Places to visit in Manali | things to do in Manali | Tourist places in Manali
Places to visit in Manali | best tourist place Manali
Manali is a resort town nestled in the mountains of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh near the northern end of the Kullu Valley in the Beas River Valley. It is located in the Kullu district, about 270 km (168 mi) north of the state capital, Shimla, 309 km (192 miles) north east of Chandigarh and 544 km (338 miles) northeast of Delhi, the national capital. The small town, with a population of 8,096, is the beginning of an ancient trade route to Ladakh and from there over the Karakoram Pass on to Yarkand and Khotan in the Tarim Basin. It is a popular tourist destination and serves as the gateway to Lahaul and Spiti district as well as Leh. Places to visit in Manali | things to do in Manali | Tourist places in Manali
History Of Manali
Manali is named after the Sanatan Hindu lawgiver Manu. The name Manali is regarded as the derivative of 'Manu-Alaya' which literally 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 lies in the North of Kullu Valley. The valley is often referred to as the 'Valley of the Gods'. Old Manali village has an ancient temple dedicated to sage Manu. Places to visit in Manali | things to do in Manali | Tourist places in Manali
The British introduced apple trees in the area. The first apple orchard was set up by the British near Patlikuhl, before this, no Apple trees grew in the area. To this day, apple— along with plum and pear— remain the best source of income for the majority of inhabitants. Both Rainbow and Brown Trout was also introduced into the rivers and streams of the area by the colonisers.
With the increase in disposable incomes and somewhat owing to the rise of disturbances in Kashmir in the late 1980s, Manali witnessed a surge in tourist traffic. This once quiet village was transformed into a bustling town with numerous homestays as well as the occasional boutique hotel. During the warmer summer months, cafes and restaurants can be seen doing brisk business.
Geography oF Manali
Himalayan mountains in Manali, Himachal Pradesh.
Manali is located at 32.2396 N, 77.1887 E, about 547 km (340 mi) north of New Delhi.
Demographics Of Manali
Manali has grown from a trading outpost/ village to a small town; as of the 2011 census of India, its population was 8,096. In 2001, Manali had an official population of 6,265. Males constituted 64% of the population and females 36%. Manali had an average literacy rate of 74%, higher than the national average of 59.5%; male literacy was 80%, and female literacy was 63.9%. 9.5% of the population was under six years of age.During the summer months there is a marked surge in the transients as many of them are employed in the hospitality businesses. Places to visit in Manali | things to do in Manali | Tourist places in Manali
Snowfall in Manali
The climate in Manali is predominantly cold during winter and moderately cool during summer. The temperatures ranges from −7 °C (19 °F) to 30 °C (86 °F) over the year with the hottest day crossing 30 °C (86 °F) and the coldest day going below −7 °C (19 °F). The average temperature during summer is between 10 °C (50 °F) to 30 °C (86 °F), and between −7 °C (19 °F) to 15 °C (59 °F) in the winter.
Transport
Air
The nearest airport Bhuntar Airport (IATA code KUU) is at Bhuntar town, situated on NH21 about 50 km (31 mi) south of Manali and 10 km (6.2 mi) south of Kullu town. The airport is also known as Kullu-Manali airport and has more than a kilometre long runway. Air India has regular flights to the airport from New Delhi.
Road
Manali can be reached from Delhi by national highway NH 1 up to Ambala and from there NH 22 to Chandigarh and from there by national highway NH21 that passes through Bilaspur, Sundernagar, Mandi and Kullu towns. The road distance from Chandigarh to Manali is 310 km (190 mi), and the total distance from Delhi to Manali is 570 km (350 mi). Luxury buses (including Volvos) usually ply overnight on this route and are available from all major bus terminals. Besides 12 Non-AC services, HRTC (Himachal Road Transport Corporation) runs five daily Volvo and AC buses on Delhi-Manali route and two separate Volvos by HPTDC (Himachal Tourism Development Corporation).
Rail
There is no close railhead available close to Manali. The nearest broad gauge railheads are at Una 250 km (155 mi) away, Kiratpur Sahib 268 km (167 mi), Kalka (275 km (171 mi)), Chandigarh (310 km (193 mi)), and Pathankot (325 km (202 mi)) . The nearest narrow gauge railhead is at Joginder Nagar (175 kilometres (109 mi)). The Kalka–Shimla Railway is nostalgic narrow gauge route culminating at the state capital of Shimla wherefrom one has to travel by road to Manali.
