Instead of travelling all the way to Switzerland, Indians may visit Himachal Pradesh, their very own paradise. One of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh is the beautiful hill station of Manali, which has maintained much of its ancient buildings and culture. One of the best vacation spots in India, Manali offers a variety of tourist attractions that will amaze you to the core, whether you are a solo traveller seeking a magical gateway, travelling with family, or on a honeymoon trip with your loved one.
It is situated along the Beas River’s banks. Manali is an excellent base for exploring the Himalayas and experiencing the local culture and traditions. Manali is the most visited city in all of Himachal Pradesh, and for good reason: it offers visitors a variety of unique and unforgettable experiences.
Paragliding, hiking, skiing, fishing, rafting, and hanging out in cute cafes are just some of the top things to do in Manali.
Continue reading to find more about these mesmerising and best places to visit in Manali.
1. Hadimba Temple, Old Manali
Hadimba Temple is an ancient temple located in the heart of traditional Manali. Maharaja Bahadur Singh built this temple, also known as Hadimba Devi Temple or Dhungari Temple, in the 15th century. The shrine honours Hidimba, Bheema’s wife. The Hadimba temple stands out for its wooden structure and unique design. A second, smaller temple, this one dedicated to Ghatotkacha, Hidimba’s son, can be seen on the site.
All around the area are tall, thick cedar forests. In the distance, snow-covered mountain ranges add to the feeling of luxury. It’s also possible to shoot great pictures while dressed like a Himachali. Hence, it is the most well-known and highly recommended attraction in all of Manali, Himachal Pradesh.
2. Solang Valley
You absolutely must go to Rohtang and Solang Valley while in Manali. Solang Valley is one of the most visited places in all of Himachal Pradesh, and it is only 14 kilometres away from the city of Manali.
Several travellers stop in the valley each year because it is located on the route between Manali and Rohtang. The Solang Valley is a favourite destination for thrill seekers. Solang Valley offers a variety of adventure sports for visitors of all ages, including paragliding, horseback riding, and driving mini-open jeeps.
Skiing is a popular sports in the Solang Valley during the winter months when it is covered with snow. There are training facilities and instructors there to guide skiers and instruct beginners. When the snow melts, zorbing becomes more popular than skiing.
3. Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is a beautiful mountain pass that gives amazing views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, making it a popular tourist destination in Manali. This pass is located at an altitude of 3,978 metres above sea level and is accessible from May through November. Snow activities like skiing and snowboarding are popular in this area. The trip up to Rohtang Pass is an experience in and of itself, with hairpin twists and amazing views at every turn.
4. Jogini Waterfall, Manali
Some of the best hiking and scenery in Manali can be found in this area. A hike of roughly 5 kilometres will take you to the waterfalls, which are located about 5 kilometres from Manali. Since it is in a remote area, not many tourists go there, which makes the area quiet and peaceful. And apparently, the locals hold it in high regard. On the route to Jogini Falls, you’ll see a number of ancient temples. If you’re searching for a peaceful vacation, this is one of the best places to visit in Manali.
Read More: Places to visit in Himachal Pradesh
5. Manu Temple, Old Manali
Manu Temple, which honours the sage Manu, highlights the charm of historic Manali (the first man and the legendary author of an important Sanskrit law code, the Manu-smriti). Because of the legends surrounding the temple, it is often considered one of the top tourist attractions in Manali.
This temple in Old Manali attracts visitors and pilgrims from all over the world. In addition to its historical significance and beautiful architecture and wood carvings, this place is a must-see because of its many religious attractions. The surrounding area of the temple is stunning and well-protected by dense forests and lush vegetation, which will astound you.
6. Manu Temple
Sage Manu, who made people, is a key figure in Hindu mythology, so this temple is an important place for Hindus to visit. This temple is in Manali‘s historic district. It is often thought to be the only place of worship in India that is specifically for Sage Manu. The temple is a must-visit location for anybody interested in Hindu mythology because of its beautiful structure and peaceful settings. The temple is a must-visit location for anybody interested in Hindu mythology because of its beautiful structure and peaceful settings.
7. Old Manali
Old Manali is a lovely area with twisting roads and old-style homes, perfect for a walk. It has a bohemian atmosphere and many great places to eat and drink. If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the main town, Old Manali is the place to be.
8. Rafting in Kullu Manali
Kullu Manali’s section of the River Beas is perfect for both new and experienced rafters. Rafting begins in the small area of Pirdi and continues on via the communities of Bajaura, Sarabai, Bhuntar, Shamshi, Mohal, Raisol, and Katrain.
