Located some 1800 feet above sea level, the Grand Bassin is a famous temple of Lord Shiva and is well worth the visit while in Mauritius.
How to reach
The fasted way to get to the Grand Bassin from the Mauritius Airport is to rent a car or take a cab. The drive will take approximately 23- 25 minutes. Alternatively, many of the best resorts in Mauritius including the likes of The Residence Mauritius will arrange for transport upon request. So if you are interested, make sure you check with your hotel’s front desk for transport options / tour guides.
Best time to visit
The most ideal time to visit the Grand Bassin Lake is usually between the time period of May to December. The weather is calm, pleasant with rain showers quite rare. The best time to make your way down to the lake is usually early morning when the sunshine is mild and there are fewer crowds.
The cultural importance
The Grand Bassin Lake is believed to be a holy site in the Hindu faith and is believed to have originated from the sacred river of Ganga in India. The Grand Bassin also happens to be of the largest and most important Hindu pilgrimage site outside of India, and sees the Maha Shivaratri pilgrimage take place annually between February and March.
Travel tips for visiting Grand Bassin
It’s always a good idea to arrive at Grand Bassin early in the day in order to avoid the crowds. Do make sure to remove your footwear prior to entering any of the places of worship at Ganga Talao.
