Manimahesh Yatra

Manimahesh is a sacred mountain peak located in the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, it is also one of the Panch Kedar and located at the Altitude of 4080 metres. Manimahesh Lake is believed to be the abode of Lord Shiva. According to hindu mythology Lord Shiva performed penance at this spot .A mythological story explains that Lord Shiva created Mani Mahesh after he married Goddess Parvati (who is also worshipped as ‘Gauri’). The lake is in the shape of a saucer and is divided into 2 major parts. The larger part is known as ‘Shiv Karotri’ (the bathing place of Lord Shiva); meanwhile, the lower part is known as ‘Gauri Kund’ (the bathing place of Goddess Parvati).

The story further states that Shiva married Parvati at Mansarovar Lake and created the Manimahesh in Himachal Pradesh and made it his adobe.Manimahesh a “ Jewel (Mani) on Lord shiva ( who is also known as Mahesh) crown”. A rock formation in the form of a Shivling on this mountain is considered as the manifestation of Lord Shiva. Manimahesh Yatra begins on the day of Janamasthmi also known as ‘ Chota Snan’ and it ends on the Day of Radha Ashtami also known as ‘Bada Snan’