The Pir Panjal range of Himachal Pradesh holds one of the most sacred lakes attributed to Lord Shiva, the Mani Mahesh Lake. From here one can see the Mani Mahesh Kailash Peak where the Lord is said to reside.
The name ‘Mani Mahesh’ has been derived from a mythological belief that there is a jewel on Shiva’s crown. The devotees believe that on clear full-moon nights, this Mani reflects the moonlight falling upon it and those rays are reflected in this auspicious lake too. The phenomenon makes the Mani Mahesh peak glow.
This heavenly yatra is taken up by thousands of devotees every year to take a dip in the holy lake and receive the blessings of Lord Shiva.
Chamba (1N) – Dhancho (2N) – Chamba (1N)
The Mani Mahesh yatra is open from August to September. It starts on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami and ends on the occasion of Radha Ashtami.
You will be received at the Gaggal Airport (145km/4 1/2hours)/Pathankot Airport (124km/4hours) or Pathankot Railway Station (120km/4hours) and proceed for Chamba. Arrival will be followed by a check in to the hotel. The rest of the day will be free for leisure and relaxation.
You can explore Chamba and visit its attractions such as Chamunda Devi Temple, Bhuri Singh Museum, Paanch Pandav and some other ancient Hindu temples.
Overnight stay will be in Chamba.
After early morning breakfast, you will proceed towards the beautiful Bharmour Valley. Here you will arrive at Hadsar (70 km/3hours). From here the trekking begins. Today’s trek will be for 7 km (2-3 hours) up to Dhancho.
Overnight stay will in camps at Dhancho.
After early morning breakfast, you shall proceed with the trek to your ultimate destination, Mani Mahesh Lake. It’ll be a 6-7 km trek (2-3 hours). Spend the whole day at Mani Mahesh. Take a dip in the holy lake and offer your prayers to the mighty Mani Mahesh Kailash peak.
Trek back to the camps in the evening. Overnight stay will be at Dhancho.
After breakfast, trek down to Hadsar. From there you’ll be driven back to the hotel in Chamba. The rest of the day will be free for relaxation. Enjoy the serene beauty of Chamba and explore the local area.
Overnight stay will be in Chamba.
Today the yatra shall come to an end. Post breakfast you will be transferred to the airport or railway station for departure.
The Mani Maheshwar yatra is open from August to September. It starts on the occasion of Krishna Janmashtami and ends on the occasion of Radha Ashtami.
The yatra is open for all age groups. But, due to health concerns, one should always consult their doctor before planning for the yatra.
Helicopter services are available for Mani Maheshwar from Bharmour to Gaurikund which takes approximately 8 minutes. It is followed by a 1 km trek from Gaurikund to Mani Maheshwar.
The weather in Mani Maheshwar is usually chilly and unpredictable. Therefore, it is advisable to carry your woolens and warm clothes for the journey. Keep your necessary medicines as well.
ATMs are available Chamba and Hadsar but in a few numbers. Therefore, withdraw cash before the yatra itself.
