Kullu (1220m) was once known as Kulanthapitha – the end of the habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the Greater Himalaya, and by the banks of the shining river Beas lay the fabled Silver Valley. Kullu got its first motorable access only after independence. The long centuries of seclusion have however allowed the area to retain a considerable measures of its traditional charm. Here is the core of an intricate web of numerous valleys, each of which is a visual delight and seems more beautiful than the other.
The Silver Valley has nature’s treasures that lie carelessly scattered as flowers. This wealth nestles by every tree in the splendid forests, bursts forth in the blooms and in the fruit of every orchard. Here are riches which cannot be measured and echo down the ages with the words of every myth and ancient legend and glow in the warm smiles of its gentle people. There is pleasure in every step you take in these enchanted valleys and in every gurgle you hear in the clear mountain streams.
ACCESS : The airport at Bhunter is 10 km from Kullu, where taxis and buses are available. By road, the distance from Delhi is 530 km , Shimla – 240 km. From Delhi, HPTDC Luxury and Volvo coaches ply to Kullu daily. During tourist season there is a daily luxury coach to Shimla.
CLIMATE : In winter, the temperature gets quite low when heavy woolens are required. It is pleasant in summer and cottons are recommended.
Tourist places in Kullu
RaghuNath Ji Temple at Sultanpur in Kullu
The chief deity of Kullu is Raghunath Ji. Dussehra festival is held in its name. The idol is same which was used by Lord Rama himself at the time of Ashwamegh Yagya and was brought from Tretnath temple of Ayodhya. The temple was constructed in 1660 AD with a mixed look of Pahari and Pyramidal style. Everyday puja (aarti) is held for five times. Round the year, 45 festivals are held.
It is said that Raja Jagat Singh used charanamrit of the idol for 42 days and was absolved from the evil effect of the curse of a Brahmin Durga Dutt. In the 16th Century, Raja Jagat Singh ruled over the prosperous and beautiful kingdom of Kullu. As the ruler, the Raja came to know of a peasant by the name of Durgadatta who apparently possessed many beautiful pearls. The Raja thought he should have these treasured pearls, even though the only pearls Durgadatta had were pearls of Knowledge. But the Raja in his greed ordered Durgadatta to hand over his pearls or be hanged. Knowing of his inevitable fate at the hands of the king, Durgadatta threw himself on the fire and cursed the king. “Whenever you eat, your rice will appear as worms, and water will appear as blood”. Doomed by his fate, the Raja sought solace and searched out advice from a Brahmin. The Holy man, told him that in order to eradicate the curse, he must retrieve the idol of Raghunath from Rams kingdom. Desperate, the king sent a Brahmin to Ayodya. One fine day the Brahmin stole the idol and set out on his journey back to Kullu. The people of Ayodya, finding their beloved Ragunath missing, set out in search of the Kullu Brahmin. On the banks of the Saryu river, they approached the Brahmin and asked him why he had taken Ragunath ji. The Brahmin recounted the story of the Kullu king. The people of Ayodya attempted to lift Ragunath, but their idol became incredibly heavy when headed back towards Ayodya, and became very light when headed to Kullu. On reaching Kullu Ragunath was installed as the reigning deity of the Kullu kingdom. After installing the idol of Ragunath, Raja Jagat Singh drank the Charan-Amrit of the idol and the curse was lifted. Jagat Singh became Lord Raghunath’s regent. This legend is connected with the Dussehra at Kullu. This idol is taken in a Ratha to the Dussehra ground where all the Gods of different villages in Kullu Valley gather to pay homage to Lorg Raghunath Ji.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 11 km
Kullu town: 1.5 km
Manali town: 40 km
Adi-Bramha Temple at Khokhan near Bhuntar in Kullu
Adi-Brahma Temple is located in village Khokhan just 4 km from Bhuntar towards north, on a link road starting from Shamshi moving towards the village Khokhan at about same elevation as of Dayar temple of Vishnu across the valley. It is a massive wooden structure. This temple has idols of Adi-Brahma Ji in the center and temple of ‘Garh-Jogni’ and ‘Manikaran-Jogni’ on left and right side of the temple.
In Hindu Pantheon, there are a large number of temples devoted to Vishnu and Shiva but very few to Brahma. Hence the Adi-Brahma temple built in wood and stone at Khokhan is of great importance. In Himachal Pradesh, another Adi-Brahma temple is at Tihri (Uttarsal) in Mandi district.
