#MonsoonAdventures: Contribution for monsoon adventure stories challenge by @DurgaK03
We started our road trip from Delhi in the evening and reached Renukaji quite late at night. I was driving, and honestly, most of the route didn’t feel like we were heading to a hill station at all. No scenic mountain views, just a long dusty stretch, and the last 10 km was under construction. It was almost midnight when we were navigating that lonely stretch — no other cars, no locals, just a couple of trucks. For a moment, we truly thought, “Did we just pick the wrong destination?”
But finally, we reached Renuka Lake after a drive of around 6 hours.
Google Maps Location - https://maps.app.goo.gl/XzPQcPH5m72nAQKY7
But things changed as soon as we reached our hotel - HPTDC The Renuka. The rooms were huge, and the bathrooms were even bigger. That’s the charm of government hotels - spacious rooms and basic but honest hospitality. We were too tired to think much and just crashed for the night.
Next morning, we woke up to a beautiful surprise - it had rained at night. When we stepped out into the balcony, everything was drenched and fresh.
Right in front of us was a lush green lawn leading to a serene lake filled with pink water lilies (or was it lotuses, I can never understand the difference). We rubbed our eyes in disbelief. It felt like an oasis in the middle of the desert.
We spent the day boating on the lake, spotting animals inside the small wildlife sanctuary, and visiting Renukaji and Parshuram temples - a rare pair of mother-son temples at one spot. (The only other one I can recall is the Hidimba-Ghatotkach combo in Manali).
There isn’t much around Renukaji in terms of local eateries or touristy spots. Honestly, we didn’t mind. It felt more like a staycation - slow, easy, and peaceful. Most of our time was spent in and around the hotel. We’d go for long walks, roam around the temple area, buy little packets of fish food and feed the fishes in the river.
The lush green surroundings were more than enough for us to unwind and soak in the monsoon vibe.
That night, there was a power cut, and the hotel couldn’t fix it immediately. But what they did instead - totally made our trip. They offered to serve us dinner on the terrace.
It was still a bit wet from the rain, and we asked if we could take our wine along. Not only did they say yes, but they also brought us proper wine glasses and set up a small candle-lit table. I was with friends, not a date, but it still felt super special.
What started off as a doubtful weekend plan turned into one of the most memorable monsoon trips ever. Sometimes the best memories are made when you least expect them!
By the way, this trip was way back in 2012 — no wonder I’m looking much younger in the photos. Don’t let that confuse you!
