Best Things To Do In Kullu, India For An Outdoor Adventure

things to do in kullu india
Pala
Pala 
Updated
| 5 min read

Many refer to Kullu as the “Valley of God” and rightfully so. It is a cluster of charming valleys located in the Indian State of Himachal Pradesh. Kullu is situated strategically in between the River Beas and the mighty Himalayas. Both Kullu and Manali are two of the favorite hill stations for many tourists, especially for honeymooners who flock here from all over the country as well as from abroad. Beautiful snow-clad mountains, picturesque views, imposing Deodar jungles, apple orchards and rivers have also attracted various filmmakers to come and shoot their films there. While there are endless activities for visitors here, check out some of the top things you can do during your stay here.

1. Enjoy paragliding in Kullu

Paragliding in Solang valley
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Anil1956 used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

The Kullu Valley is often referred to as the finest place to indulge in paragliding in the world. In fact, it is a heaven for people who love the aero sport. Simply visualize the thrill that you will experience when you soar like a bird on top of the mighty Himalayan ranges. Today, paragliding has become one of the most popular sports all over the world. Visitors who are aero sports enthusiasts marvel at the excellent wind conditions in the locality, the beautiful launch sites like Bhaikhali, Bijli Mahadev and Solang and the pretty scenery.

Paragliding

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2. A visit to the Tirthan Valley is a must

Tirthan River, Himachal Pradesh
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ramwik used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you are searching for a peaceful holiday destination, you should reserve a trip to the Tirthan Valley without delay. This scenic valley is situated next to River Tirthan in the district of Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. It is a land of mystified and virgin beauty. You can follow a trail, walk beside the river, take a stroll into the forests or get set for an adventure activity. The options are simply endless. This quaint valley has plenty of opportunities to offer the offbeat travelers who come here to unwind. You can also try some of the popular nearby places where visitors gather in large numbers. These include Kheerganga, Manali, Tosh and Kasol among others. Since Tirthan Valley is yet to get much publicity, you can certainly find peace and solitude here with lots of fun-filled activities to keep yourself engaged.

Tirthan Valley

Website: Tirthan Valley

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3. Rent a cycle in Kullu for your sightseeing tours

Embrace nature while cycling
Source: Pixabay

One of the most sought after activities for the adventure enthusiast is renting a cycle to explore Kullu. This activity has become quite popular in the past few years. It is the best means of transport to move around in Kullu when you are looking for a bit of adventure and want to enjoy some sort of a physical activity amid a green and fresh environment. You can rent a cycle for a duration of 10 hours and enjoy your ride around the town. You can pick up a cycle from Manu Temple Road at Manali. There are two types of cycles to pick up; one with the Hydraulic Brake and the V-Brake cycle. Irrespective of you being a beginner or a pro, you can still hire a cycle of your choice.

Manali Bike Rental

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4. A trek through Chandrakhani Pass

Chandrakhani Pass Malana Kullu
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Bharatkaistha used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This is one of the most charming passes that is located in the famous Kullu Valley. The pass offers spectacular views of the Parbati range, Pir Panjal, and the Deo Tibba Peak. You will instantly fall in love with this beautiful trek, which will introduce you to the hilly and remote cultures of Himachal Pradesh. Kullu Valley’s scenic beauty and the magnificent mountain peaks are a treat for all nature lovers all through the journey. According to the legends, Jamlu, the main deity at Malana, had opened a basket that contained Kullu’s gods at this pass, but the winds were strong and blew those gods to their current abodes.

Chandrakhani Pass

Address: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh

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5. Kheerganga: another beautiful trek

Kheer Ganga trek
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Viraj87 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This is one such trek that is associated with tales of the Sikh history and the Hindu mythology quite close to its heart. Do not miss an opportunity to explore this pretty meadow that is nestled in Himachal Pradesh’s Parvati Valley. The months between April to September are the most conducive times to do the Kheerganga Trek. Visitors should avoid visiting this place during winter, since the trail can get slippery when snow falls. Though the trek is a short one, it is an excellent way to explore the beautiful surroundings. Kheerganga is also well-known for its natural hot water spring that is rich in sulphur.

