Manali is one of Himachal Pradesh’s most famous hill stations, with an old-world charm that makes it one of the best places to visit Manali, which is situated on the banks of the Beas River, combines Himachali culture, tradition, adventure, and a fantastic Himalayan national park. Manali is unquestionably the most sought-after tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh, with a plethora of unforgettable experiences to take home.
The winter season peaks in December, and the landscape is blanketed in snow, giving it a pretty appearance. Manali’s grandeur is enhanced by the fresh dusted snow on the towering deodar and pine trees. It is known as Himachal Pradesh’s winter sports hub and a perfect destination to enjoy adventurous activities in December.
Manali, in India’s northern state of Himachal Pradesh, is a favorite backpacking and honeymoon destination. It is a gateway to adventure activities in Solang, Gulaba, and Kothi, and is located on the banks of the Beas River. However, the town and its prominent tourist attractions offer much more than adventure. Some of these locations are often crowded with tourists, but that doesn’t mean you should avoid them. Such sites to see in Manali should, in fact, be on your schedule if you are there for the first time.
Top 10 Best Places To Visit In Manali
1. Mall Road
It is one of the best places to visit with family and children in Manali, Himachal Pradesh.
In December, Mall Road is covered in snow, and you can go shopping there. Mall Road has a wealth of shops, restaurants, hotels, and activities, making it ideal for families and children. For yourself and your family, you can purchase ancient jewelry, Buddhist prayer flags, singing bowls, woolens, Kullu shawls, paintings, and bamboo souvenirs.
- Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport - Location: Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 - Things to do: Shopping, eating at restaurants, strolling - Opening hours: 8 am to 9 pm - How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto
2. Beas River, Manali
The Beas River is a well-known landmark in Manali that will guide you through the majority of your journey. Vashisht hamlet is regarded for having some of the best views of the river valley, while a journey to Kothi will allow you to get up close and personal with the river’s crystal blue waters. The Beas is a hub for water adventure sports like kayaking and rafting, with some of the most spectacular rapids in the village of Pridi.
- Note – Don’t forget to do river side camping in Kothi. - Best time to visit: June & July are the best month when the water of river becomes perfect for rafting. - Things to do: River rafting, sightseeing, take photographs of beauty around and take a dip into the water if you know how to swim.
3. Rohtang Pass, Manali
The finest spot to visit near Manali is Rohtang Pass, which is located at an elevation of 4000 meters above sea level. With captivating landscapes, waterfalls, mighty Himalayan peaks, snow cliffs, and streams, the trek from Manali to Rohtang Pass is breathtaking. Skiing, mountain biking, trekking, paragliding, snow scooter riding, and photography are just a few of the activities available at Rohtang.
- Location: 50 KM away from Manali, Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. - How to reach: This place can be reached only by road and the best mode is renting a bike or car. You can use public transport buses that run through the Manali to Leh via Rohtang pass. - Best time to visit: May is considered the best time to visit Rohtang pass, during this time it becomes a hotspot of adventure lovers. During the winter season, the pass remains closed. - Things to do: Admire the beauty of Rohtang pass, enjoy heliskiing, paragliding and enjoy snow scooter driving.
4. Jibhi
Jibhi is the ideal place to unwind and avoid the normal tourist crowds by immersing yourself in the quiet and peaceful surroundings of Himachal Pradesh. This is the place to be for the perfect escape, with pine forest gardens and Victorian-style cottages.
- Popular tourist attractions: Jibhi Waterfall - Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport - Location: Himachal Pradesh 175123 - Things to do: Natural expedition, Sightseeing - How to reach: Cab, Bus, Trekking
5. Jogini Falls
In Manali, there are other waterfalls, but the Jogini Falls is the most well-known among tourists. This waterfall is well-known for its picturesque setting, challenging hike, and Jogini Mata temple. Scenic panoramas, deodar forest, little streams, and a breathtaking perspective of Rohtang Pass abound on the climb to the Jogini Fall. The fresh, pure air surrounding the waterfall will revitalize both your body and soul as you reach the top. At the bottom of the fall, there is a pool where you can swim.
