Manikaran Hot Springskasol
Healing Hot-Water Springs
Overview
Believed to have healing and curative properties, the Manikaran Hot Springs alongside the Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib is visited by many pilgrims who come to bathe here.
What To Expect?
Witness natural geothermal activity where the water temperature is high enough to cook food. You can see devotees cooking rice and lentils in small cloth bags submerged in the boiling water. Separate bathing tanks for men and women allow visitors to experience the therapeutic effects of the sulphur-rich water amidst the cold mountain air.
Tips
- Carry a clean set of spare clothes and a towel if you plan to bathe in the springs.
- Be cautious while approaching the boiling water tanks, as the steam can be very hot.
- Try the 'cooked-in-spring' rice or dal served at the Gurudwara langar for a unique culinary experience.
- Sulphur fumes can be strong in enclosed bathing areas; avoid staying submerged for too long if you feel dizzy.
- Photography is allowed in the public spring areas but be respectful of pilgrims bathing and praying.
Exploring Manikaran Hot Springs
More About Manikaran Hot Springs
Located at an altitude of 1,760 meters, the Manikaran Hot Springs are a natural wonder situated right on the banks of the roaring Parvati River. The water is rich in uranium and other radioactive elements, but it is primarily known for its high sulphur content, which is believed to cure skin diseases and muscular pain.
The springs are considered sacred by both Hindus and Sikhs. According to Hindu mythology, Goddess Parvati lost her earrings (Mani) in the water here, and Lord Shiva’s anger caused the water to boil. Today, the springs serve as a vital part of the daily life at the local Gurudwara and temples, providing free energy for cooking the community meals (Langar).
Exploring a destination...
The joy of travel comes in exploring new things. Planting your feet somewhere you’ve never been before brings with it the rush of discovery and the joy of pushing back on the boundaries of your world.
Discover a new city through a food tour. Food tour’s are the easiest way to take a tour, learn about the local delicacies, and the best of all, get great tips that aren’t just “local” tips for tourists, but sometimes, lessons for a lifetime too
Use Public Transportation. When you are in a new city, you can possibly see places and people that you wouldn’t normally see when simply walking to the places that checks your list. Some buses or rails take you to parts of the city you wouldn’t get to see otherwise.
Find a local festival. Go beyond what other tourists might do while visiting a place. Look for the unique things you would want to do. Use social media or the local tourism website to find out what’s going on locally. You may have to move out of the center of the city to do some of the less popular but more unique things, so just keep that in mind!
How to reach Manikaran Hot Springs
The hot springs are located in Manikaran, about 4 km from Kasol. You can hire a local taxi, take an HRTC bus from the Kasol bus stop, or enjoy a 45-minute walk alongside the Parvati River to reach the site.
Tips for Visiting Manikaran Hot Springs, kasol
- Carry a clean set of spare clothes and a towel if you plan to bathe in the springs.
- Be cautious while approaching the boiling water tanks, as the steam can be very hot.
- Try the 'cooked-in-spring' rice or dal served at the Gurudwara langar for a unique culinary experience.
- Sulphur fumes can be strong in enclosed bathing areas; avoid staying submerged for too long if you feel dizzy.
- Photography is allowed in the public spring areas but be respectful of pilgrims bathing and praying.
