Manīkaran (India)

Manikaran is a sacred place for Sikhs and Hindus, who come from far and wide to engage in private prayer here. A little town perched high in the Himalayas, it is also a delightful place for those who visit it!

The road leading to Manikaran is magnificent, and from it you can make out an even more astounding landscape in the distance. The Himalayan mountain chain that gradually comes into view as you ascend the mountain and the villages clinging to the flanks of the hill have left me with wonderful memories of this trip to India !

When in Manikaran, stroll at leisure through the town's little streets; though the typical mountain architecture of the town's houses is not of the most charming kind, the atmosphere that reigns there is especially pleasant. As you do this you will pass from Hindu temple to Sikh gurdwara, with all the pilgrims displaying the same levels of fervor and enthusiasm! Take advantage of your visit to the town to experience the public baths; and don't worry: the naturally boiling water is cooled by the pipes that feed the pool. The hot wells found across the town attract both animals and people seeking warmth during the long winter months. When visiting Manikaran, don't be surprised to see apples being thrown into the boiling hot wells: this results in them being deliciously cooked!