Manikaran is located in the forest around the Parvati valley and is famous for its hot springs. It has an altitude of 1,829 metric tons and is 40 kilometres away from Kullu and has the best hot springs.
Having said that, there’s no dearth of things to do in the city for both pilgrims as well as avid explorers.
These are the 7 must-visit places when you are in Manikaran:
- Paying Your Respects at Manikaran Sahib
- Take a Healing Dip at Hot Springs
- Cleanse Yourself at Kulant Pith
- Take a Trek at Harinder Mountain
- Visiting Lord Shiva Temple
- Learn about the History of Lord Ramachandra Temple
- Seek Blessings at Naina Bhagwati Temple
List of Places to Visit in Manikaran
With the best quality hot springs, majestic hindu temples & gurdwara, the nearby markets, and a variety of cheap accommodation options make this little paradise more attractive than any other tourist destination.
1. Paying Your Respects at Manikaran Sahib
The majestic Gurdwara is the highlight of the city, located on the banks of the Parvati River in the Parvati Valley.
For Sikhs and Hindus, this is a vital pilgrimage destination. Religious ceremonies, hot springs, natural steam baths and the beautiful environment of the area attract travelers from far and near.
This complex is a combination of many temples, and this Gurdwara is located in the center of this religious arcade. There is no doubt that this is one of the best things about the place for all types of travelers.
The language service here is an important part of Gurudwara’s daily activities and is large enough to feed disciples and people in need for the sanctuary.
| Timings | 05:00 AM – 12:00 Noon and 16:00 PM – 19:00 PM |
| Entry fees | Free |
2. Take a Healing Dip at Hot Springs
The next of its popular attractions is to take a bath in the Hot Springs, a natural Jacuzzi on the Parvati River. These hot springs are very attractive and exciting.
They are said to contain uranium, sulfur, and various other radioactive elements, which can help cure diseases and diseases to a large extent.
In addition to scientific factors, these hot springs also have a variety of spiritual beliefs and religious history.
There are separate bathing areas for men and women. Since the water is very hot, it is recommended to enter slowly so that the body gradually adapts to the temperature.
The water is too hot, and you can even cook rice and beans in it. Gurdwara uses this very hot water to prepare “langars” (sacred meals).
| Timings | 05:00 AM – 17:00 PM |
| Entry fees | Rs 30 Per Person |
3. Cleanse Yourself at Kulant Pith
Considered to be the most sacred and powerful marrow of all religions in India, Grant Marrow has been the residence of Lord Shankar for a short time.
Pilgrims and locals believe that the arrival of Lord Shiva marks the purity of this temple, especially Vishnu Kund.
It is said that immersion in this sacred Kund can wash away all your sins, as well as your inner anger and evil.
The pilgrims also believed that eating food boiled in the hot water of Vishnu Kund State could bring Vishnu music (to save them).
Whether this place is magical, visiting it, and spending time in its buildings is indeed one of the best things about the place.
| Timings | 05:00 AM – 17:00 PM |
| Entry fees | Free |
4. Take a Trek at Harinder Mountain
It is surrounded by the Snow Mountains of Harinder in the north. If you want to find an adventure in the city, you may wish to hike once or twice.
These snow-capped peaks are not only a great way for your hiking adventure, but you can also enjoy the magnificent view of the surrounding town shrouded in mist, this scenery will stay in your mind for a long time.
If you view the sparkling Parvati River and the magnificent Manikaran Gurdwara pearl-white structure from the top, you will get a magnificent view.
| Timings | 05:00 AM – 12:00 Noon |
| Entry fees | Free |
5. Visiting Lord Shiva Temple
Visiting the Shiva temple in the city is one of its most important things. Shiva Temple is a well-respected Shiva Lord, which receives a large number of tourists and pilgrims throughout the year.
Although it was slightly damaged by the 1905 earthquake, it still managed to maintain its glorious architecture and attractive charm. It has always been the residence of the believers of Kullu, and they regularly visit this temple.
