Manali Himachal Pradesh

Manali Himachal Pradesh 

Whether you are on a solo trip in search of inner peace, or an adventure backpack tour with your besties or a honeymoon trip with your beloved, Manali and its mountains will never cease to fascinate you. The hill town has blossomed into a paradise for the wandering heart and it also has some cultural gems that are unique to this part of the world.

Manali is a high altitude Himalayan resort town in India’s northern Himachal Pradesh state. It has a reputation as a backpacking center and honeymoon destination. Set on the Beas River, it’s a gateway for skiing in the Solang Valley and trekking in Parvati Valley. It's also a jumping off point for paragliding, rafting and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal mountains, home to 4,000m high Rohtang Pass,

        Manali is named after the Sanatan Hindu lawgiver Manu. The name Manali is known as the derivative of 'Manu Alaya that means 'the abode of Manu'. Legend has it that sage Manu stepped off his ark in Manali to recreate human life after a great flood had deluged the world.

         Manali is in the North of Kullu Valley. The valley is referred as the 'Valley of the Gods'. Old Manali village has an ancient temple dedicated to sage Manu.

           The British introduced apple trees in this area. The first apple orchard was set up by the British near Patlikuhal, before this, no Apple trees grew this area. To this day, apples along with plum and pear remain the best source of income for the majority of inhabitants. Both Rainbow and Brown Trout were also introduced into the rivers and streams of the area by the colonizers.

          Manali witnessed a surge in tourist traffic. This once quiet village was transformed into a bustling town with numerous home stays as well as the occasional boutique hotel. During the warmer summer months, cafes and restaurants can be seen doing brisk business

      Nestled in the mighty Himalayas, Manali has an abundance of spectacular valleys filled with forests of oak, fir, deodar and pine. It is a full package of nature, food, adventure sports and ancient heritages. Splashing river Beas flows proudly amidst the valley. A lot of gushing waterfalls like Jogni falls and Rahala fall flush out of haphazardly placed rocks. You can also catch sights of sprawling meadows, terraced farming and fruit orchards. All these sights adds up to making the town look breathtakingly beautiful. 

Manali also shares a piece of history, giving it ancient heritages which has splendid architecture and stunning views. Religious devotees come here to pay their tribute to the temples like Hadimba, Manu and Shiv temple. Whereas history lovers go to old forts like Naggar and Kuthar. These places have remarkable architecture against the backdrop of mountains which is worth a visit. 

      Having said enough about the terrains of Manali, it is a hub for adventure sports. The location gives a wide range of adventurous activities like paragliding, camping, trekking and river rafting to feed the adrenaline hunger of the adventure seekers. It also has rustic villages and backcountries, which calls for the hippie experiences. Places like Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass are often visited by these junkies. Backpackers love to visit here to get the plateful meal of thrill, nature, wildlife and tranquillity. 

      All this grace makes up Manali for a romantic honeymoon with a subtle blend of adventure. Newly wedded couples choose this place to begin the new life of their love amidst the fresh meadows and white streams of water. Striding around the mall road at night is also a very pleasing option where they together can try on distinct local cuisines. However, the regional cuisines are majorly influenced by Punjabi and Tibetan tadka, but that ends up making it tastier. Mall road also leaves options for buying unique stuff like singing bowl, woollen clothing, Dorje, prayer wheels and other souvenirs. These lit roads at night and gleaming valleys in the morning give picture perfect backdrops for their honeymoon photos. Even photography enthusiasts can capture these frames along with flora and fauna of the city.
 
     Manali is no less than a box full of an array of sweets. You can dig in it and collect as many gems as you want. And by gems, it means ‘memories’. Wait no longer and pack all that you need for a fun filled trip. Grab your laptop to book your tickets and head off to this lovely place to have some experiences to cherish throughout your life.

If you are planning a trip to this Himalayan town in Himachal Pradesh, here’s the list of the top places to see in Manali,

1.    Hidamba Temple

Beautiful hill station Manali in the state of Himachal Pradesh is not only a home to beautiful and romantic attractions, but it also have a deep devotional enthusiasm that is provoked by most devoted temple named Hadimba temple Manali. A pagoda shaped roof, front doorway covered with figures and symbols, amazing and intricate woodcarvings with cover to the pillars, door posts, lintels, etc names a few that are enough to describe the deep enthusiasm of devotees towards Hadimba temple Manali.

