Kullu - India Travel Guide hero image

Kullu!

india-guide.in

groups

Population

60,000

schedule

Best Time

March to June

calendar_month

Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

currency_rupee

Currency

Rupee (₹)

View full travel guide
See timings and practical tips

Plan by Intent

Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.

photo_camera

Did You Visit Kullu?

Showcase Your Photography Skills • Help Thousands of Travelers • Get Featured with Credit

location_on Himachal Pradesh map North India 🏔️ Adventure ⛰️ Mountains Kullu Kullu Valley Himachal Pradesh River Rafting Dussehra Apple Orchards

Kullu is a picturesque valley town nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, known for its stunning landscapes and apple orchards. Situated on the banks of the Beas River, it serves as a gateway to the popular hill station of Manali.

Kullu offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences, including river rafting and the famous Kullu Dussehra festival. However, it can get crowded during peak season and might lack the serenity some travelers seek. The town also has fewer high-end amenities compared to Manali.

Reaching Kullu is easiest via Bhuntar Airport, followed by a taxi or bus to the town center. A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to explore the region's highlights and enjoy activities like rafting.

When To Visit

Best Time

March to June

15-30 degrees C

Pleasant and sunny weather makes it ideal for outdoor activities. The days are warm, and the nights are cool.

Why Visit:

This is the perfect time for river rafting, trekking, and exploring the surrounding valleys. The apple orchards are in full bloom, adding to the scenic beauty. The weather is also conducive to visiting temples and attending local festivals.

Tip: Expect higher prices and larger crowds, especially during school holidays. Book accommodations and activities in advance.

Shoulder Season

September to November

10-25 degrees C

Cool and crisp weather with occasional rainfall. The landscape turns golden with the autumn colors.

Why Visit:

The Kullu Dussehra festival takes place in October, offering a unique cultural experience. The crowds are fewer compared to the summer months, and the prices are relatively lower.

Tip: Some trekking routes may be closed due to the onset of winter. Pack warm clothes.

Avoid

December to February

-5 to 15 degrees C

Cold and snowy weather, making it difficult to travel and explore. Many roads may be blocked due to snowfall.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months as many outdoor activities are unavailable. The cold weather can be harsh, and the scenic beauty is obscured by snow.

Note: If you enjoy snow and winter sports, consider visiting nearby Manali instead. Ensure you have appropriate winter gear if you do visit.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Bijli Mahadev Temple

⏱ 3-4 hours Free

Bijli Mahadev Temple is perched atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the Kullu Valley. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its ...

Read more arrow_forward

Raghunath Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Raghunath Temple is a significant religious site in Kullu, dedicated to Lord Raghunath (Lord Rama). The temple's idol was brought from Ayodhya centuri...

Read more arrow_forward

Great Himalayan National Park

⏱ Full day or multiple days ₹50 (Indians), ₹800 (foreigners)

The Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to diverse flora and fauna. It offers various trekking routes and opportunitie...

Read more arrow_forward

Kais Monastery

⏱ 2 hours Free

Kais Monastery is a peaceful Buddhist monastery located near Kullu. It provides a serene escape from the bustling town....

Read more arrow_forward

Basheshwar Mahadev Temple

⏱ 1 hour Free

Basheshwar Mahadev Temple is an ancient temple known for its intricate stone carvings and architectural beauty. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva....

Read more arrow_forward

Pandoh Dam

⏱ 1-2 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹300 (foreigners)

Pandoh Dam is a man-made reservoir on the Beas River, offering scenic views and opportunities for boating. It is a popular spot for picnics and photog...

Read more arrow_forward

Shringi Vatika

⏱ 2 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Shringi Vatika is a beautiful garden showcasing the rich flora of the Kullu Valley. It is a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty....

Read more arrow_forward
View all attraction details

Things To Do

attractions

River Rafting on the Beas River

⏱ 2-3 hours 💰 ₹800-1500 per person

Experience the thrill of river rafting on the Beas River, navigating through rapids and enjoying the scenic views. Sever...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Trekking in the Great Himalayan National Park

⏱ 1-7 days 💰 ₹500-2000 per person per day (including guide and permits)

Embark on a trekking adventure in the Great Himalayan National Park, exploring the diverse landscapes and spotting wildl...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Paragliding in Kullu Valley

⏱ 15-30 minutes 💰 ₹2000-3500 per person

Soar through the skies with a paragliding experience in Kullu Valley, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the landscap...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Angling in the Tirthan Valley

⏱ Full day 💰 ₹500-1000 for permit

Enjoy a day of angling in the Tirthan Valley, known for its pristine rivers and trout fishing. Obtain the necessary perm...

Read more arrow_forward

Cultural Experiences

celebration

Kullu Dussehra Festival

7 days | Free

Kullu Dussehra is a unique and vibrant festival celebrated in October. It marks the victory of good ...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Visit a Local Apple Orchard

2-3 hours | ₹100-300

Visit a local apple orchard and learn about the apple cultivation process. Kullu is famous for its d...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Attend a Village Fair

1 day | Free

Attend a local village fair and experience the rural culture of Himachal Pradesh. These fairs showca...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Learn Kulluvi Dance and Music

2-3 hours | ₹500-1000

Take a lesson in Kulluvi dance and music from local artists. Learn about the traditional instruments...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Visit a Weaving Center

1-2 hours | Free

Visit a weaving center and witness the traditional art of handloom weaving. Kullu is known for its i...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Cooking Class - Kulluvi Cuisine

3 hours | ₹800-1200

Learn to cook traditional Kulluvi dishes in a hands-on cooking class. Discover the unique flavors an...

Read more arrow_forward
View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Siddu
Siddu

Steamed wheat flour buns filled with vegetables or nuts (try at local dhabas).

