If you are a mountain lover at heart looking to explore the most beautiful views of the Indian Himalayas, here are 7 amazing nature activities to do in Kullu Valley that will take your breath away.
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Have you ever dreamed of visiting a world where fairytale landscapes meet untouched dramatic mountains and never-ending valleys? Well, Kullu Valley is everything a nature lover could ever dream of experiencing in the mighty Himalayas of India.
I spent 5 months living and exploring this region of India. There are so many beautiful places I came across just by driving my scooter around Kullu Valley. I would spend my days admiring the beauty of the Himalayas from all across the valley.
In this post, I am going to share with you 7 breathtaking nature activities and nature spots in and around Kullu Valley that will gift you with the most memorable views of the Indian Himalayas.
ABOUT KULLU VALLEY
Kullu Valley is nestled between the towering peaks of the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh. It is also known as the “Valley of Gods”. Because of the unbelievably beautiful valleys that awaits you around every turn.
The broad valley is formed by the Baes River that flows between Manali and Larji. The river meanders through the deep mountain valley decorated with deodar forests, lush hills and abundant apple orchards.
You will see the entire valley dotted with quaint Indian villages, adding to the authentic feel of being in the Himalayas. I felt most at home in the arms of these villages where tourists are always welcomed with a warm smile.
Kullu Valley is known for its beautiful Hindu Temples and Monasteries. There is an authentic spiritual energy that permeates through the valley. Between the authentic culture and the pure essence of the Himalayas, there is just something so special about experiencing this region of India.
Because of the smoothly paved roads and how accessible everything is here, there is really something for every kind of traveller in Kullu Valley. Even if you do not want to trek, you can easily reach some of the most beautiful views of the Himalayas by motor.
Whether you are a thrill-seeking adventurer, a high-altitude trekker, someone who just loves to immerse themselves in breathtaking mountain sceneries or you love going on fun road trips surrounded by nature, Kullu Valley has everything to offer you!
7 NATURE ACTIVITIES IN KULLU VALLEY:
1. BAES KUND – MY NUMBER ONE FAVOURITE NATURE SPOT IN KULLU VALLEY
I will never be able to put into words how beautiful Baes Kund is!
This trail is famous for leading you to the emerald lake which is the source for the Baes River.
The trek can take up to 4 days to complete. There are also options for 2 or 3 days. But I have some amazing news for those who do not have time to do the full trek.
I found my absolute favourite spot along the trek that only takes about 2 hours to reach. You can spend the day, or you can camp over one night. I highly recommend staying at least one night because the sunsets at Baes Kund are spectacular!
If you choose to visit for the day or for one night, you can park at the start of the trek, walk along the trail into the valley until you reach an open grassland with a 360 degree view of the most stunning mountains.
Depending on which time of year you visit, the mountains could be fully covered in snow or lush green with snowy peaks and colourful flowers blossoming all throughout the valley. You might even see herds of cute goats, sheep and cows grazing in the lush green meadows along the way.
You can choose to do the trek on your own, with a group or a trekking company.
If you choose to do the trek without a trekking company, you can rent all of your camping gear from a travel agency in Manali or Vashisht.
The scenic vistas and unique formations of the entire Baes Kund trek will be some of the most impressive dramatic mountain peaks you have ever seen.
Max Altitude: 3700m
Difficulty: Easy-moderate
2. KULLU VALLEY DRIVE FOR WATERFALLS
One of my favourite things about Kullu Valley is that you can drive all along the valley and just be completely surrounded by the majestic scenery of the Himalayas.
You can rent a scooter, a motorbike or a car from Manali. And do a day road trip from Manali town to the start of Solang Valley. As I mentioned before, the roads are well paved and safe for travelling on. You just need to keep an eye out on the roads for fallen rocks and snow.
You can also get a local taxi driver for the day to take you to all the best spots along Kullu Valley.
If you start in Manali and drive towards Solang Nallah, you will drive all along the powerful Beas River with towering mountains on either side of the valley. As you drive through the valley, look out for the beautiful waterfalls cascading down the lush mountains.
You can stop along the road to walk down to the crystal-clear river that lays against the backdrop of massive Himalayan peaks.
A safety tip for stopping to admire the views: Do not park or stand around any of the bends in the road. Make sure to park in a spot on the straighter roads where traffic can see you clearly. There are many beautiful places to stop and take pictures of the valley that are safe.
3. SOLANG VALLEY
Solang Valley stretches between Solang Village and Beas Kund. You drive through the beautiful Kullu Valley to reach Solang Valley which is only 13km from Manali.
Solang Valley is known for its amazing ski slopes and paragliding activities. You can also go horse riding through the enchanting snow forest mountains, trek Solang Valley or ride a snow scooter through the white Himalayan slopes. If you are a thrill seeking enthusiast then Solang Valley is perfect for you!
There are also more relaxing activities. You can ride the Gondola over Solang Valley for an incredible bird’s eye views of the surrounding mountains.
Even just the drive through Solang Valley is so spectacular. You can stop along the way to breathe in the fresh mountain air, take in the charming valley views and capture beautiful pictures that you will treasure forever.
4. THE ATAL TUNNEL
As you continue driving past Solang Valley, you will find yourself winding around roads that are completely surrounded by awe-spiring snow-white mountains. Around every turn, you climb higher in altitude, the more unbelievable the views become.
At the end of the road, you will reach the very impressive Atal Tunnel. The Atal Tunnel is 9.02km long, making it the longest single tube highway tunnel in the world.
On the Kullu Valley side of the tunnel you are blown away by majestic mountain views that feel like nature’s wonderland. And on the other side of the tunnel is Lahaul Valley. When you exit the tunnel, it is like you have transported through a portal and entered a whole different world. It will certainly take your breath away!