Also, don’t forget to seek blessings at Jogini Mata Temple, which is revered by the people as a sacred site. Overall, it’s an excellent site to explore, particularly for those interested in a short trek near Manali.
- Location: Situated in Vashisht Village, Manali. - How to Reach: Jogini Falls is situated at a distance of 4 Km from Vashisht temple and 7.5 KM from the Manali bus stand. (Cab, Bus) - Best time to visit: The summer season from March to May is the best time to visit when the weather becomes pleasant and perfect to trek the waterfall.
Nearest Places to visit:
6. Solang Valley
Solang Valley is a wonderful mix of environments surrounded by the Himalayan peaks. During the summer, travelers may participate in adventure activities such as paragliding, zorbing, camping, rock climbing, and a gondola ride, while in the winter, the valley transforms into a snowy wonderland with exhilarating snow sports such as skiing and snowboarding.
- Popular tourist attractions: Rohtang La, Hamta Pass - Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport Location: Manali, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175131 - Things to do: Zorbing, paragliding, skiing, parachuting, and horse riding - Opening hours: Unlike the Rohtang Valley, Solang is open throughout the year. However, you can try the adventure sports only between 9 am and 5 pm. For skiing, the ideal time is between 10 am and 2 pm. - How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto
7. Kothi
Kothi is an alternative destination that is great for people who want to get away from the crowds of Manali. Because of the variety of lodging alternatives, this location is very popular with honeymoon couples. In comparison to the main town, the accommodations here are far less expensive and more scenic. It is situated on the route leading to the Solang Valley, approximately 16 kilometers from Manali. Villages have a rustic beauty that is visible here. Painters, poets, and authors enjoy spending time here to express themselves while taking in the spectacular sights.- Distance From Manali: 13 KM via Leh Manali Highway.
- How to reach: It is located approx 14 Kilometers from Manali on Leh Manali Highway. Rented cabs are the best mode of public transport and two-wheeler motorbikes are also available here for rent. - Best time to visit: For snowfall lover winter is the best season to visit from October to June. During the summer season when the snow melts and the natural beauty is exposed making it easier for treking.
8. Gulaba
Gulaba is one of the best places to visit in Manali since it is less crowded than the Rohtang and Solang valleys and offers excellent snow activities. On the Leh–Manali route, there is a little settlement called “Gulaba” on the way to Rohtang pass. Raja Gulab Singh, the King of Kashmir, was the inspiration for the name of this settlement. Tourists refer to this location as a snow point. When the Rohtang pass is closed due to barricades, this town becomes a popular tourist destination for snow enthusiasts.
- Distance from Manali: 20 KM - How to get there: Gulaba village is located around 20 KM from Manali in the Pir Panjal Mountain range of the Himalayas. Rented taxis, bikes and a private vehicles are the best mode to reach it there. - Things to do: Yak and horse riding, skiing, camping, star gazing, trekking, paragliding, hiking and many more. - Entry Fees: No entry charges, camping or trekking charges may be applied.
9. Chandrakhani Pass
It is one of the most beautiful and peaceful passes in Manali. Chandrakhani Pass’s fresh and peaceful environment will take your breath away. The walk provides breathtaking views of the Deo Tibba peak, Pir Panjal, and Parbati mountain ranges. If trekking is your thing and you’re seeking locations to explore around Manali, this exceptionally gorgeous trekking route from Manali to Kasol through Malana will undoubtedly make you fall in love with nature and your life.
- Popular tourist attractions: Hamta Pass, Bhrigu Lake - Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport - Location: Village Rumsu, Post Naggar, Himachal Pradesh 175130 - Things to do: Trekking, nature photography - Opening hours: Always open - How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto
10. Beas Kund Trek
If you’re looking for a way to get away from Manali, the Beas Kund hike is one of the best places to visit. You can go hiking to Beas Kund and be ecstatic with the end result! Make sure to put this on your to-do list if you want a fascinating experience.
- Popular tourist attractions: Jogni Water Fall - Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport - Location: Burwa, Himachal Pradesh 175131 - Things to do: Trekking - Opening hours: Always open - How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto
Here are the top things to do in Manali
- River Rafting ( June and July ).
