Rewalsar Lake

Rewalsar Lake, also known as Tso Pema, is a small natural lake located about 22.5 to 24 kilometers southwest of Mandi town in Himachal Pradesh, at an elevation of around 1,360 meters (4,460 feet) above sea level. The lake has a roughly square shape with a shoreline measuring about 735 meters and is fed mainly by underground springs.

It is surrounded by hills covered with dense forests and is known for its serene natural beauty. Rewalsar Lake holds deep religious significance for Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs. It is associated with the Buddhist master Padmasambhava, who is credited with founding Tibetan Vajrayana Buddhism and is believed to have meditated here; a large statue of him stands near the lake. The lake also has floating reed islands said to embody the spirit of Padmasambhava.

Hindu connections include temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Krishna, and the sage Lomasha, who is believed to have performed penance nearby. Sikh reverence comes from Guru Gobind Singh's visit to the site. Around the lake, numerous religious shrines and monasteries coexist, symbolizing communal harmony. The lake area is also linked to legends from the Mahabharata, including the nearby Kunt Bhyog lake connected to the Pandavas' escape from the palace of wax.

Rewalsar is a popular pilgrimage and tourist destination, drawing visitors for its spiritual importance, natural beauty, and peaceful environment. The site hosts important festivals like Sisu fair and Baisakhi, attracting devotees who often take holy baths in the lake. It is accessible by road from Mandi and lies amidst a landscape of pine forests and panoramic mountain views, making it a place for both religious reflection and nature appreciation.