Gauri Kund

Gauri Kund is a sacred high-altitude pond located approximately 1.5 kilometers before Manimahesh Lake at an elevation of around 4,016 meters. It is an important ritual bathing site for women pilgrims undertaking the Manimahesh Yatra, dedicated to Goddess Parvati. The kund is situated in the Pir Panjal Range near the holy Manimahesh Kailash Peak, which is considered the abode of Lord Shiva.

Visitors can expect a small sacred pond surrounded by alpine terrain and grassy ridges at high altitude. Women pilgrims take a ritual holy dip here before proceeding to Manimahesh Lake, while men bathe at Shiv Karotri nearby. The location offers views of snow-capped peaks and the surrounding Himalayan landscape. The area has limited facilities with basic community kitchens available during pilgrimage season.

According to Hindu legend, Gauri Kund is the bathing place of Goddess Parvati (consort of Lord Shiva). The Manimahesh Lake and its surroundings are associated with Shiva's penance, where water cascades from his matted hair formed the lake system including Gauri Kund and Shiv Karotri.

Gauri Kund holds deep religious significance as part of the Manimahesh Yatra, one of the most revered pilgrimages in Himachal Pradesh. Women pilgrims traditionally take a holy dip here before proceeding to Manimahesh Lake, following ancient customs. The site is second in significance only to Lake Manasarovar in Tibetan Buddhist tradition.