Best Places to Visit in Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Best Places to Visit in Manali

Manali is the crowning glory of Himachal Pradesh tourism. Cool weather, snow-capped mountains and picturesque views offer respite to the tourists from the sultry weather of noisy cities. This is why it is one of the most popular summer destinations in India. Blissful tranquillity, thrill of rafting and trekking makes Manali the most sought-after place for adventure and nature lovers. Some of the must visit popular tourist attractions in and around Manali are – Nehru Kund, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, Hidimba Devi Temple, Solang Nullah and Manali Gompa.

Source of joy for adventurers, couples, solace seekers and nature lovers, Manali is one of the most beautiful destinations of North India. Visiting here for vacation is never a dull choice as there are so many exciting things to do which can make your day memorable. It is also one of the best honeymoon destinations to visit in India. Couples lose themselves amidst the beauty of nature and enjoy the bliss of romance. Being the perfect mountain getaway for everyone, Manali will leave you spellbound with its delightful weather, fairy tale-like picturesque landscapes, lofty mountain passes, temples and Buddhist monasteries etc.

Manali is quite famous, it finds mention in Hindu Mythology. It is said that the seventh incarnation of Manu, Vaivasvata (Writer of Manusmriti) was bathing in a river. He found a fish who asked him to nourish him properly and in return he would give him great rewards. Vaivasvata agreed to do so. After the fish grew up, Vaivasvata released the fish into the sea. Before saying goodbye, the fish warned Vaivasvata to build an arc as a flood will drown the world. When the deluge came, Vaivasvata and the seven sages were saved by that fish who is said to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. When the water receded, the ark came to rest on a hillside which was later named as Manali.

Beautiful floral meadows, cascading waterfalls, lofty mountains, lush green vegetation makes Manali visually appealing and worthy to spend a best Hill station vacation in India. Its irresistible charm makes it one of the best tourist places to visit in India.

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Top Must Visit Tourist Attractions in Manali, Himachal Pradesh

  • Hadimba Temple
  • Manali Sanctuary
  • Solang Valley
  • Manu Temple
  • Mall Road
  • Old Manali
  • Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art
  • Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery
  • Gauri Shankar Temple

Hadimba Temple

Hadimba Temple Manali

Dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, Hadimba Devi Temple is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Manali. For spiritual reasons and architectural appeal, Hadimba Devi Temple’s ambiance offers a visual treat to the tourists. It is also known as Dhoongri Temple. Itis said that the temple was constructed by Raja of Kullu, Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. The nearby trails of this temple will blow your heart away.

The temple has a four- tiered Pagoda shaped roof and there are beautiful carvings of mythological figures on the wooden doorway. There is a sacred tree 200 south from the temple dedicated to her son Ghatotkacha. Due to its historical importance this temple is now a protected monument of National importance on April 18, 1967. It is considered as a major landmark destination of Manali. One must visit Hadimba Devi Temple to get divine blessings.

Manali Sanctuary

Manali Sanctuary

One of the must-see destinations in Manali, the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary’s wilderness will captivate your senses. Manali Sanctuary is such a beautiful and attractive tourist destination that a trip to Manali is incomplete without visiting this sanctuary. You will see the floral and faunal wealth of this Wildlife Sanctuary. There are dense forests of oak and conifers below the tree line, besides horse chestnut, maple, willow, poplar, walnut and Robinia trees are also found here.

Along with this, junipers and rhododendrons are also found in the high-altitude area. Colorful birds with their sweet chirpings will make your day here. Kingfisher, Chakor, Monal and Snow Pigeons are some of the most prominent birds found here. The park resounds with the calls of Mammals like brown bear, barking deer, snow leopard, Asiatic black bear, musk deer and wild cat. It is one of the best places to visit in Manali for a wonderful wildlife holiday.

Solang Valley

Sollang Valley Himachal

Tucked between Beas Kund and Solang Village, Solang Valley is a refreshing hill station getaway around Manali which you must not miss. Alluring lofty Himalayan mountains, stunning glaciers and picturesque views makes this place one of the most visited hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. Away from the chaos of city life, it is a perfect place to fine tune your spirit. During winters the entire landscape of Solang is covered in snow and people enjoy various snow adventure activities and in summer the green meadows, the pristine beauty of nature soothes the soul. It is a favorite place for adventure enthusiasts.

