Vashisht – a surreal hamlet nesting on a steep slope of the Kullu Valley on the Manali-Leh Highway facing Old Manali and the glacial-fed River Beas. It’s surrounded by the Rohtang Pass on one side and Hampta Pass on the other.
If you want to be away from the hustle-bustle of Manali yet soak in Nature, Vashisht is the place for you. It’s a very small village housing around 160 families and home to the 2 most famous mythological tourist attractions – Vashisht Temple and the Jogini waterfalls.
Vashisht Temple
Vashisht Temple is said to be 4000 years old and dedicated to one of the great Saptarishis of India named Vasishtha Muni (Rishi). Deeply distressed with the demise of his children by King Vishwamitra, Rishi Vasishtha tried to commit suicide by jumping into a river. However, Universe had different plans for him – the river denied accepting him and brought him to the place that is called Vashisht now.
Rishi Vasishtha considered this to be a blessing and started his new life with meditation. Hence this river was named River Vipasha (means ‘Freedom from Bondage’). Later it was shortened to River Beas.
There is also a beautiful wooden carved Shiva Temple in the same temple complex.
Healing Hot Springs
Vashisht Temple is famous for its sulphur hot springs. These hot springs are believed to have magical healing power in treating skin diseases and pains in the body. A dip in this kund on a cold snowfall day is no less than a warm spa at your favorite salon back in the cities. The temperature of the water here is around 43 C to 50 C approximately.
Timings of the kund: 7 am – 1 pm, 2pm – 9pm daily
These hot springs were created by Laxman, brother of Lord Ram, for his Guru - Vasishtha Rishi. Laxman shot an arrow to the ground for the springs to flow, so that Vasishtha Rishi can take bath there easily instead of walking down to the river.
During their exile, Ram along with his family resided here for quite a while. Hence there is a temple here dedicated to Lord Ram too.
Jogini Waterfalls
How can one miss Jogini when in Vashist? A 3km hike through the Vashist village, pine forest, small streams, budding homely cafes lead you to this 160 ft high waterfall cascading from a cliff on the kullu valley, gushing to meet River Beas with Solang and Bahang Village on the backdrop.
This is considered as a Shaktipeeth, dedicated to the Shakti Goddess Jogini. Paying homage to the shrine of Goddess Jogini there, after a dip in the waterfall pool, makes you believe in the Power of Shakti one more time.
This day hike will connect you to the inner child you have locked inside.
Local Transport Vashist - Manali Bus Stand: