Nestled in the picturesque Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, Bhuntar serves as a crucial gateway to some of the most breathtaking destinations in the region. While often overlooked as merely a transit point, this small town at the confluence of the Beas and Parvati rivers offers its own unique charm and serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Himalayan wonders. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, adventure seeker, spiritual traveler, or someone looking to experience the authentic Himachali culture, Bhuntar and its vicinity have something special to offer. Let’s embark on a journey to discover the must-visit tourist places in and around Bhuntar that make it worth more than just a passing visit.
Bhuntar Town: More Than Just a Gateway
The Confluence Point
The most significant natural attraction within Bhuntar itself is the confluence of the mighty Beas River and the mystical Parvati River. This sangam (confluence) is not only a sight to behold but also holds spiritual importance for locals. The contrasting colors of the two rivers merging creates a mesmerizing visual spectacle, especially during the post-monsoon season when the waters are clear. Early mornings offer the best views when the mist hovers over the waters and the first rays of sunlight illuminate the surrounding mountains.
Bhuntar Market
The local market in Bhuntar may be small, but it offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life of Himachali people. Here, you can find everything from locally produced handicrafts, woolen garments, and fresh produce to regional specialties like Kullu shawls and caps. The market is also an excellent place to sample local delicacies such as siddu (steamed bread stuffed with poppy seeds), babru (black gram fritters), and various types of locally produced honey and jams.
Natural Wonders Near Bhuntar
Kasol: The Mini-Israel of India
Located just 31 kilometers from Bhuntar, Kasol has gained international fame as a hippie paradise nestled along the banks of the Parvati River. The village is divided into Old Kasol and New Kasol, connected by a small bridge. The stunning natural beauty, with snow-capped mountains in the backdrop and the gushing Parvati River, makes it a photographer’s delight.
Kasol’s unique blend of Himachali and Israeli influences creates an interesting cultural mix, reflected in its cafes, cuisine, and overall ambiance. The village is dotted with cafes serving everything from traditional Himachali dishes to Israeli specialties like falafel and shakshuka. Moon Dance Cafe and Evergreen Cafe are particularly popular for their ambiance and diverse menus.
For nature enthusiasts, several short hiking trails around Kasol lead to viewpoints offering panoramic vistas of the valley. The Kasol to Chalal trek is particularly recommended for beginners—a 30-minute walk along the river leading to the tranquil hamlet of Chalal.
Manikaran: Where Spirituality Meets Geology
Just 4 kilometers further from Kasol lies Manikaran, a place where religious mythology intertwines with geological wonders. The town is famous for its hot springs that maintain a temperature of around 95°C throughout the year, believed to have medicinal properties beneficial for various ailments.
The Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, situated on the banks of the Parvati River, is a significant pilgrimage site for Sikhs. According to legend, Guru Nanak Dev Ji and his disciples once visited this place, and it was here that a miracle occurred when his companion Mardana was hungry and no food was available. The hot springs are used to cook langar (community meals) served at the gurudwara.
The town also houses the ancient Shiva Temple, Lord Ramchandra Temple, and temples dedicated to Krishna and Vishnu, making it an important Hindu pilgrimage center as well. The coexistence of Sikh and Hindu religious sites highlights the syncretic culture of the region.
The hot springs are channeled into public bathing areas segregated for men and women. Taking a dip in these mineral-rich waters is believed to cure skin diseases and other ailments. Even if you’re not religiously inclined, the geological phenomenon of these hot springs amidst the cold mountain environment is fascinating to witness.
Tosh: The Hidden Gem
Perched at an altitude of 7,874 feet, the village of Tosh is approximately 40 kilometers from Bhuntar and offers some of the most spectacular mountain views in the region. The final stretch to Tosh involves a 3-kilometer uphill walk from the road head, which helps the village maintain its pristine charm away from excessive commercialization.
Tosh is surrounded by snow-capped peaks of the Parvati Valley, offering breathtaking panoramic views, especially from the Pink Floyd Cafe at the top of the village. The traditional wooden houses with slate roofs standing against the backdrop of massive mountains create a picture-perfect setting.
The village serves as the base for treks to Kheerganga, Buddha Place, and Pin Parvati Pass. Even if you’re not up for a major trek, the trails around the village offer stunning views and opportunities to connect with nature. The sunrise and sunset views from Tosh are particularly magical, painting the surrounding peaks in golden and crimson hues.
Malana: The Ancient Village with Unique Customs
About 21 kilometers from Bhuntar lies Malana, one of the oldest democracies in the world with a unique social structure and set of customs. The village is believed to be inhabited by descendants of Alexander the Great’s army, and they consider themselves to be superior to other people. Visitors are not allowed to touch anything in the village, including buildings, and must adhere strictly to local customs.
The village is known for its distinct architecture featuring wooden houses with intricate carvings. The Jamlu Devta Temple in the center of the village is considered one of the oldest temples in the region, though visitors are not allowed inside.
Despite its remote location, Malana has gained notoriety for its cannabis cultivation and the production of “Malana Cream,” considered one of the best charas (cannabis resin) in the world. However, it’s important to note that cannabis is illegal in India, and travelers should respect the law.
Reaching Malana involves a moderate trek from the road head at Malana Power Project. The trek offers stunning views of the Chanderkhani and Deo Tibba peaks.