            At the same time, deep pine forest ranges near old Manali symbolizes that you have in the lap of Mother Nature where Mother Goddess of the valley or Hadima Devi has left a lot of spirituality. Hadimba temple Manali that is dedicated to goddess Hadimba hold a very devoted history.

The temple is alos knowen as Hidimba Devi Temple and Dhungari Temple, this ancient temple was built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. The temple is dedicated to Hidimba Devi, wife of Bheema. The wooden architecture of the shrine is very distinct from most Hindu temples you will come across in the country. There’s another shrine dedicated to Hidimba Devi’ son Ghatotkacha in the premises. Surrounded by thick cedar groves and with snow capped mountains serving as the backdrop, the temple is one of the best places to visit in Manali.

2.    Solang  Valley Manali

A mini valley located near about 8400 feet above the sea level, Solang Nala is a short drive away from Manali. It is a haven for adventure and sports lovers and while here, you can try your skills on a pair of skis or go for a snowmobile exploration. When the weather warms up, people flock here for zorbing and paragliding. You can also hop onto a cable car and enjoy mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. If you are looking for snow based activities and sports, winters are the best time to visit while the months of summer are ideal for other adventure sports.

1.    Jogini water falls Manali

The rushing cascades of Jogini Falls are a short and invigorating trek away from the main town of Manali. The trail which goes to the waterfall is scenic and gives you a glimpse of the River Beas and the snow capped peaks of Rohtang. Jogini is also an important place of pilgrimage and you can visit many old shrines  around the pool at the bottom. An early start is recommended so that you can spend more time at this picturesque natural spot, which is one of the top trekking as well as picnic places in Manali.

2.   Manu Temple

Manu Temple is located in old Manali, at a distance of three kilometers from the main market. The temple is dedicated to the Indian sage Manu, who is said to be the creator of the world and the writer of Manusmriti. Though temple is situated in a congested place, visitors from across the globe come to visit it. The charming location of Manu Temple, on the bank side of river Beas, adds to its attraction.

The Manu Temple is dedicated to an old sage after whom it has been named. The pagoda style architecture of the shrine stands out amidst the deep valleys and mountain peaks that form a postcard worthy backdrop. You will have to hike a little to reach the temple, but the views at the summit and the spiritual vibes it exudes make all your efforts completely worth it.

3.   The Manali Gompa

The ornate design and the quintessential Tibetan architecture make the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, more commonly referred to as the Manali Gompa, one of the finest landmarks in Manali. Built by Tibetan refugees in the 1960s, this monastery allows you to enjoy quiet settings and unmatched spiritual vibes.  Some of the key highlights of the Manali Gompa include exquisite murals that depict important events of Buddhism in vivid colors and roofs built in the Pagoda style. The stalls in the complex are a good place to pick up some souvenirs and Tibetan handicraft items.

4.   Bhrigu Lake, Manali

A lot of trekkers do the Bhrigu Lake trek for the lake steeped in mythology. This trek lies in Himachal Pradesh, around 20 km north of Manali and can be accessed from Gulaba. It is known as the place where the famous saint Maharishi Bhrigu sat in deep meditation. However, we believe the lake is not the only thing the trek has to offer. You must do the Bhrigu Lake trek for its grasslands.

            To enter an alpine meadow in our country, one has to often spend at least a day or two trekking within the treeline. We are talking about two or three days of hard ascent. This is because most alpine meadows start at around 11,000 ft above the treeline. However, on this trek, you are in the meadows within the first 10 minutes of this trek! Imagine having meadows such as these right in your backyard. No wonder we go gaga over landscapes that are seen in places like Switzerland.

            The meadows on the Bhrigu Lake trek stretch far and wide – almost like an endless carpet. Wild horses gallop around you. The grazing sheep look up when you come out of the treeline, almost as if to greet you. From these grassy knolls, you will see the mountains of Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar dominating the skyline.