- Paragliding ( May and September ).
- Skiing ( January and February ).
- Trekking ( April to June & June to October ).
- Zorbing ( March to October with exception of the monsoon season ).
- Camping ( Throughout the year with exception of the monsoon ).
- Jana waterfall ( September to June ).
Main Attractions for Tourist around Manali
- Nehru Kund, Manali
- Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, Manali
- Bijli Mahadev Temple
- Naggar Castle, Manali
- Gauri Shankar Temple, Manali
- Jagatsukh, Manali:
- Kheerganga
- Parvati Valley
- Pandoh Dam
- Chandratal Baralacha Trek
- Parashar Lake
- Patlasu Peak
- Bhrigu Lake
- Manikaran Sahib
- Kullu
- Great Himalayan National Park
- Manu Temple
- Old Manali
- Tirthan Valley
- Sethan
Best time to visit Manali
The months of October to February are ideal for enjoying Manali’s climate. The temperature lowers below 0 degrees Celsius in the winter, so if you enjoy winter sports, here is the spot to visit, especially in December and January when there is a lot of snow. Your journey to Manali will be made even more unforgettable by the chill and new snowfall. Let’s pack our bags and head to Manali this winter to see the sights.
Winter, from November through February, is the best time for snowfall.
The months of April through June are ideal for adventure sports because the water temperature is warm. Hiking, paragliding, trekking, mountain sports, and rafting are all best done at this period.
Interesting facts about Manali:
There are a number of unknown facts regarding Manali. We’ve compiled some interesting facts for you in this blog. If you are planning a trip to Manali, you should be aware of the following information.
1. The name Manali has a secret: Manali is derived from the name of the saint Manu. Manali means “home of Manu” in English.
Manali was the sacred place where saints arrived after the human race was wiped out by a massive flood. He sat here and meditated, re-creating human – life.
2. Manali is made up of three neighbouring hills:Manali, the most popular tourist destination, is made up of three adjacent hills, each with its own temple and village.
Old Manali has the Manu temple, Vashisht has the Vashshit temple, and Dhungri has the Hadimba temple.
3. Every local has at least one apple tree: Every local has an apple orchard in their backyard. Apple trees grow freely in Manali due to the climate and weather. This is the main reason Manali produces some of the best apple varieties in the world.
4. Rohtang — Heap of Dead Bodies: The reality behind Rohtang may surprise you, but its literal translation is “heap of dead bodies.” This location was given its name when a number of individuals died as a result of harsh weather and their inability to survive.
Frequently Asked Questions About Manali
Q1: What is the best time to see snowfall in Manali?
The optimum time to experience the cool pleasures of fresh snowfall is from November through February. The temperature lowers below 0 degrees Celsius at this time.
Q2: Where you can find snow in Manali?
Gulaba, Mall Road, Tosh, and Kothi are all in Solang Valley.
Q3: What are the best activities to do in Manali?
Skiing, paragliding, Riverside Camping, Trekking, Zorbing, Rafting, and Yak Riding are some of the activities available.
Q4. What are the Covid travel guidelines to visit Manali?
The following are some tips for visiting Manali during the Covid season:
- Get tested at least 72 hours before your trip and bring your negative RT PCR report with you.
- Get the Aarogya Setu App.
- Before going out, put on protective masks and maintain sanitising your hands.
- Maintain social distance and stay away from busy areas.
- Stay away from any social or public gathering.
Q5. What to pack for a Manali trip?
When visiting a hill station such as Manali, you can never be too prepared. Here are some Himachal Pradesh travel tips:
- Moisturizer and sunscreen lotion.
- Socks and warm woollens.
- Shoes with a good rubber sole.
- Spectacles
- Identification Proofs (Id proof)
- Additional masks
- Disinfectants and hand sanitizers
Q6. What is the famous street food in Manali?
Mittha, a delicacy made of rice and raisins that can be found at practically every Manali restaurant, is the city’s most famous street snack. The following are some of the local specialties that you must try when in Manali:
- Sidu
- Patande
- Aktori
- Chana Madra
- Babru
- Kullu Trout
- Tudkiya Bhat
- Bhey
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