Kullu
Kullu (1220m) was once known as "Kulanthpitha" ; ' The end of the habitable world'. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley'. Kullu got its first motorable access only after Independence. The long centuries of seclusion has however allowed the area to retain a considerable measure of its traditional charm. Here is the core of an intricate web of numerous valleys - each of which is a visual delight and seems more beautiful than the other. The 'Silver Valley' has nature's treasures that lie carelessly scattered as flowers on the high meadows. There is pleasure in every step you take in these enchanted valleys and in every gurgle you hear in the clear mountain streams.
Places To Visit
1. Raghunath Temple
In the 17th century. Raja Jagat Singh of Kullu committed a great wrong. To atone for the sin, he sent a senior courtier to Ayodhya for a statue of Lord Ragunath - Lord Rama. This temple was built by Raja Jagat Singh to house the image and even today, is greatly revered.
2. Other Temples
The Vaishno Devi temple (4km), the Devi Jagannath temple at Bekhi (5km) and the Vishnu temple at Dayar (12 km) other important shrines around Kullu.
Excursions
1. Biji Mahadev Temple (14 km)
At 2460 m, this offers some spectacular views. The temple is famous for its high staff that periodically draws lightning which shatters the "Shivlinga" and scorches the building. Using only butter as adhesive, the 'Linga' is then carefully pieced together by the temple pundis.
2. Basheshwar Mahadev Temple, Bajaura (15 km)
One of the most charming temples in the Kullu valley, this is renowned for its intricate stone carvings.
3. Kaisdhar (15 km)
A high meadow fringed by deodar trees. A picturesque spot.
4. Kasol (42 km)
An open glade by the banks of the river Parvati. Clean white sand separates the lush green grass from the waters. A good spot for trout.
5. Manikaran (45 km)
At 1737 m, here are hot sulphur springs that bubble next to the icy waters of the Parvati river The place is revered by both Hindus and Sikhs. Treks from here lead to Pulga, Khirganga and Mantalai - a stretch of considerable natural beauty. The route finally revers the Pin Parvati Pass (4802 m) which opens into the Sutlej valley.
Other Attractions
1. Kullu Dussehra
When Dussehra celebrations come to an end in the rest of the country, they begin at Kullu. Over 600 local deities come to pay homage to Lord Raghunath. This is a time when the valley is at its colorful best.
2. Fishing and Adventure
The Kullu valley has numerous places for trout fishing. These include Katrain, Raison, Kasol and Naggar, then along the river Tirthan near Larji, in the Sainj Valley and in the Hurla khud.
The valley is the nucleus of several trek routes. Some major ones are over the Chanderkhani Pass to Malana, over the Jalori Pass or Bashleo Pass to Shimla, and over the Pin Parvati Pass to Sarahan.The river Beas offers excellent opportunities for white water rafting.
3. Shopping
Shawls, local tweeds, rugs (`namdas`), foot wear (`pullan`), baskets, natural oils (almond and olive), caps.
Getting There
By Air
The airport at Bhuntar is 10 km from Kullu, where taxis and buses are available.
By Road
By road, the distance from Delhi via Mandi is 530 km and from Shimla this is 240 km. From Delhi and Shimla, luxury buses ply to Kullu.
By Rail
The closest narrow guage railhead is at Jogindemagar, 95 km from Kullu.
