MANIKARAN - A holiday destination and has best package tour for travellers

This holiday travel place, Manikaran is located in Himachal Pradesh, and is approximately 45 km away from Kullu. It is surrounded by hills, rivers and valleys. It is a destination for Sikh and Hindu pilgrims. The translation of Manikaran is ‘Jewel of the Ear’, which according to legend is connected to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is said that once when they were staying here, the mani or precious jewel of Goddess Parvati was swept away by the waters, and Lord Shiva demanded that the mani be found by one of his attendants. When the mani was not found, Lord Shiva became angry and opened his third eye, causing tremendous earthly turmoil in which waters spread and highly precious stones emerged. It is from this epic story that the name of Manikaran was derived.

Even today, these lofty lush green mountains are filled with the sounds of pristine roaring waters, coming directly from the Himalayas, and the hot spring waters are considered holy with powers to heal and cure.

Sightseeing Highlights

Manikaran is intertwined in legends and temples that are revered immensely. The Lord Ramachandra Temple is its most important temple, and was constructed during the 17th Century by Raja Jagat Singh. Inside this magnificent temple is the deity of Shri Ram, and has been long believed to have been brought to the temple from Ayodhya. Although the Lakshmana deity is now missing, there is the idol of Sita accompanying Lord Rama. The temple has approximately 40 rooms and 3 hallways, and holds a ‘langar’ for the distribution of the food for the devotees.

A single visit makes you realise the significance of the name ‘jewel’ with pristine open pastures, snow capped mountains, breathtaking scenic views and fresh pollution free air. The place has started attracting tourists apart from the devotees who come to pay homage at the various ancient temples. The Gurudwara of Manikaran is regarded as being the centre of the springs that spew hot waters. There are three springs, one below the Gurudwara.

Kullu Raison off the banks of the Beas and the Kullu-Manali Highway is an ideal location for fishing, angling and picnicking. During the winter snow months, snow viewing and skiing can be enjoyed here.

The temple of Lord Shiva, slightly damaged in a 1905 earthquake, has a slight tilt. Still, it is a major temple. For the Sikhs, Manikaran is sacred as they believe Guru Nanak Dev once stayed in this area. The proof of this is in the Janam Sakhi, also known as the ‘Twarikh Guru Khalsa’. It is said that Guru Nanak Dev came through this specific region along with his five ‘piaras’, or followers.

Tourist Query

Can anyone tell me about the road conditions for driving from Bhuntar to Manikaran? What would be the probable driving time and should any time window be avoided to have a quick and smooth journey?

Reply

Roads are not good in the hilly section. Drive will be 2-3 hours. Bhuntar to Kullu road is fine, but Kullu to Manikaran, it is a single hilly drive.

Traveller’s Review

I have been visiting Manikaran ever since 1991 to experience its serenity.A soothing place with forests full of cedar and snow-capped hills, on the banks of Parvati river. Hot water springs flow along the Parvati, and are thought to have curative powers.The place has immense religious importance for both Sikhs and Hindus.A very small market with very few hotels. One can stay in Kasol, which is about 5 km before Manikaran from Bhuntar. There are some food joints for snacks. Shops mainly have usual tourist stuff. Langar at Gurudwara is a must, the visit is not complete without it. Ram Temple, Gurudwara and Lord Shiva temple are also worth seeing.Trout angling is an experience in itself. Manikaran is about 35 km from Bhuntar.Bhuntar cn be reached by road (NH - 21).From there,take a taxi or local roadways bus to Manikaran.The road has improved a lot over the last couple of years and bus service is also more frequent.Bhuntar has an airport and there are two flights daily from Delhi.

Quick Facts About This holiday/summer vocation spot

State: Himachal Pradesh
District: Kullu
Languages spoken: Hindi, Pahari, English, Punjabi
Weather: Summer - 8 - 30 C,Winters -10 to 10 C

Getting There

Nearest Airport: Bhuntar
Nearest Railhead: Jogindernagar
Main Highway: National Highway 21
Best time to visit: April - October

Tourism Info

HP Tourism Development Corporation Dhalpur, Kullu -175101 Tel: (01902) 222349

Where to stay

There are 3 main hotels in Manikaran and 4 hotels in Bhuntar and 25 in Kullu.The tariffs range from as low as Rs 300 to Rs 2,500.