Another name for the sacred lake in Grand Bassin is Ganga Talao. For Mauritians it represents a replica of the mighty river Ganges, which is located in India. The Ganga Talao lies at approximately 550 meters above the sea level and is located in the mountains in the South West of the island, surrounded by colorful Hindu temples and statues of Hindu gods. Outside of India it is the holiest place for Hindus.
History
The place was discovered in 1897 by a Hindu priest named Pandit Jhummon Giri Gossagne Nepal. According to a legend, the priest dreamed about a holy lake that is spiritually connected to the sacred river Ganges in India. After the dream he made his way to find the lake. When he finally arrived at the lake in Grand Bassin, he recognized it from his dream. The word of the godly lake spread soon after the discovery and pilgrims from all over the island began visiting the place. Nowadays Grand Bassin is the most important Hindu site outside of India, where pilgrims from all over the island get together to pay respect to their gods and pray. Especially at the end of February or the beginning of March up to 400,000 pilgrims can be observed walking from their homes to the temple at Grand Bassin, all commemorating the so called Maha Shivaratri. Everyone is allowed and invited to join the walk. It is a unique as well as an amazing opportunity to experience the Mauritian culture!
Hindu Gods
At the sacred place in Grand Bassin, Hindus come together to pray to their gods, offering them diverse fruits, vegetables and flowers. Traditionally they put coconut milk into the water of the sacred lake and light joss sticks up. The atmosphere is overwhelming and you can feel the spirituality surrounding the place. All over the place colorful statues of significant Hindu gods like Ganesh are displayed and smaller shrines are established. Giant statutes of Lord Shiva and Lord Durga were commissioned by the Mauritian government. They welcome visitors at the entrance of the site on arrival. The statue of the beloved Hindu god Shiva has a height of 33 meters and is thus the third highest statue of this godly figure worldwide. Take your time to explore the main Hindu temple and enjoy this mystic place and its spirituality! If you are lucky you might even see wild monkeys enjoying fruits along the path surrounding the temple and the lake.
Good to know:
Keep in mind that Ganga Talao is a holy and therefore precious place for Hindus. It is common for visitors having to take off their shoes before entering some areas of the site. Furthermore, you should make sure to dress respectfully, which means not to wear shorts or very low-cut tops.
It is possible to visit the sacred lake during the whole year. An entrance fee is not demanded but donations are welcome.
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