Hot Water Springs of Himachal Pradesh

12 Stunning Hot Water Springs and Waterfalls in Himachal Pradesh to Explore

Himachal Pradesh, known for its stunning natural beauty, is also famous for its diverse water sources, including springs and waterfalls. Here’s a breakdown of the types of springs and some notable ones in the region:

Types of Springs in Himachal Pradesh

1. Hot Springs:

   • Ordinary Springs: These are general springs that emerge from underground sources and have a moderate temperature.
   • Mineral Springs: These springs contain dissolved minerals which are believed to have therapeutic benefits.
   • Thermal Springs: These are exceptionally hot springs, heated by geothermal activity.

2. Cold Springs:

   • These springs are typically located at higher altitudes and provide cool water, offering relief from the heat.

Notable Springs and Waterfalls

• Vashisht Spring:

  • Location: Kullu
  • Water Type: Hot
  • Feature: Located by the Beas River, known for its hot water.

Vashisht Temple in Manali, located just 3.5 km from the Manali Bus Stand, is a revered site dedicated to the sage Vashisht, who was the Kula guru of Lord Rama. Situated in the village of Vashisht across the Beas River, this temple is a significant destination for both pilgrims and tourists.

1. Ancient Origins:

The Vashisht Temple is believed to be over 4000 years old. The temple houses a black stone image of Sage Vashisht wearing a dhoti and features intricate wood carvings and traditional decor with antique paintings.

2. Legendary Background:

The village of Vashisht is named after Rishi Vashisht, one of the seven sages in Hindu tradition. According to legend, after his children were killed by Vishwamitra, Vashisht attempted suicide by jumping into a river. When the river refused to claim him, he began a new life in the village, which was later named Vipasha (freedom from bondage), now known as the Beas River.

3. Healing Hot Springs:

One of the major attractions here is the Vashisht Hot Water Spring, renowned for its medicinal properties. The springs are believed to cure various skin ailments, attracting many visitors seeking relief from skin infections. Separate bathing facilities are available for men and women.

4. Adjacent Rama Temple:

Close to the Vashisht Temple is the Rama Temple, which features idols of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana. The temple is an important site for the celebration of Dussehra, which lasts for seven days, reflecting the village’s historical significance in the Vaishnava tradition.

5. Visiting Hours:

The Vashisht Temple is open daily from 7 am to 9 pm. The Vashisht Baths are available for visitors from 7 am to 1 pm and again from 2 pm to 9 pm.

• Kheer Ganga:

  • Location: Kullu
  • Water Type: Hot
  • Feature: Associated with the Parvati River, famous for its hot springs.

Nestled at an elevation of 3050 meters in the Parvati Valley, Kheer Ganga is a quaint village located 22 km from Manikaran, 56 km from Bhuntar, 64 km from Kullu, and 102 km from Manali. It is renowned as one of the best trekking destinations in Himachal Pradesh and a must-visit spot near Kullu.

1. Sacred Hot Springs:

Kheer Ganga is famous for its sacred hot springs, which are believed to have medicinal properties. The village features a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. According to legend, Lord Shiva and Parvati’s son, Kartikeya, meditated in the Kheer Ganga for a thousand years, making it a significant religious site for Hindus.

2. Legendary Origin:

The name “Kheer Ganga” is derived from the milky-white waters of the Parvati River flowing through the valley, which resembles kheer (a traditional Indian sweet dish).

3. Scenic Trekking Route:

The trek to Kheer Ganga begins from Barsheni village, where the confluence of the Tosh and Parvati Rivers can be observed. Along the trekking route, hikers can enjoy sights such as the Rudra-Nag waterfall, the Pandu Bridge rock formation, and the Pin-Parvati Pass (5400 meters). The trek generally takes about two days from Barsheni or Kullu.

4. Natural Attractions:

The trek offers stunning views and an immersive experience in nature. The Kheer Ganga area is also known for its lush forests, and the sunset views here are truly spectacular.

5. Unique Local Culture:

Kheer Ganga is notorious for its locally grown marijuana, known as “charas,” and is popular among hippies and recently among Israelis.

6. Basic Amenities:

Near the Shiva temple, there is an ashram providing basic accommodation facilities. Several roadside restaurants in Kheer Ganga offer both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. The village does not have electricity; instead, all lights are powered by solar energy.

7. Best Time to Visit:

The ideal time to visit Kheer Ganga is between May and November when the weather is pleasant and favorable for trekking. During winter, the area is covered in snow, and it only partially freezes during summer.

