Information:
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. 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.
Attractions:
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, goddess Renuka’s son. You may enjoy boating at the Renuka Lake. Close by is a temple dedicated to the goddess Renuka. The Lake is the venue of the annual Renuka Fair that takes place in the month of November. As a part of the celebrations there are competitions and recreational activities taxingly places on the banks of the Renuka Lake.
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.
Travel Information:
- By Air: The airports at Chandigarh and Dehradun cater to the air transport to Renuka. The former is at a distance of 95 km whereas the later is 126 km away. Then there is the airport at Gaggal near Dharamshala too.
- By Rail: The railheads at Pathankot, Ambala, Dehradun, and Chandigarh cater to the rail transport to Renuka
- By Road: The excellent road network links Renukaji with most of the important places through buses and taxis. The State road transport services of the Punjab Roadways & Himachal Roadways may be used to commute to and from Renuka.
