After a lazy day in Manali, it was time for a short trip to Vashist hot water springs. Truly speaking, I had no knowledge about these hot water springs in Manali. This was my first visit to this tourist town, and I boarded the local bus from Manali to Vashist for this trip.
The bright October sun was shining and the snowy Rohtang peaks were gleaming white in Snow. The bus passed through small villages and since this was the first bus of the day, villagers were still getting up to feed their cows and go around with the daily chores.
Vashist Hot Water Springs
The Vashist temple has hot water springs that are known to cure skin diseases. The hot water spring has been divided into two sections with one being for men while the other for women. Special Turkish styled bath tanks have also been made for people who prefer privacy.
Things to Do at Vashist
Your visit to Vashist should ideally begin by visiting the temple. Mine began by relishing parathas at a local Dhaba since I had boarded the bus empty stomach. Though I would rather pay obedience at the temple first given another chance, the excitement of being on a solo trip at the age of 22 made me head towards food rather than God!
Jokes apart, you should begin by paying your respect to the Goddess at the Vashist temple.
Visit to Vashist Temple
I still remember the captivating view of the Vashist temple. Its unique Kathkuni architecture is a testimony to the exotic skillset of the sculptors of the bygone era. Anyone would be surprised and mesmerized by the exclusivity of the place. The temple has a history of 4000 years and is said to be the meditation ground for sage Vashist who spend ages here meditating in the serene calmness of Himalayas. This temple is different from others in this region since it is in form of pyramid. Another unique fact about Vashist temple is that it is build out from a single stone. It attracts pilgrims and visitors not only from India but the world over as it has a unique ambiance, location and history, all bundled in one.
The Kathkuni style attracts one and all. Kath means wood and Kuni means corner, and this has been the traditional style of architecture in upper Himachal region in earlier times. With modernity and owing to modern day concerns, this style of architecture has virtually vanished and is confined to old houses and temples in upper reaches of Shimla, Kullu, Kinnaur, Mandi and Lahaul regions.
Bath in Hot Springs
Your nerves will calm down the moment you step into the Vashist hot water springs. The temperature of the water is from 40 to 45 degree Celsius and once you take a dip, expect to feel refreshed for the whole day.
Courtesy: Pixabay
Shopping in Vashist
Like any other tourist place, Vashist has also turned into a small town. You will find many shops selling handicrafts, souvenirs and other religious items. It is on your wisdom to purchase here. You can always carry some souvenirs back home but in case you wish to purchase traditional Kullu items, it is better to get these from Government authorized stores only. Back in those days, I was a fresher out of college and did have money only to travel and eat, leave alone shopping!
When to visit Vashist
Himachal Pradesh has a unique thing about itself. You can plan a visit to the region anytime of the year. While summers are a wonderful time to visit in case you wish to get away from heat and dust of Delhi, winters too can be a great time if you want clear skies and a bright sunshine. Vashist is no exception to this notion, and you can plan a visit to Manali or Vashist any time of the year.
Location
The location of Vashist hot water springs in village Vashist is truly mesmerizing. The view of River Beas is breathtaking and you can feel the auspicious presence of deities all around you. This serene village is known for its temple and hot water springs.
A note of caution though, the region is not to be visited during monsoon season as has been evident from flash floods which struck the region in 2024. However, all said and done, the real beauty of mountains is evident during monsoons only and being a Himachali myself, I have been travelling daily during monsoons too for work and leisure.
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