Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh lies well guarded by the Pir Panjal range of the Himalyas. The gurgling river Beas flows throw the stony river bed whilst the semi-tropical forests spell mystery and beauty in the valley. Lying almost 240 kilometres from Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh has its location on the west side of majestic Himalayas. The primary attraction of the Kullu district is its awe-inspiring splendour. Thus, it is hailed as one of the most hill stations in India that provide a welcome respite for the tourists during summer and provides a splendid opportunity to enjoy the views of the snow-capped peaks during winter. With a total area of 5503 square kilometer, Kullu was recognised as a district in the year 1963.

History of Kullu District
Legends encompass the origin of the Kullu district in Himachal Pradesh. It is believed that the Hindus in primitive eras considered Kullu to be the furthest limitation of human tenancy `Kulantapitha` and its original name also has been mentioned in the great Indian epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Brihat Samhita and also in the ancient scripture of the Vishnu Purana. Kullu is considered one of the most ancient places after Kashmir and Kangra valleys. As per legends, Manu landed on Kullu after the deluge and resided here. Hence the place was also referred to as Manu-Alaya or the present day Manali. The history of Kullu district also mentions Behangamani Pal. The Pal dynasty came into existence in the district as a repercussion of the atrocities carried out by the Thakurs of Spiti.

The Pal dynasty worshipped Goddess Hidimba and even today the deity is looked upon as the patron-deity. With the coming of the British, the region was annexed to the British Empire. After independence Kullu was initially a subdivision of Kangra district. Later for proper administration it was established as a separate district in 1963.

Geography of Kullu District
Kullu district is located at an altitude of 1219 metres. It extends from 31° 20` 25" South to 32° 25` 0" North Latitudes and 76° 56` 30" West to 77° 52` 20" East Longitudes. Kullu district shares its borders with Lahaul and Spiti in the north and east directions. Kangra district is situated in the north-western side. The Shimla district lies in its south; Kinnaur in Southeast and Mandi district in West and Southwest. Since it is a hill station, the summers in the Kullu district are pleasant with the temperature rising to a maximum of 20 degree Celsius while the minimum remains 18 degrees. Kullu district has its share of summer from March to June. Winter sets in from October and stays till February. These months are cold and dry with the temperature falling to 5 degree Celsius and the maximum temperature is 16 degrees. The mountainous landscape is not devoid of rain. The rainy season sets in July and Kullu enjoys the rainy spells will September. The monsoon is largely responsible for its semi-tropical vegetation as well. The average rainfall is 80 cms. Snowfall occurs during the winters.

Demography of Kullu District
According to 2001 census, Kullu district has a total population of 3, 81,571. The rural population is estimated to be 3, 51,478. On the other hand, the urban population is 30,093. Although a mountainous region but the terrain of Kullu district is suitable for agriculture as well. Horticulture is an important source of sustenance for the inhabitants of Kullu. Apples are grown is large quantities in Kullu. Besides, the natives here are also engaged in handloom industries, government sectors, tourism and others.

Administration of Kullu District
The town of Kullu is the administrative capital of the district. The offices of the Deputy Commissioner, Superintendent of Police, Additional District Manager and the district courts are situated here. The administrative units of the Kullu district include Tehsils, Sub-tehsils, blocks, towns and villages. In addition to this there are 3 Assembly Constituencies: Anni, Kullu and Banjar.

Education in Kullu District
As per the 2001 census, the literacy rate of Kullu district is 72.90%. There are a number of primary, middle and high schools scattered in the district. The district has two colleges. The literacy rate amongst the males is 83.98% while 60.88% women are educated as well.

Tourism in Kullu District
One finds no dearth of interesting places in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. In fact these are sufficient to entertain the tourists. Besides the Kullu valley, the district also includes the Lug valley, the picturesque Manali, Naggar, Rohtang Pass, Jagatsukh, Nehru Kund, Manikaran, Arjun Caves and others. Both the towns of Kullu and Manali are important hills stations of Himachal Pradesh. There are a host of temples including the Bijali Mahadev temple that is quite popular with the travellers.

Kullu district, with its ethnic traditions and culture, ancient history, pristine nature and picturesque beauty attracts numerous tourists from around the world.