At Khokhan, the Adi Brahma has one “ashta-dhatu”, eleven silver and two brass mohras fixed in the ‘rath’ (rath: chariot or palanquin).
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 4 km
Kullu town: 8 km
Manali town: 43 km
Jagannathi Temple at Bhekhli in Kullu
Jagannathi Temple is situated at Bhekhli, just 12 km from Kullu. It is a beautiful place with temple of Maa Bhuwaneshwari. From there one can have a wide view of the entire Kullu Valley and River Beas.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 22 km
Kullu town: 12 km
Manali town: 49 km
Bijli Mahadev Temple in Kullu Valley
Bijli-Mahadev temple is a ‘Kash’ style temple that has a “Shiva-Lingam”. This temple is situated in a meadow with lush green forests in the surroundings, 14 KM from Kullu. This place got its name after the great miracle that occurs occasionally. The ‘Shiva-Lingam’ is struck by lightening and it breaks into pieces, then the priest of the temple collects all the pieces and joins them together with the help of butter acting as an adhesive. During ‘Shivaratri’ every year, great rush of devotees gather here to pay homage to Lord-Shiva.
It is located at an altitude of about 2,438 m in the Kullu Valley, Bijli Mahadev is one of the excellent temples in India. Located 14 km from Kullu, it can be approached by a difficult but rewarding trek of 3 km. A panoramic view of Kullu and Paravati valleys can be seen from the temple. The 60 feet high staff of Bijli Mahadev temple glistens like a silver needle in the sun. In this temple of lightning it is said that the tall staff attracts the divine blessings in the form of lightning. It is believed that the priest of the temple has to restore the Shiva-lingam placed inside the temple using butter and sattoo after every lightning as it shatters to pieces with flash of lightning.
How to reach there:
One can reach Kullu first and then get a bus from the bus stand for Bijli Mahadev which goes up to the nearby ‘Chansari’ village. Otherwise one can book a private cab from the Kullu taxi stand near bus stand and go. One has to climb stairs from ‘Chansari’, the distance being about 3 km uphill. The road is now extended to more than 5 km which lessen the stairs climbing to one half. By personal vehicle or the booked vehicle one can now approach to village ‘Halleni’.
If you are in good health, you can even trek all the way from Kullu to Bijli Mahadev. The trek is beautiful with jungles, orchids and small villages on the way. By the time you reach the top, your lungs will definitely ask you for rest but you will find it irresistible to admire the beauty that you see.
You get to see a panoramic view of Parvati and Kullu valley from this peak. When you turn around, there are no higher peaks to block your view in the close proximity. Carry your own camping equipment if you plan to stay there for more than one day. There are a few locals running the shops but you need to arrange for your accommodation.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 30 km by road + 3 km trek on foot
Kullu town: 20 km + 3 km trek on foot
Manali town: 50 km + 3 km trek on foot
Khir Ganga Trek
Khirganga is situated in Parvati Valley at a distance of 22 km from Manikaran. For Khirganga, one has to go by motor-able road up to a place called ‘Barshaini’ and from there to Khirganga on foot. This trek leads through hilly terrain. This is the place where ‘Kartik Ji’, the elder son of ‘Lord Shiva’ remained in ‘samadhi’ for thousands of years.
Kheer Ganga is one of the most refreshing treks that you can go on anywhere. The natural hot-water-spring experience is something that you will remember for a lifetime. Most people who reach this place always come back for seconds as there you can simply not get enough of such a place. The place is open for about 7 months in a year and is not permanently inhabited.
The trek is very pleasant and offers some exhilarating views. The vegetation changes dramatically and opens up into a flatland that is graced by the occasional tent, the few guest houses and cafes and the temple premises which also comprises of the hot water spring.
After the climb you are rewarded with release from all your pains during the day and get to bathe in the hot spring and rejuvenate yourself. Even though there is a hot spring at the gurudwara down at Mankiaran, the experience of Kheer Ganga is unique in so many ways.
There are also good facilities for accommodation and food here considering that all the goods are taken via mules or human carriers. The locals sprint down the slopes with heavy goods on their back. There is simply no way that you can keep up with the locals when they ascend and descend. The friendly nature of the people is more than the warmth you need as all the things that you can think for are provided for at highly reasonable rates.
