At a glance
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | About 1,760 m |
| From Kasol | About 4 km |
| From Bhuntar | About 35 km |
| From Kullu | About 45 km |
| Hot springs | Roughly 64–80°C |
The hot springs
Manikaran's springs emerge at temperatures reported between about 64°C and 80°C. Pilgrims cook rice and dal in pots lowered into the boiling water, and food for the gurdwara's langar is prepared with their help. Bathing pools fed by the springs, separate for men and women, are believed to ease aches and arthritis. The water is very hot at its source, so never touch the springs directly.
Gurdwara Manikaran Sahib
Sikh tradition holds that Guru Nanak visited Manikaran with his companion Bhai Mardana, and that when chapatis for the langar sank into the hot spring, they floated back up after a prayer. The gurdwara stands by the river with a large langar hall serving free meals to all, and offers basic accommodation to pilgrims. Visitors should cover their heads, remove shoes and follow the gurdwara's customs.
The temples
Manikaran is equally important to Hindus. The legend says Parvati lost an earring (mani) in the water, and Shiva's dance brought it back up through the springs, giving the town its name. The Ram Chandra temple was built by Raja Jagat Singh of Kullu, and the Shiva temple was damaged and slightly tilted by the 1905 Kangra earthquake. Both are active places of worship.
Visiting tips
- Go early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Cover your head in the gurdwara and dress modestly at the temples.
- Don't touch the springs: the water can scald.
- Combine with Kasol, Chalal and Tosh in a day.
- Parking is limited in town; your driver will drop you near the bridge.
Getting there and combining with Kasol
Manikaran lies on the Parvati valley road between Kasol and Barshaini. From Kasol it's a short drive of 10 to 15 minutes; from Kullu or Bhuntar, about an hour and a half. Local buses run from Bhuntar through Kasol to Manikaran throughout the day. Most visitors spend an hour or two here, then continue up the valley to Tosh or Barshaini, or return to Kasol for lunch by the river.
If you're travelling from Manali, Manikaran and Kasol make a good long day trip, about 80 km each way via Kullu and Bhuntar, or a better overnight trip with a night in Kasol.
Frequently asked questions
How far is Manikaran from Kasol?+
About 4 km, around 10 to 15 minutes by car.
How hot are the Manikaran hot springs?+
Reported temperatures range from about 64°C to 80°C, hot enough to cook food.
What is the history of Manikaran Sahib?+
Sikhs believe Guru Nanak visited with Bhai Mardana; Hindus link the springs to Parvati's lost earring and Shiva.
Can I stay at Manikaran Sahib gurdwara?+
The gurdwara offers basic accommodation to pilgrims, and the town has guesthouses.
Is there langar at Manikaran?+
Yes, the gurdwara serves free meals to all visitors.
How far is Manikaran from Manali?+
About 80 km, roughly 3 hours by road via Kullu and Bhuntar.
Can I bathe in the hot springs at Manikaran?+
Yes, in the bathing pools fed by the springs, separate for men and women. Never touch the springs at their source.
