About Kullu Manali
Also
known as the 'Valley of Gods' Kullu is perhaps the most delightful
destination in the western Himalayas. The town was anciently called
'Kulantapitha' meaning the furthest limit of human habitation. Its original
name finds mention in the great Hindu epics, the Ramayana, the Mahabharata
as well as in the Vishnu Purana. Kullu, an intricate web of enchanting
valleys, spreads out its charm on either side of the upper reaches of river
Beas. The town is located at a distance of 240 km from Shimla at an
elevation of 1,220 m above sea level. It has long been a centre of faith. In
the 17th century, Raja Jagat Singh set up an idol of Raghunathji that he
brought from Ayodhya. As a mark of penance, he placed the idol on his throne
and it became the presiding deity of the valley. Kullu is also popular for
its Dussehra festival. During the celebrations, decorated palanquins,
followed by huge procession carry the gods and goddesses all over the valley
to Kullu to pay homage to the presiding deity Raghunathji.
Manali is located at a distance of 40 km from the town of Kullu, lying at
the northern end of the Kullu valley on the National Highway leading to Leh.
With the Beas river meandering through it, the town offers splendid views of
the snow-laden peaks of the Himalayas. On the other side, one can enjoy the
forests of Deodar and pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchards. Manali is
a popular base for trekking and mountaineering in summer and skiing in
winter. What is most fascinating about the town is its proximity to the
snow-line.
Attractions at Kullu
» Raghunathji Temple - Raja Jagat Singh installed
here an idol of Lord Raghunathji, brought from Ayodhya, in the 17th century.
He placed the idol, as a mark of penance, on his throne and it became the
presiding deity of the valley. It lies at a distance of 1 km from Kullu.
» Vaishno Devi - The Vaishno Devi is a small cave
enshrining the image of goddess Vaishno. Other temples are dedicated to Lord
Shiva, Lord Rama and Lord Krishna.
» Jagannathi Temple - A stiff climb takes one to
the shrine called the Jagannathi Temple. The temple gives a bird's eye view
of the whole Kullu town.
» Bijli Mahadev Temple - Set on a spur, the Bijli
Mahadev Temple is popular for its 60 ft high staff which periodically
attracts lightning, shattering the Shivalinga. Each time it happens, the
priest pieces together the Shivalinga.
» The Great Himalayan National Park - Sprawling
over an area of 620 sq ft, the Great Himalayan National Park has temperate
forests. Vast areas of alpine pasture and glaciers can be seen capping the
park. The animal inmates of the park include musk deer, Ghoral, Thar,
Bharal, Sewor, brown bear, leopard and snow leopard.
Attractions at Manali
»
Kothi - Lying at a distance of 12 km from Manali, Kothi is a quiet and
scenic spot. The Rest House, overlooking the narrow valley, offers splendid
views of the mountains. The river Beas flows below Kothi for more than a
kilometre. The river flows through a deep gorge and the cliffs that flank
both sides of the canyon are a favourite haunt for rock pigeons.
» Solang Valley - The Solang Valley is positioned
between Manali and Kothi, offering beautiful views of glaciers and
snow-laden peaks. The plateau is a frequent camping site for the trekking
parties. It is also the venue for the Annual Winter Carnival that continues
from February 10 to 14.
» Rahla Falls - The Rahla Falls lies at a distance
of 2 km from Kothi. Here, the river Beas rushes down from a height of around
50 m. The scenic place invites a good number of picnickers from all over.
» Manali Sanctuary - The Manali Sanctuary is yet
another attraction around. Dense Deodar, Kail, horse chestnut, walnut and
maple forest is a part of this sanctuary. Musk deer, Monal and brown bear
can be spotted. Herds of ibexes can be seen venturing further into the
glacier zone in summer.
Reaching Kullu Manali
Bhuntar (52 km) is the closest airport from Manali. There are taxis and
buses available from Bhuntar to reach Manali. The nearest narrow gauze
railway station is at Jogindernagar, 95 km from Kullu. The enjoy the scenic
surroundings of the town and the valley, it is better to take a taxi. The
road to Manali passes through the picturesque valley of Kullu. A good
road-network connects Manali to other key destinations of the state.
The Bhuntar Airport is 10 km from Kullu. The closest railhead lies at
Jogindernagar which is 95 km from Kullu. From Delhi and Shimla, there are
luxury buses available to get to Kullu.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to pay a visit to the town of Manali is between the months of
April and June and between September and October. Kullu can be best visited
from mid May to mid October.
