Beautiful view of Mansar Lake in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir

Mansar Lake

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Beautiful view of Mansar Lake in Jammu and Kashmir
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January

3.4 - 23.5 °C

February

6.0 - 26.5 °C

March

9.5 - 31.9 °C

April

13.8 - 38.6 °C

May

18.4 - 42.6 °C

June

20.4 - 43.4 °C

July

21.5 - 39.1 °C

August

20.9 - 36.0 °C

September

19.1 - 35.2 °C

October

14.3 - 33.9 °C

November

8.8 - 30.0 °C

December

4.7 - 25.6 °C


Major Airports :

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ)

Jammu Airport (IXJ)

Nearest Railway Station :

Jammu Tawi Railway Station (JAT)

Major Airports :

Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (ATQ)

Jammu Airport (IXJ)

A trinity of legend, spirituality and tranquility

Located 64 kilometres from Jammu along the Jammu-Pathankot Highway, and enveloped by pine-forested hills, Mansar Lake is a place where legend, spirituality, and tranquillity meet. Stretching approximately a mile in length and half a mile in width, its clear waters are a haven for boating enthusiasts and host a large number of turtles, adding a unique charm to the lake. Whether you are seeking a spiritual journey, an ecological exploration, or simply a peaceful retreat into nature, Mansar Lake promises a rich and fulfilling experience.

A tapestry of mythology

The historical significance of Mansar Lake is rooted deeply in the epic Mahabharata. The lake is linked to the story of Babar Vahan, son of Arjuna and the princess Ulpi. Babar Vahan, the ruler of this region, unwittingly killed his father, Arjuna, after the Ashwamegh Yagya—a ritual for proving supremacy over the land. In a dramatic turn of events, upon learning that he had killed his father, Babar Vahan sought to revive him by obtaining a magical gem from Sheshnag. After a victorious encounter with Sheshnag, Babar emerged at what is now known as Mansar Lake. The lake, along with its counterpart Surinsar, named after the tunnel ‘Surangsar’ created by Babar Vahan, holds a mythological stature akin to that of Lake Mansarovar.

Captivating beauty and cultural significance

Mansar Lake’s allure is not just limited to its picturesque landscapes but extends to its cultural and religious importance. The lake is surrounded by several temples, including the ancient shrines of Umapati Mahadev, Narasimha, and Durga, visited by a large number of devotees. The eastern bank houses a shrine dedicated to Sheshnag, marked by a boulder adorned with iron chains representing serpents.


mansar lake in jammu ,jammu and kasmir

A unique ecosystem

Mansar Lake is ecologically rich, housing about 207 species of algae and supporting diverse fauna including several species of fish and waterfowl. This biodiversity makes it an ecological study hub as well as a nature lover’s paradise.

Things to experience at Mansar Lake

Boating: Glide over the tranquil waters and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Temple Visits: Pay respects at the surrounding temples which draw cultural and spiritual significance.

Festivals and Ceremonies: Engage in local festivals and ceremonies like the Mundan ceremony or take part in festive dips believed to purify the soul.

Wildlife and Nature Viewing: Utilise the well-lit paths and viewing decks to observe local wildlife and migratory birds.

Exploring nearby attractions

Surinsar Lake and Wildlife Sanctuary: Discover the nearby lake and sanctuary, enhancing your wildlife exploration.

Local Village Culture: Experience the unique lifestyle of the Gujjar and Bakarwals, indigenous communities living in the surrounding hills.

Nature Trails: Traverse the surrounding hills and forests for hiking or a peaceful day out in nature.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Mansar Lake is from October to April.