What is the first thing that comes to your mind when someone says Manali? Snow-capped mountains, swaying Oak and Deodar trees, gushing rivers and streets flooded with tourists. Yes, this is precisely how it is for any first-timer. But for a returning visitor, the city might act as a gateway to many new adventures.
Disclaimer – By the end of this article, you might want to pack your bags and leave. Therefore, I’ve tried to add all the essential details possible in this post so keep reading.
Manali has always been one of the popular towns in Himachal. However, its popularity soared sky-high after the 2013 release of Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani (YJHD), which was set in this picturesque town. I visited the city back in 2010. It was a five-day trip where I explored Manali along with Kullu. Manali is a town that you would want to visit again and again. Therefore, I hope to go back someday and stay for a longer time as there is so much more to explore. However, if you’re planning to visit Manali for the first time, here’s a list of things that you can do.
Visit the Hidimba Devi Temple
Located amidst the Cedar forest resides one of the oldest shrines in Manali, Dhungari Temple commonly known as Hidimba Devi Temple. Hidimba Devi is a mythological character from Mahabharata whom the locals worship as a deity. She is the wife of Bhim (one of the five Pandavas) and the mother of Ghatotkacha. The temple is built on a cave where Hidimba Devi performed her meditation. You will love the serenity of this place and its unique architecture.
Tip: Carry a binocular or your telephoto lens as you might spot a few Himalayan birds in the woods.
Location: Old Manali Road
Explore the Mall Road
Mall Road is one of the main attractions in Manali, flooded with tourists throughout the year. Located in the heart of Manali, Mall Road is a hub of quaint cafes, dhabas and shops selling souvenirs & woollen garments.
Tip: You can buy Kullu shawls and caps at a low price from Mall Road. All you need is good bargaining skills.
Pump up your adrenaline at Solang Valley
Solang Valley is a pristine valley residing 14 km northwest of Manali. You can stop by this place on the way to Rohtang Pass. This place is known for adrenaline gushing activities. However, it might vary depending on the season. Paragliding and Parachuting are a few best activities that you might want to do during the summer while Skiing during the winters. You can also roll yourself down the hill in a ball or drive an open jeep in the lush valley.
Cover yourself in the snow at Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is another favourite tourist spot that got featured in many famous Bollywood films like Jab We Met and YJHD. Located 51 km away from Manali and at an elevation of 3978 metres, this place remains covered in snow throughout the year. Make snow fairies and snowman, have a quick snowball fight or slide down the snowy hill on a sledge. Moreover, don’t forget to eat the mountain style Maggie and tea, without which your trip will be incomplete.
Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara
Manikaran Sahib, located in Parvati Valley of Kullu district is a vital Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage spot that welcomes thousands of travellers every year. You can take a detour on your way back to Delhi and visit the Gurudwara. The Gurudwara also consists of hot springs that are said to have healing properties. While you’re here, don’t forget to explore the market next to the Gurudwara famous for woollen products and souvenirs.
Location: Hari Har Ghat, Manikaran Rd, Manikaran
Other interesting places and activities that you can do in Manali
Naggar
A quaint palace located 22 km from Manali is a beautiful blend of history and culture. You can take a detour and spend some time here exploring the temples and art galleries.
Vashisht Temple
Located in the sacred Vashisht village, the temple is dedicated to sage Vashisht who is the chief author of Mandala 7 of the Rigveda. Moreover, this place has many hot water springs that attract tourists.
River rafting
White water rafting in the Beas River is a must-do when in Manali. Unlike Rishikesh, you will not be rowing the raft a professional rafter will as the water current is high. All you have to do is sit back and enjoy the bumpy ride while you get splashed with chilled water.
River crossing
The river crossing is a fun yet challenging activity that will test your strength. All you have to do is traverse across the river on a rope using the monkey crawl technique. However, worry not, you will be under the supervision of a professional. Bhang and Aleo are two of the best spots in Manali to try out this activity.
If you are visiting Manali for the second time and are in the mood for some adventure, here’s a list of a few treks that you can go:
Prashar Lake Trek – 2-day weekend trek (Difficulty – Easy)
Kheerganga Trek – 2-day weekend trek (Difficulty – Easy)
Bhrigu Lake Trek – 3-day weekend trek (Difficulty – Moderate)
Beas Kund Trek – 3-day weekend trek (Difficulty – Moderate)
Hampta Pass Trek – 5 days (Difficulty – Easy to Moderate)
Pin-Parvati Trek – 11 days (Difficulty – High)
Bara Bhangal Trek – 11 days (Difficulty – High)
How to reach Manali?
You can take a flight to Manali the nearest airport is at Bhuntar which is merely 49 km away from Manali. For people residing in Delhi and the nearby cities, you can board the HRTC bus from Majnu ka Tilla, Chandigarh or Ambala. It is an overnight bus and takes approximately 11 to 12 hours to reach Manali. However, it is the cheapest and most convenient way to reach Manali.
Where to stay?
Hostels
Backpackers Headquarter Manali – Old Manali
2 Comments
Great Info. Really amazing. Please share the local food pics if possible.
Thank you… I don’t have any food pictures but I promise will click next time when I’ll visit Manali 😀