Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara - Hot Springs & Pilgrimage Site in Parvati Valley

Manali, Himachal PradeshRELIGIOUS

A revered pilgrimage site in the Parvati Valley known for its Gurudwara, Hindu temples, and natural boiling hot springs used for community cooking.

iHighlights

Info

RELIGIOUS

Info

1-2 hours

Accessibility

Not Wheelchair Friendly

Parking

Parking Available

Photography

Photography Allowed

About the Destination

Overview

Manikaran Sahib is a significant pilgrimage site for Sikhs and Hindus, located in the Parvati Valley on the banks of the Parvati River. The main attraction is the Gurudwara, built to commemorate Guru Nanak Dev Ji's visit. A unique feature of this place is the series of natural hot springs with water so hot that rice and lentils for the 'langar' (community meal) are cooked by dipping them directly into the springs. The complex also houses temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Ramchandra, creating a space where two faiths coexist. Visitors can see steam rising from the river and the ground throughout the area. The atmosphere is devotional, filled with the sounds of hymns and the murmur of the river. You can walk across a bridge to the main Gurudwara complex, visit the prayer hall, and partake in the simple but wholesome langar served to all visitors free of charge.

Why This Place is Special

• Natural boiling hot springs
• Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara
• Langar food cooked in hot spring water
• Coexistence of a Gurudwara and Hindu temples
• Lord Ramchandra Temple and Lord Shiva Temple
• Scenic location in the Parvati Valley
• Therapeutic and healing properties of the water

Ideal For

PilgrimsFamiliesSolo travelersGroupsNature loversPhotographers

Facilities & Amenities

• Parking
• Restrooms
• Drinking water
• Langar Hall (community kitchen)
• Cloakroom
• First aid
• Prayer hall
• Seating areas
• Accommodation (Sarai/Dormitories)

Visitor Tips

• Visit in the morning between 8-11 AM to experience the peaceful prayers and avoid the afternoon rush.
• Weekdays are far less crowded than weekends and public holidays, especially during the summer tourist season.
• Carry a small towel if you plan to take a dip in the designated hot water baths. Separate sections are available for men and women.
• The weather can change quickly in the valley
• carry a light jacket or shawl even in summer.
• Be extremely cautious near the open hot springs
• the water is boiling and can cause severe burns. Stay within marked areas.
• Do not miss the langar
• it's a unique experience to eat a meal cooked in the hot springs. It is served throughout the day.
• Photography is allowed in the complex, but it's polite to ask for permission before taking pictures of people and avoid it inside the main prayer hall.
• The road to Manikaran is narrow and winding. If driving, be cautious of sharp turns and oncoming traffic.

Rules & Restrictions

• Cover your head inside the Gurudwara premises
• scarves are available at the entrance.
• Remove shoes and deposit them at the designated counter before entering.
• Consumption of alcohol, tobacco, and non-vegetarian food is strictly prohibited in the area.
• Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
• Maintain silence and respect the sanctity of the place, especially in the prayer halls.

Safety Information

• The hot springs are boiling. Stay behind barriers and do not attempt to touch the water in undesignated areas.
• Floors and steps near the springs can be wet and slippery. Walk carefully.
• The roads in Parvati Valley are narrow and winding. Be cautious while driving or walking on the roads.
• Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas.
• The river has a very strong current. Do not venture close to the edge.
• If you are not used to high altitudes, acclimatize properly and stay hydrated.
• Mobile network connectivity can be patchy in the valley.

Discover Events in Manali

Explore upcoming events, concerts, expos and experiences near you

Loading events...

Location & Address

Hari Har Ghat, Manikaran Road, Parvati Valley, Manikaran, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India

View on map

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is from March to June and from September to November. During these months, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and exploring the Parvati Valley. Avoid the monsoon months of July and August due to the risk of landslides. Winters (December to February) are very cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing and potential road closures due to heavy snowfall, though the steam from the hot springs creates a dramatic visual against the snow.
Peak Crowd: May-June and long weekends. This is the peak tourist season in the Kullu-Manali region, attracting large crowds.
Moderate Crowd: March-April, September-November. The weather is good, and the crowds are more manageable than in peak summer.
Low Crowd: December-February (due to extreme cold) and July-August (due to monsoon rains).

How to Reach

Air

The nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport (KUU) in Bhuntar, which is about 35 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi, which takes about 1-1.5 hours to reach Manikaran.

Train

The nearest broad-gauge railway stations are in Chandigarh (approx. 290 km) and Pathankot (approx. 285 km). From there, you need to travel by road via bus or taxi, which can take 8-10 hours.

Road

Manikaran is connected by road to major towns. From Manali (80 km) or Kullu (40 km), you can take a local bus or hire a taxi. The route goes via Bhuntar, from where you enter the Parvati Valley. HRTC and private buses run regularly.

Local Transport

Taxis and local buses are the primary modes of transport in the Parvati Valley. From nearby towns like Kasol, you can get a taxi or take a frequent local bus to reach Manikaran.