Kullu town is set on the banks of river Beas in the strikingly beautiful Kullu valley also known as the ‘valley of gods’. It was earlier known as Kulanthpitha or the ‘end of the habitable world’ and has still retained the old worldly charm.
Raghunathji Temple:
The famous shrine is dedicated to Lord Raghunathji, the principal deity of the valley. It is about 1 km. from famous Dussehra festival is organised.
Around Kullu
Vaishno Devi Temple (4 kms):
A small cave on Kullu – Manali road enshrines an image of Goddess Vaishno Devi.
Bijli Mahadev Temple (10 kms.):
The ‘temple of lightining’ lies across the Beas river and affords splendid view of the Kullu and Paravati valleys.
Bajaura (15 kms):
The 8th century shrine of Basheshwer Mahadev is located on the main raod. It is noted for exquisite carvings and sculptures.
Raison (16 kms):
The secluded camping site is ideally suited for a peaceful holiday.
Katrain (20 Kms):
It lies on the way to Manali and is known for apple orchards and trout hatchery.
Naggar (27 kms):
The beautiful site on the banks of Beas was the capital of Kullu state for over 1400 years. It was founded by Visudh Pal and has a 16th century castle, which has now been converted into a hotel. Naggar has three old shrines dedicated to Lard Vishnu, Tripura Sundri and Krishna. It is also associated with Nicholas Roerich, an internationally renowned artist from Russia.
Kasol (42 kms):
The pilgrim centre of Hindus and Sikhs is famous for its hot sulphur springs. Rice and vegetables can be cooked in the hot water here. Manikaran has a Gurudwara and temples of Lard Ramachandra and Shiva.
Larji (34 kms):
Trout fishing site.
Banjar (58 kms):
Trout fishing site.
Shoja (69 kms.):
Fascinating view of Kullu valley and snow capped peaks.
MANALI:
Majestic Manali, one of the most popular hill resorts of the country is set picturesquely on the confluence of Manalsu and Beas rivers about 40 kms. north of Kullu. It is surrounded by snow clad peaks and thick forest and fruit laden orchards. Mythological legends indicate that the name Manali is derived from Manu-alaya’, the home of Manu, the great Hindu law giver and it was from here that the human race came into being after the great deluge.
Hadimba Devi Temple:
The pagoda style shrine surrounded by thick deodar trees is dedicated to goddess Hadimba or Hirma Devi. It was built in 1553, by Raja Bahadur Singh and is the main attraction of Manali. The exquisitely carved doorway shows legendary figures and symbols. A large fair is held here in May.
Manu Temple (3 Kms):
It is the only temple dedicated to the legendary sage.
Club House (2 Kms):
It lies on the left bank of Manalsu Nallah and provides indoor games facilities. There are also picnic spots nearby.
Tibetan Monasteries:
There are 3 monasteries, two of them are in the town and one at Aleo on the left bank of Beas river. Tibetan handicrafts and carpets can be purchased here.
Mountaineering Institute (3 Kms):
It lies on the left bank of river Beas and imparts training courses in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can also be hired.
Vashista Hot Springs & Temple (3 Kms):
The small village on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang pass is known for hot springs and temple of Vashist Muni. The water of the spring is said to possess curative properties and is provided for bathing at nearby baths built by the Tourism department.
Vashista Hot Springs & Temple (3 Kms):
The small village on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang pass is known for hot springs and temple of Vashist Muni. The water of the spring is said to possess curative properties and is provided for bathing at nearby baths built by the Tourism department.
Around Manali
Jagarsukh (6kms):
It was once the capital of Kullu state and is known for the ancient temple of lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri built in Shikhara style.
Kothi (12 kms):
The scenic site on the road to Rohtang Pass affords panoramic view of the mountains and valleys.
Solang Valley (13 kms):
The verdant valley extending from Solang village to Beas Kund is a veritable paradise for nature lovers. The breathtaking view of snow clad peaks and glaciers make it one of the finest picnic spots in the Kullu valley. The winter skiing festival is held on the fine skiing slopes of the valley.
Rahala Water Falls (16 Kms):The fascinating falls on the way to Rohtang pass is a fine picnic spot.
Rohtang Pass (51 kms):
The gorgeous gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi and Leh valley is set at an altitude of 3979 metres. The highway to Keylong / Leh passes over this pass of about 1 km. It opens for vehicular traffic from June to October month. The breathtaking beauty of the mountains flanking the pass, the glaciers and Chandra river flowing down the Lahaul valley leaves a lasting impression on the visitors.
HOW TO REACH
By Air: The nearest airport for Kullu is at Bhuntar (10 Kms).
By Road: Convenient rail heads are at Kalka, Chandigarh & Pathankot.