Check out the Raghunathji Temple,
dedicated to the guardian deity of Kullu, a manifestation of Lord Rama. Legend has it that
a ruler of Kullu, Raja Jagat Singh, brought the idol within the temple all the way from
Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Rama. Another important shrine, 10 km from Kullu across
the Beas, is the Bijli Mahadev Mandir, where the main lingam is topped
with a trident, which is believed to attract lightning. Also worth visiting is the Basheshwar
Mahadev Mandir, 15 km from Kullu and famed for its fine scrollwork.
For the adventurous, Kullu has more surprises up its pretty sleeve: there's plenty of
opportunity round about for angling (in the Beas), trekking, nature walks, and more. The
town is the transit point for treks such as the one over the Chanderkhani Pass to Malana;
the Jalori Pass and Bashleo Pass to Shimla; and the Pin Parvati Pass to Sarahan. The town
also lies in close proximity to some of Himachal's best-kept secrets: the temple-town of Naggar;
the quiet retreats at Katrain and Kaisdhar, and the
ancient town of Mandi. Getting
to Kullu
Bhuntar Airport, 10 km from Kullu, has regular flights both on Indian Airlines and private
carriers connecting the town to Delhi and Shimla. The most convenient railhead is
Chandigarh, 272 km away, and with good connections to the rest of the country. Buses and
taxis ply between the two cities regularly. Alternatively, one can drive to Kullu- good
roads link the town to Delhi, Shimla, Chandigarh and other nearby places, and there are
regular bus connections to and from Delhi, Shimla, Pathankot, Palampur and Ambala.
Best time to visit Kullu
The best seasons to visit Kullu are from Mid-March to Mid-April and again mid-September
till mid-November. Summers are more crowded, though that is the main season for treks. The
festival of Dussehra in October is an extravaganza in Kullu, and reason enough in itself
to visit the town at this time.
Accommodation in Kullu
Kullu has a reasonably wide choice of accommodation, from the mid-range to the budget
options. Rates shoot up almost four times during the Dussehra celebrations in mid-October
while in the off-season, most hotels offer large discounts. |
