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Kullu was once
known as Kulanthpitha, which means the end of the
habitable world. Beyond rose the forbidding heights of the
Greater Himalayas, and by the banks of the shining river
Beas, lay the fabled 'Silver Valley'.
Here is the core of an intricate web of numerous valleys -
each of which is a visual delight and seems more beautiful
than the other. The mountain scapes remain spectacular
whether in brilliant sunshine or in the haze of the mist.
The 'Silver Valley' has nature's treasures that lie
carelessly scattered as flowers on the high meadows.
The town of Kullu has long been a centre of faith. In the
17th century, Raja Jagat Singh installed here an idol of
Lord Raghunathji, which he brought from Ayodhya. As a mark
of his penance, he placed the idol on his throne and it
became the presiding deity of the valley.
TEMPLES
Raghunathji Temple: In the 17th century, Raja Jagat
Singh of Kullu committed a great wrong. To atone for the
sin he sent a senior courtier to Ayodhya for a statue of
Lord Raghunath - Lord Ram. This temple was built by Raja
Jagat Singh to house the image and even today, is greatly
revered. The shrine houses an image of Shri Raghunath in
his chariot.
Bijli Mahadev Temple: Set on a spur that offers some
spectacular views, this temple is famous for its 20m high
rod that periodically draws lightning, which shatters the
'Shivalinga' and scorches the building. Using only butter
as adhesive, the 'linga' is then carefully pieced together
by the temple pundit.
Basheshwar Mahadev Temple, Bajaura: This 9th century
Shiva Temple is renowned for its intricate stone carvings.
The Vaishno Devi Temple: 4-km along the Kullu to
Manali road is this temple with a small cave having an
image of goddess Vaishno or Durga.
Jagannathi Devi Temple: This temple is in Bhekhli
village, 3-km from Kullu. It's a stiff climb but from the
temple one can catch fine views of the town.
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