💧 Mansar Lake – The Kidney-Shaped Lake of Jammu & Kashmir
Location: Samba District, Jammu Division
Type: Freshwater Lake
Shape: Kidney-shaped (crescent-like)
Altitude: Around 600 meters above sea level
🌿 About Mansar Lake
Mansar Lake is one of the most scenic and sacred freshwater lakes in Jammu and Kashmir. Its unique kidney shape and clear waters make it a major tourist attraction and pilgrimage site. The lake is surrounded by forested hills and temples dedicated to Sheshnag (the serpent god), Umapati Mahadev, and Narasimha.
It lies about 62 km from Jammu city and is often mentioned together with its twin, Surinsar Lake, located nearby. Both lakes are linked by legends from the Mahabharata era and hold immense cultural and ecological significance.
🌱 Ecological and Religious Importance
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The lake supports diverse aquatic flora and fauna, including freshwater fish species.
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It is a Ramsar Site (recognized wetland of international importance).
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Pilgrims perform religious rituals on its banks, considering it sacred like Mansarovar Lake in Tibet.
📸 Tourism Highlights
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Boating and Birdwatching: Ideal for migratory bird spotting during winter.
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Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to spotted deer, neelgai, and various bird species.
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Festivals: Annual Mansar Mela attracts thousands of visitors.
📍 Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Mansar Lake |
| District | Samba |
| Region | Jammu |
| Shape | Kidney-shaped |
| Type | Freshwater |
| Nearby Attractions | Surinsar Lake, Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Ramsar Status | Yes |