Environmental Concerns
Manali has witnessed a flurry of activity related to hydroelectric power and tourism. Unplanned and rampant construction has led to severe depletion of forests and pollution of river bodies, along with garbage being disposed on the side of the mountains. There has been a loss of habitat to various species of fauna, not limited to the Himalayan Monal, incidentally the state bird of Himachal Pradesh. Places to visit in Manali | things to do in Manali | Tourist places in Manali
Places to Visit in Manali
1 Maa Hadimba Temple *photo credit yatra.com*A temple dedicated to the goddess Maa Hidimba, the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata, this temple is amongst the top draws for tourists in Manali. The temple was constructed in 1553 and is one of the most famous places to visit in Manali.
The wood and stonework are reminiscent of the Japanese pagodas as well as the Indian style of temple architecture. The most beautiful facet of this temple is that it is covered by Cedar forests at its foothills and is built on a large rock top that juts out through the ground.
The temple has stunningly carved wooden doors and 24 metres tall Shikhar at its height. The temple also has a sinister past though, as it is believed that in the past, religious practitioners would tie the hands of sinners by the rope and swing them against the rock. About seventy metres away from the temple lies another monument, which is built in honour of the child of Bhima and Hadimba, Ghatotkacha. Places to visit in Manali | things to do in Manali | Tourist places in Manali
Distance from Manali: 3 Kms.
Timing: 08:00 Am to 07:00 PM.
Entry Fee: None
Photography Allowed or not: Yes
2 KulluWhere the gods reside, this destination is fenced by numerous temples of high religious significance. The locale is stocked with devotees as well as adventure-seeking tourists, evidently making it so popular around the year.
The Bijli Mahadev temple, Bhekhli temple, and Raghunath temple are majorly the religious institutions capturing tourist attraction here.
Distance from Manali: 40 km from Manali town.
Best time to visit: March to June.
03 Vashisht Kund
Ready to beat the winter cold? Dip your feet or immerse completely in this natural hot spring, a true delight as a gift from nature. Spend a day here, keep warm and listen to the mythological tales of all sorts and variants. This locale also offers a great view of the older Manali and Beas river
Distance from Manali: 6 km from Manali town
Best time to visit: March to June
04 Solang ValleyIf you are done with roaming around the common Manali tourist places, the head out to Solang Valley. Laying between Solang Village and Beas Kund, Solang Valley derives its name from to separate words namely, Solang (the village nearby) and Nullah (Water Stream). A beautiful valley situated at a distance of about 13km from Manali, it is best known for its awe-inspiring views.
From Solang Nullah, one can get a majestic view of the glaciers, the snowcapped peaks near the Rohtang Pass and vast plains of snow and ice. The elevation of Solang Nullah is such that it offers a perfect place to play in the snow and go skiing on the slopes. The guest house of Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali is also situated here.
The institute organized winter skiing festival each year and opens up classes and workshops for tourists and travellers as well. You can feel like a child once again as you slip, slide and play in the snow! As the summer sets in, the area becomes a hub for adventurists seeking various activities such as parachuting, zorbing, paragliding and horse riding.
Distance from Manali: 13Kms
How to reach: By Road via the Leh- Manali highway on the route that passes through Vashisht.
Best time to Visit: December to May
Activities: Skiing, Snow Play, Zorbing, Parachuting, Biking, Paragliding, Horse Riding
05 Chandrakhani PassIf trekking is your forte you got to lace up your boots for this magnificent trek from Manali to Kasol via Malana get set to be mesmerized by the raw villages on route, people you have never seen and felt before along with beautiful fauna.
It's a nontechnical trek so do not worry about the sharp edges to be aware of just walk through the wilderness and have fun. The end gives you a breathtaking view of Deo Tibba and Pin Parvati Range.
Distance from Manali: 21 km from Manali town
Best time to visit: April to May
06 Jogni Waterfalls
If you are looking to embark on a trek to one of the most remote and untouched places to visit in Manali, then Jogni also called Jugni Waterfalls is the best place to be. Located at an easy distance of about 3km from the main market of Manali, it can be reached directly by a vehicle. As soon as you park at the base of the falls, you will see the beautiful natural scenery that encircles the entire falls area.
