Places to visit in Kullu

The Pandoh Dam, located in Himachal Pradesh, is a stunning example of human innovation and natural beauty. Built on the Beas River in the Mandi district, this dam was finished in 1977 to produce hydroelectric power, helping to provide sustainable energy for the region. Just a short distance from the popular town of Manali, it's easily accessible for tourists.

The area around the dam offers plenty to see and do. The sight of the dam itself, set against the backdrop of green hills, is truly impressive. Visitors can also enjoy thrilling rafting adventures in the river below the dam. Additionally, birdwatchers will love spotting unique bird species that flock to the reservoir.

Managed by the Bhakra Beas Management Board, the Pandoh Dam is not only an engineering marvel but also a place of natural beauty. Its serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Himachal Pradesh. Whether you're fascinated by engineering feats or simply want to immerse yourself in nature's tranquility, a visit to the Pandoh Dam promises an unforgettable experience

Hot springs at Manikaran is one of the sacred and best places to visit in Kullu. It is located in the bank of Parvati River. It is just 35 km away from Kullu and 4 km away from Kasol. The hot springs are situated at a height of 1760 m above the sea level. A geothermal experimental plant has been constructed here for the research of renewable source of natural energy.

It is considered as one of the holiest places in India for the Hindu and Sikh pilgrims. The three temples of Rama, Vishnu and Krishna are elegantly built by the side of the river. The water of the hot springs can be overwhelmingly hot in some places.

It is better to maintain proper safety and stay under the guidance of the locals. Legend says that Guru Nanak told one of his disciples to lift a stone. It is then the hot springs appeared. The community kitchen offers sumptuous meals here to all devotees. The mesmerizing view surrounding the beautiful temples will give you the ambient environment you always wanted to visit.

The peaceful environment around this temple is the greatest boon given by nature. This place offers a perfect spiritual getaway for the city dwellers to find peace of their mind back again.

Friendship Peak is one of the most famous trekking summits present in India. The Friendship Peak is one of the best places to visit in Kullu and is at an elevation of 5,289 meters. The place is considered as trekker’s paradise. The panoramic view of this place is a treat for your eyes you will never forget. This trek is one of the most challenging routes in Himachal Pradesh. Truth be told, this is a difficult one and only those with an experience in trekking are allowed to go for the extreme terrain.

One can witness beautiful Solan Valley filled with alpine meadows, thick forests, and colourful orchards here. The small streams passing down the valley offer a mesmerizing view from the top. The trekking gets more challenging with the increase in the altitude. The enthusiasts have to climb the snow beds, should trek over the narrow ridges and glaciated tracks. There are various major attractions you will find in this area. Some of them are Hadimba Temple in Manali, Naggar Roerich Art Gallery, hot water springs of Vasisht and many more. 

The trek starts from Solang Valley, a two-hour drive from Manali. From there, you have to start trekking the mountain till Bakarthach. After going through a thick forest and lush green valley, you have to trek till you reach the base camps. There are two base camps on your way to the Friendship Peak. After reaching the summit, the trek is reversed downhill in the same way and ends in Manali.

Chandarkhani Pass is located at a height of 3,660 meters above the sea level. This pass is known for its scenic beauty and excellent trekking trails in the Himalayan range. It is treated as one of the best tourist places in Kullu because of the marvelous views, breathtaking landscapes and exclusive trails to follow and make your trip memorable and it is one of the best Kullu tourist places.

You can get the fabulous views of Pir Panjal ranges, Deo Tibba Peak, Parbati mountain range from this pass. The pass takes you to the famous village of Malana through a way between Pulag and Rumsa. The trekkers are introduced to hilly and remote cultures of Himachal Pradesh in this trek. The horizon in this place is a treat for the nature lovers.

The region is also named as the “Valley of Gods”. A legend says that the deity named Jamlu had a basket full of gods. Once he opened his basket in the area. A sudden gust of wind dropped all the gods from the basket. Each fell to the ground and became peaks named after them as Indrasan, Pir Panjal, Deo Tibba, and Parbati.

The top of Chanderkhani pass in Himachal Pradesh is a 360-degree meadow from where you will get the panoramic view of these mountain tops.

A blasting blue Brighu Lake sits cozily between two high-elevation edges towards the east of Rohtang Pass. One of the numerous cold lakes in Kullu Valley, this lake makes for an immaculate weekend trek and is appropriate for families and it is one of the best places in Kullu.     

The noteworthy thing about this trek is that one can achieve an amazing elevation of 14,000 feet and experience snow over the second day of trekking! To add to that, the outdoors grounds at Rola Kholi and Pandu Ropa offer dream-like perspectives to wake up to. 

