Renuka Lake Tours

With a circumference of 3214m, Renukaji is the largest natural lake in Himachal. Shaped like the profile of a reclining woman, this is regarded as the embodiment of the goddess 'Renuka'. Near the lake's feet is another lake held sacred to her son, 'Parshurama'. Both have temples built around them and the main temple to Renuka is regarded to have been built overnight in the 18th century. The lake rests in a long valley and the surrounding slopes are covered with a variety of vegetation and thick woods. Boating is available on the lake.

Renuka Lake and the temples attract a large number of people from hills and plains. Forests and the catchments of the lake add to its beauty and attraction. The Renuka Sanctuary also adds much to the ambience of the place. It is home to a large number of animals including Asiatic lions, spotted deer, lion tailed macaques, peacocks, nilgai or large Grey Indian antelope, barking deer and Himalayan black bears. Around the place flutter thousands of gorgeous butterflies. There's a small aviary here, which houses a variety of water birds, red jungle fowl, black pheasant and peacock. Adjoining the zoo is a big lion safari and the Department of Forest provides an armored van, which enters the large enclosures allowing a closer glimpse of at least two dozen well-bred lions. A tourist bungalow and cafeteria cater to visitors.

HOW TO GET THERE:
About every hour or so a bus from Nahan goes to Dadahu, from where you can walk for about 40 minutes to the lake. Some buses continue to the lake though.

WHERE TO STAY:
HPTDC's Hotel Renuka.