Hidden away amongst the gorgeous hills of Himachal Pradesh, the Kamrunag Temple Mela is a serene environment filled with faith and natural beauty. This annual fair is more than mere worship; it involves soaking in the calm ponder of the mountains and the warmth of local culture, along with the deep-rooted faith people have in Kamrunag Devta.
So if you ever intend to make a trip there, these are ten incredible things that truly make it utterly memorable:
1. A Powerful Atmosphere of Faith and Devotion
One can see people walking barefoot during the mela, with many carrying offerings to the temple in their hands, some even accompanied by their families, as they have done so to fulfill a vow they made to the deity beforehand. It is believed that Kamrunag hears prayers from honest hearts and blesses those whose hearts are pure. This strong faith binds people together, strangers become friends, and this feeling of being part of a universal entity is indeed heart-touching.
2. The Calm and Quiet Atmosphere
As you begin your journey toward the Kamrunag Temple, there seems to be a change in the atmosphere. Gradually, a disappearance of the city sounds takes place, and nature’s audible offerings come forward. You walk through thick forests filled with sounds-emitting birds and cool breezes. Even before reaching the temple, this very silence starts nurturing a calmness inside you and gives clarity to your thoughts. That silence is not empty; it resonates with complete tranquility. This is one of the strongest reasons that draws people to Kamrunag again and again.
READ MORE: My Best Trip to Kamrunag Temple & Kamrunag Lake!
3. Summer Perfection of Climate
Kamrunag Mela is typically held in June or July, which means it is summer season in India. Yet, unlike the hot weather prevailing almost everywhere else, it stays cool and fresh in Kamrunag. The mountains stay green till the last minute, the breeze is gentle, and the sun keeps its face subdued-not very bright and sparkling away. That is the charm of visiting this land. You can walk here without any rest, sit down beside the temple at leisure, and enjoy the very beauty of the place without hating yourself for sweating.
4. Splendid Views of The Mountains
The draws of the place and the views give visitors’ hearts ever so much experience. The temple stands way above valleys and gives you a 360-degree view of the green hills, with tall trees and allied with some snow-laden mountains.
Early mornings and evenings are special to behold-the sun gentle with the hills-has to be witnessed forever. Often, visitors just sit and enjoy a long pensive pause appreciating the view of the Himalayas.
5. A Sacred and Mysterious Kamrunag Lake
Situated beside the temple is a calm and sacrosanct lake, Kamrunag Lake, which is particularly dear to the devotees. The devotees throw coins, silver, and even gold into the lake as a symbol of their faith, wishing the fulfillment of their wishes. It is said that the lake respects the deposits and, in gratitude of respect, no one ever retrieves them. The water is crystal clear, and the surface reflects the colour of the sky and the green trees like a mirror. Sitting near this lake gives one the feeling of sitting beside something very magical and pure.
6. Scenic Beauty of Kamrunag and Apple Gardens
On each side of the Mela is the vast expanse of Himalayas. The calm and serene Kamrunag Lake reflects the tall snow-capped mountains-yet-worth-the-view, peaceful spot to just relax or capture some memories. Around the temple, one finds dense forests of pine and cedar trees, filling the air with a pleasant aroma that feels soothing to the spirit.
7. Local Himachali Cuisine of Kamrunag Temple
Mela provides a gastronomic experience with hawkers selling mouthwatering Himachali food made from fresh and local ingredients. The food to try during this fair is Dham, a South Indian meal served in plate form with rice, dal, and different curries which are simple yet rich in taste. Siddu is soft bread which is steamed and filled with spiced nuts or poppy seeds, and served as a warm snack.
8. Starry Night Camping
Camping near the Kamrunag Temple (with proper permissions) is an ethereal experience. At night, thousands of stars twinkle over the clear Himalayan skies, away from city lights. Set the camp near the temple or lakeside, feel the mountain breeze, and embrace the silence.
9. Folk Music and Dance
The festival comes alive with the colors and sounds of Himachali folk culture. Watch local artists perform Nati, a fun-filled group dance in which men and women garbed in vibrant traditional costumes move in unison to peppy music, depicting the joyous spirit of the festival.
READ MORE: Kamrunag Mela 2024: A Mystical Celebration in the Heart of Himachal Pradesh
10. Interact with Local Devotees
Meet the warm and welcoming locals at the mela, who love sharing stories about Lord Kamrunag, a deity linked to the Pandavas from the Mahabharata. They’ll tell you how the temple is believed to protect the region and grant wishes. The mela is also considered an auspicious occasion for the community to gather and re-establish their spiritual ties. These heartwarming conversations only deepen your experience of the festival.
The Kamrunag Temple Mela is an absolute splendour of spirituality, culture and fun! Plan your visit to this divine festival so you can create memories that will last a lifetime!