The trek route passes through narrow paths and is breathtakingly beautiful as it traverses orchards, pine forests and several small streams. Al through the way, you can see the peaks at Rohtang Pass and the gush of the Beas River flowing by. The trek to the top of the Jogni waterfalls lasts for about 20 minutes and will expose you to some of the most serene beauties of nature. Try to make it in the afternoon when the sunlight catches droplets of the waterfall.
Distance from Manali: 3 Kms.
Timing: Always
Entry Fee: None
Photography Allowed: Yes
07 Bhagwan Manu TempleThis temple is dedicated to Bhagwan Manu, is a place of great religious significance to Hindus. There are many interesting folktales associated with the establishment of this temple which you can learn about when you visit this place.
All around the year, pilgrims and tourists in great numbers flock into this temple located in Old Manali. This is a must-visit place, not only because of its religious significance but also because of its ancient, beautiful architecture and wooden carving.
Moreover, the views of tall hills blanketed with lush green forests this temple offers make spectators gasp for breath. The serene atmosphere of this place is soul-pleasing. Visit this place during your trip to Manali for an otherworldly experience.
Distance from Manali: 2 km from Manali town
Best time to visit: May to June
You can also check out here some of the best resorts of Manali to make your stay easy and comfortable.
08 Old Manali
If you want to see the other side of Manali and the touristy town, just take a walk across the Manalsu River bridge and cross over into the part of Manali that is also known as ‘Old Manali’. The exotic charm of the village will make you feel like you have walked into a whole other world.
The town has somehow carved out a niche of its own and managed to retain the old world charm, where you have the characteristic world traveller, the hippie vibe in its midst, it also has the traditions of the relics of the older civilizations.
The idyllic village setting will make you feel like you have walked into the happy and hippie 1960s. The pathways are lined with swaying Eucalyptus trees and the small roads pass through valleys that are abundant with greenery. The calmness of the surroundings is broken only by the twittering of birds and the gush of the River Kullu.
Distance from Manali: 3 Kms.
Attractions: Apart from the sheer mountain beauty, there are a number of places to visit in Manali old town. The most peculiar and must visit amongst them being the quaint eateries like Lazy Dog, Red House Cafรฉ, Bob Dylan’s Cafรฉ, Cafรฉ m 1947 and Pizza Olive.
09 The Manali Gompa
Also known as Gadhan Thekchholing Gompa, the Manali Gompa was built by Tibetan refugees way back in the 1960s. This is one of the most renowned places to visit in Manali and lends visitors with an incomparable feeling of peace and solitude. Although small in size, it is blessed with spiritual energy that exudes out of it and lends an unmistakable aura of godliness.
No wonder then it is one of the tops draws for tourists all over the world to seek blessings at. The architecture is in a distinctive pagoda style and the exteriors are decorated with paintings and murals that best describe the culture and philosophies of Buddhism. The main theme that shines forth amongst all of these is the Buddhist philosophy of non-violence.
The paintings inside the temple depict the ‘Kaal Chakra’ or the flow of events in the life of Buddha. Well inside the complex, you can also pick up a few Tibetan handicrafts and take them back home as memorable souvenirs to remember this wonderful place also near to this there are many things to do so that you can get a fun trip of Man, li not a boring one.
Distance from Manali: 1 Km.
Timing: 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM
Entry Fee: None
Photography Allowed: Yes
10 Bhrigu LakeAlso known as the ‘Pool of Gods’, Bhrigu Lake is a majestic a picturesque water body that is located at a distance of about 43km from the town of Manali. Each year, the lake attracts thousands of trekkers and visitors who come here to appreciate the serene, crystal clear blue pools of the lake as a part of their itinerary to visit Manali tourist places.
Rising to a height of about 14,100ft it is located on the eastern courses of the Rohtang Pass. One of the many glacial lakes of the Kullu Valley, it makes up for being a perfect weekend outing on your next trip to Manali.
The lake is bordered by snowy peaks of the Himalayas on all sides and is a moderate to difficult trekking escapade. Also nearby is the Nehru Kund, which is a natural water spring that is fed by the waters of the Bhrigu Lake and is truly picturesque.
The trekking route to Bhrigu Lake starts either at the village of Gulaba or Vasishth Temple, either way, it perches you up at a height of almost 14000ft right on the second day, making it one of the most captivating treks of the Pir Panjal Ranges. Locals of the village believe that this lake has been blessed by the sages and Gods which is why it never freezes over completely even in the times of harsh winters.
