When people think about Lord Krishna, they often picture the famous temples of Mathura and Vrindavan. But high up in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, hidden away in Kinnaur district, is a truly magical and spiritual place – Yulla Kanda.
This remote destination is home to a sacred lake and the world’s highest temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, sitting peacefully at an altitude of 12,000 feet.
🌄 The Legend Behind Yulla Kanda
Yulla Kanda isn’t just a beautiful spot – it’s deeply rooted in epic stories from the Mahabharata. According to local beliefs, the lake at Yulla Kanda was created by the Pandavas during their time in exile. After forming the lake, they built a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, who was their guide and protector.
This temple is not only a holy place but also a symbol of unity and brotherhood. What’s even more special is that anyone can visit and pray here – regardless of religion, caste, or background. The place welcomes everyone with love and peace.
🎉 How Janmashtami is Celebrated Here
Though Yulla Kanda stays quiet and peaceful for most of the year, it becomes vibrant and alive during Janmashtami, the birth celebration of Lord Krishna.
The tradition of celebrating Janmashtami here started thanks to King Kehari Singh of the Bushahr kingdom, who promoted this festival at the temple.
During the celebration:
- Devotees gather from places like Shimla, Kinnaur, and nearby valleys
- People sing bhajans, dance, and walk around the lake
- The lake becomes a place for seeking forgiveness and blessings
It’s a joyful time filled with devotion, music, and spirituality in the lap of the Himalayas.
The Unique ‘Floating Cap’ Ritual
Yulla Kanda is known for a very unique and emotional ritual involving a traditional Kinnauri cap.
Here’s how it works:
- Devotees place the cap upside down in the lake
- If the cap floats across to the other side, it means the person will have a year full of peace, joy, and good luck
- If the cap sinks, it’s seen as a sign to be careful and mindful in the coming months
It’s a simple but powerful way of connecting with the divine and reflecting on one’s life.
Trekking to Yulla Kanda Temple
Reaching Yulla Kanda is an adventure in itself. It’s not a place you can just drive to—it requires effort and heart.
📍 How to Reach:
- From Shimla to Reckong Peo (Kinnaur’s main town): ~230 km, 8–10 hours by road
- From Reckong Peo to Yulla village: ~20–25 km by taxi or shared vehicle
- From Yulla village to Yulla Kanda temple: A 10–12 km trek that takes about 4 to 6 hours
The trail passes through lush meadows, forests, and mountain streams, offering stunning views and fresh mountain air. The final view—of the lake and temple—is breathtaking.
📅 Best Time to Visit
The best time to plan your journey to Yulla Kanda is between June and September. The weather is clear, and the paths are accessible.
Avoid winter months, as snowfall makes the trek dangerous and blocks the route.
✅ Trekking Tips for Visitors
- Carry warm clothes, a rain jacket, and basic medicine
- Wear comfortable trekking shoes
- Start the trek early in the morning so you can return safely before dark
- Travel with a local guide if you’re unfamiliar with the trail
- Respect nature – don’t litter, and keep the place clean 🙏
🌟 A Place Where Devotion Meets Nature
Yulla Kanda is more than just a temple or trekking destination – it’s a spiritual experience. Whether you come for peace, prayer, or adventure, this place offers something deep and unforgettable.
The reflection of the ancient Krishna temple in the calm lake, surrounded by snow-covered peaks, creates a feeling of being close to the divine. It’s a journey where you don’t just walk through nature—you connect with it.
