Surrounded by lush forest supporting a variety of animal and bird life, Renuka Lake is not only an idyllic holiday resort but also a revered pilgrim centre. Mythology has it that the Parshuram Tal, which appears shaped in the profile of a sleeping lady, was created to mark the immortality of Renuka, the wife of 'Rishi Jamdagni'.

It is believed that Rishi Jamdagni, displeased by his wife Renuka, instructed his son Parshuram to behead her. The son obeyed his father's wishes. Pleased at Parshuram's loyalty, the Rishi granted his son a wish, and Parshuram asked for the restoration of his mother to life.

ATTRACTION
TEMPLES

The Math: The main temple at Renuka, the Math was constructed by the invading Gurkhas in 1814. The temple houses an image of Renuka Devi, Parshuram's mother.    

WILDLIFE

Mini Zoo: A small zoological park on the banks of the Renuka Lake has a representative collection of the local fauna. Some of the animals that can be spotted over here include Asiatic lions, spotted deer, lion tailed macaques, 'nilgai', 'mithun', barking deer and Himalayan black bears. Adjoining the zoo, an armoured van enters the large enclosure allowing for a close glimpse of the lions within.

Wildlife Sanctuary: The wildlife sanctuary in the thick forest around the lake is inhabited by a variety of deer and pheasants. The lake also supports a large number of water birds.   

LAKES

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 by her embodiment. There is a row of temples along its banks, and a track encircles the waters. Facilities for boating on the Renuka Lake are available through the office of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation.  

Parashurama Tal and Renuka temple: 
At the base of Renuka temple, this large pool is considered to embrace Lord Parashurama, who wished to 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 Renukji is here. Both mother and son are reunited every year at a celebratory fair held in November.

OTHERS

Jamu Peak: 
Directly above the lake is this peak where 'Rishi Jamdagini' 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.

Jataun: 5-kms from Renuka is the Giri Hydel Project dam and angling for Mahseer fish may be done