Bhrigu Lake is only 14 km far from the street head of Gulaba. On a splendid sunny day, the lake is a soaked shade of overlook me-not blue. Bhrigu Lake Trek is especially popular for trekking in Manali. Amid winter, the lake, secured in the snow, will leave exceptional pictures in your psyche. 

Trekking to the lake is as pacifying as being at the lake itself. On Day 1, backwoods trails from Gulaba to Rola Kholi outdoors grounds take you through valuable old towns, welcoming apple plantations, clear rivulets, and greenfield lands. The trail ensures stunning perspectives of Kullu Valley, which gets to be prettier and prettier as you rise.

Preferred Season: May-Sep

Maximum Elevation:14000

Duration: 4 day

Difficulty Level: High.

Find best places to visit in Manali, it is visited by tourists during all the seasons.

If you enjoy exploring old temples then you are in the right place. Gauri Shankar Temple is one of the oldest temples present in India. It is situated immediately below the castle of Naggar in Naggar Village. The records say that this temple was dated back to 12th century AD and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and it is one of the best places to visit in Kullu Manali.

Mythology says that this temple is the last monument of the Gurjara Pratihara traditions and is a protected monument. The architecture involved in this temple is famous Shikhara architecture. The specific style resembles a mountain. It means that the temple will look like the peaks of mountains.

The temple has a dome shape at the top while the bottom part of the temple is in a square shape. The shikhara of this temple is simple and have nine stories which are decorated with ornamentations and ardharatna motifs. The temple is famous for its stone carvings. The idols of Shankar and Gauri are placed on a pedestal and are seated over Nandi. Both the parent god and goddess hold their son Kartik and Ganesh while being seated under a silver canopy clad with gold jewelry.

The garbagriha of the temple is decorated with the amazing carvings of Lord Ganesh, people playing musical instruments and some dancing statues. The temple is surrounded by beautiful greenery. It was renovated by Seth Jaipura in the year 1959.

Located in the calm hills of Himachal Pradesh, the Hanogi Mata Temple is a serene place where people come to find peace and connect with their spirituality. Dedicated to Mata Hanogi, a revered Hindu goddess known for her protective qualities, the temple sits beside the flowing waters of the Beas River, offering a serene setting for reflection.

As you climb the temple steps, the sound of bells ringing in the breeze welcomes you, creating a serene atmosphere. The temple's architecture, adorned with intricate carvings and vibrant colors, reflects the rich heritage of the region, inviting visitors to experience its sacred energy.

Beyond its religious significance, the Hanogi Mata Temple provides a quiet escape from the busyness of daily life. Surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery, it's a perfect spot for meditation and contemplation.

Throughout the year, the temple hosts festivals and rituals that celebrate Himachal Pradesh's cultural traditions, adding to its charm and allure. Whether you're seeking spiritual renewal or simply enjoying the beauty of nature, a visit to Hanogi Mata Temple promises a serene and enriching experience.

Chandra Tal is also known as "Moon Lake" is the source of the Chandra River. It is one of the finest treks for trekking in Manali. It was at one time a provisional spot for brokers from Tibet and Ladakh who went to Spiti and the Kullu valley, however today it draws in countless devotees from over the world and it is one of the best places in Kullu.        

You will go through two high mountain ranges named Moulkila and Chandrabhaga, which are entirely trying for mountain dwellers. Further, you will see the delightful snow-shrouded mountain tops and slants. There is an unbelievable story connected with this lake.

Sea Preferred Season son: June - mid-Oct

Maximum Elevation: 4250 mts/14000 ft

Duration: 10 day

Difficulty Level: High

Dhakpo Shedrupling Monastery is a place where Buddhist Monks live in Himachal Pradesh. The monastery was inaugurated by the Dalai Lama in the year 2005. The monastery is the gem of Kais village and is also called as Kais monastery. The elegant design of the building along with the backdrop of sprawling mountains makes it one of the prime places to visit in Kullu. You have to mount approximately 50 stairs to reach the monastery. Leave your footwear below and enter a new paradigm of peace and spirituality here.

After the prayer, you can relax in the monastery. The extremely peaceful environment will automatically calm your nerves. This place is the epitome of picturesque views. The idyllic taste of Mother Nature can be savored here. The environment in the Monastery is so quiet that you can hear the wind howling and the birds chirping. The architecture of this monastery is one of the best things to look for. It is a perfect blend of Indo-Tibetan style that dates back quite a few centuries.

The holy place is situated on the left side of Beas River. The monastery has been dedicated to his Holiness the Dalai Lama. The prayer hall is very big. It has a huge Buddha statue that will surely make you feel calm and peaceful. The enchanting environment will enlighten you. Many monks stay here in search of inner peace for a reason. They will act as guides and will help you with a better understanding of the temple. Moreover, the strong flow of the river also creates a constant splashing sound. You will feel quite relaxed here.

