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Be it Kullu Valley or Rohtang Pass, Manali in December presents a variety of unique experiences, especially with the entire area covered in snow. Activities like skiing and snowboarding are the main attractions in Manali. With plenty of things to do in Manali in December, having a solid plan of action is mandatory for you to be able to make the most out of your time there. Be it enjoying the adventure activities or having a laid-back time exploring the entire city covered in snow, there are a lot of unique things for you to indulge in.
Top 14 Things To Do In Manali In December
There are a plethora of thrilling things to do in Manali in December for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers.
1. Visit Solang Valley For Winter Sports
Photo: Anuragomer / Wikimedia Commons
The main reason why the majority of tourists visit Manali in December is to experience the thrill of winter sports and activities. Not just for winter sports, Solang Valley is equally renowned for its breathtaking views. In December, with heavy snowfall, the slopes are covered in snow, making them ideal for skiing and snowboarding experiences. You can also visit the slopes of Solang Valley to simply indulge in snowball fights with your friends or family. For a more relaxed approach, consider going for leisurely walks around the valley.
Location: Solang Valley, VPO Palchan, Manali, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Mashobra
2. Experience Serenity At Hadimba Temple
Photo: Alex Erofeenkov / Shutterstock
Even during December, visiting the Hadimba temple is a must when you are in Manali. Given the popularity of this temple in the area, especially due to its scenic views of the surroundings, ensure to spend a few hours in the morning visiting the temple. The temple is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, the wife of Bheema from the Mahabharata. The cedar forest surrounding the temple is covered in snow during December, which adds to the beauty of the experience.
Location: Regency Road, Siyal Rd, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
3. Immerse Yourself In Nature At Old Manali
Photo: Chennai Passangai / Wikimedia Commons
Among the best things to do in Manali in December, making your way to Old Manali is a must. Lined with cafes, restaurants and shopping stalls, Old Manali welcomes tourists with its rustic charm. Beyond that, winters in Old Manali are the perfect time for you to indulge in some shopping experience, especially woollen clothes. There are cosy accommodations around Old Manali that overlook the snow-covered scenic views.
Location: Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 24*7
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In McLeodganj
4. Trek To Beas Kund For A Spiritual Experience
Photo: Christine P Photography / Shutterstock
Trekking during the peak winter months might seem risky but Beas Kund is accessible via an easy snow trekking experience. To ensure your safety, you can always hire a local guide or go on the trekking experience with a local tour operator. That said, the Beas Kund trek is not only adventurous but holds a lot of spiritual significance too. The trek is challenging but the pristine beauty of the lake makes it worth the effort.
Location: Kullu Valley, Himachal Pradesh
5. Indulge In Shopping At Mall Road
Photo: Deepaksharma.ds2 / Wikimedia Commons
Beyond Old Manali, another popular shopping destination in Manali is Mall Road. It is a bustling hub, which transforms into a winter wonderland during December. The entire area is covered in snow and the shops and stalls around the road add to the experience. You can find a variety of different items to purchase, including traditional handicrafts to trendy fashion wear. You can also find unique Tibetan jewellery at the shops, adding to the significance of your time there.
Location: Main market area of Manali
Timings: 9 AM – 8 PM
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Manali In June
6. Finding Respite At Vashisht Kund
Photo: Shahnoor Habib Munmun / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the things to see in Manali in December is the Vashisht Kund. It is primarily known for its hot springs, the village itself and the temple of Vashisht which attracts thousands of tourists every year. Despite all this, the main attraction here is the sulphurous hot water springs. Once in the village, you can learn more about its history. The village is dedicated to Sage Vashisht and has towering mountains, pine trees and thick forests all around.
Location: Vashisht Temple, Vashisht, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 24*7
7. Visit Hampta Pass
Photo: Sair18791 / Wikimedia Commons
If you are an adventurous soul and have been wondering what to do in Manali in December, plan a trek to Hampta Pass. It is a moderately challenging trekking trail that winds through dense forests, the stunning valleys of Kullu and the deserts of Lahaul. The Hampta Pass is located at an elevation of 14,035 ft. above sea level, surpassing the word beautiful. From the pass, you can enjoy clear views of the Pir Panjal range as well, further accentuating the experience.
