Kamrunag Lake, situated at an altitude of 3,334 meters above sea level in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a popular pilgrimage site. The lake is surrounded by the valleys of Balh and the Dhauladhar range, and a steep on-foot route from Rohanda to Kamrunag, approximately 6 km long, takes about 3-4 hours to complete.
In July 2020, the Himachal Pradesh State Biodiversity Board declared Kamrunag Lake and the surrounding area a Biodiversity Heritage Site, protecting the area’s medicinal plants and special trees.
According to local folklore, Dev Kamrunag, a deity, appears every year in June to bless devotees who offer flowers, coins, or paper currency to the lake. A stone idol of Dev Kamrunag near the lake is the reason for its name. An annual fair is held during this time, attracting thousands of visitors.
Legend has it that the lake contains riches worth millions or even billions, but no one has attempted to steal from it because misfortune follows those who do. It is believed that the lake is guarded by its protectors who keep it safe from those with ill intentions. As a result, people from all over the world and India visit the lake to offer gold, silver, coins, and currency notes for the fulfillment of their wishes.
The lake’s name has its roots in the story of Barbarika from the Mahabharata, who wanted to fight in the war and was advised by his mother to support the losing side. Lord Krishna, who knew that the Kaurava side would lose, tested Barbarika’s skills and eventually asked for his head. Barbarika agreed but asked to watch the Mahabharata before his death. Lord Krishna granted his wish and blessed his body as Kamru, to be worshipped forever.
Kamrunag Lake, situated at an altitude of 3,334m in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India, has a fascinating legend attached to it. The lake was built by Prince Bhima, the second Pandava brother, in honor of the King of Yakshas, who is mentioned in the Mahabharata. Yakshas are believed to be celestial guardians of hidden wealth on earth, and people visit the lake to offer gold and silver to the sacred waters in the hope of receiving blessings and wish fulfillment from the Yaksha who resides there.
The locals revere Kamrunag Devta as the deity presiding over rainfall and have built a temple near the lake to offer ceremonial prayers to him. The lake has been named after the temple due to its proximity to it.
Kamrunag Temple, located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India, is a popular pilgrimage site and is known for its fairs and festivals. The temple is dedicated to Kamrunag Devta, the deity presiding over rainfall, and is situated near the Kamrunag Lake.
One of the most significant festivals celebrated at the Kamrunag Temple is the Kamrunag Mela, which is held every year during the month of June. It is a three-day-long festival that attracts thousands of devotees from different parts of the country. During the festival, devotees offer flowers, coins, and paper currency to the deity, seeking his blessings for prosperity, good health, and happiness. The fair also includes cultural programs, folk dances, and local delicacies, making it a lively and colorful celebration.
Another festival celebrated at the Kamrunag Temple is the Diwali Mela, which is held during the Diwali festival. The temple is beautifully decorated with lights and flowers, and special puja is performed to seek the blessings of Kamrunag Devta. The fair also includes various stalls selling traditional clothes, handicrafts, and local delicacies.
Apart from these festivals, the temple also celebrates various other religious events throughout the year, including Navratri, Janmashtami, and Shivratri. These festivals provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the rich culture and traditions of Himachal Pradesh and seek the blessings of the deity.
JKamrunag Temple, located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, offers a serene and peaceful environment for visitors to enjoy and explore. Here are some things to do in Kamrunag Temple:
The best time to visit Kamrunag Temple is during the summer months of May and June when the weather is pleasant and the region is not affected by heavy rainfall or snowfall. This is also the time when the annual fair is held in the temple, which attracts a large number of devotees and tourists.
It is important to note that the temple is located at an altitude of 10,938 ft, so visitors should be prepared for the high altitude and carry warm clothes to protect themselves from the cold weather. The temple can also be visited during the monsoon months of July and August, but it is advised to check weather conditions before planning the trip as the region is prone to landslides during this time. The temple is generally closed during the winter months of December to March due to heavy snowfall.
Kamrunag Temple is located in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, India. The temple is situated at an altitude of 3,334 m (10,938 ft) above sea level and can be reached by a trek of about 6 km from Rohanda.
The nearest airport is in Bhuntar, which is about 70 km away from Mandi. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Rohanda. The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is about 50 km from Mandi. One can take a taxi or a bus from there to reach Rohanda.
Rohanda is well connected by road and can be reached by buses and taxis from major cities in Himachal Pradesh like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala. Once you reach Rohanda, the temple can be reached by a trek of about 6 km. The trek takes around 3-4 hours and passes through steep mountain terrain, so it is recommended to hire a guide for the trek.
There are several attractions near Kamrunag Temple that visitors can explore: