Sirmaur Renuka Devi Temple – Himachal Pradesh

Address

Sirmaur Renuka Devi Temple Renuka Ji, Sirmaur Himachal Pradesh 173022

Deity

Amman: Renuka Devi

Introduction

Location:

• The Renuka Devi Temple is situated approximately 98 km from Ambala and 36 km from Nahan in Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh. Renuka is renowned for its sacred temples and holy lakes, making it a significant pilgrimage destination.

Puranic Significance

Temple Complex:

• The Renuka Devi Temple complex is built on the banks of Parashurama Lake and consists of four temples:
  • Vishnu Avatar Temples: The first temple features pink domes adorned with beautiful murals, housing the ten avatars of Bhagwan Vishnu.
  • Purani Deorhi (Ancient Shrine of Parashurama): This shrine, topped with a Shikhara roof, contains a stunning murti of Parashurama, equipped with his warlike attributes.
  • Shri Parashurameshvara Mandir: Located behind the Parashurama shrine, this small white temple depicts Parashurama worshipping a panchamukha linga of Lord Shiva, facing the serene waters of Parashurama Lake.
  • Renuka Devi Temple: A flight of stairs leads to the temple dedicated to Renuka Devi, who is depicted in the sanctum sanctorum dressed in dazzling red and holding red bangles in her right hand, symbolizing her devotion to her husband.
• Above the temple complex, there is another temple dedicated to Parashurama, built by the Kings of Sirmaur, signifying the region’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage.

Special Features

Holy Lakes:

• Renuka Lake and Parashuram Lake: The area is also famed for its two holy lakes, attracting countless pilgrims seeking a holy dip.
  • An underground channel connects the two lakes, with Parashuram Lake formed by the overflow from Renuka Lake.
  • As visitors approach Parashuram Lake, they encounter a life-size image of Renuka Devi enshrined in a unique square temple with grilled walls and a concrete roof.
  • Nearby is the sacred Ram Baoli, a holy tank, while Renuka Lake itself resembles a sleeping woman, embodying the legend of Renuka’s self-sacrifice, which sanctified the lake.

Festivals

• Annual Fair: A popular fair is held at the temple complex during the Kartik month (October-November). During this event, a brass murti of Parashurama is transported on a silver palanquin from the neighboring Jamu Village, located on an adjacent hill.
• Oracle Ritual: The temple priest assumes the role of an oracle, entering a trance state to provide answers to the villagers’ queries, adding a unique spiritual dimension to the festivities.

Century/Period/Age

1000 Years old

Managed By

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)

Nearest Bus Station

Nahan

Nearest Railway Station

Chandi Mandir

Nearest Airport

Chandigarh

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