Location: Jhobra village, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Manali In January
8. Head To Bhrigu Lake
Photo: Kartik.a.rokde / Wikimedia Commons
During the winters, more specifically in December, Bhrigu Lake remains frozen. However, that adds to the beauty and charm of the place. Located in the lap of the Himalayas, the beauty of this lake, surrounded by the towering mountains makes it look unreal. The trek to Bhrigu Lake starts from Gulaba village and then you have to ascend to an altitude of around 14,000 ft. The trek in its entirety takes around four days and you need permits and a local guide to embark on the experience.
Location: Bashisht, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
9. Trek To Chandrakhani Pass
Photo: Premdasan / Wikimedia Commons
Another one of the things to do in Manali Himachal Pradesh in December is to trek to Chandrakhani Pass. This beautiful spot is located at an elevation of 3660 metres and the trek is quite challenging but rewarding at the same time. During the trek, you get to immerse yourself in the views of the surrounding Deo Tibba and the Pir Panjal range, which adds to the beauty of the experience.
Location: Kullu Valley, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Manali In April
10. Visit Manali Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Pbhuker007 / Wikimedia Commons
Winters are one of the best times for wildlife spotting at the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary. Since the sanctuary is home to a variety of mountain wildlife, the cold weather usually brings them out of their hiding spots, making it easier for you to witness them around on the safaris. The sanctuary is home to a variety of wildlife including Kashmir Flying Squirrel, Himalayan Black Bear, Snow Pigeons, Barking Deer, etc. The sanctuary is also home to a variety of fauna populations like poplar, deodars, willows, horse chestnut, etc.
Location: Circuit House Marg, Manali
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
11. Seek Blessings At The Manu Temple
Manu Temple, a spiritual jewel, is dedicated to Sage Manu. The temple lies in the Beas River Valley and is blessed with nature’s unrivalled beauty. Offering a glimpse of spirituality and rich history, the temple attracts visitors from all across the world. The highlight of the Manu Temple is its exquisite architecture and old-world charm. The temple adorns an extra layer of natural beauty with snow-clad peaks and misty surroundings in December. This revered site is the perfect place for travellers seeking spiritual bliss in the wilderness of nature.
Location: Old Manali, Manali Road
Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM
12. Marvel At The Jogini Waterfalls
Photo: Aditya verma / Wikimedia Commons
Jogini Waterfalls, located in the beautiful Valley of Manali, is a cascading jewel in Manali. Descending from a height of 160 feet, the waterfall creates a blue lagoon at the foothills and is surrounded by dense forests. You can reach this waterfall by trekking through the rugged terrains dotted with greenery, adding an ounce of adventure to your visit. The proximity of the waterfall to the famous Vashisht Temple makes it a must-visit attraction. Exploring this scenic waterfall is one of the top things to do in Manali in December.
Location: Near Vashisht Village, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 7 AM – 5 PM
13. Visit The Scenic Nehru Kund
Photo: Gopal Venkatesan / Wikimedia Commons
Nehru Kund, located on the Manali Leh Highway, is a natural spring renowned for its awe-inspiring natural beauty. The Kund is surrounded by lofty mountains and emerald-green valleys. It is believed that the waters of this spring originate from the famous Bhrigu Lake. The Kund is an ideal destination for photographers and travellers looking for solitude. Here, you can revel in the beauty of nature and have a moment of relaxation and reflection. As December begins, the beauty of this spring comes alive with gushing waters and scenic landscapes.
Location: Manali–Rohtang Pass Highway, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
14. Explore The Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art
Photo: Rahulsood146 / Wikimedia Commons
The Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art, located in Manali, is an ideal destination for history aficionados and culture buffs. The museum has a beautiful collection of ancient and traditional heritage belonging to the region. The antique artefacts on display give insights into the long forgotten art, handicraft and the ancient culture of the state. The collection on display includes traditional apparel, jewellery, accessories, utensils, furniture, traditional household items, musical instruments, handloom, etc. Visiting the Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art is one of the top things to do in Manali in December.
Location: Utopia Complex, near Hadimba Devi Temple, Himachal Pradesh
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
With so many different things to do in Manali in December, you can have an enriching and adventurous experience exploring the area around, indulging in snow activities, shopping and more. However, Manali in December is packed with tourists and demand is usually high so sort out all the bookings of your next vacation to Manali during the winter months with TripXL to avail the best discounts and deals.
Cover Photo: Mousumi Choudhury / Wikimedia Commons
