My Ganga Walks in Mauritius. Divine beckoned me to walk along mystical Ganga Talao in Mauritius country, this time. Ganga Talao literally means the lake of Ganga.
Nestled in a scenic mountainous setting, 1800 ft above sea level in southwest region, Ganga Talao is a crater lake with pious significance. It’s prominence as a pilgrimage established in the 19th century when a Hindu priest of Triolet village had a phenomenal dream of a lake with water springing from the sacred river Ganga. The news of such Ganga vision spread among the Hindu population of Mauritius. Subsequently a search began. When pujari came across the crater lake with a group of people, he knew he had found what he had been looking for, the lake was exactly the one he had seen in his vision. The lake was named as Ganga Talao. Declared as the sacred lake, this is the most venerated pilgrimage site of Hindus in Mauritius.
It is also believed, once God Shiva made a round of planet earth, along with Goddess Parvati, holding holy river Ganga in His locks, few drops of Gangajal spilled from Shiva’s hair which formed this sacred lake.
At the Ganga Talao entrance, there is an incredible 108 ft tall idol of God Shiva which was inaugurated in 2007. Presently, a 108 ft tall Goddess Durga idol as well adorns Ganga Talao. There are huge celebrations on Mahashivratri dedicated to Shiva and Navratri dedicated to Durga Maa at Ganga Talao. Apart from the grand idols of Shiva and Durga there are few other idols and a Shiva temple on the banks of the sacred lake. A panoramic walkway runs along the lake.
There is a Hanuman temple on top of the mountain. The sacred lake views are breathtaking from above.
The pristine Ganga Talao is teeming with rich aqua life but fishing is strictly prohibited due to its spiritual importance. People come to pray and meditate in this natural splendor. The sighting of monkeys at Ganga Talao catch every visitor’s attention.
Walking around Ganga Talao and its surroundings, inhaling the divine aura of the place, it was an emotional feel as I had my Ganga walks in Mauritius too.
I visited Ganga Talao on Ganesh Chaturthi, a festive day. I was also privileged to attend the celebrations and relish the traditional meal in the evening .
That was a day full of spiritual vibes for me.
It sounds like such an adventure and the views look amazing, including the naughty monkey
Truly amazing Samantha.
That sounds like it was an amazing experience. All the beauty, history, and religious iconography in one place!
Absolutely so Beth.
I’d love to explore all the places you saw on your walks. This looks like a beautiful area.
Indeed Ben.
This is gorgeous!!! I would love to explore Mauritius, I’ve never been! Such a beautiful place.
Yes it is Karen.
I enjoyed reading about your walks here. Your adventures are inspiring and always in a lovely location.
Thank you Lisa.
What a beautiful area! I would love to walk around there and explore. The kids would love it too
Beautiful walkway. Kids will love.
The story behind Ganga Talao and its spiritual significance is truly fascinating. The combination of natural beauty and the presence of these magnificent idols make it a must-visit pilgrimage site.
Absolutely wrapped in spiritual vibes.
The views from the temple are gorgeous. Sounds like you had a great time.
I had great time walking there.
Looks like such an incredible and spiritual adventure. The story behind the place is really interesting to read so thanks for sharing x
I love spiritual vibes.
Looks like a beautiful visit, it is amazing you have been able to see so many gorgeous places.
Thank you.
The pictures and the story accompanying them are incredible. Most of us will never be where you have been. So, we are living through your travels described in these posts.
Thank you so much. I am honored to share my travel experiences.
How incredible! I couldn’t imagine a monkey walking up to me like that…what an experience to explore the temple grounds.
Different experience indeed.
What a beautiful and deeply religious place to visit! It seems like it was worth the walk. 🙂
Absolutely so.