Formerly, the Kullu valley was known as Kulanthapitha, meaning the end of the habitable world. The earliest recorded information of this area goes back to 1st century AD, when this valley began to be inhabited. In the medieval period, Kullu and the area around it was ruled by a number of local rulers. The Kullu valley was isolated from other parts of the country for many centuries until it came under British rule.

The state, with many a snow-bound Himalayan peak, has some of the most spectacular landscapes in the country. It also has some very popular holiday resorts which are easily accessible.

Apart from sight-seeing, it offers immense scope for trekking, skiing and rafting. Shivalik, Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal are the major mountain ranges in the state. Tibba, Indrasan, Kullu Pumori, Leo Pargial, Menthosa, Mulkila, Papsura, White Sail are some of the peaks which rise above 6000 mts. And there are mighty rivers like Beas, Ravi, Sutlej and Chandra in which white water rafting is a rage with youngsters.

There are awesome glaciers and enchanting lakes, snow-capped peaks and lush-green valleys. Clean and peaceful, Himachal has good roads and communication facilities. There are Government and private agencies providing good tourist services such as transport, accommodation, catering and trekking and rafting. The state can be divided into five tourist segments

The historic town of Mandi is built along the banks of the river Beas. It has long been an important commercial centre and the sage Mandvya is said to have meditated here. This one time capital of the princely state of Mandi is a fast developing town that still retains much of its original charm and character. Mandi is renowned for its 81 old stone temples and their enormous range of fine carving and is often called the Varanasi of the hills. Formerly and important junction on the salt route to Tibet, Mandi is the gateway to the Kullu valley, and the junction of roads from Kullu, Kangra and Shimla. Mandi which means market, is quite a good place to break the journey between Shimla and the Kullu valley.

Rewalsar Lake is high up in the hills, 24 kms south-west of Mandi and set beside the village of Rewalsar. It is a lovely area, with some pretty scenery and is worth a day trip or an overnight stay. The small lake is revered by Buddhists because it is where Padmasambhava departed for Tibet. Hindus also revere the lake because it was where the sage Rishi Lomas did his panance as a dedication to Shiva, who in return gave Rishi the seven lakes in the vicinity, including Rewalsar. Around the lake, there are three Hindu temples dedicated to Rishi Lomas, Shiva and Krishna.

The parbatti valley runs north-east from Bhuntar, which is south of kullu. You can travel up the valley by bus. Manikaran is built near sulphur hot springs and its interesting to watch the locals cook their food in the pools of hot water.