March 29, 2024

Top 27 Best Places to Visit in Manali

Solang Valley Manali

Manali

Manali is a Himalayan holiday destination in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is well-known for being a hiking and honeymoon destination. It is situated on the Beas River and serves as a base for skiing in the Solang Valley and hiking in the Parvati Valley. It also serves as a base for paragliding, rafting, and climbing in the Pir Panjal range, which contains the 4,000-meter-high Rohtang Pass.

How to Reach Manali

Manali is one of India’s most popular hill stations, and during the peak season, it is largely populated by tourists from all over the nation. Thus, with thriving tourism industry in Manali, the great hill town is well connected by road to different parts of the state, and the nearest train station is Kalka Railway Station, which links different parts of the nation by wide-gauge tracks. While around Manali, visitors may also visit adjacent hill stations such as Shimla, Dalhousie, Manikaran, Dharamsala, and Kasauli.

Among the unknown sites is Keylong, which is located on the Manali-Leh route, which connects one to Ladakh. The distance between Manali and Leh-Ladakh is roughly 453 kilometres.

Solang Valley 1 1
Manali | Source – Mr. Animesh Sharma

By Air:

If you want to fly to Manali, the nearest domestic airport is Chandigarh, which has scheduled flights from Kolkata to Chandigarh and major cities including New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore, while the closest international airport is in New Delhi. The Bhuntar airport, which is just around 50 kilometres from Manali, has been closed.

Bhuntar airport, located 10 kilometres from Manali, serves as the region’s main entry point. Tourists who prefer and can afford to fly save a significant amount of time and so have a lot more time to explore Manali. There are flights from all major cities.

Nearest Airport : Bhuntur Airport, Kullu

By Rail:

If you want to go to Manali by railway, you may take the narrow gauge route up to Jogindernagar, which is the nearest railhead to Manali. The travel from Jogindernagar to Manali takes around 3-4 hours, passing through Mandi and Bhuntar. The Kalka Railway Station, located at the foot of the Himalayas, connects Manali to New Delhi, Amritsar, Jammu, Jaipur, Kolkata, Mumbai, Bhopal, Indore, Guwahati, Patna, Kanpur, Lucknow, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai by a convoluted route.

The nearest railway station to Manali is Jogindernagar, which connects the hill resort to various significant cities in the country. Other rail stations from which to reach Manali are Chandigarh and Ambala. From the railheads, a variety of modes of transportation, including taxis and buses, are available at moderate prices.

 By Road:

If you are driving from Kalka to Manali, the distance is around 285 kilometres, and if you are driving from Delhi to Manali, the distance is around 550 kilometres, and it takes around half a day to traverse the journey by road. The most dependable route is State Highway 4, which links to National Highway 21 between Ambala and Chandigarh. The distance between Chandigarh and Manali is roughly 310 kilometres. Those wishing to go by road from Dehradun should use National Highway 123, which links to State Highway 1 and then State Highway 10. Drive to National Highway 22, which links to National Highway 21 via State Highway 11.

The distance between Dehradun and Manali is approximately 440 kilometres. After exiting Kalka Railway Station, there will undoubtedly be a swarm of taxis honking to take you to Manali. Manali is served by daily buses from Delhi, Chandigarh, and Dehradun.

The Himachal Pradesh state bus service is excellent, with numerous buses running from the area to many regions of the country at moderate prices. The most convenient and cost-effective method to go to Manali is by car. Roads link Manali to other locations such as Delhi (540 km), Chandigarh (305 km), Dehradun (227 km), and Ambala (370km). There are also many private buses that connect the hill station to other parts of the state.

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Best Places to see in Manali

  1. Manu Temple Manali
  2. Hadimba TempleManali      
  3. Solang Valley Manali
  4. Van Vihar  Manali
  5. Jogini Waterfalls Manali       
  6. Beas River Manali   
  7. Rahala Falls Manali
  8. The Manali Gompa Manali
  9. Old Manali
  10. Bhrigu Lake Manali
  11. Hampta Pass Manali              
  12. Nehru Kund  Manali
  13. Arjun Gufa  Manali
  14. Jagatsukh Manali
  15. Chandrakhani Pass Manali
  16. Gauri Shankar Temple Manali
  17. Manali Sanctuary Manali
  18. Rohtang Pass Manali
  19. Naggar Castle Manali
  20. Kothi Manali
  21. Gulaba Manali          
  22. Katrain Manali          
  23. Nicholas Roerich Art gallery and Museum Manali
  24. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple Manali
  25. Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple Manali
  26. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art Manali
  27. Great Himalayan National Park Manali

1. Manu Temple, Manali

The Manu Temple is named after an ancient sage after whom it is devoted. The shrine’s pagoda-style building shines out against the postcard-worthy background of deep valleys and mountain peaks. You’ll have to trek a little to get to the temple, but the views from the top and the spiritual aura it radiates make all your efforts worthwhile.

