Credit: Aditya Sharma
About Yulla Kanda
The belief of the people are situated in the deep, remote corners of himalayas. The journey was always challenging to such places, signifying the deep connection that was shared through history. Kinnaur, the land of God, has numerous such places that offer a beautiful insight into the benefits of the people. Yula Kanda Temple, dedicated to Shri Krishna, is quite an unique temple that sits at an elevation of 3,895 meters
If you are both an adventurer and cultural enthusiast, then the trek to Yulla Kanda is a must visit. It starts from the base camp village Yulla Khas, which is at a distance of 3 km from Urni village. Yulla Kanda is quite famous for its Kinnauri apples and people often take a rest to acclimatize. After crossing the Yulla Khas, the trek enters deeper into the Rora valley while passing through forest, alpine meadows and himalayan range. At the end, Yullla Kanda temple, situated at the center of thelake,e comes in front of your eyes. A whole scenic area in the background of mountains looks surreal to eyes
Taking a bath in the lake is considered auspicious while bridging up the positivity in life.
Mythology of Yulla Kanda
Locals believe the construction of the temple took place during the Mahabharata period. It was made by pandavas during the exile.
Myth of cap
According to the local Kinnauri tradition, if someone floats an inverted Kinnauri cap in the lake around the temple and reaches the opposite end,. It is considered an auspicious event that brings a lot of joy and peace in the future. If it sinks, then coming years are not ominous.
Trekking routes Nearby
There are numerous passes, including Listigarang Pass, and Kashang Pass, connecting to the different valleys. Kashang Pass connects the Rora Valley to the Pangi Valley of Kinnaur.
An hour’s hike from Yulla Kanda to the northeast will get you to Rora Kanda, where you may camp overnight and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding passes. Listigarang Pass (4,680 m) is located northwest of Yulla Kanda and connects to Kafnu hamlet, Bhabha Valley, and Bhabha Pass via Muling. On a clear, sunny day, the Buran Pass may be seen from Yulla Kanda.
To the northeast of Yulla Kanda lies Rora Kanda, which is an hour’s hike. Listigarang passes in the northwest direction of Yulla Kanda and connects to Kafnu village, that lies in the Bhaba Valley. If you trek further in the Bhaba valley, then you will come across Bhaba Pass connecting to Mulling in Spiti. On a clear, sunny day, you can see Buran Pass from Yulla Kanda.
Festival
During Janmashtami, the birth of lord Krishna is with a great pomp and fervor. It is believed that the festival was started by King Kehari Singh of Bushar kingdom.