Adventurers try paragliding, parachuting, horse riding and mini open jeeps rides to get the thrill and excitement. If you are reaching here in summer then Paragliding and zorbing and Solang Ropeway ride are the best things to do to enjoy the best of Manali tourism.

Manu Temple

Manu Temple Manali

Every year it attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. Yes, this amazing spiritual hub is known as Manu Temple. It is one of the top tourist destinations to visit in Manali. It is dedicated to Sage Manu who wrote Manusmriti. According to Hindu mythology, Manu is the creator of the human race. As per the myth he saved the Vedas and the seven sages from floods. It is believed that after the great flood, sage Manu landed in Manali and then stayed here.

The most interesting fact about this temple is that this temple is the only existing temple dedicated to Sage Manu. There are also many beautiful stone figures in the vicinity of Manu Temple. Visiting manu temple will give you a visual treat of fine architecture. It is built in Pagoda Style. There are many places to visit near this temple such as Old Manali, Naggar Castle, Hadimba Devi Temple, Kasol etc. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Manali.

Mall Road of Manali

Mall Road Manali

It gives you an enchanting view of mountains and deep valleys and along with seeing the natural beauty, one can take a road walk while enjoying various cuisines. Yes, we are talking about Mall Road. It is one of the best tourist attractions of Manali.

Numerous cultural activities and events make this place worth a visit during special festive occasions. Shopping on Mall Road is also one of the best things to do. Mall road is very famous for shopping for pottery, Tibetan carpets, dresses, pashmina shawls, home decors and woolen clothes etc.

Mall Road is such a wonderful place in Shimla where tourists lose themselves in the alluring life of Manali for a few hours. There are many cafes and restaurants on Mall Road serving delicious food. The cafes and restaurants here not only specialize in local cuisine but also serve cuisines from other destinations.

Old Manali

Old Manali

A visit to Manali will be absolutely incomplete without exploring Old Manali. Every year millions of tourists come here to spend time in the Old Manali as this place is one of the popular places in Himachal Pradesh. Serene spiritual hubs, apple orchards, wooden houses, hilly paths and natural beauty adorn this beautiful place.

The Manalsu river flowing here is known for its alluring natural beauty and tranquility. It is also a shopper’s paradise. Souvenir shops in the market here sell hand-knitted wool and amazing dreamcatchers. Old Manali is completely different from New Manali. By coming here, you will find that you have come somewhere else. There are many beautiful cafes here. You will also get to see mesmerizing views of nature. There are many Camp Sides. Where tourists enjoy camping and music by lighting a fire at night. It is one of the best places for sightseeing in Manali.

Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art

Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art

If you are an inquisitive person and just sightseeing bores you then the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art is one of the best places for Manali sightseeing Tour. It will be a unique travel experience to visit here. This beautiful museum houses a beautiful collection of ancient and traditional heritage related to Himachal culture and folk art.

This museum houses a unique and extraordinary collection of unknown and rare antiquities of the state. This museum displays almost extinct articles, which clearly display the forgotten culture, art and handicrafts of Himachal Pradesh.

Models of old houses and forts of temples, traditional clothes, utensils, musical and ritual instruments, wood carvings and various other articles are displayed in this museum. Visiting here is getting a vast ocean of knowledge about Himachal culture. It is a place where you can find the true essence of Himachal culture and heritage. For a unique experience one must visit this amazing place in Manali.

Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery

Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery Manali

Located in Manali, Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery is one of the most popular Buddhist spiritual sites where serene drops of divine wisdom and calmness will take your breath away. It is dedicated to Lord Buddha and tourists belonging to any religions welcomed with an open heart. It was constructed in the 1960’s by Tibetan refugees. Meditating in the tranquil environment of this monastery will overpower your senses with euphoria. Near this monastery there is a Tibetan market where you can get amazing Tibetan items. Those who are seeking peace and wisdom amidst the chaos of the world, this is a perfect place for you. It is indeed one of the top visiting places in Manali.