         Take a moment and think of postcard perfect alpine meadows and evergreen tree forests near a serene high altitude water body. Well, you have just now pictured Bhrigu Lake, one of the best trekking destinations around Manali. A bit of acclimatization is needed if you are going for the trek as the lake is located more than 4000 meters above sea level. The scenery and panoramic views of the Pir Panjal Range are what draws most visitors to this place.

 7. Hampta Pass, Manali

          Known as the one of the easy to medium difficulty Himalayan treks, the Hampta Pass trek shows you mesmerizing views of the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley. The Chandratal Lake located on the route is another attraction of the trek. The pass is located on the Pir Panjal Range at an elevation of over 4000 meters and the route includes fascinating river crossings.

            Hampta is a dream come true for trekking enthusiasts who are constantly on the look out for an unforgettable experience in the scenic valleys of Kullu and Lahaul in Himachal Pradesh. Why, you ask? Hampta pass is literally a paradise filled with eye catching views and ever modifying scenery that captivates travelers in a lasting trance. Every turn of the trail is an immensely rewarding experience as it reveals nature’s hidden treasures. The rare sights of alpine forests, glaciers, and Himalayan flora and fauna make this expedition truly spellbinding.

            It’s a moderate trek that goes to magnificent foothills of the Pir Panjal Range and the great Himalayas. As you gain altitude, the trail offers different shades of nature, from green pine forests to the awe inspiring view of Indrasan and Deo Tibba mountains.

A Quick Overview of Elevation Points

            The adventure began from Manali, situated at 2,050 meters. This is the point from where you will head towards Jobri by road, taking you to Chika at 3,100 meters. You will trek from here to your base camp  Balu Ka Ghera Hampta Pass at 3,600 meters. Also known as the ‘Heaps of Sand’, it is said that brown bears hibernate at Balu ka Ghera in the winters. The place offers the breath taking sight of the magnificent Dauladhar Ranges.

Trekking will continue to an elevation of 4,000 metres at Shia Ghoru. The next stop will be Chatru and later you will arrive at the crystal clear Chandratal Lake at 4,270 metres. Moreover, steadily flowing streams, the long wavy bridges and a range of vibrant flowers offer great delight and peace.           8. Nehru Kund, Manali

          A natural spring located on the Manali – Rohtang Pass Highway, Nehru Kund is a good place to visit during summers. The spring is named so because Nehru, India’s first prime minister, used to visit it during his stay in Manali and drink water from this natural spring. The clear waters and the calm Himalayan landscapes make this a good stop for those heading over to the Rohtang Pass. It goes without saying that Nehru Kund makes for an ideal destination for photographers and nature lovers.

  9. Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave), Manali

          Located close to the gushing currents of the Beas River, the Arjun Cave is associated with a legendary story from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. As per the legend, Arjun, who was one of the Pandava brothers, meditated here. One of the best places near Manali for a basket picnic, Arjun Cave offers stunning views of the hills and the valleys surrounding it. You can also visit the Kunt Bhayo Lake and Kunti Mata Temple, two of the key attractions near the cave.

 10. Van Vihar, Manali

          If you are looking for some tranquil moments in the bohemian setting of Manali town, a short stroll through the Van Vihar Park is highly recommended. One of the most popular attractions in Manali, Van Vihar is a public park complete with lushness and sky touching deodar trees. You can even hop onto a boat and maneuver around the man made lake here. Bird watchers will enjoy spotting local species in the park, especially in the morning hours.

  11. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, Manali

          The soothing silence of the Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple in Manali will calm even the most frazzled of nerves. This Shangri-La-like haven sits in the middle of the busy town, while its pagoda-style architecture and vibrant tones add a mystical allure to the whole setting. While here, don’t forget to spin the prayer wheels and admire the Sakyamuni idol and wall paintings. Counted among the best monasteries in Manali, Nyingmapa is where you can connect with your spiritual side. 

