Renuka Lake, about 40 km northeast of Nahan, is the largest natural lake in Himachal Pradesh — a long, narrow body of water in a wooded bowl, sacred to the goddess Renuka. The 3-km circuit around the shore takes 90 minutes and passes a small temple, a tiny zoo with native ungulates, and a series of viewpoints. Rowboats are available on the water in good weather.
The annual Renuka Fair in November is the main draw, but the lake is at its best for ordinary visits between October and March when the weather is dry and the surrounding sal forest is at its greenest. Avoid the monsoon months — leeches, mud, and limited boat access.