Located on a mountain spur, an hour`s drive from Mandi brings you to this dark jewel like lake. With water, woodland and high hills, it presents a variety of natural beauty. The spot is sacred for Hindus, Buddhists and Sikhs. It was from here that the great Indian teacher and `Tantric` Padmasabhava left for Tibet. Known to the Tibetans as Guru Rimpoche, the Precious Master, it was under Padmasambahava`s influence that Mahayana Buddhism spread over Tibet. There are islands of floating reed on Rewalsar lake and the spirit of Padmasabhava is said to reside in them. It is here that the sage Lomas did penance in devotion to Lord Shiva, and the Sikh Guru Gobind Singh also resided here for one month.
The Sisu fair held in late February/early march, and the festival of Baisakhi are important events at Rewalsar.
Rewalsar Attractions
Gurudwara
This gurudwara was built in 1930 by Raja Joginder Sen of Mandi. It commemorates Guru Gobind Singh's visit, when he sought to evolve a common strategy with the hill rulers against the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb
Mini Zoo
The forest department maintains a small zoo at Rewalsar. Above Rewalsar, the 'Seven Lakes' are also of interest.
Monasteries
At opposite ends of the lake there are two Tibetan monasteries. The Bhutanese also have one.
Temples
At Rewalsar there are three Hindu temples. These are dedicated to the sage Lomas, to Lord Krishna and to Lord Shiva.
Getting There
By Air
The closest airport from Manali is Bhuntar, which is around 63 km from the town of Mandi.
By Rail
The closest railhead is in Kiratpur which 125 km away from the town of Mandi.
By Road
Rewalsar is 24 km by road from Mandi. Taxis and buses are available at Mandi.