Visiting the temple at early dawn before you proceed to the pool is customary. The biting cold is forgotten once your body is in that sulphur heated water.
The first thing that you will need is a good sturdy pair of shoes and a backpack. The size of your backpack will vary as per your plans of stay. If you plan to stay for a day, it can be a small backpack. However there is only one small problem with staying there for one day, your heart will melt away as you walk away from the place. You will also have to decide whether you would like to camp or rent. Camping here is easy and you will get all that you need. Carrying a raincoat with you is a good thing to do since the weather can be unpredictable sometimes. Basic things like a torch should also not be neglected just in case. There is no electricity in Kheer Ganga and the lights are all run on solar power. Remember to carry some food with you as you climb up and descend. Water is not a problem as the valley provides in plenty for you. The water from the streams in the valley people say is better than the best of what even Evian can give to you.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 45 km by road + 11 km trek on foot
Kullu town: 55 km + 11 km trek on foot
Manali town: 95 km + 11 km trek on foot
Manikaran
Manikaran is located in the Parvati Valley along the banks of river Parvati, northeast of Bhuntar in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh. It is at an altitude of 1760 m and is located about 40 km from Bhuntar.This small town attracts tourists visiting Manali and Kullu to its hot springs and piligrim centres.An experimental Geothermal Energy plant has also been set up here.
Manikaran is a pilgrimage centre 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 Gurudwara. There are temples of Lord Rama, Krishna, and Vishnu. The area is well-known for its natural hot-water springs and its beautiful landscape.
According to a legend, when Lord Shiva and his better half Parvati were walking in the valley, Parvati dropped one of her earrings. The jewel was seized by Shesha-Nag, the serpent deity, who then disappeared into the earth with it. Shesha-Nag only surrendered the jewel when Shiva performed the cosmic dance, the “Tandava” and shot the jewel up through the water. Apparently, it is said that jewels continued to be thrown up in the waters at Manikaran until the earthquake of 1905.
According to Sikhs, during third Udasi, Guru Nanak Dev ji came to this place in 1574 Bikrami with his disciples Bhai Bala & Bhai Mardana. Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji was with Bhai Bala and Bhai Mardana in Manikaran region and Bhai Mardana felt hungry and they had no food. Guru Nanak sent his good Friend Bhai Mardana to collect food for langar (the Community Kitchen). Many people donated flour (atta) to make Roti (bread). The one problem was that there was no fire to cook the food. Guru Nanak Asked Mardana to lift a stone and Bhai Mardana then lifted a rock and a hot spring(hot water) appeared. As directed by Guru Nanak Dev ji, Mardana put the rolled chappatis in the spring to his despair the chappatis sank. Guru Nanak then told him to pray to god saying that if his chappatis float back then he would donate one chappati in the name of God. When he prayed all the chappatis started floating duly baked. Guru Nanak Dev Ji said that anyone who donates in the name of God, his or her drowned items float back.
The legend of Manikaran states that while roaming around, Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati, once chanced upon a place that was surrounded by mountains and was lush green. Enamoured by the beauty of the place, they decided to spend some time there. It is believed that they actually spent eleven hundred years here. During their stay here, Goddess Parvati lost her mani in the waters of a stream. Upset over the loss, she asked Shiva to retrieve it. Lord Shiva commanded his attendant to find out the mani for Parvati, however, when they failed, he was extremely angry. He opened his third eye, a tremendously inauspicious event which led to disturbances in the universe. An appeal was made before the serpent god, Shesha-Nag, to pacify Lord Shiva. Shesha-Nag hissed thereby giving rise to a flow of boiling water. The water spread over the entire area resulting in the emergence of precious stones of the type Goddess Parvati had lost. Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati were happy at the outcome.
The name Manikaran is derived from this legend. The water is still hot and is considered extremely auspicious. A pilgrimage to this place is thought of as complete. It is also believed that there is no need to pay a visit to “Kashi” after visiting this place. The water of the spring is also supposed to have curative powers. The water is so hot that rice for the “langar” is cooked by putting it into a linen-bag and dipping it into the boiling water.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 37 km
Kullu town: 45 km
Manali town: 85 km
Triyugi Narayan Temple at Diyar in Kullu
Triyugi Narayan Temple is located in village Dyar, 12 km from Bhuntar on a link road bifurcates on the left bank of Beas to Dayar village. This ‘pagoda’ style temple is dedicated to ‘Bhagwan Vishnu Ji’ and is saddled on a ridge and clearly visible from Bajaura Shiva temple and from the National Highway No. 21. Idols of Bavan Avtar and Bramari Devi are also there in the temple. This temple was built in 800 AD.
