Turmeric Man of Himachal Pradesh

 

Himachal Pradesh, often referred to as "Dev Bhoomi" (Land of Gods), is home to numerous temples, including several Shaktipeeths that attract lakhs of devotees every year. Among these sacred sites, nestled in the heart of the Kinnaur district, stands the world’s highest Krishna temple, a hidden gem in the Yulla Kanda region in the Nichar subdivision of the Kinnaur district. Situated at an elevation of 12,000 feet (3,895 meters) above sea level, this ancient temple, built in the middle of Yulla Kanda Lake, offers a unique blend of spirituality, nature, and adventure.

The Legend of Yulla Kanda Lake and Krishna Temple

The Yulla Kanda temple is not only significant for its elevation but also for its spiritual heritage. Constructed from stone in the traditional architectural style of the region, the Yulla Kanda Krishna Temple is simple yet elegant. The wooden carvings reflect the craftsmanship of the region, while the natural surroundings amplify the temple’s mystique.

Legend has it that the lake surrounding the temple was formed by the Pandavas during their exile in the Himalayas. The temple, dedicated to Lord Krishna, stands proudly in the center of this sacred lake, drawing devotees and trekkers alike, especially during the festival of Janmashtami. Each year, people from all over Kinnaur and Himachal Pradesh make the pilgrimage to this high-altitude temple to celebrate Krishna’s birthday, a festival that holds deep significance for the local population.

The Trek to Yulla Kanda

Reaching the Yulla Kanda temple requires a 12-kilometer trek that begins from the village of Yulla Khas. The trek, which can be classified as moderate in difficulty, offers breathtaking views of the Kinnaur mountains and a deep connection with nature. Pilgrims and adventure seekers alike find themselves immersed in the magic of Himachal Pradesh's rugged landscapes as they climb towards this sacred destination. The trek can also be undertaken from Kalpa via Kashang Pass or Listigarang Pass, adding a sense of exploration to the spiritual journey.

While the trek is physically demanding, the spiritual rewards are immense. As trekkers ascend through the lush forests and rocky trails, they are greeted with spectacular mountain views that culminate in the awe-inspiring sight of the Yulla Kanda Lake and the Krishna temple, both shrouded in an aura of peace and divinity.

The Cap Legend

One of the most intriguing customs at Yulla Kanda is the local tradition involving the Kinnauri cap. According to local beliefs, if a pilgrim floats the cap upside down in the lake and it reaches the other side without sinking, the person’s wish will be granted, and they will find peace and joy in the coming year. However, if the cap sinks, the year ahead might be challenging. This symbolic act is both a test of faith and a reflection of the region’s deep-rooted cultural traditions.

A Celebration of Devotion: The Janmashtami Fair

The Yulla Kanda temple becomes the focal point of celebration during Janmashtami, with the Kinnaur district administration organizing the district-level festival with great fanfare. According to tradition, the Bushahr king Kehari Singh initiated the Janmashtami fair in Yulla Kanda, a practice that continues to this day. Hundreds of devotees from nearby villages, including Kalpa and Pangi, travel over the treacherous Kashang Pass to participate in the celebrations.

On the eve of Janmashtami, villagers, accompanied by Buddhist Lamas and fellow devotees performing rituals, chanting mantras, and singing folk songs along the way. The temple becomes a place of unity, where locals, pilgrims, and even tourists gather to celebrate the birth of Lord Krishna in one of the world’s most serene and sacred settings.

A Sacred Connection Between Religions

Despite the prominence of Buddhism in the Kinnaur district, devotion to Hindu deities such as Lord Krishna and Shiva is still widespread. Kinnaur Kailash, an important pilgrimage site in the district, is dedicated to Lord Shiva, while the deity worshiped at Kamru (Sangla) is believed to be a form of Badrinath. The Yulla Kanda Krishna Temple adds another layer to this interwoven religious heritage, exemplifying the harmonious coexistence of Hinduism and Buddhism in the region.

Conclusion

The Yulla Kanda trek is not just a journey through the Kinnaur mountains; it is a spiritual odyssey that connects the pilgrim to the divine and the majestic Himalayan landscape. The temple, which stands as the highest Krishna temple in the world, symbolizes the meeting point of faith, nature, and ancient legend. Whether you come seeking adventure, peace, or a glimpse of divinity, Yulla Kanda promises an experience that will leave you spellbound.

From the legends of the Pandavas to the sacred traditions of the Kinnauri people, Yulla Kanda is a destination that transcends the ordinary, inviting all who come to find both beauty and spiritual solace in its lofty heights.