India is home to a large number of temples and pilgrimage sites, each hiding a different mystery. And, the Manikarn Sahib Gurdwara, which is located in the middle of Manali, Himachal Pradesh’s plains, is one such magnificent place of pilgrimage. Though people have distinct beliefs, both Hindus and Sikhs value this place for the same reason—they find tranquility here. Manikaran, which is respected by followers of both the Hindu and Sikh religions, is situated in the Parvati Valley, which was created jointly by the rivers Beas and Parvati. Everyone who comes here is amazed that the gurudwara’s water still boils in the icy weather. Thus, book your last minute flights to India and embark on a spiritual journey at Manikaran Sahib: A Divine Heaven of Spiritual Treasures and Marvels.
Story Behind Manikaran: As Per Sikhs Belief
The majority of our understanding of Manikaran comes from Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib. The town holds great sacredness for Sikhs. According to legend, Guru Nanak visited Manikaran with his pupil Bhai Mardana. Guru Nanak sent him to gather food in preparation for the establishment of a langar, or communal kitchen. Although several people gave ingredients, they lacked a fire to prepare the meal. At this point, Mardana was ordered by Guru Nanak to lift a stone, and when she did, a hot spring materialized in its place. Then, Guru Nanak instructed Mardana to cook the uncooked chapatis by immersing them in hot water.
As gravity took its course, the chapati sank. When Guru Nanak saw this, he told his disciples to pray to God to make the chapatis rise again. It was also promised that if that happened, donations would be made in God’s name. And sure enough, the chapatis had reappeared, prepared and ready to eat. It has been believed ever since that people who donate in the name of God will always have access to the basics of life. The Manikaran hot springs have long been treasured by the Sikh community.
Story Behind Manikaran: As Per Hindu Belief
It is said that one day Shiva and Parvati just happened to stumble across a location encircled by lush forest and mountains. They were captivated by this location’s splendor and decided to stay for a while. Parvati lost her mani, or valuable stone, in the water one tragic day. Although the stone was sought after, the hunt proved fruitless. Shiva became quite enraged over this, and the universe suffered as a result. Sheshnag, the serpent god, begged Shiva for peace. Sheshnag hissed as the water boiled, spreading around the room and somehow bringing the mani back.
Of course, when it comes to tales, people are free to believe whatever they want. So, book your flight ticket from Canada to India with Flyopedia and find inner peace in this spiritual gem
The Gurudwara and the Natural Hotspring
Many believe that these naturally occurring hot spring pools, which are warm but calming, are the personification of heaven. Still, the actual heaven is radiated by the majestic temple made of gleaming white marble.
The Gurudwara is surrounded by hot springs that fill the temple with steaming vapors. Feeling the perfect harmony between the chilly, crisp breeze and the steam is delightful. The shrine’s facade is made of immaculate white marble, and saffron flags flow in multiple directions across it. The otherwise white shrine is given much-needed color by these flags.
The temple lies above the hot spring. Steam constantly emerges from the radiant stream due to the extreme heat of the natural springs. The pilgrims are provided with an enclosed swimming pool for bathing. It is said that the pool is extremely lucky and that it can wash away one’s sins. In the calm, calming water, one feels cleansed and at ease. It is also intended to alleviate muscle aches and arthritis.
All of the food that the gurudwara produces is cooked by the hot water from the natural spring. In actuality, a lot of them don’t even have stoves or gas. It is thoroughly cooked by naturally occurring hot water.
Best Time to Visit Manikaran Sahib
Approximately 1760 meters above sea level, Manikaran Sahib town is situated in Himachal Pradesh. With an average temperature of 10 degrees Celsius, the weather is extremely cold all year round because of the high altitude. Summertime, from March to June, is when most visitors prefer to visit to avoid the cold. Manikaran Sahib becomes very cold in the winter. This is a favorite season throughout the year for traveling for a lot of people. In addition, make sure to check out Flyopedia.com to grab affordable last minute flight deals to India from USA.
How to Reach Manikaran Sahib
By Air: Travelers can go to Manikaran Sahib via plane to Bhuntar Airport. This airport is located 34.8 km from Manikaran Sahib, Himachal Pradesh. Manikaran Sahib in Bhuntar is accessible via bus. Local buses go frequently between Bhuntar and Manikaran. The nearest major airport is in Chandigarh, an hour’s drive from Bhuntar.
By Road: Local state buses travel between Manikaran Sahib and Bhuntar. Major nearby cities like Pathankot, Chandigarh, Shimla, and New Delhi are all well-connected to Bhuntar via road. Furthermore, taxis from all around are easily accessible.
By Train: The Pathankot Railway Station in Punjab is the closest central station, from which Jammu Mail, Ravi Express, and Dhauladhar Express depart for Pathankot. It would take eight hours to go 300 km from Pathankot to Manikaran Sahib. The easiest method to go from Pathankot to Manikaran is by bus to Bhuntar and then local bus from there.
Therefore, Manikaran Sahib is one of the places in India with a lot of spiritual significance. Furthermore, visit Flyopedia to grab Canada to India business class flight deals at reasonable prices and immerse in the soulful marvels of Manikaran Sahib.
Also Read: Exploring Sacred Places- A Cultural Heritage Tour Across India
