Manikaran

Manikaran stands at about 1,760 m on the Parvati river, roughly 4 km from Kasol and 35 km from Bhuntar. Its gurudwara and Hindu temples share the same riverbank. Natural hot springs run beside the cold river here. Pilgrims bathe in the springs. The gurudwara cooks rice and dal for its langar in boiling water from the earth, so steam drifts over the lanes all day. A small geothermal plant has also been built nearby. Crowds are biggest at religious festivals and in summer, and the narrow bazaar is busy at any hour. Most travellers see Manikaran on a day trip from Kasol. A night here lets you visit the gurudwara early or late, when it is quieter. Dress modestly, cover your head in the gurudwara and remove your shoes. The town works well as a stop on a longer Parvati valley itinerary that also includes Kasol, Tosh and Malana.