Location of Manikaran
Manikaran, a famous pilgrimage destination for both Hindus and the Sikhs is perched on the right bank of river Parvati in Himachal Pradesh. It is located 45kms from Kullu at an altitude of 1760 m.
What to see in Manikaran?
Lord Ramchandra Temple: Among all the temples in Manikaran, the temple of Lord Ramchandra is the most famous one. According to some priests of the village, Lord Ram brought the temple from Ayodhya and installed by Raka Kullu. But this has little historical evidence. On the left side of Lord Ram stands the idol of Sita.
Temple of Lord Shiva: The temple of Lord Shiva is very old but it got tilted during the earthquake of 1905. Followers of several deities pay homage in large numbers in Manikaran.
Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara: This is also a famous holy place for the Sikh pilgrims. The visit of Guru Nanak Dev is mentioned in the Sakhi or the ‘Twarikh Guru Khalsa’ by Giani Gian Singh. It is believed that Guru Nanak Dev along with this disciple Bhai Mardana reached Jwalamukhi temple after visiting Kalanaur, Gurdaspur, Dasuya, Triloknath, Palampur and Kangra. After spreading his message in Mandi, Kullu and Bijli Mahadev, he reached Manikaran. He reached Manikaran with his Five ‘Piaras’ or followers.
Harinder Mountain and Parvati River: On the northern side of Manikaran is a mountain called Harinder and on the south is the Parvati River.
Hot Springs: It is said that people go to heaven after taking a bath in these hot springs and drinking water from here. Manikaran hot spring has radio active minerals and Uranium.
Kulant Pith: Kulant Pith is the most superior of all the piths of the country. Vishnu Kund is the purest in Manikaran and Lord Shankara who stayed here was mightily pleased. A drop of water from this tank will make one rid of all the evils.
Accomodation selection in Manikaran
Manikaran doesn’t have too many good options as far as hotel accommodation is concerned. Hotel Parvati is a good place in Manikaran. There are number of options in Kullu and Manali like Hotel Sharda, Hotel Holiday Home, Hotel Orchard Green in Kullu and Snow Valley Resorts and HPTDC hotels in Manali.
Best season to visit Manikaran
Winter is the best time to visit Manikaran
How to reach Manikaran
By Air: Bhuntar is the nearest airport, 10kms from Manikaran.
By Rail: The nearest rail heads are Pathankot and Chandigarh. Buses and taxis are available form the station.
By Road: Regular bus services are available from Kullu and Chandigarh.
