Sight Seeing Highlights

The Temple of Lord Shiva, although slightly damaged in a 1905 earthquake, and now leans with a slight tilt, still holds the honour, beauty and extravagance of this Manikaran temple.  In fact, the devtas from the valley of Kullu always pay homage during certain specified times of the year.

For the Sikhs, Manikaran is also a devotedly important pilgrimage destination, and is sacred for the Sikhs' belief that Guru Nanak Dev was once staying within 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.

The Gurudwara of Manikaran is regarded as being the centre of the springs that spew hot waters. There are 3 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.

Tourist Information

HP Tourism Development Corporation

Dhalpur, Kullu -175101

Tel:  (01902) 222349

Manikaran is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, and is approximately 45 Km. away from Kullu. Manikaran is most famous for being a main Sikh and Hindu state destination.  The translation of Manikaran is 'Jewel of the Ear', which according to legends is connected to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It is said that once they were staying in this specific area, 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.  But 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 deep from the Himalayas directly and the hot spring waters are considered as extremely holy with powers to heal and cure.

Manikaran is intertwined in legends and temples that are revered immensely. The Lord Ramachandra Temple is Manikaran's most important temple, and was constructed during the 17^th 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 Laksmana deity is now missing, there is the idol of Sita accompanying Lord Rama. The Temple has approximately 40 rooms and 3 hallways, and a holds a 'lungar' for the distribution of the food for the devotees.

A single visit makes you realize 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.