Feeling stressed? Head over to nature’s spa to relax! We bring to you five hidden hot springs in India to help you rejuvenate your senses. By Kanika Khokhran1. Chumathang Hot Spring, Ladakh
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Located on the banks of the mighty river Indus, Ladakh’s Chumathang Village offers many breathtaking wonders, one of which is the sulphur-rich hot springs. When in the freezing temperatures of Ladakh, a dip in this 50-degrees Celsius hot bubbling water backdropped by snow-clad mountains feels like a warm, fuzzy hug. Plus, the hot spring’s mineral-rich waters are said to cure skin diseases and ailments, while also relaxing your joints.
Getting there: The Chumathang hot springs are approximately 138 kilometres away from Leh. Catch a flight to Leh’s Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, and then drive to the hot spring.
Where to stay: Stay at the Chumathang Hot Spring Resort or the Indus Valley guest house at INR 500 to INR 1,000 per night for two adults.
Places to visit nearby: Chumathang village; Tso Moriri lake
Best time to visit: June to August
2. Kheerganga Hot Springs, Himachal Pradesh
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Nestled in Himachal Pradesh’s Parvati Valley amid the dense forests of Barshaini, the Kheerganga hot springs are worth the tiresome yet scenic trek. On reaching the hot springs, you can seek blessings at the nearby Shiva temple, post which you can immerse in the warm waters. While you soak, enjoy the panoramic views of the gushing Parvati river amongst the bewitching Himalayan foothills.
Getting there: Kullu Manali Airport is the nearest airport. From here, one can drive till Barshaini village, or take a bus. Then, trek up to the gorgeous hot springs.
Where to stay: Although there aren’t any hotels nearby, the most adventurous option is to camp under the stars. When here, tents and basic camping equipment are available for rent starting at a price of INR 500 per night.
Places to visit nearby: Manikaran gurudwara; Shiva temple; Tosh village
Best time to visit: October to May
3. Reshi Hot Springs, Sikkim
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The Reshi hot springs are located on the banks of the River Rangeet amid the lofty mountains of Sikkim. The waters themselves are considered holy since they are adjacent to a monastery and the sacred Lho Khandro Sang Phug—also known as the cave of occult fairies. As a result, locals have been using the beautiful spot for therapeutic soaks for years. Now, it has become a tourist destination as well, owing to its mineral-rich waters and inherent healing properties.
Getting there: The nearest airport is West Bengal’s Bagdogra Airport. From here, it takes four to five hours to reach the hot springs.
Where to stay: Book a stay at the Elgin Mount Pandim hotel at INR 6,500 per night for two adults. Alternatively, you can also opt for a trekker’s hut that is available for overnight stays.
Places to visit nearby: Tsuglakhang Monastery & Temple; Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary
Best time to visit: December to February
4. Vashisht Hot Water Spring, Himachal Pradesh
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Located on the banks of river Beas river in the quaint village of Vashist in Himachal Pradesh, this hot spring is revered immensely among Hindus. The hot springs themselves derive its name from Guru Vashisht, a teacher of Lord Rama in Hindu mythology. Although the waters are a short distance from the bustling tourist town of Kullu, it remains tucked away from tourist gaze. Believed to have medicinal qualities, a dip in its water will help you relax and calm your nerves.
Getting there: The hot springs are a short drive from the town of Kullu, which is easily accessible by road. If you are flying in, the nearest airport is Kullu-Manali Airport.
Where to stay: You can book a bed in Zostel, Manali for just INR 900, or opt for a homestay near the hot springs at a feasible price.
Places to visit nearby: Jogini Falls; Hadimba Temple
Best time to visit: October to May
5. Tapovan Hot Springs, Uttarakhand
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Situated in the alluring valley and lush mountains of Uttarakhand approximately 18 kilometres away from Joshimath—a town in the lower Himalayas—the Tapovan hot springs are considered one of the most picturesque hot springs in India. Emerging from scenic mountains and yellow rocks, the waters here have high sulphuric content, making it a popular destination for healing. It is believed that even the nearby soil has medicinal qualities!
Getting there: The nearest airport is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun. One can also board a train till Rishikesh, and then drive.
Where to stay: Rent the nearby Blue Bells Cottage where prices start at INR 3,500 per night for two adults.
Places to visit nearby: Nanda Devi National Park; Vridh Badri Temple
Best time to visit: November to March
Related: Dip Into These 6 Therapeutic Hot Springs From Around The World