Kamrunag Temple

Kamrunag Temple is a high-altitude Hindu shrine located at approximately 3,334 meters in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. Dedicated to Dev Kamrunag, a serpent deity associated with the Mahabharata, the temple sits beside a sacred glacial lake surrounded by dense deodar forests. Pilgrims undertake a steep 6-kilometer trek from Rohanda village to reach this revered site, known for its scenic views and religious significance.

Visitors can expect a challenging mountain trek of 3-4 hours through dense deodar forests to reach the temple and adjacent lake at 3,334 meters altitude. The site features a traditional pent-roof temple structure and a sacred glacial lake where devotees offer gold, silver, and coins. The surroundings offer panoramic views of the Dhauladhar Range and Balh Valley. There are no facilities at the summit, requiring visitors to be self-sufficient with water, food, and warm clothing.

The temple's origins trace back to the Mahabharata period, where Dev Kamrunag is identified with Barbarika (also known as Barbrik), grandson of Bhima. According to legend, Barbarika pledged his head to Lord Krishna and was granted the boon to witness the Kurukshetra war. Oral histories indicate worship dating to at least the 8th century, with the present structure believed to date from the 14th century. The deity was formally adopted into the royal pantheon during Raja Ajbar Sen's reign in the 1500s.

Dev Kamrunag is one of the most revered hill deities in Mandi district, traditionally known as the King Yaksha and Lord of Rain. The temple holds significant importance in Mandi's famous Shivratri fair, where Kamrunag is among the most respected deities. The annual Kamrunag Mela attracts pilgrims from across Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and beyond. The sacred lake is associated with wealth-granting Yakshas, and devotees traditionally offer gold, silver, and coins upon fulfillment of wishes.