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KULLU

Kullu, the valley's capital since the mid-seventeenth century, became district head quarters after Independence. Despite being the regions main market and transport hub, however, it is deservedly eclipsed as a tourists centre by Manali, 40 km north. Most traveler's stay just long enough to pick up transport for somewhere else.

What to See

Raghunath temple : This principal Kullu temple was built in the 17th century, in the Sultanpur district.

Vaishno Devi temple : A small cave temple that houses an image of the goddess kali (durga ), is a stiff 3 km ahead on the Kullu to Manali road. A half an hour's walk further up the paved trail leads beyond Sultanpur to a high ridge, with excellent views over the Beas river to the snow peaks in the east.

Bijli Mahadev temple : The beautifully located temple is reached after an arduous climb. The Shivling here is shattered regularly by lightning which is then rebuilt by the temple priest with the help of butter. Located at an altitude of 2460 m, this fascinating temple rests on a spur, that offers some splendid views.

Basheshwar Mahadev temple, Bajaura : A small settlement between Aut and Kullu, the Basheshar Mahadev temple has carved stone sculptures.

Jari : Spilling over the main road and down the south side of the Parvati Valley, Jari 15 km from Bhuntur looks across to the precipitous Malana Nala in the north ,and to the snow-flecked needless of the Baranagh range on the eastern horizon.

Katrain :Enroute to Manali, this is the widest belt in the valley and has a trout hatchery. Overlooking the valley is the impressive Barargarh peak.

Kaisdhar (15 km): Kaisdhar is an idyllic meadow, embraced by lofty deodar trees.

Kasol (42 km): Kasol, on the banks of the river Parvati, is another one of the many splendid spots that dot the Kullu valley, and offers ample opportunity for fishing trout.

Manikarna (45 km):A beautiful drive will take you to Parvati valley. A temple and a gurudwara next to hot water springs attract a number of pilgrims and food cooked in the springs is served as 'prasad', a holy offering.

Naggar (23 km) : This is a delightful settlement, ideal for a night's stay. The famous Naggar Castle, with its tales of love and chivalry, is now a hotel. In this small town too, is the famous residence and art gallery (Nicholas Roerich Gallery).There are some temples too in Naggar that are worth visiting.

Raison (13 km) : This is essentially a camping site located on flat ground by the side of the Beas river, ideal for quiet holiday. It is on the Kullu - Manali highway and is a good trekking site, where Himachal Tourism has established a camping base.

Shoja (69 km) : Shoja, at 2692 m, gives a brilliant panoramic view of the entire Kullu valley.

How To Reach

By air : The nearest airport is at Bhuntur (10 km).

By train: The nearest rail head is at Jogindernagar (95 km).

By road : The distance from Delhi to Kullu via Mandi is 530 km, and from Shimla the distance is 240 km. Luxury buses ply from Delhi and Shimla to Kullu.

Accommodation

Ankara, HPTDC - Savari, Bijleswar, Shobla, Daulat.