Considered by many as the holiest Hindu place in Mauritius, Grand Basin Or Ganga Talao is a large lake that rises from a pit, located near the western borders of the island, which is atop the mountains. Lake is enough Deep, about 50-55 feet and situated amidst the picturesque scenery that surrounds the lake in peace.
It is surrounded by many colorful temples and statues of deities; And during the festivals a humble fair is held every year. Even the local people join this pilgrimage and visit the lake once every year and pray to God.
If you are planning to visit this auspicious lake, read on to know more.
History of grand basin
Ganga Talao is named after it is connected to the mighty river Ganga in India. The history of the Grand Basin is that a priest named Pandit Jhumon Giri Gosgain was a man who dreamed about a sacred lake, which was connected to the Ganges. This priest then set out on an impossible journey to find such a lake. He came across a lake situated in a picturesque location, 1800 feet above sea level, amidst volcanic rocks; And realized that this was the very lake he had dreamed of!
Pandit Jhumon Giri, after the establishment of the lake, visited pilgrims of all ages every year; Long distance journey just for the journey of the Lord. Later a priest is said to have taken the holy Ganges water to the island and added it to the lake amid much ceremony. Thus, the name ‘Ganga Talao’ or Ganga.
must read: The 10 Best Temples in Mauritius will help you uncover the amazing mystery of the country
Importance of Grand Basin
The Ganges Talao Lake in Mauritius is a very popular pilgrimage place which has gained popularity, as it is the largest of its kind outside India. This large pit lake, situated amidst the secluded hilly region, is beautifully decorated by temples and statues of deities. The entire land is considered sacred and sacred in the minds of the local people.
There are stories about how Lord Shiva once landed on the island with his wife Parvati, about the beauty of the island and the great lake on which he decided to take a stroll. Legend has it that Shiva accidentally dropped a few drops of the Ganges water into the tank and it became sacred.
Since then the island has become a center of attraction for celebrations and celebrations on the day of Maha Shivaratri, a major Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Shiva. Thousands of devotees face the difficulties of locating the rugged island, and make their way to the sacred lake, with handmade “Kanwar” or shrines, which are planted under the banks and offer prayers.
Read the suggestion: A 7-day magical honeymoon in Mauritius
Magnumonus Hindu God
There are many colorful sculptures around the lake, with which the mythological stories revolve. Apart from these temples, there are huge statues of Lord Shiva and Goddess Durga built in the open, and for all to see. These huge sculptures are a real miracle! The Grand Basin Shiva statue has a height of 108 feet, and is the third largest Shiva in the world. It is known as ‘Mangal Mahadev’ or gentle and caring Mahadev.
A Durga statue that shares the same land, and stands 108 feet wide, has been inaugurated recently and attracts a large number of Hindus apart from tourists from other religions.
Devotees travel to get a glimpse of God, or a touch of the sacred palate is considered the cure for all diseases!
Read the suggestion: Honeymoon in Mauritius: Entice and experience things for every couple!
Cultural significance
image Source
The significance of the Grand Basin sacred lake and temple will not be clear until we get a quick glimpse into the history of Indian laborers living in Mauritius. The island was first inhabited by more than half a million indentured laborers and slaves of the British dynasty, who were brought to this place with the promise of a better life.
But better than before, the island of Mauritius had previously had very difficult and uninhabited conditions, which made it difficult for survivors to survive. Many workers worked in large sugarcane fields under harsh conditions to earn their daily food. Religion and spiritual belief were the only driving force for the inhabitants, who helped them achieve their many orders, seeking Almighty’s blessings.
Read the suggestion: Romance adboard on your Mauritius honeymoon for memories of a lifetime
Tips for visiting the Grand Basin in 2021
- It is a pilgrimage site of its kind, which is open throughout the year, and can be visited at any time of the day. There is no entry fee post, although donations are always welcome for the maintenance and upkeep of the Ganges Talao Grand Basin in Mauritius. Be sure to visit the temple early during the auspicious event of Maha Shivaratri as the parking lots fill up in no time. You will also see thousands of devotees who visit the holy lake on foot.
- The weather in Mauritius is very pleasant during the day, although it may be a little cold at night. So it is wise to keep warm clothes with you. During Maha Shivaratri, it almost always rains every year, making it a wonderful time to plan a reunion of the Grand Basin with friends and family.
- The mist sometimes originates from the lake and cools down into the lake’s complex. Make sure you are prepared for sudden chill winds while in the lake.
- The lake is considered sacred, so do not feed the fish and eels that live in the lake.
- If you are not rigid for the time, then rent a car and plan to spend the whole day in Ganga Talao. You can also spend a few hours on the lake before going to the temple, before you can explore other attractions nearby. The map of Grand Basin Mauritius gives you clear directions about the holy lake and nearby tourist destinations.
- Do not forget to take off your shoes while entering the lake complex and temples.
read ahead: Feeling tropical love on a 4N 5D honeymoon in Mauritius
so what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to the Grand Basin Temple in Mauritius and soak yourself in the cool and serene air while rekindling your spiritual self.
