About Mansar Lake
Mansar Lake is a natural freshwater lake located in Mansar village in Udhampur district, Jammu and Kashmir, about 62 kilometres east of Jammu city. Surrounded by forested hills, it is one of the largest freshwater lakes in the Jammu region and part of the Mansar-Surinsar twin lake system. The lake is noted for its scenic setting, religious temples along its banks, boating facilities, and its status as a protected wetland and wildlife sanctuary area.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large, calm freshwater lake surrounded by forested hills with a paved parikrama path around the water. The lakefront has temples including Sheshnag Temple and Umapati Mahadev Temple, ghats, viewing decks, and boating jetties. The area includes a wildlife sanctuary with forested trails, opportunities for birdwatching and photography, and small food stalls and picnic spots along the shore.
Key highlights
- 01
One of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the Jammu region
- 02
Scenic lake surrounded by forested hills of the Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary
- 03
Sacred Sheshnag Temple and other temples on the lake banks
- 04
Boating facilities on the lake
- 05
Part of the Mansar-Surinsar twin lake system designated as a Ramsar wetland complex
History of Mansar Lake
Mansar Lake is traditionally associated with the epic Mahabharata and is believed by local tradition to be connected to Manasarovar Lake. Local legend links the lake to the serpent deity Sheshnag. The lake and its temples have long been a place of pilgrimage and are part of the cultural heritage of the Jammu region.
Culture & Context
The lake is considered sacred in Hindu tradition and is revered as an abode of Sheshnag. Temples dedicated to Sheshnag, Umapati Mahadev and Narasimha on its banks attract devotees, especially during Nag Panchami. Circumambulation (parikrama) of the lake is considered auspicious, and the site hosts religious gatherings and local fairs.
Route
| By air |
|---|