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Kamrunag Lake is a mystical site located deep within the Seraj Valley of Mandi district. The lake is beside the ancient temple of Kamrunag, also known as Bada Dev Kamrunag. The site is surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered peaks. Pilgrims from across India, especially from Himachal, visit the holy place every year. They follow a trek to the Kamrunag Temple for blessings and witness the untamed beauty of the region. People offer gold jewelry for their wishes getting fulfilled. The devotees offer coins, paper currency, gold etc. into the lake. These offerings are not retrieved. It is believed that the lake has collected an untold amount of gold, but no one dares to disturb it. According to the locals, Dev Kamrunag protects the place. Even today, the lake remains untouched by the outsiders.
The lake and the deity are associated with the Mahabharata. According to the legends, Barbarika, the son of Ghatotkacha, wished to join the war in support of whichever side was losing. Lord Krishna interrupted him in the form of a Brahman and challenged him to check his power. Upon his successful test, Lord Krishna asked alms from him and demanded his head. Barbarika could not deny it, and Krishna blessed him that he would be worshipped. The Kamrunag Lake and the temple signify the timeless bond between mythology, nature, and Himachali culture.
How to reach?
From every major city, you have to reach Chail Chowk. The distance of Chail Chowk is 42 km from Pandoh and 29 km from Mandi. From there, two routes lead to Kamrunag—one via Saroa and the other through Shala. However, there is another route via Rohanda. Through Rohanda, it is a long trek of almost 6 km. People mostly follow one of the two common routes—Saroa or Shala. Locals are familiar with the routes and make the journey on their own. However, for those who are new to this place, it is strongly recommended not to go alone. The route can be confusing, especially after Chail Chowk, and the mobile connectivity is not reliable there. So, do not rely on online maps or navigation apps. For a first-time visitor, it is best to travel with someone who is familiar with the place.
The Trek to the Kamrunag Lake
The trek to Kamrunag starts from a place called Khunda. Khunda, in local dialect, is a small and thick piece of wood half buried in the ground for marking. No vehicle is allowed beyond this place; however, people tried to extend the road beyond this point, but only Dev Kamrunag decides it all. Reaching Kamrunag is a mystic experience in itself. Dense forests of deodar trees cover both sides of the trek. There are various herbs and trees in the forest. The trek is clearly marked and neatly paved with the flat stones. The path is even, so it becomes easy to follow it. Here is a quick video from the trek:
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the place is between April and June. The height of Kamrunag is around 3,334 meters, and there is a lot of snowfall during the winter. And during monsoon season, the road remains in poor condition. Plan your trip during the months when the weather is most favorable.
Where to Stay?
If you are coming from some far place, you definitely need a break before the actual start of the journey to Kamrunag. There are places like Chail Chowk and Devidarh where you can find a cozy stay. If you want us to plan the trip, you can call us, or we can arrange a callback for you. Watch the video for a detailed itinerary which include Shikari Devi also:
