Some of the most extraordinary sights in the Kullu region aren't carved by human hands at all. About two hours up the Parvati Valley from Naggar, the little town of Manikaran sits on the banks of the Parvati river, wrapped in clouds of steam rising straight from the rocks. Here, natural hot springs run hotter than boiling point right beside an icy glacial river — a contrast that has drawn pilgrims and travellers for centuries.
The hot springs and the gurudwara
Manikaran is famous for its sulphur-rich hot water springs, so hot that rice and dal are cooked in them — pilgrims lower muslin bundles of food into the communal pools and collect them cooked minutes later. The water is believed to ease aches and skin conditions. At the heart of town stands the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, associated with Guru Nanak, who is said to have visited here. The gurudwara runs a langar (free community kitchen) where the food is partly cooked using the spring water, and everyone is welcome to a hot meal regardless of faith.
Just beside it you'll find the Ramchandra Temple and a Shiva temple, making Manikaran a rare spot sacred to both Sikhs and Hindus. There are covered bathing pools — separate areas for men and women — where you can soak in the mineral water.
How to get there from Naggar
Manikaran lies about 42 km from Kullu at an altitude of around 1,760 m, between the Beas and Parvati rivers. From Naggar, the easiest route is to drive down to Kullu or Bhuntar, then follow the Parvati Valley road through Kasol to Manikaran. By car it's roughly a two-hour journey one way. If you're travelling by bus, take a local HRTC bus toward Bhuntar, change for the Parvati Valley, and ride up via Kasol — buses from Kasol to Manikaran take only half an hour to an hour.
Tips for your visit
- Carry a head covering — it's required inside the gurudwara, and cloth is usually available at the entrance.
- There's no entry fee for the gurudwara or temples; the langar is free, though donations are welcome.
- Wear footwear you can slip off easily, and mind the genuinely scalding rocks near the open springs.
- The best months are March to June and September to November; the valley road can be tricky during heavy monsoon.
- Pair Manikaran with a stop in Kasol for a riverside lunch on the way back.
A day trip to Manikaran makes for a soul-warming contrast to Naggar's quiet heritage lanes — steam, faith, and a free meal shared with strangers. If you're looking for a peaceful base to return to after a day in the valley, Ghar in the Hills is a cozy homestay right in Naggar village — book your stay and wake up to valley views. Set out early, soak in the springs, and you'll be back in the hills by evening.
