Renuka Lake

Hill Stations Tours >> Lakes & Rivers • Renuka Lake

The enchanting Renuka Lake, in Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh, at an altitude of 672 m above sea level Renuka is a sacred place that attracts tourists and pilgrims alike in Himachal Pradesh. Iis believed to be the embodiment of Renukaji, sage Jamadagini's wife and the mother of Parshurama - one of the ten `avatars' of Lord Vishnu. Acoording to a local legend, when the evil Sahasarjuna killed sage Jamadagini and attempted to abduct the latter's wife, Renuka, she threw herself into these waters. The gods brought her back to life, and consequently, this lake is considered to be her embodiment. Shaped like a sleeping woman, the lake is the largest in the entire state. This tranquil water body is fed by underground springs, and the lush forest cover embracing it, houses many a species of flora and fauna. Apart from the haunting natural beauty of this area, Renukaji also offers boating and trekking facilities to the adventurous at heart.

Renuka(Sight Seeing)

Renuka Lake The Renuka Lake is a major landmark in the hill resort of Renuka. The Renuka ji Lake boasts of being the largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh and is dedicated to Goddess Renuka. Close by is another lake of Parshuram,

Parashurama Tal and Renuka Temple: Located at the base of the Renuka Lake is the Parashurama Tal, a massive pool embodying, it is believed, Parashurama, who desired to spend eternity at his mother's feet. Mother and son are reunited every year at the great Renuka Fair, held on banks of the lake, in the month of November.The original temple of Renukaji, is said to have been built overnight by a contingent of Gurkhas in the early 19th century.

Jamu Peak: Just above the revered lake, is the Jamu Peak, where Rishi Jamadagini is believed to have meditated. There is a temple at the spot, which offers a fantastic bird's eyeview of the surroundings.

Mini Zoo: Around the lake is a small zoo that has Asiatic lions, spotted deer, Himalayan black bears, barking deer and other species.

Lion Safari: Directly adjacent to the zoo is the Lion Safari, a large enclosure. An armoured van is the preferred means of observing these big cats, from a close range.



Excursion 60 km from Renuka is the historic gurudwara of Poanta Sahib on the banks of the river Yamuna. The tenth Sikh guru, guru Gobind Singh lived here for four and a halfyrs & also fought his first battle at nearby Bhangani.



Weather Renuka is an ideal hill resort that experience pleasant weather in the summer months. Though in the winter months the temperatures drop drastically.