Enveloped by the captivating beauty of the Himalayas, Kullu is a picturesque valley that enchants travelers with its sublime landscapes, vibrant culture, and myriad of adventure opportunities. Known as the “Valley of Gods,” Kullu lures tourists from across the globe, promising an unforgettable journey through its mystical charm. In this article, we unveil the top 20 places to visit in Kullu, offering invaluable insights on the best times to explore this heavenly abode, and ensuring a memorable experience in this alluring haven.
Fascinating Places to Visit in Kullu
1. Raghunath Temple
This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama’s incarnation, Lord Raghunathji, is one of the top 5 places to visit in Kullu. Perched on a hill, the temple offers a panoramic view of the valley and is an important pilgrimage site.
- Location: Sultanpur, Kullu
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center:5 km
2. Bijli Mahadev Temple
A trek to this sacred Shiva temple rewards visitors with breathtaking views and spiritual solace. The temple’s name derives from the lightning (Bijli) that strikes the Shiva Linga inside the temple, which is believed to hold divine power.
- Location: Kullu Valley
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center: 14 km
3. Great Himalayan National Park
For nature enthusiasts, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best places to visit in Kullu Manali. Home to diverse flora and fauna, it offers a chance to witness exotic wildlife, trek through lush forests, and marvel at stunning landscapes.
- Location: Kullu District
- Entry Fee: INR 50 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center: 55 km
4. Tirthan Valley
A haven for adventure seekers, Tirthan Valley offers numerous activities like trekking, camping, and fishing. This serene valley is one of the top 10 places to visit in Kullu Manali, providing a perfect escape from the bustling city life.
- Location: Kullu District
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 54 km
5. Manikaran
Famous for its hot springs and religious significance, Manikaran is one of the best places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali. This spiritual retreat offers therapeutic baths, sacred temples, and the famous Manikaran Gurudwara.
- Location: Parvati Valley
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 34 km
6. Malana Village
Often referred to as the “Little Greece of India,” Malana is a quaint, isolated village steeped in unique customs and traditions. A visit to this village is a fascinating cultural experience and one of the top places to visit in Kullu.
- Location: Parvati Valley
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 21 km
7. Naggar Castle
A historical structure that once served as the residence of the Kullu kings, Naggar Castle is a fine example of the traditional Himachali architecture. It is now a heritage hotel, offering picturesque views of the Kullu Valley and the Beas River.
- Location: Naggar Village
- Entry Fee:INR 30 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners
- Timings: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center: 21 km
8. Parvati River
Originating from the ManTalai Glacier, the Parvati River is a serene spot for relaxation and photography. With its pristine waters and lush surroundings, it is one of the best places to visit in Kullu Manali in December for a peaceful retreat.
- Location: Kullu District
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 30 km
9. Gauri Shankar Temple
An architectural gem, the Gauri Shankar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and his consort, Goddess Parvati. This 12th-century temple, with intricate stone carvings, is a must-visit for history and art enthusiasts.
- Location: Naggar Village
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center: 21 km
10. Solang Valley
Renowned for its adventure sports and panoramic vistas, Solang Valley is one of the best places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali. Be it skiing, paragliding, or zorbing, this picturesque valley offers thrilling activities for all adrenaline junkies.
- Location: Manali
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 42 km
11. Basheshwar Mahadev Temple
This ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva boasts intricate stone carvings and a serene ambiance. It is one of the top places to visit in Kullu city, offering a spiritual experience amidst breathtaking surroundings.
- Location: Bajaura, Kullu
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center: 16 km
12. Friendship Peak
A popular trekking destination, Friendship Peak offers a challenging climb and mesmerizing views of the Pir Panjal mountain range. It is one of the best places to visit in Kullu Manali in June when the weather is pleasant and ideal for trekking.
- Location: Pir Panjal Range
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 52 km
13. Jana Waterfall
A hidden gem in the village of Jana, this cascading waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and apple orchards. It is a perfect picnic spot and one of the top 10 places to visit in Kullu for nature lovers.
- Location: Jana Village
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 32 km
14. Roerich Art Gallery
Dedicated to the Russian painter Nicholas Roerich, this art gallery houses his stunning landscape paintings and rare artifacts. It is one of the best places to visit in Kullu district for art and history enthusiasts.
- Location: Naggar Village
- Entry Fee: INR 30 for Indians, INR 50 for foreigners
- Timings: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center: 21 km
15. Kasol
A popular destination among backpackers, Kasol is a picturesque village known for its vibrant cafes, scenic treks, and the annual Kasol Music Festival. It is one of the best places to visit in Kullu Manali in April, when the weather is pleasant and the valley is in full bloom.
- Location: Parvati Valley
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 30 km
16. Kheerganga Trek
A popular trekking destination, Kheerganga offers a challenging hike through lush forests, meadows, and beautiful waterfalls. At the summit, visitors can enjoy a dip in the natural hot springs, making it one of the best places to visit in Shimla Manali and Kullu.
- Location: Parvati Valley
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 30 km
17. Rafting in River Beas
For adventure enthusiasts, river rafting in the Beas River is a thrilling experience. The rapids offer varying levels of difficulty, making it one of the best places to visit in Kullu Manali in 3 days for a fun-filled adventure.
- Location: Kullu Valley
- Entry Fee: Varies depending on the operator
- Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Distance from Kullu Center: 12 km
18. Pandoh Dam
An engineering marvel, Pandoh Dam is built on the Beas River and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is one of the best places to visit in Kullu Manali in January when the snow-capped mountains create a magical backdrop.
- Location: Mandi District
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 49 km
19. Gulaba
A picturesque village surrounded by snow-capped mountains, Gulaba is a lesser-known destination perfect for skiing, trekking, and photography. It is one of the top places to visit in Kullu Manali in October when the autumn colors create a mesmerizing landscape.
- Location: Manali
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 44 km
20. Jagatsukh
A quaint village, Jagatsukh is known for its ancient temples and lush apple orchards. It is one of the best places to visit in Kullu and Manikaran, offering a peaceful retreat away from the bustling tourist spots
- Location: Kullu District
- Entry Fee: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Distance from Kullu Center: 12 km
Kullu is an enchanting destination that offers a plethora of experiences, from serene temples and picturesque landscapes to thrilling adventure sports and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or a spiritual seeker, Kullu promises to leave you with unforgettable memories.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. What are the top 5 places to visit in Kullu?
A. The top 5 places to visit in Kullu are Raghunath Temple, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Great Himalayan National Park, Tirthan Valley, and Manikaran.
Q. Which are the best places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali?
A. The best places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali include Manikaran, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Kufri, and the Great Himalayan National Park.
Q. What are the top 10 places to visit in Kullu Manali in December?
A. The top 10 places to visit in Kullu Manali in December are Manikaran, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Gulaba, Parvati River, Naggar Castle, Great Himalayan National Park, Kheerganga Trek, Jana Waterfall, and Rafting in River Beas.
Q. Which are the best places to visit in Kull4. Which are the best places to visit in Kullu Manali in April?
A. The best places to visit in Kullu Manali in April are Kasol, Tirthan Valley, Solang Valley, Naggar Castle, and Jana Waterfall.
Q. What are the top places to visit in Kullu Manali in June?
A. The top places to visit in Kullu Manali in June are Friendship Peak, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Kheerganga Trek, and Great Himalayan National Park.
Q. Can you suggest some places to visit in Kullu and Manikaran?
A. Some must-visit places in Kullu and Manikaran include Manikaran Gurudwara, Raghunath Temple, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Naggar Castle, and the Great Himalayan National Park.
