Lake Manasarovar: The Lake of the Mind
Written and reviewed by The Kriya Yogi · Updated 25 September 2026
At an altitude of 4,590 meters, the turquoise waters of Lake Manasarovar mirror the snow-capped peak of Kailash. In Sanskrit, 'Manas' means mind and 'Sarovar' means lake. It is believed that Lord Brahma created this lake in his mind before manifesting it on Earth, making it a symbol of pure consciousness.
The short answers
- Considered the holiest lake in Asia by four major religions.
- Believed to be the source of the Ganges (spiritually) and four other major rivers.
- Drinking its water or bathing in it is said to cleanse sins of a hundred lifetimes.
- Located adjacent to the 'shadow' lake, Rakshastal (Lake of the Demon).
- A circuit (kora) around the lake is approximately 100km long.
While Kailash represents the male principle (Shiva/Compassion), Manasarovar represents the female principle (Shakti/Wisdom). Pilgrims often visit the lake before or after their Kora of the mountain. The water is remarkably clear, and the lake is home to numerous migratory birds. Legend says that the hamsa (swan) of Brahma swims here. Nearby lies Rakshastal, a salty, crescent-shaped lake associated with Ravana, which represents the darker aspects of the ego, contrasting with the sun-like Manasarovar.
Approaching it with care
Ritual Bathing
Perform a symbolic dip or sprinkle water on the head for purification.
Star Gazing
The night sky at the lake is exceptionally clear due to the high altitude.
Quiet Contemplation
Use the stillness of the lake to mirror the stillness of your mind.
Cautions worth reading
- Water temperatures are near freezing; full immersion can be dangerous.
- Avoid drinking raw lake water; boil or filter it first.
- Respect local ecological and religious sensitivities.
What scholars and evidence say
Limnological studies highlight its unique ecosystem as one of the highest altitude freshwater lakes globally.
Questions people ask
+ Is Lake Manasarovar freshwater?
+ Can we stay at the lake?
Sources
- Holy Mount Kailas by Sherring
- The Sacred Mountain by John Snelling
These are living traditions, best approached with a teacher or community where possible. Nothing here is medical advice; check with a clinician before starting a new movement or meditation practice if you have a health condition.