Manikaran is a popular attraction in the Kullu district of Manali mainly known for its hot springs.  It is located in the Parvati Valley between the rivers Beas and Parvati, northeast of Bhuntar at an altitude of 1760 m and is located about 45 km from Kullu.There are several groups of hot water springs emerging at various locations spreading up to a distance of about 1.3 km along the river from the old bridge to Brahmaganga. The springs at Manikaran come out to surface with pressure and are very hot. There is no sulphur or iron mixed in the waters, but it is said that it contains radio active elements. The water of these springs is hot enough for pulses, rice, vegetables etc. to be boiled and cooked in it. There is a Gurudwara here serving visitors and provides night stay. In the Gurudwara, the food is cooked in the hot springs and is uniquely delicious. The heat near the boiling place, where the meal is cooked, is so high that visitors would not be able to withstand and tolerate the heat even for a few minutes.

The healing properties of the Manikaran Springs are well known all over the country. Pilgrims from far come here and for the cure of their ailments. Rheumatism and muscular pains are said to be cured by bathing in the healing waters. According to a legend, Manikaran is associated with Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati. Mani Karan means Ear Rings – it is said that once, while taking bath here, Maa Parvati lost her ear rings in the Kund (pond). When she told Lord Shiva about it, he became furious and looked at the water of the kund with great anger and then thousands of ear rings flowed out from the boiling water and since then the water of the spring is boiling. The rocks surrounding the springs are also very hot.

The Lord Ramchandra Temple is perhaps the most important temple of Manikaran. The temple was constructed by Raja Jagat Singh in the 17th century. Though there is no historical evidence backing, still the idol of Shri Ram installed here is believed to have been brought straight from Ayodhya. An idol of Goddess Sita accompanies that of Lord Rama. The temple was renovated by Raja Dilip Singh in the year 1889.

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