Neelkanth Lake is situated in Pattan Valley of Lahaul, Himachal Pradesh. The lake is located at a height of 4,200m (13,777 ft) above mean sea level. Neelkanth is a high peak in the Himalayan range and is dedicated to Lord Shiva. There is small mountain lake at its bottom known as Neelkanth lake. There is a small temple of Lord Shiva near this lake. As per local legends, this peak is also known as Neelkanth Kailash. Many devotees from the country come here to take a holy dip in the lake.
Trek to Neelkanth Mahadev is really an interesting trek with variable terrains throughout. The trek will start from Nainghar, a small hamlet with very few population which is located on the right bank of the glacial water stream flowing from mountains towards the Chandrabhaga river. Then the journey continues towards a beautiful small meadow located just in middle of the trek where we will meet the only people residing at such heights in these mountain ranges – the Shepherds, living along with their flock of sheep, whom they leave free for grazing in the region and the protector of the flock are alert, curious, and courageous mountain shepherd dogs.
Then few glacial water streams with freezing cold water have to be crossed and finally, it comes to a stiff walk towards the end of the trek. This place is visited by those men who have failed to father a son. Women are prohibited by local people to visit this lake. The water of the Neelkanth lake is crystal clear blue in colour. A holy bath in this lake is regarded beneficial both for the mind and the body due to the presence of healing herbs in the water.