Kullu, widely celebrated as the "Valley of the Gods" (historically known as Kulanthapitha), is a picturesque town and district headquarters in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. Nestled along the banks of the Beas River, it serves as a vital gateway to the renowned tourist destinations of Manali, Lahaul, and Spiti. The town is highly revered for its majestic Himalayan landscapes, terraced apple orchards, and deep-rooted spiritual heritage.
Beyond its natural beauty, Kullu is famous globally for two distinct cultural exports: its intricately woven Kullu shawls, which hold a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, and the Kullu Dussehra. Unlike the rest of India, where Dussehra concludes with the burning of effigies, the week-long Kullu Dussehra begins on Vijayadashami, drawing hundreds of local deities from neighboring villages to the Dhalpur Maidan in a spectacular and colorful religious assembly.
The town provides a perfect blend of historic charm and modern commercial activity. It retains a warm, traditional mountain culture while accommodating the influx of travelers seeking adventure sports, trekking, and spiritual retreats in the broader Kullu Valley.