At Manali, you can rent everything you need for a day on the river, from a raft and paddles to a helmet and life vest. River Rafting in Kullu-Manali can cost anywhere from INR 500 to INR 2000 (about $7.50 to $18.30) per person.
9. Bhrigu Lake, Manali
While travelling to the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, a stop at Bhrigu Lake should be high on your list. People from all over India come to this popular trekking destination, which is located around 16.2 kilometres along the Kullu Manali road. The height above sea level is roughly 14,100 feet. Trekkers come here to experience the true spirit of Himachal Pradesh and the peace and quiet it is famous for. The mountains are a beautiful place, and the trekking routes take you through beautiful forests and valleys with beautiful views.
The views of the Seven Sisters Peaks and Hanuman Tibba will enchant you as you drive through pine and oak trees. You can take a drive through the towns and see beautiful fields, fruit trees (apple and plum), and beautiful wooden houses.
The lake, whose colours are said to shift every minute, is the reason to make the journey. You can pitch a tent and spend the night under the stars in Rola Kholi.
10. Arjun Cave, Manali
Arjun Gunfa, also known as Arjun Cave, is a popular tourist stop along the route to Naggar, around 5 kilometres from Manali. It is one of the best places to visit in Manali, and it is rich in stories, myths, and legends stretching back thousands of years. Prini, a little settlement on the left bank of the Beas River, is home to the caverns. The Mahabharata hero Arjuna is said to have done his meditation here in order to gain more skill with the Pashupati Astra sword.
Tourists from all over the world come to this beautiful place to see its natural rock formations and uniqueness, no matter what religion they follow. From the Arjun Cave, you may also ride a horse up to the Kunt Bhayo Lake and the Kunto Matha Temple, all of which are stunning in their own right. The location is not marked on any maps; therefore, you’ll need to seek somebody’s help if you’re lost.
11. Great Himalayan National Park
One of the top tourist destinations in Manali and the surrounding area is the Great Himalayan National Park, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In addition to the 209 bird species and 31 mammal species, the park is home to over a thousand different types of trees. Although the snow leopard is king, brown bears and Himalayan tigers can also be found here. Photographers would be drawn to the area because it has a lot of wildflowers and glacial valleys. In some parts of the National Park, you can also go hiking and camping, which are both fun things to do outside. A permit is needed to get into the park, which can be gotten ahead of time, and there are a few simple but good places to stay within the park itself.
12. Chandrakhani Pass
Himachal Pradesh’s cloud-covered Chandrakhani Pass hike is beautiful. This pass also allows you to explore the legendary village of Malana, which is home to a distinct community and famous for its cannabis crops. From Chandrakhani Pass, you can get some amazing photos of the Deo Tibba, the Parvati range, and the Pir Panjal.
A journey by Celanti through the village of Ramsu, past the historic Jamlu Temple, and through verdant fields dotted with grazing sheep. At various points along the route, you’ll be treated to beautiful views of the Parvati and Deo Tibba mountains.
How To Reach Manali
Manali is a wonderful vacation destination, and you may have some of your most memorable life experiences while there. Located between the high mountains of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar, if you want to get to Manali, the directions are below.
- Nearest major city: Chandigarh
- Nearest Airbase. Bhuntar Airport
- Nearest railhead: Jogindernagar Station
- Distance from Chandigarh: 308.4 km
By Air
Bhuntar Airport, often called Kullu-Manali Airport, is the closest major airport. It is about 50 kilometres away from Manali. Taxis and other forms of public transit are readily available once passengers have landed from planes.
- Distance from Bhuntar Airport. 50 km
By Train
The closest train station to Manali is the one at Jogindernagar. You’ll need to fly or drive there because of the poor connections to other cities in India.
- Distance from Jogindernagar Station: 47 km
By Road
Manali has a great road system that makes it easy to get to all the places around it. Visitors can also go to Manali from anywhere in India using Volvo interstate buses, which stop at the Manali Bus Depot. You may get around Manali by auto or cab from the bus station.
- Distance from Shimla: 248 km
- Distance from Kullu: 40 km
- Distance from Delhi: 540 km
- Distance from Jalandhar: 367.9 km
- Distance from Dehradun: 502 km
- Distance from Amritsar: 396 km
- Distance from Mumbai: 1,943 km
