Manali, a gem in the Kullu Valley, is surrounded by all the glory of the Himalayas and lush forests. Known for adventure experience and scenes, spiritual sites, scenic views, and much more of adventure and nature for thrill-seekers and spiritually inclined travelers, Manali has a beauty and keeps on enchanting visitors from all over the world from its hustling town center to the smallest of villages and riverside trails. here is a detailed travel guide to Manali.
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Manali – Must-see attractions
Hadimba Temple: It was constructed in 1553 and is located among the deodar cedar forests and is dedicated to the goddess Hadimba Devi, a character in the Indian epic, Mahabharata. This ancient wooden temple is one of the insignias of Manali.
Solang Valley: It is one of the foremost adventure sport destinations in Solang Valley. Here you will get a chance to enjoy paragliding, skiing, zorbing, and cable car rides. This is the ideal destination for all those fun and adventure lovers and could be visited in winter and summer.
Rohtang Pass: open in summer; Rohtang Pass offers magnificent views of the snow-covered summits, which are often the gateways to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys. Very nice scenery with snow and mountaineering peaks.
Did You Know? Manali is named after the Rishi Manu who is said to have created human life there after the Great Flood according to Hindu mythology.
- Old Manali: This is a really, really old bohemian type of place. It has cafes and shops that sell all kinds of art, along with cobble streets. This is very relaxed to walk down the riverside.
The Ultimate Travel Guide to Manali – Top Things to Do
River Rafting on River Beas: This river offers thrilling rafting experiences in which adventures are taken through the thrilling rapids.
- Treks: Treks abound in Manali; the most sought-after ones include Beas Kund, Hampta Pass, and Bhrigu Lake treks.
- Vashisht Hot Springs: Situated around 3 kilometres from Manali is the village of Vashisht, famous for its hot springs. The sulphur water is refreshing and, reportedly medicinal.
Best Time to Visit: The season for snowfall and skiing ranges from October to February, while March to June is pleasant, and ideal for summer activities.
Getting Around: Local taxis and rickshaws are the most convenient option, whereas, hiring a bike for self-tour gives ample freedom to roam around freely in Rohtang Pass, etc.
Safety tips: The roads to high-altitude areas are a challenge, especially at the time of snow fall season. Always ensure that the road conditions and weather updates before visiting any such place as Rohtang Pass.
The Hadimba Temple in Manali, was built over 450 years ago and is renowned for its beautiful wooden work and finds a mention in epically renowned Mahabharata.
Where to Eat and Stay
- Eating: The local and continental cuisine served at Café 1947, Johnson’s Café, and Chopsticks can be relished. The Lazy Dog, some of the famous cafes in Old Manali, have great food with a scenic view.
- Staying: Riverside resorts or good luxury hotels in town or guesthouses in Old Manali for a quieter stay.
