An Insider's Quick and Handy Travel Guide to Manali

Settled between the snow-covered Dauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges, Manali is a famous place blessed with a breathtaking natural beauty, along with the Beas valley and grasslands surrounded by dense forests.From temples to museums; from the adventures on the river to the snowy mountains trekking, this hill station attracts tourist whole year.

The city which was first visited by foreigners and honeymoon couples, has now got a new breed of nature lovers. If you are planning a trip to Manali and celebrate your winter and summer vacation to experience the beautiful natural scenery of this place, then here is an inner guide to Manali.

Explore Natural Attractions

The snow-covered Solang valley offers the most amazing views to the half-hour drive from Manali. Due to its hard slopes, the valley becomes a popular ski destination during winter. And in summers, this turns into a paragliders paradise. Exciting sports like zorbing and horse riding are also done in the valley.

The snow-covered Solang valley offers the most amazing views to the half-hour drive from Manali. Due to its hard slopes, the valley becomes a popular ski destination during winter. And in summers, this turns into a paragliders paradise. Exciting sports like zorbing and horse riding are also done in the valley.

Combining Kullu and Lahaul valleys, Rohtang Pass offers undoubtedly one of the most dangerous roadway of Manali. Between adventure seekers, nature lovers and photographers, bikers, drive to Rohtang Pass is a never-ending experience that is looking for it. One can rent a Royal Enfield at INR 1000-2000 a day and build your own trails in Manali to Leh. Enjoy snow skiing or mountain scooter biking here, while snow-covered peaks and glaciers surround you.

Vashishta village situated near the Beas river is a hidden gem of Old Manali. It is believed that there are healing powers of hot water fountains here, and bathing in hot water is a magical experience. Visit the village in the months of May and June and dip into the mysterious hot water sulfur springs.

Explore Religious Sites

Manu temple has historical and religious significance in Old Manali, built several centuries ago by Sage Manu. The walls and pillars of the temple are decorated with many complex scriptures. This religious place is visited by innumerable devotees every year. Legends have said that God Manu saved the holy Vedas and the Seven Sages from the great flood and later Manali was made its house. The journey of this respected temple will definitely make you mentally and spiritually more vital.

Located between the dense deodar forest, the one and only temple of the Hadimba Devi described by the Mahabharata is the center of religious, historical and archaeological interest in Manali. Dedicated to Goddess Hidimba, there is a 4-level Pagoda roofing structure in the temple. You will find many Angora rabbits in the entire temple premises. Make sure you get a clicked picture with these rabbits for making memories.

Explore Historical Sites

Located between dense forests, the Naagar Castle is a magnificent historic building. The residence of King Siddha of Kullu, this palace is an unmatched artwork of European and Himalayan architecture. Fireplaces, fittings stairs, and magnificent stones and wooden palaces adorn the interior of the castle.

Situated near to the Goddess Hadimba Devi temple, the museum of Hiachal gives a glimpse of the vast collection of artistic models of temples and forts surrounding by the Kullu valley; traditional clothing; classical musical instruments and dancing masks.

Shopping in Manali

Kullu shawls are famous across the country; and if you want to shop, you can only buy here in Manali. Here, Nepalese shops are everywhere selling yak wool blankets, hats and gloves, and adorable leather purses. You can also get all your warm stuff here.

Many delicious Himachali food restaurants, shopping emporium are lined with small markets. The Mall Road is the center of attraction for shopping in Manali. From Kashmiri carpet, traditional handicrafts and ornaments for wooden furniture and ancient books, everything can be purchased on the Mall Road. Smaller markets such as Thailand Market, Hong Kong Market, Lama Underground and Shangri La Market are also located here.

The summers are the ideal time to visit Manali. However, if you plan to drive up to Manali from Kerala in the summer time, visit between April – July and pack your summer clothes and essentials.