Manimahesh Lake, situated at an altitude of 13,000 ft in Himachal Pradesh, is one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites dedicated to Lord Shiva. Every year, thousands of devotees undertake the “Manimahesh Yatra“, start from “04th September 2026 (Janmashtami) to 19th September 2026 (Radha Ashtami)”. If you’re planning your visit, this guide will help you understand how to reach Manimahesh Lake, the best routes, and essential travel tips.
Mani Mahesh Yatra start From Nearest Major Cities
- Mani Mahesh Yatra From Delhi: 620 km
- Mani Mahesh Yatra From Chandigarh: 360 km
- Mani Mahesh Yatra From Pathankot: 180 km
First Destination – Bharmour
Bharmour is the base camp for Manimahesh Yatra.
To reach Bharmour:
– By Train: Nearest railway station is Pathankot. From there, take a bus or taxi to Chamba (100 km), then to Bharmour (65 km).
– By Road: Buses and taxis are available from Pathankot, Chamba, and Kangra.
– By Air: Nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Kangra), 190 km from Bharmour.
Bharmour to Hadsar (by road)
Distance: 14 km
You can hire a local taxi or take a shared jeep from Bharmour to Hadsar village.
Hadsar to Manimahesh Lake (Trek)
traveling to Bharmour, then Hadsar, and finally trekking 13 km to Manimahesh Lake
The trek from Hadsar to Manimahesh Lake is moderately difficult.
Route: Hadsar → Dhancho → Gauri Kund → Manimahesh Lake
It takes around 6–8 hours on foot.
Tip: Acclimatization is necessary. Start early and carry basic medicines, energy drinks, and warm clothes.
Mani Mahesh Yatra By Helicopter 2026
Helicopter services are available from Bharmour to Gauri Kund during Yatra season.
From Gauri Kund, it’s a 1.5 km trek to the lake.
Book early due to limited seats. Prices start around ₹8,000–₹10,000 (round trip).
Travel Tips for Manimahesh Yatra
- Best Time to Visit: August to September (Yatra period)
2. Clothing: Carry woolens, raincoat, and waterproof trekking shoes.
3. Accommodation: Stay options available in Bharmour, Hadsar & tents en route.
4. Mobile Network: Limited connectivity. BSNL works better in hilly regions.
5. Medical Facilities: Basic medical camps set up during the Yatra season.
Spiritual Significance
The Manimahesh Kailash is considered second to Mount Kailash in Tibet. Locals believe Lord Shiva meditated here. The reflection of the peak in the lake is said to be a divine darshan.
Conclusion
Reaching Manimahesh Lake may be a challenging journey, but it is undoubtedly a spiritually uplifting one. Whether you choose to trek or take a helicopter, the divine presence and natural beauty will make it worthwhile.
How to Reach Manimahesh Lake – FAQs
1. Where is Manimahesh Lake located?
Manimahesh Lake is situated at an altitude of 4,080 meters in the Pir Panjal range of Himachal Pradesh, near the holy Manimahesh Kailash peak in Chamba district.
2. Which is the nearest railway station to Manimahesh Lake?
The nearest railway stations are:
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Pathankot Railway Station (approx. 150 km from Bharmour)
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From Pathankot, you need to travel by road to Bharmour, and then proceed to Hadsar (the trek starting point).
3. Which is the nearest airport to Manimahesh Lake?
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Gaggal Airport, Kangra (Dharamshala) – approx. 180 km from Bharmour
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Pathankot Airport – approx. 150 km from Bharmour
From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Bharmour.
4. How to reach Manimahesh Lake by road?
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First, reach Bharmour town (the base camp), which is well connected by road from Chamba, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, and Pathankot.
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From Bharmour, travel 12 km by road to Hadsar.
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From Hadsar, you begin the trek to Manimahesh Lake.
5. What is the trekking route to Manimahesh Lake?
The trek starts from Hadsar and covers about 13 km to reach Manimahesh Lake.
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Hadsar → Dhancho (6 km)
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Dhancho → Gauri Kund (4 km)
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Gauri Kund → Manimahesh Lake (3 km)
6. Is helicopter service available for Manimahesh Yatra?
Yes, during the Yatra season, helicopter services are available from Bharmour to Gauri Kund (near the lake). From Gauri Kund, you need to trek about 1.5 km to reach the lake.
7. How long does it take to reach Manimahesh Lake by trek?
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From Hadsar to Dhancho: 3–4 hours
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Dhancho to Gauri Kund: 2–3 hours
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Gauri Kund to Manimahesh Lake: 1–2 hours
⏳ Total trekking time: 6–8 hours depending on your pace.
8. Is the trek to Manimahesh difficult?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to steep climbs and high altitude. It is advisable for pilgrims to be physically fit and acclimatized.
9. Can senior citizens or children visit Manimahesh Lake?
Yes, but it is recommended to take helicopter service or pony/doli service from Hadsar for elderly pilgrims or children, as the trek can be difficult.
10. What is the best time to visit Manimahesh Lake?
The best time is during the official Yatra season (August–September), especially around Janmashtami and Radha Ashtami, when thousands of pilgrims visit.
11. Are accommodations available on the way to Manimahesh Lake?
Yes, you can find tents, and langar facilities at Bharmour, Hadsar, Dhancho, and near the lake during Yatra time.
12. How far is Manimahesh Lake from Bharmour?
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Bharmour to Hadsar (by road): 12 km
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Hadsar to Manimahesh Lake (by trek): 13 km
👉 Total distance = 25 km (approx.)
13. Is there any alternative route to reach Manimahesh Lake?
Yes, there is another longer trekking route from Kugti village via Kugti Pass, but it is mainly for experienced trekkers and not common for pilgrims.
14. Is it possible to reach Manimahesh Lake in one day?
Yes, if you start early morning from Hadsar, you can trek and return the same day. However, most pilgrims prefer to stay overnight at Dhancho or near the lake.
15. Is registration required for Manimahesh Yatra?
Yes, Himachal Pradesh Government requires mandatory registration for Manimahesh Yatra, which can be done online or at registration counters in Bharmour.
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