Adventure Destinations Accessible from Bhuntar
Bijli Mahadev Temple: A Trek with Divine Views
Located about 15 kilometers from Bhuntar, the Bijli Mahadev Temple sits atop a hill at an altitude of 2,460 meters. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its unique feature—a 60-foot tall staff that attracts lightning. According to local belief, the lightning shatters the Shiva lingam inside the temple, which is then restored using butter and sattu (roasted gram flour).
The trek to Bijli Mahadev from the road head at Chansari village takes about 3-4 hours and offers stunning views of the Kullu and Parvati valleys. The trail passes through dense pine forests, traditional villages, and open meadows. From the temple complex, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Kullu Valley, the Beas River, and the towering peaks of the Pir Panjal range.
Kheer Ganga: The Hot Spring Paradise
Located at an altitude of 2,950 meters, Kheer Ganga is one of the most popular trekking destinations from Bhuntar, approximately 22 kilometers away. The main attraction here is the natural hot spring, where you can soak your tired muscles while enjoying breathtaking views of the Parvati Valley.
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva meditated in Kheer Ganga for thousands of years. The site also houses a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and his son Kartikeya.
The trek to Kheer Ganga starts from Barshaini (the last motorable road in Parvati Valley) and takes about 4-5 hours to complete. The trail passes through dense forests, small settlements, and numerous waterfalls. The challenging trek is rewarded with the therapeutic hot spring bath and the stunning landscape dotted with meadows surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
Great Himalayan National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Just a short drive from Bhuntar lies the magnificent Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site spanning over 754 square kilometers. The park is home to more than 375 fauna species, including rare and endangered animals like the snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan tahr, and western tragopan.
The national park offers various trekking routes ranging from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day expeditions. The Sainj and Tirthan valleys are the most accessible parts of the park, with well-marked trails and rest houses. For wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers, the national park is nothing short of paradise, with over 200 bird species recorded here.
The best time to visit is between April and June and September to November when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more common. A permit is required to enter the core zone of the park, which can be obtained from the forest department office in Kullu or Shamshi near Bhuntar.
Cultural Experiences Around Bhuntar
Naggar Castle and Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery
About 25 kilometers from Bhuntar, Naggar served as the capital of the Kullu kingdom for about 1,400 years before the capital was shifted to Kullu. The Naggar Castle, built in the 15th century using local stone and wood in the distinctive Kathkuni style, now functions as a heritage hotel run by HPTDC (Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation).
Within walking distance from the castle is the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, housed in the estate where the famous Russian painter Nicholas Roerich spent the latter part of his life. The gallery displays his stunning paintings capturing the mystical beauty of the Himalayas, along with artifacts related to his life and work.
Naggar also houses ancient temples like the Vishnu Temple and the Tripura Sundari Temple, showcasing the rich architectural heritage of the region.
Raison: Riverside Camping and Orchards
Just 13 kilometers from Bhuntar towards Manali lies Raison, known for its sprawling apple orchards and camping sites along the Beas River. The HPTDC maintains a well-equipped camping site here, offering activities like river rafting, fishing, and riverside bonfire nights.
During spring, the orchards are covered in beautiful white and pink blossoms, while autumn brings the harvest season when the trees are laden with ripe apples. Many orchards allow visitors to pick fruits and offer fresh produce for purchase.
Practical Information for Travelers
How to Reach Bhuntar
Bhuntar boasts the advantage of having the Kullu-Manali Airport (also known as Bhuntar Airport), with regular flights connecting it to Delhi. This makes it one of the most accessible hill stations in Himachal Pradesh.
For those preferring road travel, Bhuntar is well-connected by highways. It’s located on NH305, approximately 495 kilometers from Delhi. Regular buses operated by HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) and private operators ply between Delhi’s ISBT Kashmere Gate and Bhuntar. The journey takes about 12-14 hours.
The nearest major railway station is at Chandigarh (about 250 kilometers away), from where you can take a bus or taxi to Bhuntar.
Best Time to Visit
Each season offers a different experience in Bhuntar and its surrounding areas:
- Spring (March to May): Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C, ideal for exploring nearby destinations and undertaking moderate treks. The apple blossoms in April create a spectacular landscape.
- Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season with temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. While it offers escape from the plains’ heat, it can get crowded, especially in popular destinations like Kasol and Manikaran.
- Monsoon (Late June to September): The region receives moderate to heavy rainfall, making it lush and vibrant. However, landslides can disrupt travel plans, and many trekking routes become inaccessible.
- Autumn (October to November): This is perhaps the best time to visit, with clear skies offering spectacular mountain views, comfortable temperatures, and the added bonus of festive celebrations.
- Winter (December to February): Temperatures drop significantly, often going below freezing point. While Bhuntar itself receives little snowfall, nearby higher-altitude places like Tosh get covered in snow, creating a winter wonderland.
Conclusion
Bhuntar, often overlooked as merely a transit point, deserves recognition as a strategic base to explore the diverse attractions of the Kullu and Parvati valleys. From spiritual experiences at Manikaran to adventure treks to Kheer Ganga, from cultural explorations in Naggar to natural beauty in Kasol, the region offers varied experiences to satisfy every traveler’s wanderlust.
The unique blend of natural beauty, adventure opportunities, spiritual significance, and cultural richness makes Bhuntar and its surrounding areas a compelling destination for those seeking an authentic Himalayan experience away from overcrowded tourist hubs. So, the next time you plan a trip to Himachal Pradesh, consider spending more than just a few hours in transit at Bhuntar—you might discover that it’s the perfect gateway to your Himalayan adventure.
