Kullu / Manikaran / Kasol

There are several reference of Kullu in the Ramayana & Mahabharata, Vishnu Purana & other Sanskrit literature. But it is believed that Manu after the great deluge, first stepped into the earth from the celestial boat at a place on this land. The particular spot where he established his abode was the present Manali (village), which is regarded as the changed name of 'MANU-ALAYA', that is the home of Manu. It was from here that the human race came into being after the deluge.

Kullu was probably the most ancient state next to Kashmir and Kangra. Like other hill states, Kullu had its ups and downs till it was ceded to the British in 1846 according to Lahore agreement, along with other trans-Sutluj states.

Kullu was made a sub-division of Kangra District. Lahaul-spiti was attached to Kullu for administration. In 1960 Lahaul-Spiti was a separate district. Kullu was also declared a district in 1963 and was a part of Punjab up to October 1966. On 1st November 1966, on reorganization of states, Kullu became a District of Himachal Pradesh.

Manikaran:- 

High up under the snowy peaks, of the Parvati Valley is situated the hot springs at Manikaran. The water from the steaming springs is noted for its healing properties. The springs in the area are hot enough to boil rice in it. Manikaran, a place of pilgrimage for Hindus and Sikhs, has a temple and a gurudwara. It is also a good spot for trout fishing.

Sri Ramchandra temple is located in the center of the town and one can have a very good look in and around this temple. The Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara provides some extraordinary sights. One can enjoy a dip in the hot waters from the springs. There are altogether three baths, one is located under the Gurudwara itself and the other two are privately owned and located in guesthouses.

Kasol :-

 It all started with yet another research and discussion with my friend about the village we wanted to hit this time in Himachal. Himachal has always been the desired state of mine, I mean to the extent of it being comparable to the incomparable beauty of Colorado or the Black Forest in Freiburg. So we decided not to get into much research this time and target the Parvati Valley. Parvati Valley aka Parvati is located next to the beautiful farmland –the Kullu Valley. Parvati holds something in her, something very dense like the depth of a bottle green beer bottle.

Kasol to Gramphu