Another attractive aspect of this temple is its hot spring water. Pilgrims and tourists like to cook rice and beans in rice and tulle bags, which is one of the most unusual things in the city.
| Timings | 05:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 17:00 PM – 19:00 PM |
| Entry fees | Free |
6. Learn about History of Lord Ramachandra Temple
The Ramachandra Temple, built by Raja Jagat Singh in the 17th century, is one of the most popular religious sites in the area.
Legend has it that Lord Ram himself brought this temple from Ayodhya, which made it so famous among pilgrims and also fascinated by travelers.
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This shrine is located in the center of this small city, with 3 corridors and 40 rooms for devotees to visit from afar. Langar is organized every day for every devotee who visits this temple.
| Timings | 05:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 17:00 PM – 19:00 PM |
| Entry fees | Free |
7. Seek Blessings at Naina Bhagwati Temple
Naina Bhagwati Mandir needs no introduction and is a famous temple in the Kullu district. One of the most popular attractions of the place is to visit this temple.
Naina Bhagwati Temple is located in the foothills of the Himalayas, very close to the Parvati River, and was built to commemorate the Naina Bhagwati goddess.
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The goddess Naina Bhagwati is considered to be the power of God, which originated from the third eye of Lord Shiva.
| Timings | 05:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 17:00 PM – 19:00 PM |
| Entry fees | Free |
What is the Best time to visit the place?
From March to June, summer is the ideal time to visit the region of northern India.
In addition to the city, you can also indulge in various activities in the mountain station in summer, including paragliding, rafting, and Alpine sports in Solang Valley.
During this time, the temperature range is 10 ° C to 25 ° C, while the weather still makes exploration and sightseeing pleasant. To experience snowfall, you can go to high altitude areas such as Rohtang Pass.
How to reach Manikaran?
| Air | Kullu-Manali Airport is the closest airport to Manikaran, only 36 kilometres from the city, close to Bhunter. The airport has frequent flights from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. |
| Train | Joginder Nagar Railway Station is a narrow gauge, 148 kilometres from the place. You can also take a train to Kiratpur Railway Station, which is 221 kilometres from this place on the Kullu-Chandigarh highway, followed by Una Station, which is about 232 kilometres. |
| Road | There is nothing more interesting than driving on the winding roads of Himachal. Also, the town is connected to the main towns and cities in northern India and has a comprehensive road network and frequent bus services provided by the National Transport Company (HSRTC-Himachal State Road Transport Company). You can also take a private bus from Delhi, Jaipur, Chandigarh, Lucknow and other cities, or you can also take a private car directly to this place. |
Conclusion
Being a land of famed Gurdwara engulfed in hills, Manikaran has a mythological attachment with history of being visited by both Lord Shiva and Guru Nanakji, which makes it an auspicious place for people from both Hindu and Sikh religion.
We bet you don’t know there are too many places to explore and experience in the city!
This place is full of surprises. Therefore, the go-ahead for a pleasantly surprising little holiday in Himachal and try to do the above things.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Why is Manikaran famous?
It is a pilgrimage center for Hindus and Sikhs. The Hindus believe that Manu recreated human life in Manikaran after the flood, making it a sacred area. It has many temples and a gurdwara. There are temples of the Hindu deities Rama, Krishna, and Vishnu.
Why is Manikaran water so hot?
The main reason behind the presence of the hot water springs is the deep cracks or fissures in the Parvati Valley region. Due to this, the water of the Parvati River drains deep down and get in contact with the hot rocks situated beneath the earth. The hot water then shoots upward towards the place.
Is Manikaran worth visiting?
It is worth visiting for a day drive. You can indulge in refreshing activities taking a healing dip at hot spring, trek at Harinder Mountain, and more if you’re passing by Manikaran. Since there is nothing much to see around, you can enjoy the scenic spots on the way.
How far is Manikaran from Kullu?
Kullu is located around 24 KM away from the place so if you travel at the consistent speed of 50 KM per hour you can reach their in 0 hours and 41 minutes. Your total travel time may vary due to your bus speed, train speed, or depending upon the vehicle you use.
How can I go to Manikaran?
You can take a flight to Kullu Manali at Bhuntar Airport. The distance between the airport and Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh is 34.8 km. Get inside a local bus from Bhuntar Bus Stop and you will reach Manikaran in less than 90 minutes. Local buses are easily available from Bhuntar.