Babru
Babru

A local version of kachori, made from soaked and ground black gram dal.

Chana Madra
Chana Madra

Chickpeas cooked in yogurt-based gravy, a Himachali specialty.

Trout Fish
Trout Fish

Freshly caught and cooked trout, available at riverside restaurants.

Where to Eat

Sher-e-Punjab

Sher-e-Punjab

₹₹

North Indian

📍 Kullu town center

Popular restaurant known for its delicious North Indian dishes. Offers a comfortable dining experience.

Butter ChickenDal Makhani

₹600-800 for two

Spice Garden Restaurant

Spice Garden Restaurant

₹₹

Multi-cuisine

📍 Near the bus stand

Offers a variety of dishes to cater to different tastes. A good option for families.

IndianChineseContinental

₹500-700 for two

Street Food Spots

Sultanpur Market

Sultanpur Market

💰 Budget: ₹50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local momos and chowmein. Be mindful of hygiene and choose vendors with fresh ingredients.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Kullu

More restaurants & dishes from Kullu

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Kullu Town Center

Best for travelers who want to be close to the main attractions, restaurants, and shops. Can be crowded and noisy.

Best For: First-time visitors

Around Beas River

Offers a more tranquil environment with scenic views. Suitable for those seeking relaxation, but requires transport to reach town.

Best For: Nature lovers

Accommodation Options

Budget

💰

₹800-1500/night

Hotel Aroma Classic

📍 Near the bus stand

Simple and clean rooms with basic amenities. Conveniently located near transport options.

₹800-1500/night

Hotel Shivalik

📍 Kullu town center

Affordable accommodation with comfortable rooms. Offers easy access to local attractions.

₹700-1200/night

Mid-Range

🏨

₹2000-3500/night

Hotel Sarvari

📍 Near the Beas River

Well-appointed rooms with river views. Offers a restaurant and other modern amenities.

₹2000-3500/night

Hotel Silver Moon

📍 Kullu town

Comfortable and spacious rooms with good service. Features a multi-cuisine restaurant.

₹1800-3000/night

Luxury

₹8000+/night

The Span Resort & Spa

📍 Near Kullu

Luxurious resort with stunning views, excellent dining, and a spa. Offers a range of activities.

₹8000+/night

Rakkh Resort

📍 Near Kullu

Eco-friendly resort with luxurious cottages and a focus on sustainable tourism. Offers unique cultural experiences.

₹7000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Bhuntar Airport (KUU), 10km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Joginder Nagar Railway Station (JDNX)

Nearest railway station, but limited connectivity. Consider Chandigarh or Pathankot as alternatives.

Routes:
  • From Delhi (to Chandigarh): 4-5 hours (₹500-1500)
  • From Mumbai (to Chandigarh): 20-24 hours (₹2000-5000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Kullu Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Delhi: 12-14 hours (₹800-1500)
  • From Chandigarh: 7-8 hours (₹500-1000)

Note: Trains more comfortable for long distances.

Getting Around

directions

Taxis

💰 ₹50-100 per km

Best for: Reaching specific attractions, convenient for families

Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Ensure the taxi has a valid permit.

directions

Buses

💰 ₹10-30 per ride

Best for: Budget travelers, covering longer distances

Buses can be crowded, especially during peak season. Check the bus timings in advance.

directions

Scooters

💰 ₹500-800 per day

Best for: Independent travelers, exploring nearby areas

Wear a helmet and drive carefully on the winding roads. Ensure you have a valid driving license.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Pack layers as the weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking shoes are essential.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: ₹1500, Mid: ₹3000, Luxury: ₹6000+

ATMs: Available in Kullu town

Cash vs Card: Cash is preferred for smaller establishments and local shops, while cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Expected at local markets and with street vendors.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water. Avoid tap water.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food from unhygienic vendors.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness, stomach infections. Bring necessary medications.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. A local SIM card costs around ₹300-500.

WiFi: Available at most hotels and cafes.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: ₹50-100

Nearby Destinations

Explore More Of India

Dongargarh - India Travel Guide

Dongargarh - India Travel Guide

map Central India

Top Attractions:

  • Maa Bamleshwari Temple (Upper)
  • Maa Bamleshwari Temple (Lower)
  • Ropeway

+2 more attractions

Kohima - India Travel Guide

Kohima - India Travel Guide

map Northeast India

Top Attractions:

  • Kohima War Cemetery
  • Nagaland State Museum
  • Catholic Cathedral

+3 more attractions

Gaya - India Travel Guide

Gaya - India Travel Guide

map East India

Top Attractions:

  • Vishnupad Temple
  • Falgu River
  • Mangla Gauri Temple

+3 more attractions

Chitrakote Falls - India Travel Guide

Chitrakote Falls - India Travel Guide

map Central India

Top Attractions:

  • Chitrakote Falls Viewpoint
  • Boat Ride to the Base of the Falls
  • Tirathgarh Falls

+3 more attractions

Chitrakoot - India Travel Guide

Chitrakoot - India Travel Guide

map North India

Top Attractions:

  • Kamadgiri Parikrama
  • Ramghat
  • Hanuman Dhara

+3 more attractions

Kankol Alapadamba - India Travel Guide

Kankol Alapadamba - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • Traditional Farming Fields
  • Kankol Vishnu Temple
  • Local Tea Shops

+2 more attractions

Padannakkad - India Travel Guide

Padannakkad - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • Ananthapura Lake Temple
  • Bekal Fort
  • Kappil Beach

+2 more attractions

Bhandardara - India Travel Guide

Bhandardara - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • Arthur Lake
  • Wilson Dam
  • Randha Falls

+2 more attractions

Share Your Kullu Photos!

Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!

Found an Error?

Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.

Suggest a Destination

Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!