Renuka has a beautiful and sacred oval-shaped lake. It is the largest natural lake in Himachal. Fed by underwater springs the lake has a circumference of 2.5 km. The shape resembles the profile of a reclining woman. The lake rests in a long valley and the surrounding woods are covered by a dense forest. It is best viewed from the hilltop above.

The Renuka lake is surrounded by temples and ghats. The Renuka ji temple is a peach-coloured twin-dome. There is an idol of Sri Renuka ji (Parshuram's mother). There is also the temple of Vishnu. Next to the Renuka lake lies the Parshuram Tal, which is a much smaller lake.
According to the Puranas, Renuka is considered the birthplace of Parshuram, the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Jamdagni and his wife Renuka are believed to have meditated on the hill above Renuka. Their son Parshuram later pleased Lord Shiva with his penance and received a divine weapon, Parshu.

A major fair is held here in November. On Dashmi, the idol of Parshuram is brought from the ancient Jammu Koti temple and carried down in a silver palanquin in a traditional procession. The pilgrims camp by the lake for the next five days.

At Renuka you can start with a walk around the lake. Many species of water birds are seen, including migratory birds. There are boating facilities. There is a mini zoo and wildlife sanctuary as well. The Renuka zoo is the oldest in the state and was opened in 1957.

Places to stay: Himachal Tourism’s Hotel Renuka is available at Renuka. It commands a great view of the lake with just a road dividing its terraced gardens from the waters. Private hotels and guest houses are also available. Renuka is 45 km from Nahan.