Gauri Shankar Temple

Gauri Shankar Temple Manali

Another one spiritual hub in Manali but one of the most beautiful places – Gauri Shankar Temple will attract you with its architectural beauty and serenity. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is also one of the most popular heritage temples of Manali. Built in Shikhara Style, the carved Garbhagriha of the temple are quite a beautiful sight to behold. Inside the Sanctum Sanctorum there are idols of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. It was built in the 12th Century AD. The nine storeys of the temple are decorated with Ardharatna motifs and ornamentations. Blend of beauty and divinity, this temple is one of the best places to visit in Manali.

Top Things to Do in Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is one of the most visited hill stations in India, owing it to the beautiful landscape with the mighty Himalayas in the backdrop. The hill town is an abode for nature and adventure enthusiasts alike. Solang Valley in Manali offers various thrill-seeking activities such as paragliding, skiing, zorbing, trekking and mountaineering.

  • Paragliding
  • River Rafting
  • Shopping
  • Skiing
  • Camping
  • Trekking

Paragliding in Manali

Paragliding in Manali

Paragliding is a very much liked adventure activity all over Manali and tourists of all ages come here and take part in this adventure sport. In Fact, it is one of the best things to do in Manali. Adventurous tourists can try this amazing activity in Solang Valley, which is 14 km from Manali.

River Rafting in Manali

River Rafting in Manali

In water rafting, with the help of a small boat, one has to move along the waves of the rivers. People who do water or river rafting have to move along the fast waves of the river and the experience of winning in it is one of the best moments of life which we cannot describe in words. In Manali River Rafting is a very popular water adventure sport. You can try this amazing water adventure sport in Manali in Beas River. Leave the monsoon months July and September. Except for these two months, you can enjoy this activity throughout the year.

Shopping in Manali

Shopping in Manali

If you are planning to visit Manali, then let us tell you that apart from sightseeing there are some shopping areas where you can do a lot of shopping. It is one of the best things to do in Manali. You can shop in Mall Road, Manu Market, Old Manali and Tibetan Market.

Skiing in Manali

Skiing in Manali

Witness the beauty of Glittery snow and feel the thrill of some of the most amazing snow adventure activities in Manali. Out of all the snow adventures, skiing is one of the top things to do in Manali. While visiting Manali for vacation, Rohtang and Solang Valley are your skiing destinations. At a distance of 14 kilometers northwest of the main city of Manali, Solang Valley is one of the most popular tourist places in Himachal Pradesh. Situated on the way from Manali to Rohtang, this valley welcomes a large number of tourists every year.

Camping in Manali

Camping in Manali

Manali is one of the best mountain getaways to spend amazing time with family and friends. Camping would add more bliss to your memories if you try it once. This popular hill station of Himachal Pradesh has numerous scenic places where you can do camping. Some of the most popular places are Solang Valley, Beas River, Bhuntar, Kothi Village and Sethan etc.

Trekking in Manali

Trekking in Manali

If you are not indulging yourself in trekking, then what are you doing in Manali? Trekking is one of the best tourist activities to do in Manali. Manali has many beautiful trekking trails. Many of these trekking trails pass through apple orchards, pastures, sacred lakes and small settlements in this place. The Manali-Hampta Pass, Peen Parvati Pass, Sar Pass and Chandrakhani Pass are well known for trekking. After trekking here, when tourists reach the mountain, the beautiful view of Manali leaves them tired.

Where to Stay in Manali?

Manali Himachal

Every corner of Manali is overflowing with blissful views of mountains. There are a plethora of hotels & resorts to stay in Manali. Most of the best hotels & resorts in Manali are often minimalist, trendy and amazingly beautiful and other times rustic. Each property is one-of-a-kind.