Distance from Manali: 18 Kms.
How to get there: Follow Kullu-Naggar-Manali Road through the village of Gulaba.
Best time to Visit: May to June.
Attractions/Activities: Trekking.
11 Hampta Pass
Hampta Pass is a small corridor connecting two beautiful valleys of Himachal –Lahaul & Kullu and is a popular name among trekkers since it is one of the best treks available in this region. It is a beginner’s delight due to what one gets to experience on this low-difficulty trek.
The best part about this trek is that you can witness varied landscapes on the way since it is the connecting point of two beautiful valleys. The spellbinding landscape of this place attracts travellers and photographers from all over the world. Lying to the south-east of Manali at an altitude of 4270 m, this place boasts of some of the most picturesque surroundings in the entire Himachal which makes it one of the best places to visit in Manali.
A trek to Hampta Pass offers almost everything one can expect on a Himalayan trek; from alpine forests, glacial valley too long stretches of meadows. Views of majestic Mt. Deotibba and Mt. Indraasan can be enjoyed during this trek.
Distance from Manali: 15 km
Best time to visit: Mid-June to Mid-October
12 N. Kund
It is a natural spring located on Manali-Leh highway at a very short distance from Manali. The spring was named after India’s first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru who drank water from this spring and often visited it during his stay in Manali.
The spring is believed to originate from Bhrigu Lake and is considered auspicious by the local people of this region. Nehru Kund is a popular attraction for tourists and is among the places to see in Manali.
When in Manali, one must visit this place, drink crystal clear water from this spring and experience the serenity that envelopes this place. The landscape that can be witnessed from here owing to the location of this place is another reason why this is among the best places to visit in Manali.
Distance from Manali: 5 km
Best time to visit: May to October.
13 Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave)About 5km from Manali, as you take the road that goes towards Naggar, you will arrive at this destination which is known as Arjun Gunfa. One of the offbeat places to visit in Manali, it is replete with thousands of years’ worth of legends, folklore and tales.
The caves are situated on the left banks of the Beas River in a village called Prini. Legend has it that Arjuna from the epic of Mahabharata actually performed his penance here in order to attain greater dexterity to handle a weapon called Pashupati Astra.
Religious beliefs notwithstanding, people from all over the world visit this captivating site in order to see its natural rock formations and beauty. Close to the Arjun Gunfa, you can also take an excursion up to visit the Kunt Bhayo Lake and the Kunto Matha Temple, each of which is beautiful in its own right.
The caves offer uncharacteristic calmness, serenity and solitude away from the crowds at Manali. However, it is advised that you visit the caves under appropriate light conditions in the broad daylight.
Distance from Manali: 5 Kms
Timing: Open all day
Entry Fee: None
Photography Allowed: Yes
14 Van Vihar National Park
One of the most frequent places to visit in Manali, the Van Vihar National Park attracts visitors mainly because of its ideal location, which is bang on the Mall road in Manali.
The park is a welcome respite from the crowds and the pollution with its tall and shady groves of Deodar, birch and pine. There are a number of wooden and concrete benches within the park, which provides rest, relaxation and recreation to its visitors.
Take off your shoes and take a leisurely walk across the garden paths of this wonderful haven of nature. You could also have fun cruising around in a boat that sails in the small pond within the vicinity of this park. Set amidst beautiful and verdant environs, the park is a perfect respite for anyone who chooses to visit it and makes up for a great place for a spontaneous picnic or simply a long walk!
Distance from Manali: Less than 1 Km.
Timing: Summer: 08:00 am – 07:00 pm
Winters: 08:00 am – 05:00 pm
Entry Fee: 10 INR per Person.
Photography Allowed: Yes.
15 Cafe 1947
One of the oldest and best-known cafes in Old Manali and also the best Manali tourist places, Cafรฉ 1947 was its first music cafรฉ. Resting easily on the banks of the gushing waters of Manalsu River, it is a quaint albeit a highly recommended and a beautiful place to satisfy your taste buds.
On any given day, it is not uncommon to see a live music jam happening at one of the booths at the same time as the patrons enjoy the delicious servings of the world, Indian and European cuisine.
Get your favourite book and relish the stories with some ginger or lemon tea in your hands. The cafรฉ also hosts quite a few live gigs at regular intervals.
Check our list for things to do on a Manali that will make your trip full of memories.
