Located in Himachal Pradesh, Kullu is the capital town of the Kullu district and is located on the banks of the Beas River in the Kullu Valley. Kullu is a broad, open valley formed by the Beas River between Manali and Largi. The Kullu valley is famous for its scenic beauty and its pine and deodar covered slopes. Apart from being a popular tourist destination, Kullu is also famous for its large and colourful Dusshera festival that draws people from nearing towns and villages.
The beautiful little town of Kullu sits besides the River Beas, between the towns of Manali and Largi and is famous all over the country for its scenic beauty. Kullu is a valley covered with pine and deodar forests, hills and beautiful apple orchards and falls between the Pir-Panjal, the Lower Himalayan and the Great Himalayan range.
Also known as the "Valley of the Gods", Kullu attracts tourists from all over the country who come here during the summer months to escape the sweltering heat of the plains and enjoy Kullu's natural beauty and cool weather.
The best time to Kullu would be from May to October as the weather is cool and pleasant.
Considering the numerous tourist destinations Kullu has, travellers should set aside at least four to five days to enjoy Kullu.
Demographics State: Himachal Pradesh District: Kullu Population: 110,320 (2010 census) Time Zone: GMT+5:30 Elevation: 1220 meters Main Languages: Hindi, Punjabi and Kulluvi Telephone Code: +01902 Things to take care when travelling to Kullu Please drive slow and be safe as the roads in some parts of the mountains are not in a good condition and also might have some risky, blind turns. It is advised that you stay in hotels and guest houses that are registered with the government. Also, if you are planning a trip or any excursion, go for a government approved travel agent. Avoid visiting deserted places after dark; this applies to female travellers in particular. Keep limited cash in hand and leave large amounts of cash and valuables back in your hotel. Always check the identity card of tourist guides you hire. Always respect the local culture and traditions and do not do anything disrespectful that may hurt local sentiments.
Being a popular tourist destination Kullu is very well connected by air, rail and road. Kullu witnesses a huge influx of tourists in the summer when they come to escape the heat of the plains and enjoy the cool, pleasant weather and in the winter's tourist come to Kullu to enjoy snowfall.
By Air
The nearest airport to Kullu is at Bhuntar, 10 km south of Kullu. One can take a taxi from the airport to reach Kullu. Bhuntar airport is connected by carriers like Air India and Kingfisher Airlines. However, flights are uncertain due to the bad weather during monsoons.
By Train
Jogindernagar is the nearest railway station, located at a distance of 95 km from the town. One can take a taxi from the railway station to get to Kullu.
Other railway stations near Kullu are: Chandigarh, Pathakot and Shimla. You will get regular bus service from Chandigarh to Kullu.
By Road
Kullu is very well connected to the rest of the country by a strong network of roadways. Kullu Valley is approximately at a distance of 522 km from Delhi. Ordinary and deluxe buses run from Delhi and Chandigarh for Kullu, daily. Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC), Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) and private agencies provides bus services to Kullu. National Highway number 21 is the main highway that connects Kullu
Taxi
There are many private taxi companies that can be hired for sightseeing around Kullu.
There is a lot in Kullu to keep shoppers busy. Popular among these markets is the Tibetan Bazaar where you can pick up Kullu shawls, caps and other woolen items.
Silver and turquoise jewellery is also very popular in Kullu and so are "Thangkas", which are cloth paintings with Buddhist themes. Also famous in Kullu are rugs, carpets and handicrafts and Tibetan articles like armlets, masks and musical instruments, apart from locally made jams and pickles that are delicious. Another must try in Kullu are their naturally made shampoo, natural oils, such as lavender and primrose oil etc.
What to buy?
From handloom to antiques to handicrafts, you will find a huge option of items which you may buy for yourself or gift them to your family and friends.
Some popular shops and markets in and around Kullu are:
