Rewalsar itinerary

Plan 01

1 day in Rewalsar

1. 01

   Day 1: Lake circuit and the statue

   Arrive early from Mandi and walk the lakeside path in the soft morning light, watching the reed islands and the fish at the water's edge. Visit the Nyingma monastery on the shore, then the Drikung Kagyu monastery. Rest over lunch at a simple dhaba or cafe near the bus stand. In the afternoon, walk or take a short vehicle ride up to the Padmasambhava statue and its temple, then cross to the gurdwara and the Lomas Rishi temple. Be back at the lake as the light fades and lamps are lit.

Plan 02

2 days in Rewalsar

1. 01

   Day 1: Lake and shrines

   Spend the morning on the lakeside path and in the Nyingma and Drikung Kagyu monasteries. After lunch and a rest, visit the gurdwara and the Lomas Rishi temple, and finish with the lake at dusk.

2. 02

   Day 2: Statue and caves

   Go up to the Padmasambhava statue early, before groups arrive. Those with the legs for it can continue by road and then on foot to the meditation caves and the Naina Devi temple; allow half a day. Others can stay near the lake, or drive to Mandi for its old temples before moving on.

Plan 03

3 days in Rewalsar

1. 01

   Day 1: Lake and shrines

   Arrive, settle in and walk the lake circuit. Visit the Nyingma monastery and gurdwara. Keep the evening quiet.

2. 02

   Day 2: Statue, monasteries and a slow afternoon

   Visit the statue and its temple in the morning, the Drikung Kagyu monastery next, and then rest. If a ceremony or fair is on, give it the afternoon.

3. 03

   Day 3: Hill walk or a drive out

   Hike to the caves and Naina Devi in the morning if fit, or take a gentle drive to Mandi. Those who like walking can ask locally about the trek towards Sarkidhar, which sources describe as about 7 km.

Pacing

Pacing a Rewalsar trip for parents and children

• Walk the lake circuit in the morning: the path is mostly level and the light is gentler.
• The climb to the caves and Naina Devi is demanding; skip it, or go as far as comfortable and turn back.
• Carry warm layers year-round; evenings are cool at 1,360 m, and winter is cold.
• Remove shoes at temples and monasteries; carry socks for cold floors.
• Travel by taxi if possible; mountain road journeys from Mandi or Kullu are winding.
• Ask your lodging about the nearest chemist or doctor before you arrive; services are limited.

Rewalsar with elderly parents: the full guide →