Distance from Manali: 6 Kms.
Timing: Wednesday - 7 PM - 12 AM & Thursday - Tuesday 11 AM - 12 AM
Specialty: Burger of Bodom, Vegeta, Dimebag (the burgers), UFO, Slayer (the pizzas), Metallica (the pasta), Rambo.
16 Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist TempleThis ancient Buddhist monastery with Pagoda-styled structure is among the major Manali tourist places. Its fascinating Tibetan style architecture is worth admiring. The elements that make this temple so popular are the massive, two-storey-tall statue of Lord Buddha and eye-catching wall paintings it houses.
Visit this temple for the serenity and positivity that fills this place. A visit to this place is incomplete without a few minutes of meditation to take a peek into the life of Buddhist monks. Located amidst the bustling mall road of Manali, the quietness of this Monastery is in sharp contrast with what lies outside its premises.
Distance from Manali: Less than a km.
Location: Mall Road, Manali.
Best Time to Visit: October to May.
17 Vashisht Hot Water Springs & Temple
Vashisht Hot Water Springs & Temple
About 3km from Manali is a beautiful natural wonder called Vashisht hot water springs, these are sulphur springs which spout hot water all year long and are said to have medicinal properties. It is believed that water can cure a number of skin infection and diseases including eczema, psoriasis, and others.
Of course, you need not to be worried about safety as there are separate baths for both men and women. Well decorated, they are fitted with Turkish style showers so that you can regulate the flow of hot and cold water.
There are also a number of ancient temples in the vicinity which make it one of the must places to visit in Manali. Indulging in a dip with the gorgeous Himalayas on the backdrop is surely an unforgettable experience.
Distance from Manali: 3 Kms.
Timing:07:00 AM to 01:00 PM and 02:00PM to 10:00 PM
Entry Fee: No
Photography allowed: Yes
18 The Castle ManaliSituated in the Naggar town amidst stunning hills, the Naggar castle is one of its most enduring monuments. Constructed of stone and wood, it as a beautiful combination of Indian and western sensibilities of architecture.
The palace that once served as a residence to Raja Sidh Singh Kullu, has since served the purposes of being a rest house and is now heritage hotel that is managed by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation and is one of the prettiest places to see in Manali. Replete with cosy fireplaces, swirling staircases and captivating stone and woodwork that graces the outer faรงade.
Inside, you can even appreciate the magnificent art of Roerich- the famous Russian painter who came to Manali. If you want to take back some souvenirs, you can fill up your bag with wall hangings, coasters, as well as the Roerich paintings. The castle provides awe-inspiring views of the Kullu Valley and rests in peaceful reverie as the holy river of Beas flows merrily by.
Distance from Manali: 2 Kms.
Timing: 07:00 AM to 10:00 PM on all days.
Entry Fee: 15 INR Per Person.
Photography Allowed: Yes.
19 Rahalla FallsCascading from a height of 8,500ft, the Rahalla or Rehala Falls as they are called as one of the most stunning natural places to visit in Manali. They are located at a distance of 16km from the town on the way to the Rohtang Pass and are must stopover on your way to visit this haven of snow.
The falls are formed by glaciers as they melt on their way down from the mountains. It is one of the best places to enjoy photography or just sit peacefully by and admire the natural beauty.
The more adventurous can go trekking up the mountains behind the waterfall cascades. The waterfalls are set amidst dense thickets of Deodar, birch and pine trees, making it one of the stunning places for photography. The sight of the place and the gentle rhythm of the falls gives instant peace and harmony to anybody who chooses to visit it.
Distance from Manali: 16 Kms.
Timing:The waterfalls are best visited in the months of March and November
Entry Fee: None
Photography Allowed: Yes
20 Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art
This museum was established in 1998 to exhibit the cultural and folk art and antiques of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at a short distance from the famous Hidimba Devi Temple of Manali. The museum houses a very interesting and impressive collection of antique articles and other items reflecting the culture and heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
From Himachali traditional dresses and Himachali kitchenware to traditional ornaments, there is so much to look at and absorb here. If Himachali culture interests you, start your research here because this museum will give you an overview of this culture and is among the best places to visit in Manali.
Distance from Manali: 2 km from Manali.
Entry Ticket: Rs.10
21 GulabaThis scenic village in Himachal Pradesh is named after Raja Gulab Singh who camped here when he was invading China. The major attraction of this place is snow that can be seen here all year. However, parts of this village turn green during summers which add a different sort of charm.
