Kullu,Himachal
Kullu (Kullu Valley) is a historically rich and naturally spectacular valley in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Formed by the Beas River, Kullu has been an important Himalayan transit and trade route linking the Indian plains with the higher Himalayan reaches. Culturally, it is known for its distinctive valley traditions, temples, folk music and dance, and handicrafts (especially shawls and caps). Natural importance stems from its dramatic pine and deodar forests, apple orchards, riverine landscapes and proximity to protected areas such as the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Places to visit
- Kullu Town – the valley’s commercial and cultural hub
- Raghunath Temple – historic riverside temple in Kullu town
- Bijli Mahadev Temple – cliff-top shrine with panoramic valley views
- Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) – trekking, biodiversity and wildlife
- Manali and Solang (nearby) – adventure hub and scenic high-altitude meadows
- Sultanpur & Naggar – historic villages with traditional architecture and art
- Parvati Valley & Kasol (nearby) – scenic gorges, trekking start points
- Beas River – river rafting and riverside scenery
- Kullu Dussehra – world-famous week-long festival
Unique Aspects
- Dramatic valley scenery: steep slopes, apple orchards and terraced fields
- Rich folk culture: music, dance (Nati) and ornate temple processions
- Adventure options: rafting, trekking, camping and mountaineering
- Handicrafts: Kullu shawls, caps and wood crafts distinctive to the region
- Biodiversity: alpine flora and fauna in nearby protected areas
Things to do
- Sightseeing of valley viewpoints, temples and traditional villages
- Trekking & day-hikes**:** routes in GHNP, Raison, Malana steps and nearby ridges
- River rafting on the Beas (graded rapids in season)
- Camping and bonfires in designated meadows and campsites
- Angling/trout fishing in local streams (permits required in some spots)
- Local cultural experiences: attend folk shows, temple processions and village visits
- Shopping for handicrafts: Kullu shawls, caps, wooden items and local preserves
Festivals & Events
- Kullu Dussehra (late Sept–Oct): a major week-long festival attracting thousands — processions of local deities, markets and cultural events
- Local temple fairs (melas): periodic village fairs celebrating seasonal and religious events
- Adventure events & local sporting meets: occasional river-rafting and trekking competitions (seasonal)
Best Time to Visit
April to June (pleasant summer) for comfortable weather and green valleys; September to October for clear skies and Kullu Dussehra; December to February for snow in higher reaches if you want winter scenes (note that some roads/high passes can be closed).
Weather Conditions
Mountain climate — warm days and cool nights in summer; monsoon (July–Aug) brings heavy rain and landslide risk; winters are cold with possible snowfall at higher altitudes.
Accessibility
By air: Kullu–Manali Airport (Bhuntar, KUU) — nearest airport, approximately 10–20 km from Kullu town (flight schedules can be weather-dependent). By rail: nearest broad-gauge railheads are Chandigarh (≈250–300 km) or Pathankot (≈150–200 km) — further road travel required. By road: well connected by state and private buses from Chandigarh, Shimla, Delhi and Manali; regular Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and private buses serve the valley. Local taxis and shared cabs are common for short trips.
Recommended Duration
3–5 days for a relaxed visit to Kullu town and nearby attractions; 7–10+ days if combining with Manali, parvati valley or multi-day treks in GHNP.
Clothing & Gear Tips
Layered clothing (temperatures vary widely between day and night), warm jacket for mornings/evenings, comfortable trekking shoes, rainproof jacket for monsoon, sun protection (hat/sunscreen) and a basic first-aid kit. For river activities, quick-dry clothes and water shoes are useful.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Try siddu (local steamed bread), trout dishes, local rajma and seasonal fruits (apples). Popular souvenirs include Kullu shawls and stoles, woolen caps, handloom textiles, wooden crafts and local preserves/jams. Bargain politely at markets.










