Manikaran Sahib in Himachal Pradesh

Manikaran Sahib is a famous pilgrimage in Himachal Pradesh with a strong religious feelings for Hindus and Sikhs because this place has some reference to sikh religion and hindu religion both. Manikaran is located in the Parvati Valley between the rivers Vyaas and Parvati with an altitude of 1760 m and about 45km from Kullu.

It is believed that Lord Shiva and Maa Parvati spend hundreds of year here because they were impressed by the surrounding beauty of mountains, waterfall and nature. During their stay, Mata Parvati lost her jewel (mani) of earring which made her upset. Lord Shiva ordered everyone to search her jewel but they were unable to find it. This made God Shiva angry and open his third eye which brought calamity to the Universe. During his anger, serpent god, 'Shesh Nag' was called to make calm Shiva but his tries too failed. When Shesh Nag hissed to cool down Shiva, it produced hot water that made this manikaran temple famous for hot springs. Today also you can see the hot water on one side and cold water running on other side of the shrine. Even the meaning of Manikaran as jewel of ear came after this scene.

For sikh religion, Manikaran is their religious place because Giani Gian Singh mentioned that Guru Nanak Dev ji visited this place. The Janam Sakhi describes that the guru came to Mani Karan along with his Five 'Piaras' or followers.

Various attractions of Manikaran are Lord Ramchandra Temple, Temple of Lord Shiva, Sri Guru Nanak Dev Ji Gurudwara, Hot Springs, Kulant Pith, Harinder Mountain & Parvati River.