Hindu temple on the crater lake of Grand Bassin

One of the most important Hindu temple complexes outside India. On record-breaking pilgrimage days, especially during the Maha Shivaratri festival, between 250,000 and 500,000 pilgrims gather at the sacred lake of Gran Bassen (Ganga Talao). If you don't want to get caught up in such crowds, check online when the Maha Shivaratri festival takes place.

We stopped by in the morning and were the only ones there, except for the morning birds, fish and monkeys. Near the lake, you can climb up to the observation deck (-20.419778, 57.491556) and walk along the water. We were only able to walk part of the way, as the water level in the lake had risen and flooded the paths.

Statues of gods and sacred symbols are installed along the shores of the lake, including a huge 33-metre-high statue of Shiva.


























Getting there: car park -20.420694, 57.493222