 12. Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple, Manali

          A place of great spiritual importance, Vashisht village is home to a beautiful temple set amidst the dramatic Himalayan topography. It is believed that the temple has a history of more than 4000 years and the interiors of the shrine feature wooden carvings, antique figures, and paintings. What makes this destination even more unique is the presence of hot springs that are believed to hold healing properties. What’s more, the place also offers modern-day visitors a glimpse into the old history of Manali. You can also enjoy some shopping in the surrounding area – the woolens here are very famous.

 13. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Manali

   A quick stop at the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art is recommended for those who want a glimpse into the traditions and rich local heritage of the region. Some of the exhibits here include a collection of masks used in festival dances, traditional garments, and musical instruments. Established in 1998, this small yet culturally rich place also has models of ancient houses and temples.

14. Kothi, Manali

          Located on the iconic Spiti highway at an altitude of 2500 meters, Kothi is a charming hamlet in the mountains that is renowned for its scenic setting and the majestic views it offers of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers. It is at the foothills of Rohtang Pass and the terrain is sculpted by the Beas which flows through this part of the region. The village is also a perfect spot for camping, especially if you are planning to explore Rohtang Pass on foot. The village also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Shuwang Chandika.

  15. Beas River, Manali

          The Beas River is a natural landmark in the region that will accompany you on most parts of your Manali trip. Vashisht village is considered to be one of the best places to enjoy excellent views of the river valley while a trip to Kothi will bring you up close to its clear blue waters. The Beas is a hub of water sports such as kayaking and rafting and the village of Pridi is considered to have some of the most exciting rapids.

  16. Great Himalayan National Park, Manali

           known as one of the best places to visit in Manali and its surrounding regions, the Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is home to many rare species, including over 1000 plants, 209 bird species, and 31 mammal species.

          The snow leopard is the apex predator here, and there are populations of the Himalayan tahr and brown bears. You will be relished capturing the wildflowers and glacial valleys that dot the entire terrain. You can also engage in some fun nature activities like hiking and camping in designated areas of the National Park. Permits to enter the park need to be obtained in advance and the park offers many simple and decent accommodation options within it.

          A trip to Manali should include visits to nearby villages to experience the culture of the place along with stunning visuals. You will not be disappointed if you add Gulaba to your list. A favorite haunt for winter travelers who yearn for some snowy landscapes, the village has some of the most captivating trekking routes in Himachal Pradesh. Many consider it a good spot for camping and stargazing because of the low light pollution and high altitude.

 18. Old Manali, Manali

          Old Manali refers to the more antiquated part of town. Here, visitors can wander around the streets and catch vignettes of a bygone age, when Manali was a sleepy pilgrimage town before the backpackers arrived in droves. Old Manali offers some of the best views in the region because of the forests and apple orchards around the settlement.

          The bridge over the high-current Manaslu River separates Old Manali from the main town and is an iconic image in itself. While here, you can go café crawling at some of the popular cafés in Manali,

  19. Rahala Falls, Manali

            The stunning Rahala Falls is located at a height of 8,500 ft and about 16 km from Manali. It is located on the way to Rohtang Pass and whoever visits the Rohtang valley makes a halt at Rahala Falls to enjoy the scenic beauty of the place. One can click pictures, trek above the cliff and enjoy the melting ice of this fall. The Rahala waterfall is a result of melting glacier, and so the water of this fall is extremely cold. This fall is set amidst dense forest of deodar, silver birch trees, and fresh and aromatic air. This place is easily accessible from Manali and one can take a bus, car, bike, or pony to reach the spot. The view of the place is really attention-grabbing and it gives mental peace to the visitors. The pleasant weather and the marvelous surroundings make it one of the best attractions in Manali. 

          During the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, Rahala Falls is an incredibly powerful sight, with its waters cascading onto the rocks and spraying the visitors with fresh, cold mountain water.

          There are many picnic areas near the falls where you can tuck into some basket goodies and enjoy a great time with your family and friends. There are many beautiful hiking trails around the waterfalls and exploring the region through thickly populated deodar and silver birch trees is an experience in itself.

  20. Jagatsukh, Manali

  Jagatsukh is one of the major villages in the Kullu region and a good place to enjoy some of the vernacular architecture.