Vaishno Devi Temple in Kullu is another example of an idyllic sacred place in Himachal Pradesh. The surrounding of the temple is outstanding, covered with mountains and scenic locations. Due to the topographical bliss and spiritual value of this place, the majority of the tourists visit this tourist attraction in Kullu. Also known by the name Mahadei Tirth, this temple is situated on the serene bank of River Beas and it is one of the Kullu famous places.

The temple dates back to 1966. The temple is being taken care of by a trust. It is just 2 km away from Kullu. One can reach this spot by following the hilly roads. The same road will take you to Manali. There is no doubt that you will get smitten by the exclusive views of the lush green forest, hilly slopes, meandering roads, and the view of the river from the temple compound.

If you are looking for utmost peace and spiritual connection then this is the right place to be. This is one of the most sought tourist locations in the state. The temple authority also provides free vegetarian meals to the devotees throughout the year. Embrace the views and worship the Goddess for infinite peace and wellbeing.

Sri Guru Nanak Devji Gurudwara is one of the must-visit tourist places in Kullu, located near the hot springs at Manikaran. It holds sacred significance for both Sikhs and Hindus. Situated amidst nature, the temple emits positive vibes, making it one of the famous landmarks in Kullu.

The presence of the hot springs and the beautiful temple promises a profound sense of tranquility and peace. Like all other gurudwaras, this place is meticulously maintained by the internal staff, ensuring cleanliness and orderliness.

The holy place dates back to the 16th century when Guru Nanak visited Manikaran. Legend has it that when Guru Nanak's disciples were hungry and lacked fire or hot water to cook, he instructed one disciple to lift a rock. To their amazement, a hot spring emerged, allowing them to cook their food. Since then, this area has been revered and believed to shower blessings upon every visitor.

No physical fire is used to cook the rice and curry provided at this place; the geothermal heat suffices. The Gurudwara captivates tourists with its architecture and beauty, showcasing age-old art and architecture from the 16th century. Visitors interested in witnessing century-old masterpieces will find an excellent example here.

The Pin Parvati Pass is situated in the beautiful state of Himachal Pradesh. It connects the Parvati Valley in Kullu to the Pin Valley in Spiti. Remarkably, the landscapes on either sides of the pass are in stark contrast to each other. While the Kullu side showcases a lush green and verdant landscape, the Pin side is mostly barren and devoid of vegetation. The two sides are quite different from each other even in terms of culture. While the Kullu side is predominantly Hindu, the Pin side has followers of Buddhism.

The Pin Parvati valley is a popular trekking destination. However, the place is still untouched by the evils of mass tourism and presents a clean and pristine picture to its visitors.  It is believed to be one of the most beautiful places that trekkers can visit while trekking in India.

The trek to the Pin Parvati valley begins at Manikaran, moves along the Parvati River and ends at the Pin Parvati Valley, which has an altitude of 4900 m. The Pin Parvati Valley is also known as the ‘Valley of Gods’ and is located between the Dhauladhar range and the Pir Panjal range.

The journey to this beautiful valley commences at Manali from where the route will take you through lush green alpine forests, lakes, clumps of wild flowers, majestic mountain peaks, etc. On your way to the valley, you will cross the Mantalai Lake, which is a very important Hindu pilgrimage centre. The Pin Parvati peak has an elevation of 5319 metres, which offers a fantastic view of the nearby peaks namely, the Parvati South, the Parvati North, the Pinnacle and Kullu Eiger.

This wonderful journey will end at the sleepy little hamlet of Sagnum. From here you can take a jeep safari into the Spiti valley, where you can explore places of Buddhist importance and also visit some interesting villages before heading back.

This trekking expedition is one of the most interesting experiences of high altitude trekking in India. This trekking trail is often mentioned as one of the toughest trekking trails in India, but it is definitely worth the effort.

Best Season: May- September 
Difficulty Level: Difficult
Max. Elevation: 4900 m

As the name suggests, Sunrise Point at Hawa Ghar is renowned for its stunning sunrise vistas. Witnessing the first light of dawn painting the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink against the backdrop of the mountains is a truly magical experience. The tranquil ambiance and crisp mountain air create a sense of peace and tranquility that rejuvenates the soul.

Apart from its breathtaking sunrise views, Hawa Ghar also offers spectacular sights throughout the day. Visitors can marvel at the mist-covered valleys below, watch the play of light and shadow on the hillsides, and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Moreover, Hawa Ghar provides an excellent vantage point for birdwatching enthusiasts, as the area is home to a diverse range of avian species. Watching colorful birds flit among the trees against the backdrop of the Himalayas adds to the charm of this scenic spot.

Whether you're seeking a serene spot to admire the beauty of nature, capture stunning photographs, or simply unwind amidst tranquil surroundings, Sunrise Point at Hawa Ghar promises an unforgettable experience. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to connect with the natural world and find solace in its awe-inspiring beauty.

