This volcanic lake is above all a symbol, because it is where Shiva is believed to have let a few drops of the Ganges fall. Every year in January or February a gigantic pilgrimage takes place here, the Maha Shivaratree, attracting hundreds of thousands of believers who come to bathe in the purifying waters of Grand Bassin to honour the god. But whenever you choose to visit, you cannot fail but appreciate what an important site it is for Hinduism, the religion practised by half of Mauritians.