Gulaba can easily be put on the list of the most picturesque places in Himachal Pradesh. Since this region receives heavy snowfall, it has developed as a popular hub for those who lust after snow adventure sports.
Located in Pir Panjal Range at a height of 4300 m, Gulaba is definitely a popular one among Manali tourist places, of course owing to its beautiful, dreamy landscape and the options available for adventure enthusiasts here like skiing and paragliding.
Distance from Manali: 27 kms.
Best Time to Visit: April-June & October-January.
22 KothiLocated at the foothills of Rohtang Pass, Kothi is a small village with extraordinarily beautiful scenery that makes it easily one of the best places in Manali.
The picturesqueness of this village is made up of elements like its green meadows, the blue water of the Beas River that flows across it, and the white, snow-covered mountains standing tall beside it. Due to the exceptional beauty of this village, it has been featured in many Bollywood movies.
This village has also hosted several great poets and painters and inspired them to enhance their artistry. Kothi is also popular for its geothermal springs. It is an ideal location to come and relax at while admiring the image of God that he turned into reality in the form of Kothi.
Distance from Manali:12 km.
Best Time to Visit: April to June.
23 Naggar VillageThis is an ancient town situated on the left bank of Beas River at a height of 2047 m and is one of the best places to visit in Manali. This town has numerous interesting sites for tourists to explore. Naggar holds historical significance as it was the capital of Kullu for 1400 years.
The major tourist attractions in Naggar are Naggar Castle, Gowri Shankar temple, Nicholas Roerich art gallery & museum and Dagpo Shedrupling Monastery. This is an ideal place to explore the historical and cultural side of Manali. Naggar is also perfect for spending some time relaxing in the lap of nature.
Distance from Manali: 20 km
Best Time to Visit: October & November
Best Places to Visit near Manali
24 Rohtang PassThe postern to Lahaul and Spiti Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh, Rohtang Pass is one of the most exciting Manali tourist places. Located at a distance of 51km from the town of Manali, it falls on the Manali- Keylong Highway and is one of the highest and most spectacular passes in the region.
The pass acts as a natural divide between the valleys of Kullu and mountains of Lahaul and Spiti creating a beautiful amalgamation of Hindu and Buddhist cultures. The slope attracts people from all over the region to appreciate its beautiful views and fresh snow! However, be warned that to visit this pass one needs permission from the Indian Army that clears the snow in order for the vehicles to pass smoothly.
There are a number of adventure sports that can keep you interested such as skiing, skating, paragliding, snow scooter, and more. A little ahead of the Rohtang Pass is the Sonapani Glacier and the twin peaks of Gaypan, which are known for their sweeping views of the entire Kullu valley.
However, the pass does have a sinister history as the name itself translates to mean ‘The ground of Corpses’ referring to the number of people who have lost their lives making their way up this tricky but beautiful mountain range. So, be warned not to take risks and to listen to safety instruction or read up on them before you visit the pass.
Distance from Manali: 51 Km
How to get there: Follow the Manali to Keylong highway by bus or car
Best time to Visit: April to May
Attractions/Activities: Skiing, Ice-skating, Paragliding, Snow Biking
Type of destination: Adventure
25 ShimlaThis destination has not failed yet in retaining its colonial charm. As said ‘ the favorite child of Britishers' to escape the summer heat and therefore called the summer capital too often. The entire city is constructed in Scottish and Indo-English architecture which makes the tourists awestruck and appreciate the Englishmen.
The heritage and history are very much glorified in this locale through various museums and the famous ‘ridge', Scandal point.
Distance from Manali: 246 km from Manali town
Best time to visit: May to June
Top Things To Do in Shimla
26 KasolSitting quietly in the Parvati valley between the hill stations of Bhuntar and Manikaran, Kasol is an ideal getaway that provides stunning views of the Himalayan peaks. Easily reached by road from the town of Manali, it attracts visitors from the world over to appreciate its distinct, untouched beauty once they are done with the clamor of places to see in Manali.
The quiet surroundings, low population and a relatively moderate climate throughout the year, bring backpackers to Kasol year after year. The hippie vibe of the village is so strong that there are tiny settlements which welcome backpackers to set up camps here, any time of the year.
