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May welcomes the transition of the peak summer experience across Manali. With bright sunshine, clear skies and pleasant weather, there are several places to visit in Manali in May. Not just sightseeing spots, May is also a great time to explore adventure activities. Be it with family, by yourself or with your group of friends, experiences across Manali cater to all traveller’s likes and dislikes. You can embark on adventure experiences, relax on Mall Road, shop with the local artisans, and have the time of your life.
10 Places To Visit In Manali In May
Here is a list of places to visit in Manali in May, if you’re seeking adventure, spiritual experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat in nature.
1. Hadimba Devi Temple
Photo: Aishik 17 / Wikimedia Commons
Located in Dhungri village, the temple worships Goddess Hadimba, the wife of Bheem from Mahabharata. It is located amidst dense cedar forests, which is the highlight of this religious haven. The temple’s origin dates back to the 15th century when it was built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh surrounding an ancient cave. It is believed that Goddess Hidimba Devi meditated inside that cave. Before the temple was built, there was a protrusion inside the cave, which the people worshipped. Later, a pagoda-style style was built around the temple for better aesthetic appeal.
Location: Regency Road, Siyal Rd, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Paonta Sahib
2. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Scott Carroll / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
One of the best places to visit in Manali in May is the local wildlife sanctuary. The sanctuary is spread across an area of 3000 hectares and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush green mountains. Beyond the native flora and fauna that thrive in the sanctuary, the beauty of the exotic birds adds to the beauty of the sanctuary. You can witness a variety of trees like fir, chestnut, walnut and deodar around the premise of the sanctuary. Some of the animals you might spot on safaris are Himalayan Black Bear, Himalayan Yellow-throated Marten, and Barking Deer.
Location: Nasogi, Himachal Pradesh 175131
Timings: 24*7
3. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art
Photo: Ståle Grut / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Another one of the places to visit in Kullu Manali in May is the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art. It is a fairly underrated spot but one you must visit to truly immerse yourself in the cultural heritage across Himachal Pradesh. The museum is located a short distance from the famous Hidimba Devi Temple, so you can explore them one after the other. Inside the museum, you get a closer look into the traditional dresses, architecture and attire that have a lot of significance in Himachali culture.
Location: Utopia Complex, Near Hadimba Temple, Hadimba Temple Rd, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131
Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fees: ₹10 onwards
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit Near Shimla
4. Tibetan Monasteries
Photo: Anmol Arora / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Manali is home to a wide range of Tibetan monasteries, each better than the other. The next time you are looking for tourist attractions in Manali in May, include the few monasteries located around. Two of the most popular ones include Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa, which are not only popular among the tourists but among the locals too. There’s a handicraft centre around the monastery from where you can purchase souvenirs too. Ensure to visit the sunflower garden that’s around the monasteries as well.
Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
5. Van Vihar National Park
Photo: Gunjan Mahanta / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Van Vihar National Park is another one of the popular Manali in May tourist places that you must explore. The lush greenery around the national park is the highlight, enabling the tourists to find respite from the crowds of the city. There are gardens where you can sit, unwind and relax. Also, there’s a pond inside the national park where you can indulge in boating. It is in front of the Tibetan market, so you wouldn’t have a hard time locating the national park around. With cedar and deodar trees around, the experience inside the park is quite exhilarating.
Location: Mall Road, Manali
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹10 onwards
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Solan
6. Mall Road
Photo: Ivishalbhutani / Wikimedia Commons
Among the places to visit in Manali in May, Mall Road is of prime importance. You can start the exploration by visiting the Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple and then head to the various shops and stalls that line the side of the street. One of the main attractions in the shops is the Tibetan-style handicrafts. For a unique souvenir, buy sweet-smelling Tibetan-style incense sticks and singing bowls that are available in the shops there.
Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 8 AM – 9 PM
7. Rohtang Pass
Photo: Adnan Saifee / Unsplash
Rohtang Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,978 metres, is one of the most famous high-altitude passes in the Himalayas. In May, the pass is generally accessible, offering stunning views of the snow-covered peaks and glaciers. You can enjoy snow sports, such as skiing and snowboarding while soaking in the magnificent landscape. It’s advisable to check the road conditions before planning your visit, as weather can impact accessibility. If you are planning to trek to the pass, the journey usually starts from Gulaba village, located at the entry of Manali.
Location: Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Suggested Read: Best Places To Visit In Manali
8. Vashisht Baths
Photo: Balajijagadesh / Wikipedia
May is the start of summer in Manali but the pleasant and cool weather makes taking a dip in the hot water springs quite a favourable experience. If you are interested in exploring the same, consider heading to Vashisht village, which is located near Manali. The village is renowned for its temple and the hot water springs that exist beside the temple. These therapeutic baths are believed to have medicinal properties, making them a popular attraction for visitors seeking relaxation and wellness. The surrounding village, with its traditional architecture and serene ambience, enhances the overall experience.
Location: Vashisht Village, 3 Km from Manali
Timings: 7 AM – 9 PM
9. Beas River
Photo: Vivek Vikram Singh / Wikimedia Commons
The Beas River, which flows through Manali, is a beautiful spot for relaxation and leisure activities. The river is ideal for river rafting, camping, and picnicking. Originating from the Himalayas, this river flows through the heart of Manali, creating a breathtaking landscape characterised by its crystal-clear waters. In May, the Beas River is in its prime, swollen with the melting snow from the upper reaches, resulting in lively and invigorating flows that add to the river’s charm.
Location: Manali town and surrounding areas
Timings: N/A
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Khajjiar
10. Naggar Castle
Photo: Shubhankar Sakalkale / Unsplash
Built during the 15th century, Naggar Castle was originally the seat of the Raja of Naggar and has been meticulously preserved to showcase the architectural grandeur of its time. It was the residence of the rulers of the Kullu Valley and played a crucial role in the region’s history. Today, it serves as a heritage hotel where you can book your accommodation to bask in the feeling of royalty. One of the most captivating features of Naggar Castle is its strategic location, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Beas River Valley and the surrounding Himalayan peaks.
Location: Patlikuhal – Naggar Rd, Patlikuhal, Naggar, Himachal Pradesh 175129
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Experiencing the different places to visit in Manali in May allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of the summer across Himachal Pradesh. Be it for some thrill or some peace and tranquillity, Manali beckons travellers from across the country and of varying ages since there’s something for every traveller. Plan a trip with TripXL and book your vacation with the best deals and discounts.
Cover Photo: Sajal Das / Unsplash