The pagoda style of a temple is often associated with lord Buddha. This is one of the first few temples depicting influence of Buddhism in the region which grows more and more as one moves further into Himalayas and trans-Himalayas (Lahul and Spiti districts).
In the hills, Vishnu is often referred to as Daridra Narayan or protector of downtrodden. Vishnu is more popular in rural areas and agricultural community with as many as 65 Narayans in Kullu valley alone.
The temple of Dayar made of stone and wood has an idol of Vishnu about four feet in height along with smaller metal idols of Buddha. M.R. Thakur in his book, “Myths, Rituals and Beliefs in H.P.” mentions “It is remarkable to note that the presiding deities in chief areas of the Pradesh are among Vishnu, like Raghunath in Kullu, Madhav Rao in Mandi, Laxmi Narayan in Chamba, Murli Manohar in Sujanpur, Bansi Gopar in Bilaspur and Parshu Ram in Renuka (Sirmaur). The following of Vishnu may be gauged by the reverence of large number of Narayans and his nine incarnations – Matsya ‘the fish’, Kurm ‘the tortoise’, Varah ‘the boar’, Narsimha ‘the man-lion’, Vaman ‘the dwarf’, Parshu Ram, Rama, Krishna, Buddha and the tenth would be incarnation Kalki.”
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 15 km
Kullu town: 23 km
Manali town: 63 km
Bishweshwar Mahadev Temple Bajaura
Bishweshwar Temple is located in the village Bajaura just 5 KM from Bhuntar towards south. It is the largest and the most attractive stone temple of Kullu Valley. This temple, built in the ninth century in pyramid style, is built on Shankaracharya Paddhati (style) of Panch Dev Puja. It is said that the Pandavas during their exile constructed this temple in just one day. Due to its wonderful architecture, it withstood the sever earthquake of 1905. This temple has been declared as a protected monument.
The temple of Bishweshwar Mahadev (or Vishveshvara Mahadev) is located at Bajaura 5 Km south from Bhuntar on National Highway No. 21. There are about twenty recorded stone-temples in Kullu of which the Bajaura temple of Lord Shiva (Lord of Universe) is the largest one. The famous archeologist, Dr Vogel has described this temple in detail in his report to the Archaeological Survey of India (1909-10). He says “The excellent workmanship of the large bas-reliefs and, in fact, all the sculptural decoration on Bajoura temple, points to an early date”. [Bas-relief is a sort of sculpture where the sulpture has less depth behind the faces or figures than the actual faces or figures would have, when measured]
Mandanjeet Singh, an Indian art historian, in his book Himalayan Art (UNESCO, 1968), opines that the temple was built in eleventh century. The temple looks a bit squat with an unusually flat Shikhara. The outer surface of the temple is covered with the carvings.
There is no pillared hall attached to this temple though such adjuncts are common in Mandi temples. The sanctum of the temple called Garbha Griha is approached directly by an open doorway on the east side of the temple and contains the “linga” of Shiva set in the “yoni” of his female power (shakti), Devi, the daughter of Himalaya.
There are magnificent carvings of gods on the remaining three sides of the temple. The niche to the west has a standing figure of Vishnu. The niche to the south has a beautiful Ganesha.
And the side facing north (the eternal snows of Lahul) has Devi Durga with her eight arms wielding different kinds of weapons. Exquisite carvings on the bulging tower of temple. No animal sacrifice is made at the Bajaura temple.
Malana
Malana is an ancient village to the north-east of Kullu Valley. This solitary village in the Malana Nala, a side valley of the Parvati Valley, is isolated from the rest of the world. The majestic peaks of Chandrakhani and Deotibba shadow the village. It is situated on a remote plateau by the side of torrential Malana river at a height of 3029 m above the sea level. Unaffected by the modern civilization, Malana has its own lifestyle and social structure. People are strict in following their customs. Malana has been the subject of various documentaries including, Malana: Globalization of a Himalayan Village, and Malana, A Lost Identity.
