Manikaran Hot Water Pool Travel Guide

The Manikaran Hot Water Pool is a prominent geothermal spring system situated in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India, along the banks of the Parvati River. The town of Manikaran has grown around these sacred springs, attracting visitors seeking both physical and spiritual rejuvenation.The hot springs are considered holy by both Hindus and Sikhs. Hindu legend tells of Shiva and Parvati's sojourn in the valley, during which Parvati lost an earring. The jewel was seized by Shesha, the serpent deity, leading Shiva to perform the Tandava dance, causing the jewel to be ejected back up through the water. For Sikhs, the Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, built near the springs, commemorates Guru Nanak's visit in 1574. It is said that Guru Nanak Dev Ji asked Mardana to lift a stone, and a hot spring appeared.The water temperature of the springs ranges from 70°C to 95°C (158°F to 203°F) and is said to have medicinal and healing properties. The water contains minerals like sodium, calcium, chloride, and trace amounts of magnesium, cobalt, copper, strontium, nickel, silver, and zinc. Many visitors cook rice wrapped in cloth packets in the hot spring waters. Separate bathing areas are available for men and women. Taking a dip in the hot springs is believed to wash away sins and provide relief from skin ailments, muscular pains, and arthritis.