Manikaran

Manikaran is a well-known Sikh and Hindu pilgrimage site. It is situated 4 kilometers from Kasol along the Parvati River’s banks in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh. Both pilgrims and tourists are drawn to the Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, a variety of temples, and hot springs.

There are three hot springs available for bathing; two are privately owned by guesthouses, and one is located within the Gurudwara. In the bathing area, separate areas are designated for men and women. These springs’ water includes sulfur, which has the power to heal illnesses. The water is offered as langar and is hot enough to cook food in the containers right there.

The ‘Twelfth Guru Khalsa’ authored by Giani Gian Sikh mentions Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara. This Gurudwara is an extremely sacred place of worship for Sikhs, and it is thought that the Guru Nanak and his five students paid it a visit.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

The ideal time to visit Manikaran is between June and October when the weather is still good. While there is wonderful weather in Manikaran all year round, March through May is the best season to go trekking in the area. The weather is nice this time of year, with temperatures between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius. Winter, which lasts from October to February, is the best season if you enjoy taking walks during brisk evenings and nights. The season’s average temperature ranges from 3 to 10 degrees Celsius, and snowfall can obstruct the roads that lead to Manikaran.

ATTRACTIONS

Kheerganga Trek: At the very end of the Parvati Valley, Kheer Ganga (3050 meters) is the last settlement to be reached by trail over the Pin-Parvati Pass. The expansive flora and expansive skies of Kheerganga provide much-needed visual stimulation for hikers, especially for their weary legs. This sacred location features a modest temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, a hot spring, and a swimming pool.

Jamdagni Rishi Temple: The calm and esteemed Jamdagni Rishi Temple in Tosh is a place of worship devoted to the ancient sage Jamdagni. The temple is surrounded by the foothills of the Himalayas, and its understated yet magnificent construction blends perfectly with Tosh’s natural beauty to create a peaceful place for prayer and contemplation.

Kasol: Kasol is well-known for its trekking routes, and many people use it as a starting point for hikes to Yanker Pass, Sar Pass, Pin Parbati Pass, and Kheerganga. Visit the village of Malana to get a true sense of the local way of life. Malana is a little village a few kilometers from Kasol where residents live in self-imposed seclusion. Despite its many picturesque views, the area is sometimes referred to as “Little Greece.”

Tosh: The peaceful village of Tosh, well-known for its cannabis fields, is simply one more illustration of the unmatched natural beauty that Himachal Pradesh contains. Tosh is a remote part of Parvati Valley that has not been affected by modernization or the fast-paced lifestyle. The Tosh Kasol trek is the recommended adventure for thrill-seekers because to its moderate terrain and the Parvati River meandering through it. This village’s ethereal atmosphere and hippy culture will undoubtedly take you elsewhere.

Malana: Hipsters love Malana hamlet, a medieval settlement in Himachal Pradesh nestled among the mountains, for its perfect getaway. For those who value nature in its most unadulterated state, the location is idyllic, surrounded by verdant trees and stunning scenery. With the peaks of Cahndrakhani and Deotibba visible in the distance, the settlement is bordered on two sides by the Parvati and Kullu valleys.

Chalal Village: One of the must-see locations close to Kasol is the Chalal Village, which is enhanced with a genuine character and has a strong Israeli cultural resonance through its homes and mouthwatering cuisine. Try some delectable Israeli food at the Tosh Cafe if you’re looking for somewhere to eat in this region.

Where to Stay

In Manikaran, there are a few homestays and guesthouses. The area has a few campsites as well. If you are traveling during the busiest time of year, make sure to reserve your lodging well in advance. Make sure your lodging is secure and comfortable, and pack for the necessities.

HOW TO REACH

Kullu Manali Airport , located roughly 100 kilometers from Manikaran, is the closest airport. Joginder Nagar Railway Station, located roughly 50 kilometers from Manikaran, is the closest train station. You can take a bus or taxi to Manikaran from Joginder Nagar Railway Station or Kullu Manali Airport.