History
Malana has a history and it goes back to Jamlu rishi (sage) who inhabited this place and made rules and regulations. It is one of the oldest democracies of the world with a well organized parliamentary system. All of this is guided by the their devta (deity) Jamlu rishi. Although Jamlu is currently identified with a sage from the Puranas, this is a relatively recent development. Jamlu is believed to have been worshiped in pre-Aryan times.
Malana is considered to be one of the first democracies in the world. According to tradition, the residents of Malana are the descendant of Aryans, and they acquired their independence during the Mughal reign when the Emperor Akbar walked to the village in order to cure an ailment that he was afflicted with; after having been successfully cured he put out an edict stating that all the inhabitants of the valley would never be required to pay tax. An alternative tradition suggests that Malana was founded by remnants of Alexander the Great’s Army.
The village administration is democratic and is believed to be the oldest republic of the world. The social structure of Malana in fact rests on villagers’ unshaken faith in their powerful deity, Jamlu Devta. The entire administration of the village is controlled by him through a village council. This council has eleven members and they are believed as delegates of Jamlu who govern the village in his name. His decision is ultimate in any dispute and any outsider authority is never required. It is although a real fact that Malanis through this council perform a political system of direct democracy very similar to that of ancient Greece. Thus Malana has been named the Athens of Himalayas.
Malanis (the inhabitants of Malana) admire their culture, customs and religious beliefs. They generally do not like to change though some traces of modernization are visible. People in Malana consider all non-Malani to be inferior and consequently untouchable. Visitors to Malana town must pay particular attention to stick to the prescribed paths and not to touch any of the walls, houses or people there. If this does occur, visitors are expected to pay a forfeit sum, that will cover the sacrificial slaughter of a lamb in order purify the object that has been made impure. Malani people may touch impure people or houses as long as they follow the prescribed purification ritual before they enter their house or before they eat. Malanis may never accept food cooked by a non-Malani person, unless they are out of the valley (in which case their Devt can’t see them). Malanis may offer visitors food but all utensils will have to undergo a strict purification ritual before they can be used again.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 40 km by road + 3 km on foot
Kullu town: 50 km by road + 3 km on foot
Manali town: 90 km by road + 3 km on foot
Naggar Castle – The Old Capital of Kullu
Naggar was the former capital of Kullu. It was founded by Raja Visudhpal and continued as a headquarters of the State until the capital was transferred to Sultanpur (Kullu) by Jagat Singh in 1460 A.D. Situated on the left bank of river Beas at an altitude of 1851m, Naggar – an ancient town commands extensive views, especially to the North West of the valley. Today this ancient and beautiful Palace is a popular tourist spot.
NAGGAR CASTLE : The Castle was converted into a rest house, a hundred year back and in 1978 this ancient building was handed over to HPTDC to run as a heritage hotel. This medieval Castle was built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu around 1460 A.D. The hotel overlooks the Kullu Valley and apart from the spectacular view and superb location this has a flavour of authentic western Himalayan architecture. Here, a gallery houses the paintings of the Russian artist Nicholas Roerich. Naggar also has three other old shrines. Hotel Castle is an unique medieval stone and wood mansion, once the home to the Raja of Kullu and now an HPTDC Heritage hotel.
JAGATIPATT TEMPLE : In the upper courtyard of the castle there is a small temple – a small square structure which contains “Jagtipatt” a slab of stone measuring 5’x8’x6″ which is said to have been brought from a place near Vashisht by honey bee. This is also place for meeting of local deities of Kullu.
TRIPURA SUNDRI TEMPLE : This pagoda shaped wooden temple is situated in the upper part of the village. This is also a rare examples of architecture.
NICHOLAS ROERICH ART GALLERY : Prof. Late Nicholas Roerich, a reputed artist had chosen Naggar as his residence when he came to India in 1929. The house has now been converted in an art gallery which houses numbers of rare paintings and other specimen of art. The gallery is open for visitors.
GAURI SHANKAR TEMPLE : At the foot of small bazaar below the Castle is the Gauri Shankar Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is a charming example of architecture and carving of its particular period. Now a protected monument with heritage status.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 35 km
Kullu town: 25 km
Manali town: 20 km
Mata-Vaishno-Maha-Devi-Tirth-Temple
Mata Vaishno Maha Devi Tirth is located just 5 km from Kullu on Kullu-Manali National Highway No. 21.
