Parashar is also known as Prashar Lake, is a freshwater lake located at an elevation in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh and is 60 km from Hotel city heart Padhar. A floating island which has a perimeter of about 300 meters. Traditionally, it is believed that the lake was formed as a result of striking of rod (Gurj) by Rishi Prashar and water came out and took shape of the lake. An ancient Pagoda style temple dedicated to Rishi Prashar, the patron God of Mandi region, stands beside the lake. The temple was constructed by King Ban Sen in the 13-14th century with the Rishi being present in the form of a Pindi (stone). It is also said that the whole temple was built by using a single deodar tree and it took 12 years to complete the temple construction. A walk around the lake gives a mystical experience of calmness. A visit to Parashar is a perfect blend of spiritual journey and exploring into the serene and beautiful Himalayan mountains. It is the base for numerous easy & hard treks. People from Mandi and other adjoining Districts visit the place for worshiping Prashar Rishi and believe that their wishes shall be fulfilled by blessings of the Rishi. In the month of June “Saranauhali” fair takes place which is attended by numerous devotees and tourists.
