YULLA: A Hidden Paradise in the lap of Kinnaur!

YULLA KHAS

Yulla or Yulla Kanda is a 11 km long trek into the unknown. The trek takes you to a hidden lake near the earlier summer capital city, Shimla. Situated in the Rora Valley of Kinnaur, lake is a home to the world's highest temple devoted to Lord Krishna, which is located inside the lake.

The lake is situated at a height of 3895 metres above sea level and one has to trek a little before your eyes light up to this visual delight.

HISTORY BEHIND THE LAKE AND 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.

THE YULLA KHAS TREK

The trek begins from the Yulla Khas village. Once you reach the village, you will be greeted by beautiful valleys and locals with lots and lots of love. Once you reach the village, trek 3 kms further to reach the meadow from where the route actually begins.

The trek is a short duration moderately difficult walk through the forest and rich meadows before you finally reach the lake. If the sky is clear, you can also spot some of your snow capped friends along the way as part of a visual treat.

On day 1, begin your trek to the lake early morning which is almost around 8-9 kms long. Once you reach the lake, set up your tent and give yourself proper rest. Treat yourself to a warm bonfire and star lit sky.

Next day prepare for the decent. However if you want to trek further, you can visit "Rora Kanda" at a height of 3900 metres by trekking onwards in the north-east direction from the lake.

HOW TO REACH YULLA KHAS?

Reach Shimla from where you can reach Tapri which is a little over 200 kms and is approximately a 7-8 hours drive. If you are running on tight budget, it is best to catch a bus bound to Rekong Peo or Kalpa, get down at Tapri and then board one of the local buses to reach Yulla Village. Remember the first local bus leaves at 8:30 in the morning.

THINGS REQUIRED:

- Tent

- sleeping bag

- mats

- a decent down jacket and few pairs of socks.

Also make sure you carry enough food uphill but remember to not litter the place and bring the discards back along with you. Water will not be of much problem as the trek route is adorned with many waterfalls which can be used for drinking.