Mahadevi Tirth named after Goddess Parvati – also called Mahadevi, stands tall since 1966, in the beautiful Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh. The foundation of Mahadevi Tirth was laid in 1962 when “Swami Sewak Das ji Maharaj” in search of eternal peace came to this place and found Mahadevi’s abode in the mountains.Swami Swak Das ji, the founder of Mahadevi Tirth was the one to preach and practice “Nishkaam Karmseva” – “Selfless Service” with his wonderful magnetic spirituality and love for all the living kinds. Swami ji during his life span, practically showed us how to follow the path of “Selfless Service”.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 15 km
Kullu town: 5 km
Manali town: 35 km
Prashar Rishi Temple and Lake
Prashar Lake lies ~70 km south of Kullu, with a three storied pagoda-like temple dedicated to the sage Prashar. The Lake is located at a height of 2730 m above sea level. With deep blue waters, the lake is held sacred to the sage Prashar and he is regarded to have meditated there. An interesting thing about Parashar Lake is its floating circular island, that keeps changing its position through-out the year. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, the lake can be approached via a motorable link-road from Bajaura near Buntar.
The temple was built in the thirteenth century and the Lake is said to be unclear how deep it is, with a diver not being able to determine its depth.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 62 km
Kullu town: 70 km
Manali town: 110 km
Less Explored Tourist Places in Kullu
In addition to the popular tourist places there are numerous beautiful spots lying in the Valley, still hidden and worth seeing. These are Kais-Dhar, Peej, Shanghar (Sainj-Valley), Gara-Gushiani, Seraj-Valley, Shoja, Jalori-Paas, Sarahan, Raghupur-Garh, Saryolsar Lake, Khanaag and many more…
White Water Rafting in Kullu Valley
In Kullu Valley, white water rafting can be enjoyed in the river Beas throughout the year except during the period from 15-July to 15-September. However rafting is also not done during rains and winters.
Trips generally start at Pirdi and continue 14 km down to Jhiri. White Water river- rafting facilities are offered by private operators at Pirdi near Kullu where a water sports centre has been set up to provide one stop water sports adventure experience for the tourist. Rafting is done on stretches of the River Beas, where rapids of high grades can be negotiated safely, providing an exhilarating experience for enthusiasts.
The Mountaineering Institute of Allied Sports in Manali, Himachal Pradesh can arrange two-week kayaking trips on the Beas river in Oct. The Beas River is a heaven for extreme Kayakers and beginner rafters alike. This river has got I – IV grade rapids.
Rafting begins at around 10:00 Hrs in the morning at Pirdi and can take from a few hours to a full day.
Approximate Distances from:
Kullu-Manali Airport at Bhuntar: 6 km
Kullu town: 3 km
Manali town: 45 km
Handlooms and Handicrafts of Kullu
The fanatical artisans of the Valley of Gods put their imaginations into their art. Their zest from nature and the cool environs is portrayed through their art. The amazing handicraft of Kullu, be it the world famous Kullu-Shawl, Metal Crafts, Artistic Wood Craft, Intricate Drift-Wood or he minute arts thriving in the valley, all portrays the best of the valley.
The living tradition of Kullu handicrafts has its roots in the past, though begotten both as a necessary and the artist’s love for nature now a days it has also taken the form of a fashion. With time, constructive alterations in design and processing have taken on rather than plain handloom products, patterns were instigated, variation in processing came about the raw material enhanced.
The patterns on handlooms depicts the artisan’s passion for nature. The patters on shawls, mufflers, caps etc are influenced by nature and they show trees, mountains and flowers. The colours, traditionally bright, probably try to manifest the Kulluites’ zest for life.
Kullu Shawls
Kullu Shawls occupy a place of pride among the handlooms of Kullu. They are world famous for their traditional patterns, quality and reasonable price.
Kullu Cap
Kullu Cap is a colorful article made out of woolen cloth. The cap is round in shape, having colorful borders on its sides, which is woven on a smaller loom. The borders come in different designs and colors.
Pattu
Pattu is the traditional dress of the local women of Kullu. This woolen fabric is woven in different colors and designs. It is thicker and heavier than shawls and the colors used are fast and bright. Women wear pattu over their clothe. They pin both ends of it with local silver broaches called ‘bumni’, joined with a long chain.
