Manikaran
FAQFrequently asked questions
What is Manikaran and why is it interesting?
This is a pilgrimage town in the Parvati Valley (Himachal Pradesh, India) at an altitude of about 1,760 m, famous for its hot springs. A holy place for both Hindus and Sikhs is a rare combination.
What is special about the local hot springs?
The water is heated to 64-80 degrees and, unlike many thermal springs, does not smell of sulfur. Locals simply cook food in it, and bathing is considered useful for joint pain.
How to reach Manikaran?
It lies 35 km from Bhuntar and 45 km from Kullu, and it is about 4 km from here to the party town of Kasol. Usually people come here by road from Manala or Kullu.
What is worth seeing here besides the springs?
Gurudwara, which commemorates the visit of Guru Nanak (1574) and the legend of chapatis cooked right in the spring. Nearby is the temple of Rama, which was built by Raja Jagat Singh back in the 15th century, although the earthquake of 1905 damaged it.
Any surprising fact about this place?
An experimental geothermal power plant operates here - the same natural heat in which pilgrims cook lunch, and at the same time try to turn it into electricity.
