Bharti Sharma
In the peaceful green hills of the Shivalik range lies Mansar Lake, one of the most beautiful and sacred places of the Duggar region. It is located in the Samba district of Jammu and Kashmir, around 62 kilometers from Jammu city and about 19 kilometers from Samba town. It is widely known for its natural beauty, religious faith and historical importance. Mansar Lake is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the region.
Mansar Lake is deeply connected with the ancient Indian epic, the Mahabharata. According to local tradition, after the great Kurukshetra war, the warrior Arjuna performed the Ashwamedha Yagna. During this ritual, the sacrificial horse entered the region ruled by his son Babruvahana. A battle took place between father and son because Babruvahana did not know Arjuna was his father. In the fight, Arjuna was killed.
When Babruvahana came to know the truth, he felt very sad. To bring his father back to life, he went to the underworld (Patal Lok) to obtain a magical jewel from the serpent king Sheshnag. It is believed that he shot a powerful arrow into the earth to create a tunnel to the underworld. The entrance of this tunnel later became known as Surinsar Lake. After defeating Sheshnag and receiving the divine jewel, Babruvahana returned to the surface at another place, where the earth split and water emerged, forming Mansar Lake. Because of this sacred story, the lake is often called the “Mansarovar of the Duggar region.
Mansar Lake has been a center of faith for many generations. On the eastern side of the lake stands the Sheshnag Temple, where devotees offer milk and prayers to the serpent god. Other temples such as Durga Temple and Umapati Mahadev Temple are also located around the lake.
Many newly married couples visit the lake to perform parikrama (walking around the lake) to pray for a happy married life. Families also perform the Mundan ceremony (first haircut of a child) here as a sacred tradition. These customs show the deep spiritual importance of the lake for local communities.
Mansar Lake is oval in shape and surrounded by green hills and forests. A well-maintained walking path circles the lake, allowing visitors to enjoy peaceful morning and evening walks. The calm water beautifully reflects the sky and trees, creating a soothing view.
The lake is mainly fed by rainwater and underground springs. In November 2005, Mansar Lake and Surinsar Lake were declared Ramsar Sites, recognizing them as wetlands of international importance. The lake is part of the Mansar-Surinsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
The sanctuary is home to animals such as spotted deer, nilgai and monkeys, along with many bird species. The lake is especially known for its large tortoises and different kinds of fish. Migratory birds also visit the lake in certain seasons, attracting nature lovers and bird watchers.
Mansar Lake is a popular picnic and tourist spot. Boating is one of the main attractions, with paddle and row boats available throughout the day. Feeding fish is a favorite activity among visitors, especially children.
The lake becomes lively during the Baisakhi festival in April, when a large fair is organized featuring cultural programs, traditional music, local food and handicrafts. Food and Craft Melas held in October or November promote Dogra culture and famous local products like Kalari cheese.
Mansar Lake is not just a lake, it is a symbol of Jammu’s history, faith, culture and natural beauty. Its connection with the Mahabharata, its temples and rituals, its wildlife and its peaceful surroundings make it one of the most special places in Jammu and Kashmir. A visit to Mansar Lake fills the heart with peace and pride in our rich heritage. It truly stands as a shining jewel of the Duggar region.