If you are looking for a short break from Delhi into the mountains, away from noise and city life, Parashar Lake in Himachal Pradesh is a perfect choice. Surrounded by tall mountains, green meadows, and fresh air, this hidden lake sits at 2,730 meters (8,960 ft) above sea level in the Mandi district.
What makes this place magical is not just the view, but also the mystery of its floating island and the ancient temple built more than 700 years ago. In this blog, you will find everything you need to plan a trip from Delhi to Parashar Lake – how to reach, day-wise itinerary, stays, food, costs, and the amazing story behind the lake.
Table of Contents
The Mystery of Parashar Lake
Parashar Lake is not an ordinary lake. It is full of stories and mysteries.
- Floating Island:
- In the middle of the lake, there is a small green island that moves around on its own.
- No one knows why or how it moves. Scientists have tried to study it, but locals believe it is a sign of the lake’s divine power.
- Mythological Story:
- According to legend, when the Pandavas were returning from Kurukshetra, they stopped here.
- Bhima, the strongest brother, struck the ground with his elbow, and this lake was formed.
- Later, Rishi Parashar (grandson of Rishi Vashishtha) meditated here, which is why the lake is named after him.
- Ancient Temple:
- A 14th-century temple, built by King Ban Sen, stands near the lake.
- The temple is built in pagoda style and dedicated to Rishi Parashar.
Because of these mysteries and legends, the lake is considered holy by locals.
How to Reach Parashar Lake from Delhi
There are three main ways to reach Parashar Lake: by road, train + road, or flight + road.
1. By Road (Most Common & Budget Friendly)
- Take an overnight Volvo or AC bus from Delhi (Kashmiri Gate or Majnu ka Tila) to Mandi.
- Distance: ~475 km
- Travel time: 12–13 hours
- Cost: ₹600–1,500 (per person, one way)
- From Mandi to Parashar Lake (50 km):
- Take the HRTC bus at 7:30 AM (₹150–200). It reaches the lake in about 4 hours.
- Or hire a shared/private cab (₹2,500–3,500 for the whole car).
2. By Train
- No direct train to Mandi.
- Take a train from Delhi to Chandigarh (e.g., Shatabdi Express).
- From Chandigarh, take a bus or cab to Mandi (~7 hours).
3. By Flight
- The nearest airport is Bhuntar (Kullu Airport), 75 km from Mandi.
- Flights are limited and costlier (~₹3,500–5,000 one way from Delhi).
- From Bhuntar, hire a cab to Mandi (₹1,500–2,000) and then continue to Parashar Lake.
Where to Stay
- Forest Rest House / PWD Guest House (near lake)
- Basic facilities, book in advance from Mandi.
- Cost: ~₹1,000 per night.
- Camping/Tents near Lake
- Many local operators provide tents with meals.
- Cost: ₹1,500–2,000 per night for 2 people.
- Hotels in Mandi Town
- Good for families or those wanting more comfort.
- Options: Sandhya Palace, Regent Palms.
- Cost: ₹1,200–2,500 per night.
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What & Where to Eat
- At the lake area: Very simple meals (dal, rice, roti, seasonal vegetables).
- Mandi Town:
- Try Himachali dishes like sidu (stuffed bread), babru (black gram stuffed bread), and sepu vadi (lentil dumplings in gravy).
- Cafes: Cliffy’s Café, Emaho Café for tea and snacks.
Day-Wise Itinerary (4 Days / 3 Nights)
Day 1: Delhi to Mandi
- Board an overnight Volvo/AC bus from Delhi in the evening.
- Travel overnight (12–13 hrs).
- Check into a hotel in Mandi in the morning.
- Rest, explore local Mandi market, and enjoy Himachali food.
Stay: Hotel Sandhya Palace, Regent Palms (₹1,200–2,000 per night)
Day 2: Mandi to Parashar Lake
- Take the early morning bus or hire a cab to Parashar Lake.
- Enjoy the scenic mountain drive.
- Reach Parashar Lake by late morning.
- Explore the floating island and the ancient Parashar Rishi Temple.
- Watch the sunset over the Himalayas.
Stay: Forest Rest House / PWD Guest House (₹1,000 per night) OR tents near the lake (₹1,500 for 2 people).
Food: Simple meals like dal, roti, sabzi are available at the rest house. Carry snacks.
Day 3: Sunrise & Return to Mandi
- Wake up early to watch sunrise over the lake.
- Short nature walks in the meadows around the lake.
- By noon, take a cab or bus back to Mandi.
- Relax in Mandi, try local Himachali dishes like sidu and babru.
Stay: Hotel in Mandi (~₹1,500–2,000).
Day 4: Mandi to Delhi
- Take a morning Volvo/AC bus from Mandi.
- Reach Delhi by evening.
Estimated Budget (For 2 Adults + 1 Kid, 4 Days)
| Expense | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
| Delhi–Mandi Bus (Volvo, round trip) | 4,500 |
| Mandi–Parashar transport (bus/cab share) | 2,500 |
| Stays (3 nights: 1 night in tent + 2 nights in Mandi hotel) | 6,000–7,000 |
| Food (4 days) | 3,000 |
| Misc. (snacks, entry, etc.) | 1,000 |
| Total | ~₹17,000–18,000 |
Why Visit Parashar Lake?
- Calm and Peaceful: Less crowded than Manali or Shimla.
- Mysterious Floating Island: Something you won’t see anywhere else.
- Great for Families and Trekkers: Easy to reach, light trekking options.
- Spiritual and Historical Importance: Ancient temple, local legends, and a place of meditation.
Final Thoughts
Parashar Lake is not just another hill station—it’s a place of mystery, beauty, and calmness. The moving island, the old temple, and the peaceful setting make it an experience you will never forget.
Whether you are traveling with friends, family, or solo, a trip to Parashar Lake from Delhi is affordable, short, and full of memories.