2. Hadimba Temple, Manali

This historic temple, also known as Hidimba Devi Temple and Dhungari Temple, was established by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. The temple is devoted to Hidimba Devi, Bheema’s wife, as the name implies. The shrine’s wooden construction stands apart from the majority of Hindu temples in the country. In the grounds, there is another temple dedicated to Hidimba Devi’s son Ghatotkacha. The temple is one of the nicest spots to visit in Manali, surrounded by dense cedar woods and with snow-capped mountains as a backdrop.

3. Solang Valley, Manali

Solang Nala, a tiny valley located roughly 8400 feet above sea level, is a short drive from Manali. It is a sanctuary for adventure and sports enthusiasts, and while there, you may test your talents on a pair of skis or go snowmobiling. People come here for zorbing and paragliding when the weather warms up. You may also take a cable car and experience breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Winter is the greatest season to visit if you want to do snow-based activities and sports, while summer is perfect for other adventure sports.

4. Van Vihar, Manali

A brief stroll around Van Vihar Park is highly suggested if you are searching for some peace and quiet in the bohemian environment of Manali town. Van Vihar, one of Manali’s most prominent attractions, is a lovely public park with sky-touching deodar trees. You may even rent a boat and sail around the man-made lake. Bird lovers will have a great time observing local species in the park, especially early in the morning.

Location: Dhungri Village, Manali

Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm (summer); 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (winter)

Entry Fee: ₹ 5 per person; ₹ 30 for 15 minutes of boating

5. Jogini Waterfalls, Manali

The thundering cascades of Jogini Falls are a short and exhilarating journey from Manali’s main town. The route to the waterfall is picturesque, with views of the River Beas and the snow-capped peaks of Rohtang. Apart from the peaceful scenery, Jogini is also a popular pilgrimage site, with several antique shrines clustered around the pool at the bottom. An early start is encouraged so that you may spend more time at this lovely natural site, which is one of Manali’s best trekking and picnic spots.

6. Beas River, Manali

The Beas River is a natural feature in the region that will accompany you for the most of your travel to Manali. Vashisht hamlet is regarded as one of the greatest spots to enjoy spectacular views of the river valley, while a visit to Kothi will bring you up close to its pure blue waters. The Beas is a hotspot for water activities like kayaking and rafting, and the settlement of Pridi is known for having some of the most spectacular rapids.

7. Rahala Falls, Manali

Rahala Falls is an extraordinarily powerful sight during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, with its waters tumbling down the rocks and splashing tourists with fresh, cool mountain water. There are several picnic sites around the falls where you may eat some basket delights and have a fantastic time with your family and friends. There are many magnificent hiking routes surrounding the waterfalls, and exploring the area via densely forested deodar and silver birch trees is an adventure in and of itself.

8. The Manali Gompa, Manali

The exquisite design and traditional Tibetan architecture make the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, also known as the Manali Gompa, one of the most beautiful sights in Manali. This monastery, built by Tibetan exiles in the 1960s, offers peaceful surroundings and unrivalled spiritual sensations. The Manali Gompa’s main attractions are magnificent paintings depicting major Buddhist events in vibrant colours and roofs fashioned in the Pagoda style. The complex’s booths are a fantastic spot to buy souvenirs and Tibetan handicrafts.

9. Old Manali, Manali

The term “Old Manali” refers to the town’s older section. Visitors may walk the alleys and get glimpses of a bygone era, when Manali was a peaceful pilgrimage town until travellers arrived in droves. Because of the trees and apple orchards that surround the village, Old Manali has some of the nicest vistas in the region. The Manaslu River bridge, which connects Old Manali to the main town, is an iconic sight in and of itself. You may go café crawling at some of Manali’s renowned cafés, such as Café 1947, Born Free, Evergreen, and Sunshine, or go shopping for dream catchers, boho chic apparel, shrugs, and woollens.

