Which among the following Lakes is called Lohitya Sarovar by Chinese traveller Hiuen Tsang?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 2:

Chandratal Lake, often referred to as the "Lake of the Moon," is a high-altitude lake in the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh, India. This stunning crescent-shaped lake is renowned for its pristine beauty and changing colors, which vary from reddish to orange, and then to emerald green as the day progresses. The ancient Chinese traveler Hiuen Tsang, who visited India in the 7th century, recorded this lake in his accounts as "Lohitya Sarovar." His writings are invaluable historical sources, providing insights into the geography and culture of India during that period. Chandratal's remote location and breathtaking landscape have made it a significant destination for trekkers and adventurers, carrying a rich historical legacy through the accounts of travelers like Hiuen Tsang.

The incorrect option is 1:

Gobind Sagar Lake is a large artificial reservoir located in the Bilaspur district of Himachal Pradesh, formed by the Bhakra Dam on the Sutlej River. This lake is named after Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth Sikh Guru. It is primarily known for its hydro-electric power generation and for supporting local fisheries. Given that it is a man-made lake created much later, it could not have been referred to as Lohitya Sarovar by Hiuen Tsang, who lived in the 7th century.

The incorrect option is 3:

Dal Lake is a famous lake located in Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in the region, known for its houseboats, shikaras, and floating gardens. While Dal Lake has significant historical and cultural importance, it is situated far from the route typically taken by Hiuen Tsang during his travels in the Himalayas. Therefore, it is not the lake he referred to as Lohitya Sarovar.

The incorrect option is 4:

Dashir Lake is another high-altitude lake situated in the Pir Panjal range of Himachal Pradesh, near the Rohtang Pass. It is a glacial lake known for its serene environment and trekking opportunities. Although it is located in Himachal Pradesh, there is no historical evidence or record linking Dashir Lake to Hiuen Tsang's accounts or his reference to a "Lohitya Sarovar." His descriptions specifically point to a lake in the upper Chandra valley, which aligns with Chandratal Lake.