KULLU MANALI MONUMENTS

Rohtang Pass: (51 km from Manali) At an altitude of 4,112 metres on the highway to Keylong, the pass affords a wide-spread panorama of mountain scenery. In place of the pinnacled hills, sheltered valleys and cultivated tracts, the eye meets a range of precipitous cliffs, huge glaciers and piled Moraine, and deep ravines. Almost directly opposite is the well defined Sonepani glacier, slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypang, jagged pyramids of rock, snow streaked and snow crowned.

Enroute to Rohtang Pass, one can see the Nehru Kund which is clear water spring and scenic spot named after the late Prime Minister Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru. Kothi (12 km) is a picturesque village and has a thrilling view of the deep gorge through which the Beas swiftly races. The beautiful Rahalla Falls (16 km) are at an altitude of 2500 m

Khirganga: Khirganga is situated also in Parvati Valley at a distance of 22Km form Manikaran. For reaching Khirganga one have to go by bus upto Barshaini and form there to Khirganga on foot. This trek leads through hilly terrain. This is the place where 'kartik ji', the eleder son of Lord Shiva remained in Samadhi for thousand years.

Solang Valley: (13 kms from Manali) A beautiful picnic spot. Nice meadows surrounded by Silver Oaks and spurs, offers views of Glaciers and snow capped mountains. It is International Skiing slope with a small ropeway. You can also enjoy Paragliding and Horse riding. Located here are also a hostel of the Department of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali, and a private trekking and campsite resort with all modern amenities required for holidaying elites.

Naggar: (28 km.) On the left bank of the Beas and about three hundred metres above the river, Naggar is delightfully situated on a wooded slope and commands an extensive view, especially of the north west of the valley. Naggar was the capital of the Kullu Rajas for about 1,400 years.. Artist Nicholas Roerich's art gallery is worth a visit. Cars and jeeps can easily go up to the Naggar Castle which is now Himachal Tourism's well furnished Hotel Castle.

Kothi: Kothi is a quiet but picturesque spot, at the foot of the 13,400 ft. Rohtang Pass about 12 km away from Manali town, situated on the Lahaul Spiti Leh highway. It used to be the camping place when the pass had to be climbed on foot and it is now accessible by bus, jeep or pony. There is a beautiful PWD rest house amidst open surrounding, offering a magnificent view of the snow capped peaks and glaciers.

Van Viha: This is just off the Mall with pathways between towering deodhars and also leads to a boating pond. Tibetan Market and Mall: The Tibetan Market is an interesting cluster of shops. Nice to browse around for knick knacks, handicrafts and imported goods. Located on the Mall. The Mall also has other shops selling local handicrafts and clothes. It also has some good restaurants. Buses, taxis and autos are easily available from the Mall for local sightseeing or excursions.

Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple: Situated 3 km from Manali is Vashist, a small village situated on the left bank of the river Beas, onwards Rohtang pass. The place is worth a visit for its renowned hot springs and temples. Close to this, is a stone temple in pyramidal shape, dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is another temple dedicated to Lord Ram, based at this place. Natural hot sulphur springs (said to have curative value) with two separate bathing tanks for gents and ladies are always crowded with tourists.

The Great Himalayan National Park: Characterised by dazzling high ridges, glaciers, deep gorges, alpine meadows and valleys with closed virgin forests, the Great Himalayan National Park in Kullu district is one of the best destinations for Himalayan flora and fauna lovers.

Club House: Has a beautiful view of deodar forest, with river flowing beside the Club House. It has indoor/ outdoor games. There are some picnic spots near it.

Kasoli: (1640 m) Situated on the bank of Paravati river, Kasol makes a good holiday destination. 42kms. from Kulu, charmingly located on an open space which slopes down to the broad expanse of clear white sand at the Parvati river. The place is well known for trout fishing.

Roerich Art Gallery: In Naggar, the museum, houses a collection of the paintings by the Russian artist. It is located in a grove of deodhars and has lovely views all around. Naggar is very serene and picturesque.

Arjun gufa(Cave): 4kms. from Manali towards Naggar, the cave is situated near Prini village 1km. above the road where Arjun had meditated. This is good 1/2 a day excursion with charming view of the brilliant mountains.

Jagatsukh: 6 Kms. from Manali located on the left bank on Beas on the road to Naggar.Here you can see two ancient temples. One is the small shrine of Gaurishankar and the larger chalet-roofed temple to the goddess Sandhya Devi, the stone base of which is much more ancient than the 19th-century wooden verandah and roof.

Rahalla Falls: 16 km from Manali town at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, at an altitude of 2501m.

Marrhi: 35 km from Manali, is famous for its natural beauty.

Rani Nala: 46 km from Manali, it is the glacier point where snow is available throughout the year.

ADVENTURE SPORTS

White Water Rafting: River rafting is an exciting adventure sport. There is an unmatched thrill of shooting down the rapids. Knowledge of swimming is not necessary but you have to be reasonably fit. The rafting is done on a 9-16 km stretch between Mohal and Jidi. Its a full day trip from Manali. Cost is between Rs. 500 to 650 per pax (inclusive of lunch & transport). One change, towel and bath slippers are required.

Para Gliding: You can sail high above the ground and see the mountains as never before. Experience the rush of cold air on your face and have a thrill of your life. Guided para gliding can be done from Solang Valley. The cost ranges from Rs. 250/- to 500/- per pax for a 5 to 15 minute flight.

Trekking: There are countless trekking routes in Kullu Valley. Most treks are of 2-10 days duration. However you could initiate yourself in the joys of trekking with a one day trek to Lamadugh. This is a light trek of approximately 6 km which even occasional walkers can enjoy. The cost is approximately Rs. 500/- per pax inclusive of lunch & transport. You must have proper walking shoes, jacket for rain protection and carry water & camera.