Kullu

Kullu, the district headquarters at the southern end of the valley that shares its name, is known as the 'Valley of Gods' for its dense concentration of local deities and temples, and for hosting one of the Himalayas' most significant Dussehra festivals, when hundreds of local gods are ceremonially brought together in a week-long celebration. The town itself, on the banks of the Beas river, is somewhat quieter and less touristy than nearby Manali, functioning more as a practical district centre.

Kullu's shawls and handicrafts, produced in workshops throughout the valley, are among Himachal's most recognised traditional crafts, and the town's riverside setting and surrounding apple orchards give it a pleasant, unhurried character distinct from the busier resort atmosphere further up the valley.

Kullu's Dussehra festival, unique in India for the way it brings together deities from across the valley in ceremonial procession, is believed to date back several centuries under the patronage of the former rulers of the Kullu kingdom.

Bhuntar airport is about 10km away; Kullu is roughly 7-8 hours by road from Chandigarh.