Yulla Kanda Temple: World’s Highest Krishna Temple in Kinnaur How to Reach 2024
Yulla Kanda: World’s Highest Krishna Temple in Kinnaur: The Yulla Kanda trekking experience in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, brings you closer to the Kinnaur mountains. Himachal Pradesh is undoubtedly one of India’s most popular tourist destinations, with numerous trekking options. Apart from the breathtaking views and experience, Yulla Kanda is notable for housing the highest Krishna temple in the country. The Lord Krishna temple is located in the middle of a lake.
The overall experience transcends the ordinary, as one basks in the blissful ambiance of this divine retreat. Yulla Kanda beckons those with an adventurous spirit, urging them to explore uncharted horizons and discover the serenity that lies hidden amidst the Kinnauri peaks. A pilgrimage to this mystical abode promises not only an escape into nature’s embrace but also an encounter with a spiritual legacy that transcends time. Embark on a journey of enlightenment, where every step echoes with the whispers of ancient tales and the rustling leaves of a sacred forest.
History of Yulla Kanda Krishna Temple
The lake has been made by the Pandavas during their term in exile. After the lake, the construction of temple was undertaken. Also, the most striking feature of the temple is its height above the sea level (12000 feet) which makes it the world’s highest temple. Another important point is people can come and offer prayers to Lord Krishna irrespective of their religion, caste or creed. The place welcomes everyone with open heart and a tight warm hug.
It is believed that the present day Bushah ruler, King Kehari Singh of Bushah estate, started the festival of “Janmashtmi” which is celebrated with much triumph and joy in the region. The temple is believed to be related to the state of Bushah. As per the belief, a traditional cap of the Kinnaur region is inverted and put in the lake flowing along the temple at Yulla Kanda.
Legend has it that if the cap floats across the river to the other side without getting immersed, the destiny shall be with you and the coming year shall henceforth bring peace, joy and harmony in your life. If the cap doesn’t make it to the other side, know that the coming year might not be good for you.
Although the place remains deserted for a major part, every year tourists, local people and those from nearby districts gather together in large numbers to celebrate the birth anniversary of Lord Krishna. They orbit the lake in order to seek for liberation from their sins and bad deeds.
Scenic View of Yulla Kanda Temple
- At an elevation of 12,000 feet above sea level, Yulla Kanda boasts the highest Krishna temple globally.
- Legend has it that the Pandavas created the holy lake during their exile in the Himalayas.
- The temple’s elevated location offers pilgrims and trekkers a unique spiritual experience, and locals believe that a dip in the lake can cleanse the mind and body of negativity.
- The annual fair during Janmashtami is celebrated with fervor, drawing devotees from nearby districts.
- An hour’s hike from Yulla Kanda to the northeast leads to Rora Kanda, where you can camp overnight and revel in the beauty of the surrounding passes.
- The Listigarang Pass (4,680m) lies northwest of Yulla Kanda and connects to the Kafnu hamlet, Bhabha Valley, and Bhabha Pass via Muling.
- On a clear sunny day, the Buran Pass is visible from Yulla Kanda, adding to the natural spectacle.
How to Reach Yulla Kanda
Reaching the Base Village (Yulla Khas):
- There are no direct flights or trains to Yulla Kanda. The nearest airport is Shimla Airport, located around 25 kilometers from Shimla city. Chandigarh International Airport or Indira Gandhi International Airport are other options, although further away.
- The nearest railway station is Kalka Railway Station (KLK), roughly 90 kilometers from Shimla.
- From any of these airports or the railway station, you’ll need to take a taxi or bus to Shimla. From Shimla, you can take another local bus bound for Rekong Peo or Kalpa. These buses will pass through a small village called Tapri. Here, you can transfer to a local bus that will take you to the base village of Yulla Khas.
The Trek:
The trek to Yulla Kanda begins from Yulla Khas village. It’s a moderately difficult trek, approximately 12 kilometers long, that takes you through meadows, forests, and finally to the lake itself. The ideal time to undertake the trek is from mid-May to mid-October.
Things to Carry:
- Warm and comfortable clothes.
- Trekking shoes.
- Two pairs of warm socks.
- Sunscreen Lotion/Cold cream.
- Rucksack/Bag-packs.
- Three water bottles.
- Sunglasses, Gloves, and Hat.
- Personal toiletries and medication.
- Torch Light with batteries.
- Insects and Mosquito repellents.
Best Time to Visit Yulla Kanda
The best time to visit Yulla Kanda is during the summer months, from mid-May to mid-October. Here’s a breakdown of why this is the ideal timeframe:
Pleasant Weather: The summer months in Himachal Pradesh offer comfortable temperatures, perfect for undertaking the trek. You can expect mostly sunny days with cool mornings and evenings. This makes the trek more enjoyable and lessens the chances of encountering harsh weather conditions.
Clear Skies: With clear skies, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Kinnaur mountain ranges throughout the trek.
Accessibility: The trail is clear and accessible during these months. The winter months bring heavy snowfall, making the trek difficult and dangerous.
Things to Do in Yulla Kanda
Trekking: The main activity in Yulla Kanda is the trek itself. The moderately difficult trek is roughly 12 kilometers long and offers stunning views of the Kinnaur mountain ranges. The trail winds through meadows, forests, and finally takes you to the high-altitude lake where the temple is situated.
Scenic Beauty: Throughout the trek, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Imagine lush green meadows with wildflowers in bloom, contrasting with the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. Keep an eye out for the unique flora and fauna of the region as well.
Temple Visit: Upon reaching the lake, you’ll find the world’s highest Krishna temple. The experience of visiting a holy site at such a high altitude is unique and spiritually uplifting.
Camping: Camping is a popular option for trekkers in Yulla Kanda. Imagine stargazing under a blanket of stars in the clear mountain skies. There are designated camping spots near the lake, but be sure to follow proper guidelines for leaving no trace.
Birdwatching: The Kinnaur region is home to a variety of birdlife. Keep an eye out for pheasants, eagles, and other birds as you make your way up the mountain.
Photography: The entire Yulla Kanda experience is incredibly scenic, so bring your camera to capture the beauty of the mountains, the meadows, the lake, and the temple.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to reach Yulla Kanda Temple?
The trip begins with our arrival in Shimla from Delhi in a comfortable AC Volvo bus. From Shimla, we begin our drive towards Yulla Khas village (8-9 hours).
What is the story of Yulla Kanda?
Yulla Kanda is home to the world’s highest Krishan Temple. It is situated at an altitude of 3895 meters above sea level in the Rora Valley of Kinnaur district in Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that this temple was made by the Pandavas during their outcast to the Himalayas.
What is the largest Kanda in the World?
Araṇya-Kanda
What is the alltitute of Yulla Kanda Trek?
The treks to Yulla Kanda (3,895 m) is an otherworldly trek in the Rora valley, in the Kinnaur area of Himachal Pradesh. The best ideal opportunity for trekking on Yulla Kanda is from mid-May to mid-October.
How many kandas are in India?
While the Valmiki Ramayana emphasizes Rama’s human nature, the Adhyatam Ramayana tells the story from the perspective of his divinity. It is organized into seven Kandas, parallel to Valmiki’s.
What are the 7 kandas?
Valmiki Ramayana is divided into seven Kandas or chapters. These are: Adi Kanda or Bal Kanda, Ayodhya Kanda, Aranya Kanda, Kishkindhya Kanda, Sundar Kanda, Lanka Kanda or Yuddha Kanda and Uttar Kanda. In these seven chapters, the life story of Rama is narrated chronologically.