• Kasol:

  • Location: Kullu
  • Water Type: Hot
  • Feature: Situated near the Parvati River, known for its hot springs.

  • Kasol Hot Springs: 4 Reasons to Visit

    1. Close to Manikaran: Just 1 km from Manikaran, easily accessible for a quick visit.
    2. Unique Temperature: Cooler than other Himachal springs, offering a refreshing soak.
    3. Popular Spot: A well-loved destination despite its cooler waters.
    4. Scenic Setting: Enjoy a bath surrounded by the natural beauty of Kasol.

• Manikaran:

  • Location: Kullu
  • Water Type: Hot
  • Feature: One of the most significant hot springs in Himachal Pradesh, also known for its religious significance.

Location: Manikaran is situated in the Parvati Valley on the Parvati River, northeast of Bhuntar in Himachal Pradesh. It is 4 km from Kasol, 45 km from Kullu, and 35 km from Bhuntar, at an altitude of 1760 meters.

Attractions:

• Religious Significance: Manikaran is a key pilgrimage site for Hindus and Sikhs. Hindus believe that Manu recreated human life here after a flood, adding to its sacred status. It hosts temples dedicated to deities like Rama, Krishna, and Vishnu, as well as a Gurudwara.
• Hot Springs: The area is famous for its hot springs, which attract many visitors for their purported healing properties.
• Geothermal Energy: An experimental geothermal energy plant is also established here.

Legend: According to local legend, the jewel dropped by Goddess Parvati was retrieved by Lord Shiva performing the Tandava dance, causing jewels to be ejected through the water until the 1905 Kangra earthquake.

• Rahla Waterfall:

  • Location: Kullu (Manali)
  • Water Type: Cold
  • Feature: Provides cool water and is located near Manali.

Rehala Falls: A Stunning Waterfall Near Manali

Location: Rehala Falls, also known as Rahala Falls, is situated 16 km north of Manali on the Leh-Manali Highway, south of Rohtang Pass, within the Himalayan mountain range.

Features:

• Type: Cascade/punchbowl waterfall.
• Surroundings: Enclosed by a forest of Birch and Deodar trees.
• Seasonal Variation: The waterfall freezes when temperatures fall below freezing.
• Activities: The area offers several hiking and climbing trails, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tatapani 

Tattapani: A Top Hot Spring Destination in Himachal Pradesh

Location: Tattapani is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most popular hot springs, located along the Satluj River.

Features:

• Mineral-Rich Water: The natural spring water is enriched with sulphur and other minerals, believed to have medicinal properties that can help cure various ailments.
• Tourist Attraction: Tattapani attracts numerous visitors each year, not only for its therapeutic waters but also for its appeal as a white water rafting destination.

These springs and waterfalls not only highlight the natural diversity of Himachal Pradesh but also offer both locals and tourists unique experiences and benefits.

हिमाचल प्रदेश के चश्मे व झरने

हिमाचल प्रदेश में चश्मों को मुख्यतः दो प्रकारों में वर्गीकृत किया जाता है:

1. गर्म पानी के चश्मे
2. ठंडे पानी के चश्मे

गर्म पानी के चश्मे हिमाचल प्रदेश में तीन प्रमुख प्रकार के होते हैं:

1. साधारण चश्मे – ये भूमिगत स्रोत से निकलने वाले सामान्य चश्मों की तरह होते हैं।
2. मिनरल चश्मे – इसमें पानी में कुछ खनिज घुले होते हैं।
3. थर्मल चश्मे – ये अत्यंत गर्म होते हैं।

अधिकांश गर्म पानी के चश्मे ब्यास और सतलुज घाटियों में पाए जाते हैं। हिमाचल प्रदेश के कुल्लू जिले में मणिकरण गर्म पानी का चश्मा हिमाचल प्रदेश का सबसे बड़ा गर्म पानी का चश्मा है। कांगड़ा में लालूनी जलप्रपात की खोज कैप्टन ए. कोलमेन ने की थी।

झरने / चश्मे:

1. वशिष्ठ (ब्यास नदी के किनारे)
   
   • जिला: कुल्लू
   • जल: गर्म
2. खीर गंगा (पार्वती नदी से संबंधित)
   
   • जिला: कुल्लू
   • जल: गर्म
3. कसोल (पार्वती नदी से संबंधित)
   
   • जिला: कुल्लू
   • जल: गर्म
4. मणिकरण (पार्वती नदी के किनारे)
   
   • जिला: कुल्लू
   • जल: गर्म
5. रहला
   
   • जिला: कुल्लू (मनाली)
   • जल: ठंडा