Kullu Travel Guide

Kullu — the Valley of Gods — sits at the heart of the lush Beas River valley in Himachal Pradesh, surrounded by apple orchards, pine forests and snow-capped peaks. At 1,220 metres, Kullu town is the gateway to Manali and the upper Kullu Valley, but it is very much a destination in its own right. The valley is scattered with over 360 temples dedicated to local deities, and the Kullu Dussehra festival (October) is one of India's most spectacular — 300+ local gods are brought in procession to Dhalpur Maidan in a week-long celebration unlike any other in the country. The Beas River through Kullu is one of North India's premier white-water rafting corridors. The surrounding hillsides produce some of India's finest apples (September harvest), and the town's weavers make the famous Kullu shawl — soft, colourful and warm, with a distinctive geometric pattern. For many travellers, Kullu is a half-day transit stop to Manali — which is a mistake, as the valley has much to offer on its own terms.

Places to Visit in Kullu

Dhalpur Maidan

The large ground at the heart of Kullu where the famous Dussehra festival is held every October. Year-round it has river views and is surrounded by shops and restaurants.

Raghunath Temple

The most important temple in Kullu — dedicated to Lord Rama (Raghunath). Lord Raghunath is considered the presiding deity of the Kullu Valley and leads the famous Dussehra procession.

Bijli Mahadev Temple (2,460m)

One of Himachal's most sacred Shiva temples — atop a 2,460m peak 11 km from Kullu. 3 km trek from Chansari village. Famous for its 60-foot lightning rod trident — struck by lightning every year.

Great Himalayan National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site 40 km from Kullu. 754 sq km of pristine Himalayan wilderness — snow leopard, brown bear, musk deer. Entry permits at GHNP website.

Experiences & Activities

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  White Water Rafting: The Beas River from Pirdi to Jhiri (14 km) is one of India's best rafting stretches — Grade III–IV rapids. Operators at Pirdi (10 km from Kullu). Season: July–September and March–June. Book at local operators or HPTDC. ₹600–1,200 per person.
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  Kullu Shawl Shopping: Buy genuine handwoven Kullu shawls from the Sarvhitkari Weavers' cooperative at Dhalpur. Prices ₹800–5,000 depending on wool quality. Machine-made imitations are common — look for handloom certification.
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  Apple Orchard Visit (Aug–Oct): The hillsides above Kullu are covered in apple orchards. September–October you can visit orchards and buy directly. Best orchards are above Raison and Bhuntar. Ask locals for directions.
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  Kullu Dussehra (October): The international Dussehra festival — 300+ local village deities carried in palanquins to Dhalpur for a week of ceremonies, processions and folk performances. Book accommodation 3–4 months ahead. Exact dates vary — check himachaltourism.gov.in.
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  Great Himalayan National Park Trek: The GHNP entry at Gushaini or Sainj. 1-day to multi-week treks available. UNESCO World Heritage Site — one of India's best protected Himalayan wilderness areas.

When to Visit Kullu

Delhi to Kullu Cab Fare (2026)

* One-way from Delhi. Toll, parking & state tax charged at actuals. Call for return / multi-day package rates.

How to Plan Your Kullu Trip

Essential Kullu Tips

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  Dussehra Dates: Kullu Dussehra falls in October (date varies by Hindu calendar — typically 10 days after Navratri). Book accommodation 3+ months ahead — the entire valley fills up.
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  Shawl Authenticity: Genuine Kullu shawls have a specific weave pattern and feel. Buy from government-certified cooperatives rather than roadside shops to ensure authenticity.