Manali
Old Manali

10. Bhrigu Lake, Manali

Consider postcard-perfect alpine meadows and evergreen tree forests beside a tranquil high-altitude water body. You’ve just seen Bhrigu Lake, one of the top hiking spots near Manali. The walk requires some acclimatisation due to the lake’s elevation of about 4000 metres above sea level. Most people come here for the landscape and panoramic vistas of the Pir Panjal Range.

11. Hampta Pass, Manali

The Hampta Pass walk, classified as an easy-to-medium-difficulty Himalayan climb, provides breathtaking vistas of the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley. Another major draw of the hike is the Chandratal Lake, which is located en route. The pass is located in the Pir Panjal Range at an elevation of more than 4000 metres, and the path includes several exciting river crossings. There are several groups in Manali that provide Hampta Pass trekking treks, and their prices vary according on the route and number of days.

12. Nehru Kund, Manali

Nehru Kund, a natural spring on the Manali-Rohtang Pass Highway, is a popular summer destination. The spring was named after Nehru, India’s first prime minister, who liked to visit there and sip water from the natural spring during his stay in Manali. The pristine rivers and peaceful Himalayan vistas make this an ideal halt for tourists on their way to the Rohtang Pass. It goes without saying that Nehru Kund is an excellent location for photographers and environment enthusiasts.

13. Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave), Manali

The Arjun Cave, located near the rushing currents of the Beas River, is related with a famous incident from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. According to mythology, Arjun, one of the Pandava brothers, meditated here. Arjun Cave, one of the greatest sites in Manali for a basket picnic, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You may also visit Kunt Bhayo Lake and Kunti Mata Temple, which are also important sites near the cave.

14. Jagatsukh, Manali

Jagatsukh is a charming mountain village known for its temples. The backdrop of gleaming snowy peaks and rich lush woodlands makes visiting this location a visual delight. Jagatsukh is a large hamlet in the Kullu area and a great spot to see some folk architecture. Jagatsukh can be used as a base for treks into the Deo Tibba Mountains. The Devi Sharbali temple is one among the numerous noteworthy tourist attractions in the Manali area.

15. Chandrakhani Pass, Manali

A walk to the Chandrakhani Pass encapsulates Himachal Pradesh’s striking natural splendour. At this pass, you may also visit the well-known settlement of Malana, which is home to a separate people and is well-known for its cannabis crops. The Chandrakhani Pass is a popular photography location because it provides a vantage position for seeing the region’s major peaks, such as the Deo Tibba, the Parvati range, and the Pir Panjal.

Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)

16. Gauri Shankar Temple, Manali

The Gauri Shankar Temple is noted for its Shikhara style architecture and profuse sculptures on the stone walls. The temple, which dates back to the 12th century and is said to be the last edifice in the Gurjara-Pratihara traditions, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The sculptures on the walls represent a variety of gods and other holy elements. Gauri Shankar Temple is one of Manali’s most prominent temples, surrounded by beautiful nature.

Location: Naggar Castle Road

Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

Distance from Manali: 22 km (approx.)

17. Manali Sanctuary, Manali

Manali Sanctuary, located approximately 2 kilometres from town, provides an unrivalled nature experience. The 31.8-square-kilometer refuge is home to several endangered and rarely seen species and creatures. Ibex herds descend into the range throughout the summer, so keep your zooming lenses prepared if you prefer to capture photos. The presence of maple, walnut, and deodar forests adds to the attractiveness of this refuge, particularly during the fall months when the leaves create a tapestry of hues. Trekking and camping are available in the refuge for those looking for an adventure.

Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day

Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per person

18. Rohtang Pass, Manali

You will not be sorry if you include a day in your Manali itinerary to see Rohtang Pass. This high mountain pass in the Pir Panjal Range, located at an elevation of 4000 metres above sea level, will take your breath away. Rohtang Pass, in addition to being a favoured destination for nature lovers, painters, and photographers for decades, is also a paradise for adventure activities such as mountain biking and skiing. The pass has appeared in a number of Bollywood films, including Jab We Met.

Location: Leh – Manali Highway

Timings: 24×7

Distance from Manali: 51 km. (approx.)