Mufflers
Kullu muffler is a traditionally designed artifact of handicraft, made of wool (Pashmina, Merino, Angora). It is worn around neck by hill people during winters. Mufflers were started being woven in the valley in 1940’s.
Metal Craft
Metal Craft of Kullu pursue native profile and are bedecked with delicately engraved patterns, which depict local flora and fauna. The valley also manufactures local musical instruments, symbols of God (locally called ‘Mohras’) and artistic works of sheet metal. The stone carvings depict various episodes from the epics. Woodcraft too find room in the light of valey’s flora, sky-scraping deodar trees and blooming pine trees.
Other Crafts
Besides these, Kullu valley promotes several other crafts such as ‘Pullas” (grass slippers made out of the stem of Marijuana plant. Mandris (a type of carpet made from the stem of Marijuana Plant. Gudmas and Namdas (quilt and mattress respectively made from ‘Bying’ (wool from Tibet).
Fairs
The fairs of the valley portray rich cultural heritage of the valley. These fairs carry enormous religious worth and preserve a rich heritage native’s belief in divine powers. During these fairs, the spirit of Kullu is visible on the faces of gay people. These simple rural folks take delight in songs, dances, laughter and celebration. The people are in a happy and festive mood. They visit their relatives to greet them. On the day of fair the guests are heartily welcomed and the hosts feel great honour in serving them with food and drinks. For local people, it is time to relax and enjoy with their friends and relatives.
Phalgun month (mid-February and mid-March) marks the beginning of fairs and festivals in the valley. Fair of Phagli is held between mid-February to mid- March. The fair depicts victory of sages Manu and Shandalya over demon Tundi Raksh. From this day onwards, there are various fairs taking place at almost every village. Nowadays, these fairs also have economic importance besides religious significance. During these fairs, people buy and sell various articles of basic necessity. Even as the years have passed, people still celebrate these fairs with full enthusiasm and exuberance as it used to be in the good old days.
International Kullu Dussehra Festival
Dussehra (Dushehra) is celebrated in most parts of the country on Vijya Dashmi(Dushehra) to commemorate the victory of Rama over demon king Ravana. The highlight of this fair is The victory of good over evil. Kullu Dussehra (Dushehra) is however, different in certain ways from Dussehra celebrations in the other parts of the country. It presents cultural ethos of the people and their deep rooted religious beliefs which manifest during this festival with traditional songs, dances and colorful dress. It begins on Vijya Dashmi and lasts for a week. There is an interesting story behind the beginning of Dussehra Festival. And now also, the internationally famous Dussehra (Dushehra) of Kullu is celebrated in the same tradition.
Winter Carnival
Winter carnival is the most awaited event in the valley. This festival has been declare a state level festival. Massive participation by culture groups and students from various colleges of India marks the success of winter carnival. The festival is held at ‘Manu Kala Kendra’ in Manali. Second and third weeks of January in Manali are a feast for the visitors when the five-day long festival is held. The performers try to show their excellence and give their level best. It provides opportunities to the artists to prove themselves. Competitions conducted include Indian classical music (vocal and instrumental), folk songs, folk dances, classical dances, group dances, group songs, fancy dress, film songs, film dances, one act plays, and street plays. The most awaited competitions are Men’s personality contest and Winter Queen contest. First day of the festival is something to behold. First day tablos are presented by various cultural groups, which is also a competitive item. The rest four days are equally inviting, offering you a substantial variety of programs. On the last day of the carnival, finals of Winter Queen contest and Men’s Personality contest are held. On the last day, the chief guest distributes prizes to the victorious participants of the five-day long festival.
Spring Festival (Pipal Jatra)
Spring festival is also called Basantotsava or Pipal-Jatra and takes place at Dhalpur ground Kullu from 28th April to 30th April. This fair has been declared a state festival by the Himachal Pradesh government. As it marks the beginning of the spring season (and also the tourist season) in the valley, it is also known as Spring Festival. Kullu is known as the valley of gods. The villages have their own gods and goddesses. It is said that in olden days, the King (or the Raja) used to sit in the Dhalpur ground with his courtiers under the Pipal Tree to look at the traditional dances. Earlier 16 Gods used to participate in the fair, but as the years rolled by, the fair lost its grandeur. Every night during the festival, cultural programs are performed by the various cultural groups at Kala Kendra which is a big open-air theater. The cultural groups and reputed artists come from all over India to perform in the festival.