If you always wanted to cut off the strings to the chaotic life and go for a trip amidst nature then Parvati Valley is the right place to be. What can be better than a destination with a confluence of two rivers, Beas and Parvati in the steep Himalayan ranges? The valley road eventually starts climbing from this confluence and leads to Malana near the famous village called Kasol. The Hindu and Sikh pilgrims take this route to visit Manikaran. It is sure that you will be amazed by seeing the beauty of this valley.

 For the trek lovers, this place is one of the best places to visit in Kullu. Enjoy the scenic beauty while wandering in the mountains. Calm your agitated soul by visiting this peaceful Parvati Valley. The mountain air, Israeli food everything about this place is attractive. If you are a nature lover then this trek will surely give you an awesome experience and will leave you spellbound. The Parvati River is one of the most beautiful rivers present in India but the sad part is it is very less known, surrounded by the mountains, the river gives a great experience to the visitors.

 Parvati Valley Trek is the right place for the trek lovers to pump up their adrenaline rush. Kalos is the place near to this Parvati Valley where you can find various types of Israeli food items which will give you a different experience. There are various mysteries in this Parvati Valley trek and you can know more about them with the help of local people.

Manikaran Sahib is nestled in the serene Parvati Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is considered to be one of the holiest pilgrimage sites for Sikhs and Hindus alike. This spiritual haven is famous for its hot springs, which are said to have healing properties. The Gurudwara is located amidst breathtaking mountains, offering a peaceful retreat. Its rich history and sacred waters make it a must-visit for those seeking solace and spiritual rejuvenation.

You can visit this Jana Waterfall on your way to the Bijli’s temple. The waterfall is at a distance of 11.5 km from the Naggar Castle. You have to follow a small narrow forest route on your way to Jana Waterfall. Surrounded by beautiful pine trees on your way, the meandering hilly route will make you feel very ecstatic. The name of the waterfall comes from the name of the village. It is surrounded by apple orchards, pine trees, and snow-clad mountain peaks. It is a typical waterfall where the water comes out unprecedentedly amidst chunk of rocks and it is one of the Kullu famous places.

It is a source of water hidden within the mountains. The destination looks more adorable due to the presence of a small wooden bridge. You can bath in the water or swim leisurely in the small pool. If you love trekking, you can trek up the hill to get a more beautiful view of the waterfall. The best time to visit these amazing waterfalls is in September. At least 3 to 4 buses are arranged from Naggar town to these waterfalls per day so there is no problem regarding the commute.

This is the best place to relax in the lap of nature. The waterfalls are small but the journey till the waterfalls is quite intriguing and you will love it a lot.

Manali and Dharamshala must rank as two of the best-known slope stations in India, however, few realize that between them lies a fabulous breadth of mountains rich in magnificence and legend. Taking in two passes — Kalihani and Thamsar — the 12-day trek goes through timberlands of pine-oak and deodhar and valleys overwhelming with wildflowers and it is one of the best Kullu tourist places.

Sea Preferred Season son: May - June

Maximum Elevation: 5347 ft

Duration: 12 day

Difficulty Level: Moderate

Yet another dazzling spot in Manikaran, Kulant Pith is one of the most sought piths in the country. The mythology says that even Lord Shiva stayed at Kulant Pith for some time and this is the reason why it became one of the most important places to visit in Kullu. The view of this place is astonishing. You will fall in love with this amazing location. The peaceful ambiance provided by this place will help you in relieving all the stresses. The large sun kissing mountains on one side and Parvati River on another side will make this the ideal place to visit.

The hot springs in Manikaran are the most attractive point to witness other than the temples in the lap of the mountains. The hot water is enough to cook rice and any other items without using a fire. The geothermal energy here is very strong and a topic for the renewable energy department to ponder. This is a sacred place for the Hindus as well as the Sikhs.

Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery is one of the famous monasteries in India. The monastery is full of divine vibes. Once you enter the monastery, you will get the serene feel. The architecture of this monastery is the most discussed topic. It reflects an Indo-Tibetan art conglomeration and it is one of the famous places to visit in Kullu Manali.

The monastery has become a perfect example of mixed culture in Kullu. The beautiful artwork and master craftsmanship on the monastery will leave you spellbound. A monastery is a sacred place for Buddhists.

The temple is the most peaceful place where you can indulge yourself in the ambient environment. The statue of Buddha is of greater importance here. You will come across the monks who perform daily rituals here. The trip will take a half day. The breathtaking view of Beas Valley, the spectacular colors of the monastery, and the sneak peek of Bijli’s temple make this place a must go or the tourists. Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara Monastery is one of the most famous tourist places in Kullu.

It is highly maintained and can be considered as one of the architecture marvels on such a challenging terrain.