
Kiyur Dal Lake
Kiyur Dal Lake :-
Kiyur Dal is a small lake in Holi valley of Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. The
kiyur Dal is the old village of lord Shiva and the kiyur is also known as chota
Manimahesh.
- Location: Chamba District
- Area: 0.17 ha
- Elevation: 3072 m
- Latitude: 32017’05.65″ N
- Longitude: 76
034’31.36″ E - Source of Water: Rainfall
- Value and benefits: Tourism,
- Cultural and Religious.
- Threats: Commercialization of the
area, Siltation - Flora and fauna:
- Main tree and plant species: Poa alpine (commonly known as alpine meadow-grass or
alpine bluegrass) - Medicinal plant species: Himalayan Gentian/kuru/kutki (Gentiana kurroo), Banakasha
(Viola serpens), Dhoop lakkad (Jurinea dolomiaea)
Animal and bird species: Khalij Pheasant, Lemon rumped Warbler, Blue-capped
Redstart, Himalayan Griffon, etc.
Short note on Kiyur Dal Lake :-
Kiyur Dal Lake, also known as Kyari Dal, is a beautiful high-altitude lake nestled in the lap of the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, India. Situated near the Bhrigu Lake trek route, Kiyar Dal offers a serene and picturesque setting surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows. The lake is relatively smaller in size compared to some other Himalayan lakes but is equally captivating with its clear blue waters reflecting the surrounding landscape. It is a popular camping site for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, providing a peaceful retreat amidst nature’s beauty. Trekking to Kiyar Dal Lake is a rewarding experience, offering stunning views and a chance to connect with the pristine Himalayan environment.
Best time to visit in Kiyur Lake :-
The best time to visit Kiyar Dal Lake is during the summer months, from May to June, and then again from September to October. During these periods, the weather is generally pleasant with clear skies, making it ideal for trekking and enjoying the beautiful surroundings without extreme cold or snow blocking the trails. The months of July and August are prone to heavy rainfall, which can make trekking difficult and increase the risk of landslides. Similarly, the winter months from November to April experience heavy snowfall and extremely cold temperatures, making it challenging and risky for trekking.
How to Visit in Kiyur Lake :-
To visit Kiyar Dal Lake, you can follow these steps:
1. *Reach Manali:*
– Start your journey by reaching Manali, a popular hill station in Himachal Pradesh.
2. *Travel to Gulaba:*
– From Manali, drive or hire a taxi to Gulaba, which is the starting point of the trek to Kiyar Dal Lake. The distance from Manali to Gulaba is approximately 22 kilometers.
3. *Trekking to Kiyar Dal Lake:*
– Begin your trek from Gulaba towards Kiyar Dal Lake. The trek is of moderate difficulty and takes around 4-5 hours, covering a distance of about 8 kilometers.
4. *Enjoy the Scenic Beauty:*
– Along the trek, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of the Himalayan ranges, lush meadows, and serene landscapes. Take breaks to rest, hydrate, and capture the beauty of the surroundings.
5. *Camp at Kiyar Dal Lake:*
– Upon reaching Kiyar Dal Lake, set up your camp near the lake shore. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings, the clear blue waters of the lake, and the starry night sky.
6. *Explore Around:*
– Spend time exploring the area around Kiyar Dal Lake. You can take short hikes to nearby viewpoints or simply relax by the lake.
7. *Return Journey:*
– After spending a memorable time at Kiyar Dal Lake, trek back to Gulaba and then drive back to Manali.
8. *Accommodation Options:*
– You can choose to camp near Kiyar Dal Lake or stay in guesthouses/hotels in Manali or Gulaba before or after the trek.
9. *Safety and Precautions:*
– Ensure you are physically fit for the trek and carry essential trekking gear, such as appropriate clothing, trekking shoes, camping equipment, water, snacks, and a first aid kit. Follow safety guidelines, trek with a group if possible, and be prepared for changes in weather conditions.
10. *Responsible Trekking:*
– Respect the environment, avoid littering, and leave no trace of your visit to maintain the natural beauty of Kiyar Dal Lake for future visitors.