Kullu - The adobe of divine

So, you have decided to spend your holidays in Kullu and you need little help regarding this divine place. Don't worry you are at right place.

 Kullu was once renowned as Kulanthitha - "The end of the habitable world". The valley spreads out its charisma on either side of the upper reaches of the river Beas. The valley is a congregation point of streams of river drifting down from spectacularly large number of valleys such as Ani, Korpan, Lug, Garsa, Banjar, Manikaran etc. These rivers make it rich in water. The visit to Kullu is a refreshing change from the dust of the cities which is enjoyed by every age group. The Beas River stepping up past and the lustrous sight of continuous snow on the Himalayas makes it a perfect tourist spots.

Location – Kullu “the adobe of divine” is a delightful region in the western Himalayas which is 240-km from Shimla. One of the most beautiful valleys of Himachal Pradesh, Kullu is 80 km long and 2 km broad.

Culture & people – Himalayas are full of varied and eclectic hue of cultures and civilizations ruling the snow capped heights. The people of Kullu live simply with no pomp & show. Not all but still in some areas people wear the traditional dress which include chola, dora, suthan, topa, topi, lachoo & chaddar for men & Patto, dhatu, shawl & pulas for gorgeous women. The fairs & festivals are an essential part of the native culture. These vibrant fairs & festivals carry religious & economic significance for the people here. The customs and ceremony practiced in the valley portray the simple lifestyle of the valley. People worship deities who are snake gods, sages and other powerful goddesses & gods who are mentioned in ancient Indian scriptures. The tradition of folk arts is very rich. The vibrant handicrafts, tremendous temple carvings, elegantly build forts & castles, spectacular folk dances and melodious songs give you an idea about the warmth of the people here. The artisans of the valley preserve a rich tradition of handlooms and handicrafts. The traditional brilliant colors in their handlooms, art & clothing probably manifest people's zest for life and creation.

Fest & festivals – The valley is well known for the seven day festival of Kullu Dussehra. However, festivities and celebrations last almost the entire year, with some or other event taking place every month.

The year begins with the Bandhu or Ghost Dance in January which is performed and attended only by men and is meant to ward off evil spirits. The traditional Horn dance is performed by six people dressed as deer, clowns and women in the cold nights of January. The Naggar Ganesh festival in January also marks the victory of good over evil in which a person dresses up as a sheep and is carried around town in a procession.

The Spring Festival is marked by huge celebrations, songs and dances at Kala Kendra in night. Charasay – Tarasay is dance performed in March and April by married women without any music. One of the popular festivals of Kullu-Manali is Basant Panchami, which is celebrated across the several temples. Main attractions of this festival are the enactment of Hanuman which is performed by a person who covers himself in saffron color and put on the conical cap and tail. Sharhi Jatra, another famous fair of valley held for 3 days in May before the ancient Tripura Sundri Temple. Folk dances, sports, stalls selling clothes, cosmetics and sweets and various competitions mark the festival. The Hadimba Devi Fair is organized in the Hadimba Devi Temple Complex which is attended by people from all over the country.

October brings the much awaited Dusshera Festival, celebrated by the entire valley & enjoyed across the country. The festival commences by Goddess Hadimba’s idol being brought to Kullu to visit the royal family. The idol of Lord Raghunathji is also placed next to Goddess Hadimba in a skillfully adorned ceremonial carriage and pulled up to the hill. Moreover, hundreds of gods and goddesses are also placed on colourful palanquins and taken around in a convoy. On the sixth day the gods get together for the Devta Darbar and lively & vibrant celebrations take place. The royal march reaches the Beas River on the ninth day and a heap of thorn bushes are set to fire to represent the burning of Lanka. Finally, the palanquin reaches its original place and this indicates the finale of Dusshera.

Best time to visit – May-October is the best time to visit. However, in the spring it looks most colorful with white flowers & pink blossoms while the higher slopes are shining with gorgeous rhododendrons. By December, there is no greenery in valley except the splendid pines and cedars in the forests. In winter the adventure enthusiasts can plan a trip when the snow offers great skiing options.

Tourist attraction – Snow clad mountains, various temples & adventure sports places make this place heaven for tourists.

Raghunath Temple

The main tourist interest of Kullu is Raghunath Temple which is devoted to Lord Ram, who is believed to be one of the most important gods in the Hindu’s and amongst the residents of valley. The temple was erected in the year 1660 by Raja Jagat Singh, the one-time ruler of valley, basically to amends his sins.

Jagannathi Devi Temple

Jagannathi Devi Temple which is also known as Bekhli temple is situated at a distance of 3 kms. in the village of Bekhli. Although, it is a steep 1½ hour slope leading to the temple but provides incredible sight of Kullu.

Bijli Mahadev Temple

The Bijli Mahadev Temple is devoted to Lord Shiva & located at the 2460 meters height. This shrine is located across the river Beas, at around 10 km distance from district. As the name suggests, Bijli Mahadev Mandir is frequently struck by lightning. The temple offers full & pleasing view of the valley which is worth visiting.

Manikaran (85 Kms)

The holy pilgrimage place of Manikaran lies in the Parvati Valley which is 85 Kms from Manali and 45 km from Kullu. In Manikaran icy cold waters of the Parvati river co-exists with boiling water side-by-side. The hot water spring is well known for its healing properties. Manikaran is a holy place for Hindus and Sikhs as it has a temple and a gurudwara.

Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara ( Manikaran 85 Kms)

Manikaran is a sacred place for the Sikhs as Guru Nanak Dev once visited this place, accompanied by his disciple Bhai Mardana. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara is to honor the same visit of the Guru. The ‘Autobiography of Bhai Mardana’ or The Janam Sakhi mentions most of the miracles did by the Guru Nanak Dev at this place.

Sports activities

Kullu is the hub of Himalayas Adventure Sports activities & well known for Heliskiing all over the World. This sport has been arranged near Bhrigu peaks in the Hamta pass and Solang Nala too. River Beas and its thunderous gushes are perfect place for river rafting.

Other places of interest in the area include Malana, Kaish-Dhaar in Lug Valley, Bhekhli and Bajaura house the famous temples of the region and places like Kasol and Gohar.

Language spoken – Basically Pahari, Hindi & English is spoken by the people here. However, the native dialect is 'Kulluvi' which is sub-divided into 3 dialects, which are Outer Seraji, Inner Seraji and Sainji. Pronunciation & usage of certain words of Kulluvi dialect vary from region to region within district.

Transportation facilities – Kullu is well connected by air, rail and road network. There are well furnished private & public buses. State owned buses of Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation are available from Kullu which connects the valley with the nearest cities. The buses are comfortable with ample leg space and luggage rack which makes your travel more convenient.

Accommodation – Hotels here get the advantage of being located in the 'Valley of Gods'. All the hotels used to crowded round the season. Summers witness the visitors from plain areas whereas the snowfall in winters attracts honeymooners and adventure lovers. Kullu hotels offer the panoramic view from the rooms. When you are in the hotels, don’t forget to open the curtains of your room to stay surrounded by thick valleys and watch the spectacular view of the clouds coming inside your room.

This valley is the most delightful region in the western Himalayas and has its own charm for everyone. So, start planning a visit to the “valley of god’s”, Kullu to spend your holidays with nature.