Weekend getaway from Chandigarh · #10 of 10
Renuka Lake
Himachal's largest natural lake, a Ramsar wetland shaped like a reclining goddess, ringed by a 3 km forest parikrama and the Renukaji temple. Go via the old hill town of Nahan; November brings the five-day Renuka fair.
Trade city buzz for a soulful lake escape in Sirmaur! Circle Himachal's largest natural lake on a breezy 3 km trail, visit the sacred waterside Renuka temple, and soak up vintage royal charm in Nahan along the way.
Getting there
An easy 125 km drive; just take it slow on the twisty, scenic 38 km Shivalik forest stretch between Nahan and Renuka.
Day 1 - Saturday
Winding through Shivalik pine slopes to the sacred lake- 17:30 AMDrive
Drive to Nahan
Roll out early on NH7 past Panchkula as the road smoothly climbs the breezy Shivaliks toward Nahan, Sirmaur's historic royal capital at 85 km.
- 210:00 AMSight
Nahan halt
Stretch your legs in this charming 17th-century hill town. Wander pristine cobbled lanes, peep into temple squares, and take a quick breezy loop around the garden-lined old lake tank.
📍 Nahan, Himachal Pradesh
Tip · Fill up your tank and grab ATM cash here - fuel stations and cash points get scarce as you near Renuka.
- 310:45 AMDrive
Forest road to Renuka
Roll down the windows for the final 38 km, curving through fragrant sal and pine groves down into the tranquil lake basin at Dadahu.
- 412:30 PMFood
Lakeside lunch
Fuel up before your afternoon walk with a steaming plate of Maggi, crispy pakoras, or a comforting local thali from the relaxed stalls by the lake gate.
📍 Renuka Ji, Himachal Pradesh
- 52:00 PMSight
Renukaji Temple
Step into this serene waterside shrine dedicated to goddess Renuka, mother of Parashurama. It is the heart of a revered pilgrimage, with the lake itself believed to be her living form.
📍 Renuka Ji Temple, Sirmaur
- 63:30 PMActivity
Lake parikrama walk
Wander the shady 3.2 km trail circling Himachal's biggest natural lake - a protected Ramsar wetland. Spot blooming lotus beds, playful canopy langurs, and mirror-still water.
📍 Renuka Lake, Sirmaur
Tip · Follow the pilgrim tradition by walking clockwise, and stash your snacks away so curious monkeys do not snatch them!
- 75:00 PMActivity
Boating at the lake jetty
If the jetty is open, grab a pedal boat and drift across peaceful waters just as late-afternoon golden light bathes the lush surrounding ridges.
📍 Renuka Lake, Sirmaur
- 87:00 PMStay
Overnight by the lake
Check into a cozy lakeside lodge at Renuka Ji to wake up right by the water, catching the magical morning mist before the daytime crowd rolls in.
📍 Renuka Ji, Himachal Pradesh
Tip · Planning a trip during the vibrant November fair? Lock in your stay well in advance because rooms sell out fast.
Day 2 - Sunday
Morning mist on the water and a slow crawl back home- 98:00 AMFood
Breakfast by the water
Savor hot, buttery paranthas and steaming cups of chai while watching morning mist drift off the glassy lake.
📍 Renuka Ji, Himachal Pradesh
- 109:00 AMActivity
Morning birdwatching on the wetland
Early mornings on this Ramsar wetland are magic - spot kingfishers, cormorants, and winter waterfowl in the shallows. Take a gentle second walk or just relax at the ghats.
📍 Renuka Lake, Sirmaur
- 1110:30 AMSight
Parshuram Tal and temple complex
Explore the sacred pool beside the main lake honoring Parashurama. During November's 5-day fair, his palanquin arrives here from Jamu Koti to celebrate a legendary mother-son reunion.
📍 Renuka Ji, Himachal Pradesh
- 1212:00 PMFood
Early lunch at Dadahu
Grab a delicious, piping-hot dhaba meal in Dadahu to power up before you start driving back up into the Shivalik hills.
📍 Dadahu, Himachal Pradesh
- 131:00 PMDrive
Drive to Nahan
Head back up the 38 km forest road to Nahan, enjoying the shaded curves and keeping an eye out for curious langurs along the roadside.
- 142:15 PMSight
Nahan garden-lake stroll
Enjoy a relaxed final stop in Nahan to wander the old tank's gardens and temple steps, then pick up fresh local sweets from the bazaar for the ride.
📍 Nahan, Himachal Pradesh
- 153:15 PMDrive
Drive back to Chandigarh
Cruise down NH7 through the rolling foothills - you will be back in the Tricity in an easy 2.5 hours from Nahan.
Where to eat
The ultimate lake-view comfort combo - nothing beats slurping spicy noodles and crunchy pakoras by the shore.
Classic roadside comfort: hearty rajma and traditional Himachali madra served steaming hot with fresh rotis.
When to go
Crisp, sunny days and peaceful vibes - except in November, when the vibrant 5-day Renuka fair brings thousands of pilgrims and festive energy.
It gets warm at this 672 m elevation, but the dense canopy keeps trails pleasant. Bring sunglasses and a hat if you are heading out on the water.
The hills turn lush and emerald-green, though you will want to drive cautiously as the Nahan-Dadahu road can get slippery during downpours.
Good to know
- Treat the lake with care: swimming is strictly off-limits, and feed the sacred fish only at designated feeding spots.
- Visiting in November? Expect lively festival crowds and high energy rather than a quiet wilderness retreat.
