Kullu Dussehra

 

A week-long festival celebrated in majestic style in northern India, Kullu Dussehra is one of the most popular events of Himachal Pradesh, signifying the victory of good over evil.  It draws the travelers from distant parts of the globe. It is held in the Dhalpur maidan at Kullu in Himachal Pradesh state. Kullu is known for its beautiful gorges, wondrous waterfalls, chatty mountain stream and ancient temples which are certainly going to enthrall you especially during the Kullu Dussehra festival.

Dating back to the 17th century, Kullu Dussehra starts on Vijaya Dashmi and lasts for seven days in the month of October. It is a lovely blend of rich culture, history and ritual.This festival is only held to celebrate the success of good over evil. While music and color create a peaceful ambience, thousands of people gather on the first day of celebration to pay respect to Lord Raghunathji. The first day is started with huge celebration and on this day the statue of Lord Raghunathji is installed on a beautifully designed chariot, which is graced with the presence of village gods and goddess, is pulled by ropes by the locals from its place to different sites across the Maidan.

The following days are celebrated with great devotion, and many an individual takes participate in singing and dancing during the festival. The fair is fulfilled with the burning of the Lanka. On the last day of the festival, the chariot is brought by the banks of Beas River where a mass of wood grass is burnt, signifying the burning of Lanka.

Bijli Mahadev

Steeped in mythology and magical stories, the Bijli Mahadev temple at the top of the mountain, is a must-see. Travel by a car from Manali to Kinja. Start the trek from here. It is a 4 kms moderate trek from here upto Bijli Mahadev. Alternatively, if you’d like to make this a 3-day trek, walk from Naggar to Jana. Camp overnight and continue on to Bijli Mahadev.

(Easy, March – November)