Rewalsar Travel Guide

Discover the secret gems of Rewalsar in the Himalayan North with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip with our tips and recommendations for the best things to do,


Introduction to Rewalsar

Tucked away in the Himalayan North of India, Rewalsar is a small town in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Known for its spiritual significance, the town mesmerizes visitors with its serene surroundings, mystical legends, and diverse culture. Surrounded by a beautiful lake, Rewalsar is home to several historic temples, monasteries, and ashrams, making it a popular destination for spiritual seekers, adventurers, and travelers looking for an offbeat experience.

List of Places to Visit in Rewalsar

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Rewalsar Lake - The holy lake is surrounded by several temples, monasteries, and a Gurudwara, making it an important pilgrimage site for Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs.
  2. Tso Pema Lotus Lake - Another scenic lake in the vicinity, Tso Pema is known for its pristine waters and stunning views of the Himalayas.
  3. Naina Devi Temple - A temple located on the banks of the Rewalsar Lake, dedicated to Goddess Naina Devi, is an important Hindu pilgrimage site.
  4. Guru Padmasambhava Cave - The cave is believed to be the meditation spot of Guru Padmasambhava, one of the most revered figures in Buddhism.
  5. Zigar Gompa - A monastery in Rewalsar, Zigar Gompa is the seat of the Tulku of Khamtrul Rinpoche, the third highest ranked Lama in the Nyingma School of Tibetan Buddhism.

Natural Attractions of Rewalsar: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Pong Dam Lake - A reservoir on the Beas River, Pong Dam Lake offers a picturesque setting for bird watching, boating, and angling.
  2. Shikari Devi Temple - A hike to Shikari Devi Temple offers some breathtaking views of the Himalayas and the surrounding valleys.
  3. Kunt Bhayo Lake - A serene lake surrounded by dense forests, the Kunt Bhayo Lake makes for a perfect picnic spot.
  4. Bir and Billing - Located about 30 kilometers from Rewalsar, Bir and Billing are popular destinations for paragliding and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rewalsar

  1. Rewalsar to Shikari Devi Temple – The 5 km trek to Shikari Devi Temple offers some stunning views of the valley and the Himalayan Peaks.
  2. Gopalpur Nature Trail – A 6 km nature trail from Gopalpur Village takes you through dense forests, streams, and local villages.
  3. Bir to Billing – A 10 km trek from Bir to Billing offers some of the best views of the Dhauladhar Range and the Kangra Valley.

Best Things to Do in Rewalsar: Activities and Tours

  1. Attend a Puja ceremony at a temple or monastery.
  2. Take a dip in the holy waters of the Rewalsar Lake.
  3. Go paragliding in Bir and Billing.
  4. Attend a meditation and yoga retreat at one of the ashrams in Rewalsar.
  5. Explore the local markets and try authentic Himachali cuisine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rewalsar

Day Activity
1 Arrival in Rewalsar, visiting the temples and places of interest around the lake
2 Hiking to Shikari Devi Temple or Gopalpur Nature Trail
3 Day trip to Bir and Billing for paragliding and camping
4 Yoga or meditation retreat at one of the ashrams in Rewalsar
5 Visit to Naina Devi Temple and the Guru Padmasambhava Cave
6 Lake excursion at Tso Pema Lotus Lake or Kunt Bhayo Lake
7 Departure from Rewalsar

Food and Drink Scene of Rewalsar

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Madra - A popular Himachali dish made with chickpeas and yogurt.
  2. Dham - A traditional Himachali feast served during weddings and festivals, consisting of rice, lentils, and vegetables cooked in a unique blend of spices.
  3. Channa Bhatura - A popular North Indian dish made with spiced chickpeas and deep-fried bread called bhatura.
  4. Siddus - A steamed bread stuffed with potato or turnip and served with ghee and chutney.

Local Beverages

  1. Chhaang - A traditional alcoholic beverage made from fermented barley or millet.
  2. Tea – Try the local masala chai, or the high-altitude Darjeeling and Kangra tea.

Where to Stay in Rewalsar: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Guru Bharat Monastery Guest House – A budget-friendly guesthouse located inside the Guru Bharat Monastery, offering clean and comfortable rooms.
  2. Shubham Homestay – A cozy homestay overlooking the Rewalsar Lake, run by a local family, offering traditional meals and warm hospitality.
  3. Pema Thang Guest House – A mid-range hotel located close to the lake, offering modern amenities and scenic views.
  4. Lotus Lake View Hotel – A luxurious hotel on the banks of Tso Pema Lake, offering premium rooms and a serene atmosphere.

What to Buy in Rewalsar: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handicrafts – Rewalsar is known for its intricate wood and metal crafts, including souvenir plates, candle stands, and jewellery boxes.
  2. Tibetan Carpets – The town is famous for its beautifully woven Tibetan carpets, available in several designs and sizes.
  3. Herbal Teas – Try the local varieties of Kangra tea, packed with the goodness of herbs and spices.

Local Culture and Customs of Rewalsar

Rewalsar is a melting pot of cultures, with a significant presence of Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs in the town. Visitors are advised to dress modestly and respect the religious sites and customs of the locals. Smoking and drinking in public places are strictly prohibited in the town.

Best Time to Visit Rewalsar

The best time to visit Rewalsar is during the summer months from March to June and in the autumn months from September to November. The weather is pleasant, and there are several festivals and fairs during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rewalsar

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and customs.
  2. Dress appropriately when visiting religious sites.
  3. Try the local cuisine and participate in cultural events.

Don’t:

  1. Smoke or drink in public places.
  2. Disturb the peaceful environment around the lake and the monasteries.
  3. Litter or damage the natural surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rewalsar

Rewalsar is a safe destination for travelers, and the locals are hospitable and welcoming. However, it is advised to take precautions against petty crime and safeguard valuables while traveling.

Health in Rewalsar

Visitors are advised to carry a first-aid kit and take precautions against common ailments like altitude sickness, diarrhea, and sunburn.

Getting to Rewalsar: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Rewalsar

The nearest airport to Rewalsar is the Bhuntar Airport in Kullu, about 60 kilometers away. Taxis and buses are available at the airport to reach Rewalsar.

Bus Stations Near Rewalsar

Rewalsar is well-connected by road, with several buses and taxis plying from major cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Manali. The nearest bus station is the Mandi Bus Station, located about 25 kilometers away.

Other Options

Visitors can also opt for a private taxi or rent a car for convenience and flexibility.

How to Get Around in Rewalsar

The town is small enough to explore on foot. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Rewalsar: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Mandi – The historic town of Mandi, known for its ancient temples, palaces, and markets, is located about 25 kilometers away.
  2. Manali – One of the most popular hill stations in Himachal Pradesh, Manali is about 90 kilometers away from Rewalsar.
  3. Dharamshala – The abode of the Dalai Lama and the headquarters of the Tibetan Government-in-Exile, Dharamshala is about 120 kilometers away from Rewalsar.

Conclusion

Rewalsar is a hidden gem in the Himalayan North, offering visitors a chance to explore its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a nature lover, or an adventure enthusiast, the town has something for everyone. Plan your trip to Rewalsar, and soak in the mystical charm of the Himalayas.