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Renukaji Tourism

Renuka Lake, Himachal Pradesh

The Renuka Lake (672 m) is regarded as the embodiment of Renukaji, the wife of the sage Jamadagini and the mother of Parshurama - one of the ten `Avatars` of Lord Vishnu. Shaped like the profile of a woman, the lake has the circumference of 2.5 km and is the largest in Himachal. This placid stretch of water is fed by underground springs and the surrounding hills are padded by lush forests that support a large variety of plant and animal life. Boating and trekking are the additional attractions of Renukaji, whose natural beauty has to be seen to be believed. Here is a perfect year-around destination that beckons every traveller.

Jamu Peak

Directly above the lake is this peak where Rishi Jamadagini is said to have mediated. A footpath leads to this. There is a small temple and it offers an excellent view of the lake and surrounding area.

Prashurama Tal and Renuka temple

At the base of the Renuka lake, this large pool is considered to embrace Lord Parshurama, who wished too spend all eternity at his mother's feet. Reportedly built overnight by an invading force of Gurkhas in early 19th century, the original temple of Renukaji is here. Both mother and son are reunited every year at a celebratory fair held in November.

Renuka Lake

Legend has it that when the evil Sahasarjuna killed the sage Jamadagini and tried to abduct his wife Renuka, she flung herself into these waters. The gods restored her to life and this lake is regarded to be her embodiment. There is a row of temples along its banks, and a track encircles the waters. Boats are available on hire from the hotel.

Jataun

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

Lion Safari

Adjoining the zoo, an armoured van enters the large enclosure allowing for a close glimpse of the lions within.

Mini Zoo

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 black bears.

By Air

The nearest Airports are at Chandigarh and Dehradun.

By Rail

The nearest rail heads are at Ambala (95 km), Dehradun (126 km) and Chandigarh (95 km).

By Road

Renukaji is connected by road. It is 335 km from Delhi.

Taxis/buses are available for Renukaji at all places.