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Manali, the gorgeous Himachal Pradesh hill station, is an ideal destination for adventure-goers, nature lovers, and culture enthusiasts. From the serene Hadimba Devi Temple to the thrilling Solang Valley, Manali is an idyllic destination blending relaxation and adventure. Spend time at the snow-capped Rohtang Pass, climb Hampta Pass or take a nap at the Jogini Waterfalls. From cafes to Mall Road to spiritual sanctuaries such as Manikaran Sahib, there is something for all in Manali. Whether you’re a naturalist, an adventurer or a spiritual devotee, this Manali travel guide will ensure that you have an amazing experience here.
Location
Photo: Sheetal Goel / Wikimedia Commons
Manali is a hill station in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India. It stands 2,050 metres (6,726 feet) above the Beas River Valley. The hill station is set amidst snowy peaks and pine-covered forest.
How To Reach Manali
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The nearest airport is Kullu Manali airport or Bhutnar Airport, located about 50 km away.
By Road: Manali is well-connected by road to Delhi, Chandigarh, and other North Indian cities. Regular Volvo and state-run buses ply this route. Self-driving enthusiasts can enjoy the scenic beauty en route.
By Train: Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station, around 145 km away. However, Chandigarh (310 km) and Kalka (275 km) railway stations are better connected to major cities.
Places To Visit In And Around Manali
From the spiritual Hadimba Devi Temple to the Solang Valley, adventure-seekers can venture to the Rohtang Pass or enjoy the abyssal Jogini Waterfalls of Manali.
1. Hadimba Devi Temple
Photo: Reflectionsbyprajakta / Wikimedia Commons
This temple was constructed in 1553 and is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, a protagonist of the Mahabharata. The temple is famous for its distinctive pagoda style architecture and tranquillity, set amid cedar forests. It attracts tourists who marvel at the elaborate wood carvings on its doors and walls, representing mythological scenes. A pilgrimage destination as much as a cultural one, it is popular among visitors and believers. Its peaceful atmosphere makes the temple an ideal place for meditating or taking a simple walk in the forest. Yak rides and souvenir stalls are found nearby.
Location: Old Manali, 2 km from the Mall Road
Best Time To Visit: March to December
2. Solang Valley
Photo: Bleezebub / Wikimedia Commons
The Solang Valley or the “Adventure Valley” is the destination for adrenaline junkies and wilderness lovers. The valley is a great spot for paragliding, zorbing and horse riding during the summer months. In winter, the valley is snow-covered and is perfect for ski-boarding and snowboarding. The cable car ride offers fantastic vistas over the valley and surrounding mountains. Even if you don’t have a passion for hiking, the valley’s quiet nature and the fresh mountain air are worth it. There are several food stands nearby where you can slurp Maggi, tea, or grab some snacks while admiring the scenery.
Location: 13 km from Manali
Best Time To Visit: October to May
3. Rohtang Pass
Photo: Anthony Maw / Wikimedia Commons
Rohtang Pass, at 3,978 m above sea level, opens the heart to unspoiled Lahaul and Spiti valleys. Rohtang is renowned for spectacular snow-covered landscapes that capture the imagination of photographers and trekkers. Fun activities such as snow scootering and sledging make your visit special. Rohtang is a journey in itself, with narrow roads offering breathtaking views. Make sure to check the weather before leaving because the pass is usually shut down during heavy snowfall. Visitors need permits to visit and these are sold online or at the agencies in the area.
Location: 51 km from Manali
Best Time To Visit: May to October
4. Old Manali
Photo: Ivishalbhutani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Old Manali is a quiet place off Mall Road, and its bohemian feel is synonymous with a chill atmosphere. It’s full of cafes and craft shops and old-fashioned guest houses. One of the highlights is the Manu Temple, a temple of the sage Manu. Travellers, backpackers and online nomads alike tend to cluster here because of its slowness and enchantment. Some cafes have live music on the floor, which gives you the chill vibes. Old Manali also offers a number of trekking paths that take one to the nearby waterfalls and villages; thus, Old Manali is an ideal starting point for travellers.
Location: 3 km from Mall Road
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
5. Jogini Waterfalls
Photo: Aditya verma / Wikimedia Commons
Jogini Waterfalls, on the outskirts of Manali, offers a quiet wilderness. The trek up to the falls begins at Vashisht Village and goes through dense pine forests, apple orchards and small rivers. When you’re near the falls, the sound of flowing water makes it even more peaceful. The waterfalls fall from an impressive height, leaving a hazy background to capture in photographs. You can have a picnic beside the falls or simply sit back and enjoy the beauty of the place. The place is considered sacred by locals, and you’ll find a small shrine near the falls.
Location: 3.5 km from Vashisht Village
Best Time To Visit: March to June, September to November.
6. Manikaran Sahib
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons
Manikaran Sahib is a sacred Sikh and Hindu pilgrimage site with its hot springs and gurudwara. The springs are reputed to have medicinal qualities, and guests tend to dip in the communal baths. The gurdwara provides free langar (communal food) – the rare manifestation of self-sacrificial service. The quietness of the place and the beautiful view of the hills and the Parvati river make it worth visiting. You can also visit nearby places like Kasol, which is popular for its hippie culture.
Location: 79 km from Manali
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
7. Hampta Pass Trek
Photo: Sair18791 / Wikimedia Commons
The Hampta Pass trek is one of the best trekking destinations in the region. The trail takes you to contrasting terrains, the lush greenery of Kullu Valley and the barren wilderness of Spiti. It involves rafting, walking up steep mountains and sleeping under the stars. It’s a moderately strenuous trek and suitable for both novices and the more advanced trekkers. Also in your view are the gorgeous snowy peaks and meadows. Chandratal Lake, a glacial lake the size of a crescent, can be added on as an extra-fun addition to the experience. There are also local guides and porters to help you during the trek.
Location: Starts from Jobra, near Manali
Best Time To Visit: June to October
Where To Eat
Photo: MattiPaavola / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Manali’s culinary landscape is a delightful mix of Himachali flavours and foreign dishes. Renaissance Restaurant serves authentic Himachali meals like siddu and dham. Café 1947, down by the river, caters to Italians with wood-fired pizzas and creamy pasta. Johnson’s Café is a must-go for a nice dinner with great trout cooking. For some music in a riotous setting, the Lazy Dog offers world-class cuisine and live entertainment. Momo, Pakora and other foods are also available for the street-food lovers along Mall Road. Tourists on a budget can also visit local dhabas that serve healthy and delicious dishes at cheap rates.
Where To Stay
Photo: Derek Jensen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Manali offers all sorts of accommodations to every type of traveller. For backpackers, Zostel Manali is the place where you’ll get a great vibe. A perfect choice for couples is ManuAllaya Resort, which offers comfortable rooms with an incredible view of the mountains. Couples prefer The Himalayan, a boutique hotel set around a European castle. Campsites in Solang Valley offer a truly natural experience to adventurous travellers. ShivAdya Resort offers river cottages and homestays with customised services if you’re looking for a bit of both comfort and authenticity. No matter your budget, Manali offers you numerous alternatives to make your stay memorable.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
- Pack appropriately: Carry warm clothes and sturdy shoes for trekking.
- Permits: Get permits for restricted areas like Rohtang Pass in advance.
- Cash: Keep cash handy for remote areas where ATMs may not work.
- Adventure safety: Follow professional guidelines during adventure activities.
- Respect nature: Avoid littering and follow eco-friendly practices.
Manali is a traveller’s delight that has something for everyone—adventure, environment, faith and culture. Whether it is to rejuvenate yourself in the quiet valleys or experience an adrenaline rush, this hill station offers an unforgettable experience. Book your trip with TripXL now and experience the wonder of Manali!
Cover Photo: Neerajsinghazm / Wikimedia Commons