Pro-tip: If you plan on driving through the Atal Tunnel on a motorbike or scooter, dress very warmly. I cannot stress this enough, it is SO cold inside the tunnel. Make sure you have warm gloves to avoid your fingers from freezing up.
5. VISIT NAGGAR VILLAGE AND BHUNTAR VILLAGE FOR AMAZING VIEWS
If you are a nature traveller but you also love experiencing the cultural side of a country, then visiting Naggar and Bhuntar Villages as one of your nature activities in Kullu Valley is a must!
Both of these quaint villages are nestled in the heart of Kullu Valley. With a blend of historical significance and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You can visit the traditional Hindu temples while still being in the middle of one of the most stunning valleys in India.
Naggar Village is located on the banks of the river Beas with complete views of the mountains from anywhere in the village. From here, you can do many nature activities from fishing to trekking and waterfall hikes, to just appreciating the mesmerizing Himalayas.
Situated at the crossing of the Beas and Parvati River, is Bhuntar Village. The highlights of Bhuntar Village are the impressive Hindu temples and Buddhist Monastery. You can enjoy a picnic from any of the serene spots around the village. The Tirthan Valley trek is also nearby. Which is doable for any trekkers to explore the farmlands and deodar forests and even go trout fishing.
For the more adventurous spirits, you can do the 5-6 day Sar Pass trek. This is a challenging high-altitude trek that takes you to dramatic snowy mountain sceneries.
Not many people visit these 2 hidden gems of Kullu Valley. So, you can enjoy a tranquil experience here, soaking up the divine culture and nature of North India.
6. VISIT VASHISHT VILLAGE – BEAUTIFUL WATERFALLS AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS
Vashisht is truly one of the most beautiful villages I have ever stayed in. I thought it was so beautiful that I decided to live here for 4 months!
Many tourists stay in the busy town of Manali. But if you prefer a calmer environment close to nature then Vashisht is a true haven. You can choose to stay in beautiful accommodations either surrounded by the enchanting forests or in the fresh open views of snow-capped mountains.
Vashisht is so aesthetically breathtaking. The authentic village is blessed with inspiring mountain views that you can see stretched across the whole valley.
Vashisht is known for its natural hot springs and beautiful cascading waterfalls which are an easy walk from the village centre. The two waterfalls to visit here are the Vashishta Waterfall and Jogini Falls.
Vashisht Village is only an 11-minute drive from the main Manali bus stand.
There are so many pretty nature walks around the village to different viewpoints of the surrounding sceneries. I often felt like I was walking in a fairytale as I wandered around the outskirts of the village.
Be sure to bring your camera with you. You will want to capture the natural beauty of this place around every corner!
7. THE GREAT HIMALAYAN NATIONAL PARK
The Great Himalayan National Park is one of the nature activities you cannot miss out on in Kullu Valley.
This pristine national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its rich biodiversity. Over 1000 species of plants and 31 mammal species are protected in this area of the Himalayas.
The altitude of the park ranges from 1500m to 6000m elevation. Making this one of the most scenic national parks in India that offers both easier nature hikes and high-altitude trekking.
For all my fellow trekking enthusiasts, there a number of moderate to difficult treks to do in the GHNP:
- Sainjh Valley
- Sainj to 6meadows
- Gushaini to Parvati Valley
- Bird Watching and Trout Fishing
The abundance of wildlife, bird life, deodar forests and Oak trees, blossoming flowers, majestic views and rich fauna to experience in the national park will leave you feeling enchanted by the natural beauty of the Himalayas.
Pro-tip: You need to acquire a permit for the national park. You can easily receive the permit from the head office in Shamshi or at the zonal offices in Shairopa and Ropa.
We have covered some of the most beautiful and adventurous nature activities to do in Kullu Valley that will make you feel like you have fully experienced the majesty of the Himalayas. Choosing to add any of these activities to your India bucket list adventure will surely leave you marvelling at the natural world of India.
Beautiful captures of Kullu Valley by @homeless.backpacker
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT KULLU VALLEY?
The best time to visit Kullu Valley is between the summer months of March to June. During these months the temperatures are comfortable and the skies are clear.
If you do not mind the cold and love snowy adventures, then visiting Kullu Valley during the winter months of October to February.
It is best to avoid the Himalayas during the monsoon season, July to September. The heavy rains do not allow for many nature activities and many of the treks remain closed during this time.
IS KULLU VALLEY SAFE FOR TOURISTS?
Kullu Valley is a popular destination for tourists. It is very safe to travel all throughout the valley. Whether you are travelling by car, scooter, walking or with a guide. Family travellers, solo travellers, tour groups and friends all travel to this region of India.
As with anywhere in the world, having safe travel practises and being aware of your surroundings will ensure your safety as a traveller.
The locals that live along the valley are very friendly and are always willing to help tourists if need be.
If you are a solo female traveller, you can read my safety travel tips for solo female travellers in India here.
IS KULLU VALLEY WORTH VISTING?
Kullu Valley is such an unforgettable nature and cultural destination in India. Making it one of the most beautiful and unique places to visit in the whole country.
Between the authentic villages, historical essence and spiritual energy, the dramatic mountains and fairytale valleys, Kullu Valley is definitely worth visiting.
WHAT IS KULLU VALLEY FAMOUS FOR?
Kullu Valley is a wide-open valley through which the Beas River flows. This river supplies water to all of the towns and villages throughout the valley.
Kullu Valley is known for the amazing number of nature activities, traditional Hindu Temples and Buddhist Monasteries, Oak, Pine and Deodar forests, blossoming apple orchards and some of the most breathtaking mountain sceneries in all of the Himalayas.
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