From the extensive platter of a wide range of stay options in Manali, there are 5-star hotels which provide facilities equivalent to international standards. There are best luxury star hotels in Manali which provide a unique guest experience rather than simply providing accommodation. With its array of guest facilities like fitness center, business center, it is best suited for business, international and Luxury travelers. A place to relax your soul with decent facilities and breathtaking views of scenic landscapes in the form of Budget hotels and a place to soothe your soul and seduce your senses in the form of Nature and spa resorts will make your holidays in Manali best.

Depending on your budget, Manali will give you genuine and intuitive hospitality along with the breath-taking views. Budget hotels in Manali provide all the basic facilities. From backpacker to solo traveler, Manali makes them spoilt for choice in Budget hotels. Then there are fashionable urban type retreats, boutique hotels, 3-star hotels with Ayurvedic spas, Family friendly hotels with fine dining restaurants and open play space that cater to your kids and you. There are some of the best family friendly hotels in Manali which you will not get anywhere else. Hotels in Manali offer peace, privacy and escape with picturesque views.

Visiting Manali for a wonderful holiday in India is a one-of-a-kind experience to cherish for the lifetime. If you are planning to visit Manali then we hope that this blog will help you in getting the right information on how to plan your trip. If you have already visited Manali do share your experience in the comment section of the blog.

Popular Himachal Pradesh Tour Packages

 

Package Name Duration Starting Price
Shimla Manali Tour Package 5 Nights 6 Days INR 15,000/PP
Manali Volvo Tour Package 3 Nights 4 Days INR 11,000/PP
Kullu Manali Tour Package 4 Nights 5 Days INR 13,400/PP
Best of Himachal Tour Package 8 Nights 9 Days INR 32,000/PP
Himachal Honeymoon Tour Package 6 Nights 7 Days INR 16,700/PP

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to Visit Manali?

  • Winter Season in Manali – Snowfall starts in Kullu Manali in mid-December. If you want to enjoy it then you can come here between December to March. During this, you can go skiing here as it is one of the best things to do in Manali. Also visit the Hadimba temple and try snow-taking on Bhrigu Lake and Beas Kund.
  • Summer Season in Manali – Summer is the best time to visit Manali. Because of school holidays families prefer to stay here for hill station vacation. That’s why people come to visit Kullu Manali with their families. one can see the magnificence of Solang Valley, do nature sightseeing and temple tours and rafting in the Beas River. Paragliding and trekking on high routes like Hampta and Tibba Pass are also some of the best things to do here.
  • Monsoon in Manali –Heavy rainfall refreshes the entire landscape of Manali. If you want to see the greenery of Kullu Manali, then you can come in these months. Although tourists come here less in these months, hence it is considered as off-season in Manali.

How to Reach Manali?

  • By Air – You can reach this popular hill station of Himachal by air. The nearest airport is Bhuntar, which is about 50 km from Manali. Kingfisher Airlines and Air India have flight services from Delhi, Chandigarh, Shimla and Leh to Bhuntar. Kullu is located at a distance of 10 km from this airport.
  • By Train – Being a hilly region, Manali does not have any railway station. There are train services from Delhi to Joginder Nagar and Pathankot. There are railway stations at Shimla and Kalka for the convenience of tourists. After reaching here you can go to Kullu Manali.
  • By Road – Most tourists going for Kullu and Manali holidays prefer to travel by road, especially from Delhi. You can hire Volvo buses or cabs that run daily from New Delhi. The distance from Delhi here is 522 km. Regular bus services of Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. Are also available.

What are the top must visit places in Manali?

Top must visit places to see in Manali are-

  • Old Manali
  • Solang Valley
  • Hadimba Devi Temple
  • Rohtang pass
  • Manu Temple
  • Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art
  • Manali Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Beas Kund
  • Siyali Mahadev Temple
  • Gauri Shankar Temple

How many days are needed for a Manali sightseeing tour?

If you want to cover only the popular places, then 3 days are sufficient but if you want to try adventure activities and also explore nearby places then a minimum 6 days are required.

Which is the best time to enjoy Snowfall in Manali?

December to February is the best time to visit Manali for snowfall. You can try exciting snow adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding etc.

Manali gives you the most beautiful and memorable moments of your life. This beautiful city is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forests.

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