It is also the start point of various treks such as Sarpass, Pin Parvati and Khirganga. The pretty coniferous forests, cheerful, happy streams and a happy cultural vibe, all of them contribute to making Kasol a top draw for tourists all over the world!
Distance from Manali: 75kms.
Best time to visit: October to June
Attractions: Quiet and serene Valleys
Activities: Trekking, Nature Walks, Culture.
Where to stay: Best resorts in Kasol.
Top Things To Do in Kasol
27 The Great Himalayan National ParkThis Park spread over 452 sq. mi is located at a distance of 70 km from Manali town and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The altitude in this park ranges from as low as 1,800 m to as high as 5,800 m. It is home to some of the threatened fauna species and claims some of the most scenic natural settings in the Himalayas.
However, popular among Indian and foreign tourists, this region has been resolved to be left “Roadless” to avoid undue human interference, which is the reason why you can find nature in the unadulterated form here.
An ideal, quiet place for nature and adventure enthusiasts, this place laced with alpine meadows, riverine forests and snow-capped mountain peaks is definitely among the most beautiful places to see in Manali and this is also one of the best places to go camping in Manali.
Distance from Manali: 70 km
Best time to visit: March to June and then September to November
Also Check out the amazing experience of Rafting in Manali !
28 Pandoh DamAbout 6km from the town of Pandoh is the stunning sight of the Pandoh Dam which provides a sight for the sore eyes. This is one of the best places to visit in Manali if you are looking to spend time in a virgin, unexplored place. The dam is built over the Beas River and lies in the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh.
It is a part of the hydroelectric energy generation project of India. The dam is surrounded by tall pine trees and the verdant green hills of the Himalayas. Although swimming and water activities are banned in the catchment areas, you can still enjoy the greenery and scenic beauty around the dam.
The dam can be easily reached by road as a rough road leads right up to the dam. However, prior permission from authorities is required to visit the dam. The place is ideal for weekend treks, picnics, and a day outing. There is also a small island in the middle of the lake which is perfect for just relaxing with the sight of cool water all around you!
The dam is especially suited for the click-happy photo lovers out there who want to catch a sight of nature in all its glory. The sight of the blue and green water reservoir surely makes up for some great shots.
Distance from Manali: 88 Kms.
Timing: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Entry Fee: None
Photography Allowed: Yes
29 MalanaAn ancient village lying to the northeast of the Kullu valley, Malana has always intrigued visitors from all over the world to explore its unique culture and get to know more about its lifestyle and is a common destination on places to see in Malana and around. Isolated from the outside world in the truest sense of the word, it is a place that has retained ancient values and is one of the oldest democracies in the world.
Unperturbed by the evils of the modern day, the people of Malana are the ones who guard their cultural with a ferocity that has earned them quite a reputation. The village has its own parliamentary system and has been following its own governance structures independent of the rest of the country. Laying in the shadow of Deotibba and Chanderkhani peaks, it is surely a place that is abundant with natural beauty. You must take a tour of Chanderkhani pass trek to view the natural beauty from the heights.
The most interesting fact about the village is that it is an economy that rests almost exclusively on the production and selling of ‘Malana Cream’ a strain of cannabis that is unique and rumoured to be the purest ever! The gushes of the Malana River flow by the village, lending it an almost unearthly, ethereal beauty.
Distance from Manali: 527Kms.
How to get there: Follow the NH21 till Naggar and then take the Manikaran Road from Bhuntar. Most state transport buses do ply on this route but one has to trek for a couple of hours to actually reach the Malana village.
Best time to Visit: March to October.
Attractions/Activities: Trekking.
Type of destination: Trekking and Backpacking.
30 Manikaran80 km from Manali, located in the Parvati valley, this place is popular for its hot water springs and is frequented by visitors due to the famous Gurudwara Shri Manikaran Sahib that is located here. Besides, Manikaran also houses the famous temples of Lord Shiva and Lord Rama that attract pilgrims from different parts of the country.
This is a place of religious significance for Hindus and has a few tales associated with it. The serenity and the scenic beauty that Parvati River adds to this place makes this an important one among Manali tourist places.
There are also various beautiful places in the vicinity of Manikaran that are worth a visit. Moreover, easy trekking options available in this region make Manikaran a hotspot for adventure-lovers as well.
Distance from Manali: 80 km.
Best time to visit: April to June.
Information shared by Astrologer bhrigupandit.com
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