Manimahesh Yatra is a panch Kailash yatra which is towards Manimahesh lake. It is within the Pir Panjal range with an altitude of 3950 meters. It is with gallant towers of 5653 meters. The trek is one of the most sacred by the pilgrims, ardent devotees of Lord Shiva. The mighty peak is as abode of Lord Shiva where he resides with Mata Parvati.
The journey is a ritual by a huge number of pilgrims from all parts of the country. The trip commences on the auspicious day of Janmashtami and ends on Radha Asthami. It is also an ideal trip for mountain walkers, trekkers, and nature lovers.
It is one of the most fascinating and beautiful treks also ideal for amateurs in climbing and trekking. It is less arduous as compared to the other four treks of Panch Kailash. The Manimahesh Kailash peak has another name, Chamba Kailash. It connects as one of the virgin peaks within the Indian Himalayan region.
It is 26 kilometers from Bharmour in Budhil valley. The beautiful and pristine water of Manimahesh Lake has a source at the serpentine glacier of Chamba Kailash peak which flows as a tributary of River Vidhi. The Manimahesh Kailash trek starts from Hadsar which is at drive distance from Dharamshala. It leads to Dancho with an altitude of 2280 meters, with a gradual climb that passes through the valley of flowers. It is one of the most beautiful flower valleys and offers an enriching experience. The Manimahesh Lake circles with barren topography with small hill mounds, boulders, and bushes. The trek continues downhill towards Drancho and then leads towards Dharamshala.
How to reach Manimahesh Yatra:
Manimahesh Yatra Route: Manimahesh yatra lasts 15-20 days and begins on Janmashtmi day also known as Chota snan. Radha Asthami day on which the yatra commences is Bada scan day. The three routes that are define for the trek are:
Bharmaur-Hadsar route: The journey starts at Bharmaur village with pilgrims taking a dip in the holy pond of Bharmani temple. You can further take a local bus to reach Hadsar village. The trek starts at resting points with eateries, camps, and tents. You can halt your journey and take a rest here. The next stop is at Dhancho village.
Trekking from Hadsar to Drancho is for only 5-6 km. It gets cover in 3-4 hours. From Drancho to the extreme left the yatra stops at Gauri Kund and at Shiv Gharat. It gives beautiful scenic mountain ranges and with wind passing through rocky terrain sounds like drum beats.
The route further leads to Gauri Kund where men are not allow to touch the water as Maa Parvati takes a bath in this pond. From here Manimahesh Lake is only at 1 km. From the lake, you can spot the mighty Manimahesh Peak within the distance. Pilgrims take a dip within the chilling waters to seek Lord Shiva’s blessings.
There is another route via Kugti village. The visitors can arrive from Lahaul and Spiti via the Kutti pass.
Manimahesh yatra by helicopter: The yatra by helicopter only possible during the yatra period. In 7 minutes the helicopter takes you towards Gauri Kund. You have to climb from Gauri Kund to Mnaimahesh Lake for pilgrimage completion. The distance is 1 km, and after completion of the pilgrimage you can board the helicopter to Bharmaur.
How to reach the base camp for Manimahesh Yatra:
the nearby airport is at Gaggal in Kangra at a distance of 170 km. Pathankot, Punjab is the nearby railway station.
Regular bus services are available that ply from Chamba. From Chamba, you can take local bus and jeep services to Bharmour.
Manimahesh Yatra weather: The yatra is pleasant during yatra time at Janmashtami according to Hindu Panchang. Although, it is harsh during winter. The best time to visit is mid-June to mid-October.
Accommodation: Accommodation is available at Bharmour with pilgrimage camps. There are many homestays and hotels.
Sightseeing: The entire route is scenic and offers beautiful views while trekking.
* Registration is necessary for trekkers. You have to register before reaching Bharmour. Carrying the printout of registration is necessary during yatra is a must.