Kheerganga

Address: Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh

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6. Visit the Pandoh Dam

Pandoh Dam
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Narender Sharma, ... used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This is a splendid embankment dam built on the River Beas. Pandoh Dam is located in Himachal Pradesh’s Mandi district. The dam was constructed as a part of the Beas Project and was completed in 1977. The key purpose of this dam is to generate much-needed hydroelectric power. The dam diverts River Beas’s water towards the Southwest, through the channels and tunnels that run for 38 km (24 mi). Its water is used to generate power at the Dehar Power House prior to getting discharged into River Sutlej, thus linking both the rivers.

Pandoh Dam

Address: NH21, Uba, Himachal Pradesh 175004

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7. Make a trip to The Great Himalayan National Park

Great Himalayan National Park Mountain View
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Pbhuker007 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

This park was inducted back in 1999 and is incidentally the latest park to get added to India’s coveted list of National Parks. In 1984 The Great Himalayan National Park was initially announced as a protected region. This National Park is situated in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. It is known for its unique ecological aspect in the Western Himalayas. The park houses more than 180 bird species, some mammals that are rare including snow leopards, musk deer, Himalayan Brown Bears along with innumerable reptiles, and rare amphibian species.

The Great Himalayan National Park

Address: SaiRopa, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175123

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8. Sightseeing in a private vehicle

Kullu Valley with River Beas - Kullu - Himachal Pradesh - 2014-05-09 2181
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Biswarup Ganguly used under CC BY 3.0

Get ready for a fun sightseeing trip in Himachal Pradesh’s picturesque Kullu Valley in a private vehicle. The tour lasts for eight hours and you will be picked up from your hotel in Kullu. You even have the option of selecting the kind of car you would like to hire. Take your pick from Innova, Xylophone, Tavera, Etios, Swift Dzire, Indica, Alto and much more. You will find plenty of places to visit in and around Kullu. Some of them include Hamogi Mata Temple, Tirthan Valley, Pandoh Dam, Bhrigu Lake, Sorang Valley, and Bijli Mahadev Temple. Do visit the local market to indulge in a shopping spree and pick up local trinkets as souvenirs for your loved ones back home.

Holiday India Tours & Travels

Website: Holiday India Tours & Travels

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9. Do not miss the opportunity to go out on a guided trek

Himalayas from Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user https://www.flick... used under CC BY 2.0

This will be a delightful trekking expedition and will enable you to explore the spectacular beauty of the locality. Enjoy a trip, which will offer you some of the most picturesque views of the estates as well as Kullu’s surrounding hills. Go on a hike through the enormous lush green thickets and enjoy the scenic landscapes that comprise of some really stunning views in the region. You cannot miss the diversified fauna and flora while on this trek. So be prepared to be stunned with the tranquility and the scenic appeal of the places as you pass.

Anna Adventures & Tours

Facebook: Anna Adventures & Tours

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10. Marvel at the natural hot spring in Manikaran

ManikaranGurdwara
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tegbains used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Manikaran is situated in the Parvati Valley near River Parvati. This hot spring is located in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district and in the northeast of Bhuntar. This small town is a popular tourist destination for all those visitors who come to Kullu and Manali for its pilgrim centers and hot springs. The town has gurdwaras and several temples. These temples are dedicated to Hindu deities like Vishnu, Krishna, and Rama. The town is famous for its pretty landscape along with the hot springs.

Manikaran

Address: Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh 175105

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Kullu it is!

So, if you are wondering what should be your next holiday destination, look no further. Moreover, if you are an adventure enthusiast, Kullu will be icing on the cake. It is a hot-spot for outdoor activities like hiking, paragliding, river rafting, mountaineering, trekking and much more. Get packing!

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Pala Sen is an avid follower of travel and health updates, current affairs and entertainment news from all across the world and writing is a passion for her. She had been previously associated...Read more

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