are Bharmani Devi Temple and a small cave shrine where Lord Shiva is said to have meditated.