Van Vihar National Park Manali: Your Travel Guide An Ideal Nature Retreat

Van Vihar national park is one of the best destinations to visit in Manali for a relaxing retreat

Van Vihar National Park Manali is renowned for its deodar trees. It is a famous spot for relaxation and spending sweet moments with loved ones. The man-made lake inside the park is the main attraction, ideal for boating. The nearby River Beas offers a stunning view of the mountains with the sunset. The Manali Van Vihar National Park is a popular garden surrounded by lush greenery and varieties of avifauna, for tourists to have a relaxing retreat with family and friends after long days of travelling.

Location

Van Vihar national park offers tourists a diverse wildlife, serene lakes and leisure activities like boating

Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons

Van Vihar National Park’s address is Chichoga Road, Aleo, Manali, Himachal Pradesh. The park is situated at a distance of 750 metres from the Manali Bus Stand and in front of the Tibetan Market on Mall Road, Manali. Van Vihar National Park, Manali, timings differ according to the seasons. It opens from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM during summer and winter, respectively.

How To Reach Van Vihar National Park

From this airport, tourists can easily reach the national park, by taking a cab or taxi

Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons

By Road: The National Park is located at a distance of 38.2 kilometres from Himachal Pradesh. Tourists can reach by car, taxi, or bus.

By Rail: The National Park is situated at a distance of 145.2 kilometres from Joginder Nagar Railway Station and is easily accessible by road. Visitors can hire a car, a taxi, or board a bus to reach the national Park.

By Air: The park is nestled at a distance of 49.1 kilometres from Bhuntar Airport, Kullu-Manali. Travellers can reach the park by taxi, car, or bus.

Places To Visit Around National Park

Here are some must-go places in and around Van Vihar National Park that offer unique experiences for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike:

1. Hadimba Temple

This temple is the perfect destination for pilgrims seeking a spiritual experience amidst hills

Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons

The Hidimba Devi Temple, locally known as Dhungari Temple, was built in 1553 CE by Maharaja Bahadur Singh and is an ancient Hindu cave temple in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. It is dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima, a figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple is surrounded by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar, which is built over a large rock and worshipped as an image of the deity where Devi performed meditation.

Timings: Open 24 Hours
Entry Fees: None

2. Rahala Waterfalls

Picturesque view of silver water cascading down the rocks amidst  lush vegetation

Photo: Aditya verma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Rahala Waterfall is situated near the Deodar forest range in Manali, just 29 kilometres away from the Manali Bus Stand. This waterfall is at an altitude of 9000 feet and is a beautiful natural spectacle. The surrounding area of the waterfall is rich in biodiversity and lush greenery, making it a serene environment for nature and wildlife lovers. The crystal clear waters cascading ever so gracefully amidst the dense forests make Ruhala Waterfalls a perfect destination for those looking to reconnect with nature.

Timings: Open 24 Hours
Entry Fees: None

3. Club House – Craft Gallery Manali

Tourists roaming around the club house, a destination for people to explore the retail aspect of the city

Photo: Ashish Gupta / Wikimedia Commons

The Club House Manali is a lovely amusement retreat on the Manalsu Nalla, a branch of the Beas River. The architectural style of the Club House is based on the old British style. It offers various indoor games, sports, entertainment, and recreational activities, as well as a restaurant, auditorium, library, and video game centre. Managed by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, it also offers shopping in the various government shops.

Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: ₹25 (Adults), ₹10 (Childrens)

4. Jogini Waterfall

Jogini waterfall is one most picturesque places to visit near Van Vihar  waterfall Manali

Photo: Michael Douglas Bramwell / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Jogini Waterfall is a hidden spot in the middle of the forest, situated in the beautiful surroundings of Manali, Himachal Pradesh. The elevation of this waterfall is about 150 feet, offering visitors splendid spectacles, particularly in the rainy season. The surrounding area is highly endowed with diverse biodiversity, and you can also enjoy sightseeing, trekking, swimming, or even just relaxing in the peaceful surroundings.

Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fees: None

5. Vashisht Baths

Devootes visit this temple and bathe in the hot springs, for a spiritually rejuvenating experience

Photo: Santhosh Varghese / Shutterstock

Vashisht Baths, located in Vashisht Village, are renowned for their natural hot springs. Named after Sage Vashisht, the baths offer therapeutic experiences and a glimpse into the rustic charm and culture of Himalayan life. The ancient temple is surrounded by picturesque views and beautifully designed with wood carvings. The baths are housed in modern bathhouses, with separate sections for men and women. Vashisht village, a Hindu cultural heritage site, is a popular backpacker’s paradise known for its beauty and peaceful environment.

Timings: 7 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 9 PM
Entry Fees: None

Where To Stay

Hotels and resorts nearby offer services according to the need and budget of customers

Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Px Here / Image For Representation Only

Here are some resorts and hotels to stay near the Van Vihar National Park: Woodstock Inn Manali, Chichoga Heights, Hill River Resort, Hotel Mount View, IDAA Boutique Hotel, Manali Retreat Resort & Spa, Hotel Ocean Blue Manali, and Hotel Mohan Palace. These hotels and resorts are perfect for every traveller, from luxurious to budget-friendly. Some hotels are equipped with dine-in facilities so visitors can choose accordingly.

Where To Eat

Savour the flavouful delicacies served at the restaurants and eateries nearby

Photo: Amanbedi1 / Wikimedia Commons

A day full of treks is fun, but after that, hungry travellers always look for a wholesome and tasty meal. Here are some restaurants that serve mouthwatering and delicious food: Mountview Noodles, The Corner House Restaurant & Bar, Zam Zam Mediterranean, Cafe 1986, and Flydining Manali. These restaurants are perfect for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian lovers.

Other Factors To Consider

Van Vihar national park  houses diverse range of wildlife for tourists to witness

Photo: बृहस्पति / Wikimedia Commons

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit Van Vihar National Park is from July to September when the weather is pleasant and dry. This is the most suitable time to explore this location.

Average Cost Of The Trip:

The trip cost to Van Vihar National Park varies based on travel style, accommodation, dining, and activities. The Van Vihar National Park, Manali, ticket price is ₹10 per person; however, costs may vary depending on other facilities. It can range from₹ 6,000 – ₹ 12,000.

Tips For Travellers

  • To plan your visit, book in advance and pack accordingly with light, breathable clothing and essentials.
  • Respect your environment when taking photos in Van Vihar National Park.
  • Respect local customs and culture by dressing modestly.
  • Explore nearby attractions, and you can get guidance from locals.
  • Use local transport like autos and taxis, and be environmentally responsible by disposing of trash and not disturbing or feeding wildlife.

Van Vihar National Park in Manali is a serene retreat amidst nature and displays the beauty of the Himalayan landscape. With lush green surroundings, a tranquil setting, and well-maintained walking paths, it is perfect for nature lovers and families who want to relax and be at peace. Hop over to TripXL and plan your visit to Van Vihar National Park today!

Cover Photo: Mubarak_Khan / Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions

The most popular Van Vihar national park activities for tourists are trekking, hiking, and birdwatching.
No pets are not allowed inside Van Vihar National Park.
Yes, guided tours are available at Van Vihar National Park. Tourists can get help from local guides as well.
Club House Manali offers indoor activities like chess, table tennis, carom, cultural shows and outdoor adventure activities like go karting, zip lining, along with many shops and restaurants.
Camping is not permitted within the national park itself. However, nearby facilities and eco-lodges offer accommodation options for visitors looking to stay close to nature.

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