Attractions in Kullu Manali
Kullu :
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Bijli
Mahadev Temple - You can reach this
temple only after an extremely motivated climb.
A tall staff that attracts bolts of lightning
has repeatedly shattered the temple's Shivalinga
to pieces. Dedicated temple priests have put
the pieces back together each time.
Jagannathi Devi or Bhekli Temple
- The one and a half-hour climb to the top,
rewards you with a breathtaking view of the
city. This hollow temple is beautiful on the
inside as well. The outer surrounding area is
an ideal picnic location. |
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Hidimba Temple
- Also known as the Dhungri Temple, this temple
is dedicated to the Goddess Hirma Devi and
is placed in a forest grove among deodar trees
that are over a thousand years old. The four-tiered
temple has a 27 mts high pagoda shaped roof
with carved symbols that adorn the entrance.
Naggar Castle
- Built by Raja Sidh Singh over four hundred
years ago, Naggar castle has endured floods
and storms. A thousand-year-old Shiva temple
is on the way to the castle. The castle now
been converted into a hotel.
Nikolai Roerich Art
Gallery - A steep climb from behind
Naggar castle pilots you to an old stone cottage
in which Nicholas Roerich, the renowned Russian
painter lived. This too has been reconverted
into a museum and gallery of the painter's
works.
Sonsgnala - Famous for the camping huts that
are perched along the Beas river, for the
adventurous at heart, Sonsgnala will provide
excellent opportunities for absolutely unforgettable
paragliding trips.
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Quick Getaways near Kullu Manali
Kullu
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Solang
Valley - This is the most popular
trek that goes from Manali up the Solang
Valley to Beas Kund beneath Hanuman
Tibba. You can return via the Manali
Pass and then go on to the Tentu Loa
(also known as Solang Pass) and return
to Manali via Muri Got.
Raison - At a distance
of 13 km from Kullu, this spot is dominated
by the HTDC's Adventure resort, which
has accommodation facilities along with
a camping spot. The place is considered
ideal for camping or weekend unwinding.
Apple, apricot and plum orchards line
the streets in full bloom, every March.
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Bajora - Famous for the
Basheshwar Mahadev Temple which is shaped
like a pyramid. It is located 15 km from Kullu.
The temple was built in the 8th century but
several of the carved engravings were destroyed
by the King of Kangra when he attacked the
city.
Manali :
Snow Point or Rohtang Pass -
This is your best introduction to the colossal
majesty of the Himalayas. The highest point
on the road, it is set at 13,050 feet. When
you visit, you could make Solang your first
stop. Rohtang pass is only 13 kms from Manali
and is increasingly popular during the winter
months, though it is always snow bound. The
slopes make skiing fun. Dassaur Lake is situated
close by as is the source of the river Beas.
Vashist Hot Sulpher springs of Manali
- The village of Vashist is known
for the hot sulphur springs where everyone
comes to dive in. The sulphur springs have
been turned into Turkish baths complete with
showers water. You can even step into the
adjoining cafeteria area that is close to
the baths.
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Activities in Kullu Manali
Rafting - The Beas
River flowing through Kullu valley is suitable not
only for white water rafting but is ideal for canoeing
and kayaking too. The Beas River from the Manaki to
Jhiri near Bajaura in Kullu district has become very
popular among the lovers of river rafting and many
competitions have been organised in the same. The
equipments for this is provided by the various clubs.
Skiing - Near Manali
there are some slopes, which are rated the best for
skiing. The Solang Nullah, Patalsu, Kothi, Marhi and
Rohtang slopes are very good for skiing in the winters
as well as in summers. In fact Patalsu and Rohtang
slopes are the only places where one can do summer
skiing. The national level skiing competition is held
on the slopes of Solang Nullah and the winter carnival
is organised at Manali.
Paragliding - The slopes of Solang
Nullah are just the right kind of slopes for paragliding
during summers. There are organisations, which offer
packages for paragliding. One can hire equipment from
the private organisations in Manali and around.
Events in Kullu Manali
The autumn season witnesses a 10-day celebration by
the Gods - Lord Raghunath, Hadimba Devi, Jamlu- the
festival of Dussehra. The gods, with their processions
and bands, arrive on the first day at a picturesque
meadow by the River Beas. The celebrations begin when
processions of devotees bearing gold and silver images
of gods and goddesses move to Kullu from all parts
of the valley. And for ten days, an infectious gaiety
holds sway over the little town of Kullu. The Gaddi
shepherds come down from the hills with their music.
There is dancing, singing and performances which extend
well into the nights. On the ninth day, the gods assemble
for a Devta Darbar, a court of gods. On the tenth
day, with the symbolic destruction of Ravana, Dussehra
at Kullu comes to a glorious end.
Getting
There & Away to Kullu Manali
Getting Around in Kullu Manali
There's a lot to see in and around Manali, so you
could hire local taxis in case you do not have your
own vehicle. The bus and taxi stands are in the center
of Manali town but the local taxis have fairly high
fixed rates and a very strong union. For those of
you who prefer to independent, you could hire motorbikes
at reasonable charges. Just be sure you have a fair
idea of the place. Though, getting lost in a lovely
place can be quite exciting too! If not, carrying
a map of Manali is advisable.
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