Renukaji

Renuka ji is an important pilgrim centre ,associated with Parasuram,anincarnation of Lord Vishnu,who killed his mother on the orders of his father sage Jamdagni.

The annual fair held here in November, celebrates the immortality of Renuka and her son.

Renuka Lake

The sacred lake shaped like a sleeping woman is one of the most beautiful andthe largest lake in Himachal Pradesh. The placid lake with a circumference of 2.5 kms. is set amidst thickly wooded hills. A road is built around the lake and number of shrines dot its embarkments. Boating facilities are available but fishing is prohibited.

How to Get There

Renuka ji is connected by road. It is 315 km from Delhi, Nahan is 45 Kms.away. The nearest rail heads are at Ambala (95 km), Dehradun (105 km) and Chandigarh (95 km). The nearest airports are at Chandigarh and Dehradun. Taxis/buses are available for Renukaji at all places.

Climate

In winter, the climate is pleasant and medium woolens are suggested. Summer temperature are high and cottons are recommended.

Places of Interest in and Around Renukaji

Gayatri Temple The temple on left bank of Renuka Lake is dedicated to Ma Gayatri, The mother of Vedas, The treasure of Hindu wisdom. It enshrines a 1.60 metre high Panch Mukhi Ma Gayatri marble statue, marble idols of Ganapati, Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva, Lord Bramha and Lord Indra.

Parashurama Tal and Renuka Temple (100m)
At the base of the Renuka lake, this large pool is considered to embrance Lord Parshurama, who ished to spend all eternity at his mother's feet. Reportedly built overnight by an invading force of Gurkhas in early 19th Centry, the original temple of Renukaji is here. Both mother and son are reunited every year at a celebratory fair held in November.

Jamu Peak (8km)
Above the lake is the peak where Rishi Jamadagini is said to have meditated. A footpath leads to this. There is a small temple and it offers an excellent view of the lake and surrounding area.

Mini zoo (2km)
You can boat across the lake or drive to this zoo, which has Asiatic lions, spotted deer, lion tailed macaques, 'nilgai', mithun, barking, deer and Himalayan Blackbears.

Lion Safari (2km)
Adjoining the zoo, an armoured van enters the large enclosure allowing for a close glimpse of the lions within.

Jataun (5km)
The dam of the Giri hydel project is here and angling for Mahaseer (river carp) may be done.