Things to Do in Rewalsar

Roam around the lake, stand at the water or sit in one of the many pavilions and enjoy the quietness. According to Buddhist legend, the lake was miraculously created from a funeral pyre that had been built by the King of Zahor for the purpose of burning Guru Rinpoche and Princess Mandarava alive. The depth of the lake has never been established and remains a mystery. A park surrounds the lake, which serves as an area to circumambulate the sacred site.

Hike up to the statue and enjoy a pleasant view over the town. There is also a nice café up there for a coffee or chai.

Takes place every 12 years. Last occurrence was in 2004. It falls on the auspicious 10th day of the 1st month of the Tibetan lunar calendar and it is celebrated as the birthday of Guru Padmasambhava ("The Lotus Born" Guru) who was supposedly born in the monkey year.

A cave where Guru Rinpoche meditated, contains a number of shrines and a large statue on the guru. En route will pass a small nunnery and meditation caves. The path is steep in parts, but well paved. The cave is inside of the houses, so you have to go through one of the doors of the houses there.

A 2-hr walk, passing some Buddhist caves (see above) and lakes (if you go via Sar) en route from Rewalsar.

At the other extremity of the lake, there is a small zoo where local animals can be seen. It is located under the trees and the walk is quite enjoyable.

A Tibetan retreat center founded by Dudjom Rinpoche. It is the oldest monastery at the lake.