Mansar Lake

Mansar Lake, a picturesque destination located 62 kilometers from Jammu city in Jammu and Kashmir, India, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and spiritual significance. Surrounded by lush, forest-covered hills, the lake stretches over a mile in length and half a mile in width. In recognition of its ecological importance, Mansar Lake, along with Surinsar Lake, was designated as a Ramsar Convention site in November 2005.

The lake's unique blend of surface run-off and mineral-rich water from nearby paddy fields creates a nutrient-rich environment, supporting several endangered species, including the Lissemys punctuata, Aspideretes gangeticus, and Mansariella lacustris, listed on the CITES and IUCN Red Lists. Additionally, Mansar Lake serves as a vital breeding and nursery ground for various migratory waterfowl species.

Mansar Lake is renowned for two primary reasons: its allure as a tourist destination and its numerous holy sites. The lake's surroundings are dotted with famous shrines and temples, including Sheshnag, Umapati Mahadev, Narasimha temple, and Durga temple. On the eastern bank, a shrine dedicated to Sheshnag features a six-headed deity, symbolized by a large boulder adorned with iron chains, representing the serpents waiting on the tutelary deity. This unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance makes Mansar Lake a captivating destination for both tourists and devotees alike.