19. Naggar Castle, Manali

Naggar Castle is a 15th-century historical structure in the Kullu Region, located in the Beas Valley amongst magnificent surroundings. The castle, built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu, is now a historical hotel maintained by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. The castle’s wooden construction is an architectural masterpiece that embodies the region’s own style, coupled with certain European characteristics introduced through the years. From the castle, you may get a great view of the town and the surrounding alpine woods.

Location: Naggar Town, Manali

Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm (winter timings may differ)

Entry Fee: ₹ 15 per person

Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)

20. Kothi, Manali

Kothi, located at a height of 2500 metres on the famed Spiti highway, is a beautiful hamlet in the Alps known for its gorgeous location and the breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers. It is located near the foothills of Rohtang Pass, and the topography has been moulded by the Beas River, which runs through this area. The town is also an excellent location for camping, especially if you want to hike the Rohtang Pass. There is also a temple dedicated to Goddess Shuwang Chandika in the hamlet.

21. Gulaba, Manali

A journey to Manali should involve trips to neighbouring villages to see the unique culture of the region as well as the breathtaking scenery. If you add Gulaba to your list, you will not be disappointed. The town is a popular destination for winter visitors looking for snowy scenery, and it offers some of the most attractive trekking paths in Himachal Pradesh. Because of the minimal light pollution and high altitude, many people think it’s a fantastic place for camping and stargazing.

22. Katrain, Manali

Katrain, a fishing paradise, has an undulating topography that differs from the sweeping terrains you’ll see on the remainder of your Manali excursions. The village checks all the boxes for a typical Himachali hamlet. While you’re here, enjoy some of the local specialties with rustic, healthy taste. Aside from the abundance of trout in its clear waterways, Katrain is a great spot for trekking.

Distance from Manali: 25 km (approx.)

23. Nicholas Roerich Art gallery and Museum, Manali

The Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery and Museum, named after a great Russian artist who spent decades in Himachal Pradesh after fleeing the revolution, honours his artistic homage. Rare images of the artist, landscape paintings, and portraits of the indigenous community are among the items on show. The museum, which opened in 1962, is situated in the structure that used to be his home.Location: Naggar Village

Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays

Entry Fee: ₹ 30 per person

Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)

24. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, Manali

The calming serenity of Manali’s Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple will soothe even the most stressed nerves. This Shangri-La-style refuge is located in the heart of the city, and its pagoda-style architecture and colourful tones provide a mysterious enchantment to the whole scene. Don’t forget to spin the prayer wheels and view the Sakyamuni statue and wall murals while you’re here. Nyingmapa Monastery, one of the greatest in Manali, is a great place to reconnect with your spiritual side.

Location: Near Manali Mall Road, Manali

Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

Entry Fee: No entry fee; photography is charged at ₹ 20

25. Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple, Manali

The Vashisht village is the home of the exquisite temple in the stunning terrain of the Himalayas and is of tremendous spiritual value. The temple is thought to be around 4000 years old and the interior of the shrine has wooden sculptures, ancient figures and paintings. The existence of hot springs is said to contain medicinal capabilities, making this place even more distinctive. Moreover, today’s tourists may also get a look at Manali’s ancient past. Some shopping is also possible in the neighbourhood. Woolens are famous here.

Location: Vashisht Village, Manali

Timings (Temple): 7:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day

26. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Manali

For those who desire an insight into the region’s customs and rich local heritage, it is advisable to stop at the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art. A variety of masks used for festival dances, traditional clothing and musical instruments are some of the displays here. This modest yet culturally rich site was established in 1998 and features replicas of ancient buildings and temples.

Location: Utopia Complex, Hadimba Temple Road, Manali

Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (April to November); 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (December to March)

Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per person

27. Great Himalayan National Park, Manali

The Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was designed as one of the top sites to visit in Manali and its surrounding regions. There are several uncommon species within the park, including more than one thousand plants, 209 bird species and 31 animal species. The elusive snow leopard is here the apex predator and Himalayan and brown bears are populated. Photographers will be happy to capture the entire land’s wildflowers and glacier valleys. In some regions of the National Park, you may also enjoy environmental activities like as walking and camping. Permits must be secured in advance to visit the park and the park offers numerous modest, yet reasonable accommodations. choices.

Distance from Manali: 49 km (approx.)

Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm; every day

Entry Fee: ₹ 50 for Indians; ₹ 200 for foreigners

Snow in Manali

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