Folk Dance
Kulu folk dances reflect rich cultural heritage, vibrant life style, love, hard work and the struggle of local people to survive in the adversaries. Kullu People are very fond of dances. They are prompt to dance on occasions like, fairs and festivals . The Folk Dances of Kullu can be broadly grouped as:
Women Folk Dances
Charasay-Tarasay: This dance is also called Birshu-Nirshu. It is performed in the months of March and April. Only married women can take part in it. Any number of dancers can participate. This dance is performed only on the songs and the musical instruments are not played. It starts in the evening and ends in the morning.
Lalharhi: Only unmarried women perform this dance during fairs and marriage ceremonies. The dance is accompanied only by songs. The musical instruments aren’t played during the dance. The dancers arrange themselves in two rows facing each other. One of the rows starts singing, dancing and moves towards the other row. Then they come back to their previous positions. The other row of dancers follow the same step.
Kahika Dance: Kahika dance is performed on the occasion of Kahika fair. A man is made unconscious for one or two hours by the divine power. He is called ‘Naurh’. The wife of Naurh, called Naurhan performs this dance. She dances around the temple in front of the palanquin of the local deity. Her dance expresses that she has offered her husband to the deity and if he does not return back to consciousness, she will take away all the belongings of the deity.
Men Folk Dances
Bandhu or Ghost Dance: This dance takes place in January from 4: 00 A.M. to 6: 00 A.M. Because of indecent songs and indecent behavior, which are an essential part of the dance, women are forbidden to see it. The dancers get together in the temple premises with torches in their hands. After dancing there for some time they move to a particular place. They dance at that place and move back to the temple. They light a campfire called ‘Jagra’ before the temple. It is believed that after performing the Bandhu dance the entire evil spirits ward off and the people of the village live in peace and harmony.
Horn Dance: It is a traditional dance of Kullu people, which is performed, in the cold and dark nights of January. The story behind it is that the people performed this dance to get rid of an evil king. He was so enchanted by the dance that he did not realize that the dancers had cut his throat. There are six dancers in the horn dance. Two of them disguise themselves as a deer by covering themselves with a shawl and placing horns on the head of the person who is in front. Two other dancers are dressed up as clowns. Out of the rest one is dressed up as a woman. They perform the dance in the temple and then go door to door performing their act.
Deo Khel & Hulki Dance: Deo Khel is a religious dance. The person who is dancing is believed that he goes into trance (that God has entered his body). This person is called Gur. When he starts dancing a procession is taken out which is led by the Gur. The local people dance and follow the palanquin of the deity. Hulki Dance is similar to Deo Khel.
Mixed Folk Dances (Men & Women)
Natti: Natti is the most popular form of mixed dance. On special occasions the dancers dress up in their traditional costumes. Generally there are twelve to sixteen dancers but any number of dancers can take part as the dance progresses. Usually they dance in a circle.
Apparently there are different kinds of natti, which differ in style, rhythm and steps. Some of the popular ones are Dhili Natti, Pheti Natti, Tinki Natti, Bushehri Natti, Dohri Natti, Lahauli Natti, Janhujang, Bajuband, Kharhaya, Uzgazma and Utharhi Natti.
My trip report
From Manali, we went to Kullu valley. The main attraction out here is the white water river rafting. There are hundreds of rafting service providers situated almost at an interval of 50 metres along with their kiosks. They take around 10-12 people along with an instructor depending on the size of the inflated balloon. The rafting takes place for a distance of 7-14 km. You need to abide by the directions of the instructor whenever there is a steep slope, boulder or strong current. My experience of first time rafting was awesome. Lots of bargaining takes place specially during off season.
Another attraction of Manali is the Angorra rabbit farm from where wool is extracted for winter garments.
Next we visited the Shawl factory and experienced the entire procedure of shawl making and other garments making. We bought some garments at cheap price directly from the factory outlet.
Another speciality out here is the Trout fish and the farm where it is cultivated.
There are also provisions for hot air ballooning closer to Manali
White water river rafting
With a skilled worker of the Shawl factory