Kullu Manali Travel Guide

Both Kullu and Manali, top tourist destinations of Himachal Pradesh, seem to outdo each other in their scenic magnificence and opportunities for sightseeing and adventure. Kullu, the town believed to be apt for the gods, pleasantly surprises visitors with the diversity it offers. In Manali, what you see is what you get—raw beauty with serenity, the likes of which you may have only dreamt about.

There are many things to see in Kullu, like the Great Himalayan National Park. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses a rich variety of wildlife. Several of these are classified as endangered, including the Himalayan Brown Bear, Blue Sheep, and Snow Leopard. Spotting the Monal and Western Tragopan is not uncommon. Trekking and outdoor camping are also pursued enthusiastically in the park.

Manikaran is another place to see in Kullu, most famous for its gurudwara. Here, the hot sulphur springs are believed to contain therapeutic properties. Kasol, fondly referred to as “Mini Israel” for attracting Israelis in large numbers, allures more than its fair share of honeymooners, while the village of Malana has an ancient look to it. Banjar, located almost two hours away from Kullu, offers many opportunities for angling, thanks to the River Tirthan and its crystal-clear waters. At about the same distance lies Shoja, a valley wrapped in contemplative silence and undisturbed beauty—a true meditator’s paradise. Another place you should visit during your trip to Kullu is Jalori Pass. From here, you can take a day hike to Serolsar Lake.

Adventure enthusiasts also find much to celebrate in Kullu. Battling the rapids while white-water rafting on the River Beas is fun, as is camping in Raison, surrounded by peach, plum, and apple orchards. Hike towards the Bijli Mahadev Temple, where lovely views of the Kullu Valley await you. Inside the temple is a Shiva Linga which, besides being pillar-shaped, is held together with butter. Every year, fiery bolts of lightning destroy this pillar, and each time it is rebuilt by the priests with butter.

Manali is another top tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh, popular among both honeymooners and vacationers. This quaint town shows you how to have a good time. It is hugged by the valley, which is covered with pine forests, streams, and perpetually snow-covered peaks. There are as many opportunities for adventure as there are for sightseeing, besides a third one—enjoying the lovely landscape and doing nothing.