Places to Visit in Manali

Rohtang Pass is quite famous among Ladakh travelers but the unpredictable avalanche and severe climatic conditions make it scary some times. Nonetheless, it had made adventure seekers’ tour of Ladakh mind-blowing. A high mountain pass at an elevation of 3978 meters above the sea level, Rohtang is just 51 km from Manali. It is a part of the proud Pir Panjal Range of the mighty Himalayas and it is one of the Kullu famous places.

A quintessential location and a high altitude roadside bar is Zingzing situated on the road from Manali to Leh. Travelers come here to refresh with a sip of coffee or to have food to energize the body and soul to resume their journey to Leh. The multi-purpose shacks can be availed to stay overnight as well.

A space where you will love to roll a joint and smoke it up to escape from the extreme cold. Located at an altitude of 4270 meters above the sea level, the place is recognized to be the most suitable one to take rest. Peaceful ambience and the silence prevailing would leave everyone addicted to it.

The fame of ZIngzing Bar was enhanced because of Baralacha La pass also; the starting point of Baralacha La, one of the most loved passes in Ladakh is Zingzing Bar. Thus it cannot be missed during one’s journey to Leh. The temperature level at the bar will be crazily as low as -2* Celsius and as you ascend from a different temperature from the base, chances to feel altitude sickness and fluctuations in the body are quite higher.

Height: The highest roadside bar in the world is located at an elevation of 4270 meters above the sea level before the steep Baralacha La roads starts.

Location: From Manali, Zingzing Bar is situated at a distance of 193 kms and a drive of about 3 hours will take you to the bar and from Leh it is about 337 kms away.

Best time to visit: Zingzing Bar is found the most scenic during the months of December, January and February when the winter hits at its peak. For those who are searching for peace over a joint, Zingzing bar during winter would be the best option.

Darcha is a recurring name when you pack your bags for Padum trek as it is the base camp for the moderate yet adventurous trek in the Lahaul region. Darcha is a small village on the bank of Bhaga River in Lahaul in Spiti Lahaul District in Himachal Pradesh situated at an elevation of 3360 meters. In the northernmost part of Himachal Pradesh along the Leh-Manali Highway is Darcha, a secluded permanent settlement.

Many have described the village as a “lonely cluster of dry stone huts and dingy tent camps”. The total population of the village is 298 among which 152 are men and 146 are women. Travelers going to Leh from Manali take an overnight stay at Darchu. The river nearby causes nature to be soft and calm especially at night so that the travelers would find better sleep during their tiresome journey.

The popular Padum trek ends at Darcha and there are many stalls and shops on the street to just relax and have food. The village is surrounded by Naggar Tehsil, Spiti Tehsil, Bharmour Teshil. The nearby cities to the village are Keylong, Dharamshala, Mandi, and Chamba. There is a check-point set up by the police to check the passport of all passing people and vehicles.

Height: Sarchu is located at an elevation of 3360 meters above sea level.

Location: Darch is on the border of Himachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir. The nearest railway station is Shimla Railway station only that is 174 km away. Buses and jeeps would be available in plenty to reach Darcha.

Best time to go: Anytime is suitable to visit Darcha but during winter the cold climatic conditions may pose difficulty to stay there.

Tucked next to the Leh Manali highway and connecting Lahul to Ladakh is the striking and stupendous Baralacha Pass. A mecca for adrenaline junkies, the pass is a starting point for many famous treks including Suraj Tal lake trek and Chandratal trek. Because it is perched at a 16000 feet high plateau, Baralacha offers an exquisite view of three different mountain ranges - Pir Panjal, Zanskar and the Great Himalayas.

So, pick up your camera and go crazy capturing the indescribable natural beauty around. Whether you cover the pass on foot or go mountain biking – the outstanding journey will stay with you your entire life!

Location: Leh Manali highway.

Best time to visit:April to October.

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, 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 pas 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.

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 Café, Bob Dylan’s Café, Café m 1947 and Pizza Olive. All of these serve awesome world cuisines like Pasta, Burgers and mouthwatering Pizzas

Located only two kilometres from Manali, this wildlife sanctuary is a naturalistic paradise that spreads over 3,000 hectares. The terrain here is characterized by lush green forests and snow capped mountains. On a trip to this sanctuary, you are always inundated with the sights and sounds of colourful birds and exotic flora and fauna.

While deodar, fir, chestnut, walnut and robinia are the most commonly found vegetation in this sanctuary, you can also easily spot snow leopards, brown bears, musk deer and ibex herds in the picturesque vicinity of the sanctuary.

Addition to this, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is a paradise for the birdwatchers and the shutterbugs. Amongst the many rare and exotic species, a plenitude of tree creepers, kokla and kingfisher are the most commonly found species.