          Jagatsukh is a delightful settlement tucked in the mountains and famous for its temples. The backdrop of shimmering snowy peaks and deep verdant forests make visiting this place a visual treat.

          Jagatsukh can be used as the base for trecking into the Deo Tibba Mountains. The Devi Sharbali temple located here is one of the many interesting tourist places in Manali region.

 21. Naggar Castle, Manali

          Located on the Beas Valley amidst scenic surroundings, Naggar Castle is a 15^th-century historical edifice in the Kullu Region. Built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu, the castle is now a heritage hotel run by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. The wooden structure of the castle is an architectural marvel and reflects the very distinct style usually found in the region, combined with some European elements added to it over the years. You can catch fantastic views of the town and the adjacent alpine forests from the castle.

 22. Rohtang Pass, Manali

          If you are planning a trip to the picturesque valleys near Kullu and Manali, Rohtang Pass must be on your itinerary. The popular vistas point is well known for its unparalleled natural beauty and is one of the most essential attraction points in the region.  One of the major attractions of Rohtang La is that it is one of the highest passes in the Himalayas. The pass offers some of the most pristine views of the Himalayas you will ever get to sea.
                   

         Dedicate a day in your Manali itinerary to visit Rohtang Pass and you will not regret it. Located at an elevation of 4000 meters above sea level, this high mountain pass on the Pir Panjal Range will leave you breathless. In addition to being a favorite hub of nature lovers, artists, and photographers for generations, Rohtang Pass is also a haven for adventure activities like mountain biking and skiing.

23. Katrain, Manali

          A fishing paradise, Katrain offers an undulating landscape that is rather distinct from the sweeping terrains you will encounter on the rest of your Manali excursions. The village ticks all the boxes of the quintessential Himachali village. While here, do try out some of the local delicacies filled with rustic, wholesome flavors. Apart from the bounty of trout in its crystal waters, Katrain is a good place for hiking.

 24. Gauri Shankar Temple, Manali

       The Gauri Shankar Temple is known for its Shikhara style of architecture and numerous carvings on the stone walls. The temple, which traces its origins back to the 12^th century and believed to be the last structure in the Gurjara-Pratihara traditions, is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The carvings on the walls depict a variety of gods and other sacred motifs. Surrounded by lush greenery, Gauri Shankar Temple is one of the most important temples in Manali.

25. Manali Sanctuary, Manali

          Located about 2 km from the town, Manali Sanctuary offers you an unparalleled wilderness experience. The sanctuary that spreads over 31.8 square kilometers is home to many endangered and rarely sighted species and animals. During the summer, ibex herds descend into the range, so keep your zooming lenses handy if you like to take photographs. Maple, walnut, and deodar groves add extra allure to this sanctuary, especially in the autumn months when the leaves create a tapestry of colors. Adventure seekers can opt for the trekking and camping facilities at the sanctuary.

26. Nicholas Roerich Art gallery and Museum, Manali

Named after a famous Russian artist who spent decades in Himachal Pradesh after fleeing the revolution, the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery and Museum celebrates his artistic tributes. Artifacts displayed here include rare photographs of the artist, landscape paintings, and portraits of the indigenous population. The museum, which was founded in 1962, is housed in the building that once served as his residence.

27. Chandrakhani Pass, Manali

          The arresting natural beauty of Himachal Pradesh can be encapsulated by a trek to the Chandrakhani Pass. It is also at this pass that you can visit the famed village of Malana, which is home to a very distinct community and famous for its cannabis crops. Chandrakhani Pass is a favorite spot for photographers as it is a vantage point to view the prominent peaks of the region, including the Deo Tibba, the Parvati range, and the Pir Panjal.

          This list of places to visit in Manali will tell you one thing  the place offers something for everyone. Enjoy the sight of misty peaks, test your endurance by engaging in a session of trekking or simply relax in the coziness of small town hospitality  the choice is yours. So start making plans and find your calling.

In Short Manali is the perfect Vacation destination or can say the heaven for peace lovers, nature lovers, trekers. The gods creation.