The Grand Bassin volcanic lake, also known as Ganga Talao, is located 550 metres above sea level and is considered the most sacred Hindu site in Mauritius.

There are several Hindu temples around the lake and the place is also very popular among tourists.

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Giant statues and Hindu temples

The unmistakable landmark of the place are the two giant 33 meter high statues towering on either side of the main approach road from the east.

• Mangal Mahadev - Shiva - the main statue of the Hindu god Shiva towers on the right side of the road and is the tallest statue in Mauritius (a few centimetres taller than the neighbouring statue)
• Durga Mata Murti - a statue of the famous goddess with a golden lion

Around the lake itself you will find a total of 11 temples or shrines, the most important of which are those right on the water - Ganga Talao Temple and Shiva Mandir Temple.

You will then find other smaller temples along the road.

We also recommend climbing the short staircase to the Hanuman Shrine, which offers panoramic views of the entire Grand Bassin area.

Tourist visit to the temples

All temples are freely accessible to tourists. You don't have to be a Hindu, you can enter the temples easily and free of charge.

However, please follow the rules and always undress before entering the interior.

It is advisable to keep your shoulders and knees covered, but no one checks or strictly requires it. You are, however, showing respect.

How to get in

Because Grand Bassin is a frequent site of mass pilgrimages and Hindu festival celebrations, a wide, multi-lane road leads here.

However, you can only get here by car - there are no buses to Ganga Talao.

The Le Morne area is 30 km away, the airport is 25 km away and the resort of Trou-aux-Biches is 58 km away.

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