3 Days in Kullu Valley for a Slow-Paced Getaway

Start your Kullu Valley trip with its most iconic spots, from the sacred Raghunath Temple to the vibrant local markets and a peaceful riverside stroll.

Activities

Visit Raghunath Temple

Begin your day at the heart of Kullu’s spiritual life—the centuries-old Raghunath Temple. Dedicated to Lord Rama, this temple is a hub of local devotion and festivals. The intricate wood carvings and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit. If you’re lucky, you might catch a small puja (prayer ceremony) in progress.

Raghunath Temple, Sultanpur, KulluMorning, around 8-10 AM to avoid crowdsFree (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Dress modestly as it’s a religious site
• Remove shoes before entering

Explore Kullu Market

Just a short walk from the temple, dive into Kullu’s bustling market. Known for its colorful shawls, handmade woolens, and local handicrafts, this is the perfect place to pick up souvenirs. The market also has tiny stalls selling fresh apples and dried fruits—great for a quick snack.

Kullu Market, near Akhara BazaarLate morning, around 10:30 AM-12:30 PMVaries (budget around ₹500-2000 for shopping)

Tips:

• Bargain politely—it’s expected here
• Try the local dried apricots

Riverside Walk at Beas River

Wind down with a leisurely walk along the Beas River. The stretch near Kullu town offers stunning views of the valley and is perfect for some quiet time. You’ll spot locals fishing and kids playing by the banks. If you’re up for it, dip your feet in the icy water—it’s refreshing!

Beas River banks, near Kullu townLate afternoon, around 4-5 PMFree

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for the rocky path
• Carry a light jacket—it gets breezy

Must Try Foods

A mix of nature, culture, and local flavors, today takes you deeper into Kullu Valley's charm with apple orchards, a serene monastery, and a taste of Himachali cuisine.

Activities

Visit Bijli Mahadev Temple

A short drive uphill brings you to this ancient temple known for its stunning valley views. The trek to the top is gentle, passing through pine forests. The temple's unique feature? A lightning strike that shatters the Shiva lingam, which priests then mend with butter and barley—a ritual believed to ward off disasters.

Bijli Mahadev Temple, KulluMorning (8 AM - 11 AM) for clear skiesFree (small donation optional)

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes for the short trek
• Carry water—there are no shops en route

Explore Naggar Village & Castle

A picturesque drive along the Beas River leads to Naggar, a quaint village with a 15th-century wooden castle. Roam its art-filled halls, admire the mix of European and Himalayan architecture, and don’t miss the Russian artist Nicholas Roerich’s gallery nearby. The village’s cobbled lanes and apple orchards make for perfect lazy strolls.

Naggar Castle, Naggar VillageLate morning to early afternoon (11 AM - 2 PM)INR 50-100 (entry fee)

Tips:

• Try the local apple juice from roadside stalls
• Visit the nearby Gauri Shankar Temple for quiet moments

Tea & Momos at a Riverside Café

Wind down at a cozy café by the Beas River. Sip on steaming cups of Kangra tea with plates of steamed momos or thukpa. Many spots have sit-out areas where you can listen to the river’s rush while watching the sun dip behind the hills.

Riverside cafés near PatlikuhlLate afternoon (4 PM - 5:30 PM)INR 200-400 per person

Tips:

• Ask for 'butter tea' if you want something traditional
• Cash is preferred at smaller cafés

Must Try Foods

A laid-back day exploring lesser-known spots and soaking in the local culture, with plenty of time to relax and enjoy the valley's natural beauty.

Activities

Morning at Manikaran Sahib

Head to the peaceful town of Manikaran, known for its hot springs and the beautiful Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib. The hot springs are believed to have healing properties, and you can even cook rice in them! The gurudwara serves delicious langar (community meal) which is a must-try. The drive from Kullu takes you along the Parvati River, with stunning views all the way.

Manikaran, about 45 km from Kullu8 AM to 12 PMFree (donations welcome at the gurudwara)

Tips:

• Carry a change of clothes if you plan to dip in the hot springs
• Respect the gurudwara's dress code - cover your head and remove shoes

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

On your way back from Manikaran, stop at one of the roadside dhabas near Katrain for an authentic Himachali meal. Try the siddu (steamed bread stuffed with walnuts or poppy seeds) with ghee and madra (a creamy chickpea curry). The dhabas here are simple but serve some of the most flavorful food in the valley.

Katrain village, about 30 km from Kullu1 PM to 2 PM₹200-400 per person

Tips:

• Ask for the day's special - many dhabas have seasonal dishes
• Try the local chutney made with nettle leaves if available

Evening at Gauri Shankar Temple

Spend your last evening at this ancient temple dedicated to Shiva, located in a quiet spot away from the main town. The temple's architecture is beautiful, with intricate wood carvings typical of the region. The surrounding deodar forest makes it feel wonderfully secluded. It's the perfect place to reflect on your trip as the sun sets over the valley.

Gauri Shankar Temple, about 5 km from Kullu town4:30 PM to 6:30 PMFree

Tips:

• Visit during evening aarti for a special experience
• The walk up to the temple is short but steep - wear comfortable shoes

Must Try Foods