Also check: Must to do things in Manali

Often acknowledged as the heart of Manali, the Mall Road in Manali is the most attractive tourist destination for the Himachal travelers. Renowned for its street shopping adventure and bustled with heaps of activities, the Mall Road of Manali has got a lot of things to keep you busy for the day. Lined with multiple restaurants, cafes, and dhabas, this place is ideal for those who have got a flavor of bargaining skills deeply rooted in them.

Start your journey through the Mall Road by paying homage at the Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple. It has got the right blend of both architectural flavor and vibrant tones to capture with your DSLRs’.  The Sakyamuni idol is the main shrine here.

Next, this famous commercial center has got a lot of emporiums and shops lined up for you to buy some exquisite souvenirs. The Tibetan Style Handicrafts found here are simply astounding.

You can even the sweet smelling Tibetan-styled incense sticks and intriguing singing bowls at some of the shops here. There are some shops at the Mall Road selling Kullu and Kinnauri shawls in a wide array of flamboyant patterns and colors.

Some other local souvenirs to dig at the Mall Road are prayer wheels, Kullu Caps, Thangkas, Dorjes, Bamboo souvenirs, Buddhist paintings, keychains, nameplates, and turquoise and silver jewelry, etc.

Shawls, Tibetan jewelry, tweed jackets, and handicrafts are somethings you should never miss on while strolling here. Apart from these, the Mall Road in Manali features Thai Market, Dragon Shopping Complex, Hong Kong Market, New NAC Market, Shangri La Shopping Complex, and Snow Lion Underground Market.

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 provide 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!

Timing:

08:00 am – 07:00 pm (summer)

08:00 am – 05:00 pm (winter)

Entry Fee: 10 INR per Person

Photography Allowed: Yes

Nestled amidst the snow-laden hillocks of Manali, the Hidimba Devi Temple, also known as the Dhungri temple, is an ancient place of worship revered by the Hindus. The cave temple is dedicated to the Hindu demon-goddess Hidimbi. Hidimbi was the wife of Bhima, one of the five Pandava brothers who are at the forefront of the epic Mahabharata.  Conceived in 1553 CE by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, the Temple is built around an ancient cave inside which Hidimbi Devi is believed to have meditated. 

Surrounded by Dhungri Van Vihar, a lush cedar forest at the foot of the Himalayas, the structure is built on a massive rock piece jutting out of the ground. This protrusion was initially worshipped as the deity before the Temple was built. Reflecting the distinct temperament of its patron goddess, the design of the Hidimba Temple is different than any other temples in its vicinity. With its wooden doorways, ceramic-like walls and three conical roofs covered in timber, the architecture of the Temple tells unique stories about the origins of the place in the folklore. 

Hidimba Devi Temple holds very high religious and cultural significance in the Hindu community. This can be seen on special occasions like the days of Navratri when people form long queues outside the Temple for just one glance at the Goddess. Along with having great religious value, the Temple gives its visitors an entrance into the wondrous world of nature. Nestled among branching trees and fallen leaves, the Temple is surrounded by rabbits and yaks who find a natural home in the forest surrounding the Temple.

Located in the Old Manali region, you can reach this temple through the road that passes through the Manali Community Center. Dedicated to the Indian sage Manu, this temple is the only temple on this planet that is dedicated to this sage. Thus it makes to be one of the most sacred pilgrimages for the devotees of this saint.

Built with wood and stone, the temple offers exotic views of the Beas River and magnificent hills. In front of the temple, a huge cascade enhances the aesthetics of this resplendent temple. A visit to this sacred temple in an important part of the Manali tour packages.

A small village located a few kilometres from Manali, Gulaba is situated on the way to Rohtang Pass, on the Leh-Manali Highway. Named after Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir, the village is tucked in amidst picturesque snow-capped mountains and verdant green meadows, with the Beas River adding opulence and serenity to its beauty.

Known as a great snowy region, Gulaba is also famous amongst sports and adventure enthusiasts, who drive in large numbers to the village to partake in adventure activities. Some of the major activities one can enjoy here include skiing, trekking and hiking, as well as paragliding and snow-scooter riding.

The natural landscape of the village of Gulaba attracts a large number of tourists every year, who come here to soak in the beauty of the place. Furthermore, the views from here are nothing less than enchanting, guaranteed to make you feel peaceful here. A lot of the tourists who visit the Bhrigu Lake tend to stop by at Gulaba. It is here in the meadows of Gulaba, where you can even set up camps and enjoy the stunning sunset while stargazing at the glittery night sky.

Additionally, it is here at Gulaba where some scenes of the famous Bollywood movie, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, were shot. Subsequently, the village has become a top spot for all types of travellers, from picnickers and naturalists, to those who love adventure. Yet, Gulaba remains one of the few places in Himachal Pradesh where you can simply escape from your busy and hectic lifestyle and experience the serenity and tranquillity.

The lands that hold the strongest relics of adventure are often not spoken about, and that is why you need to head to the mysterious hills of Malana for an adventure you can never forget! Malana is an ancient village that lies to the north – east of the Kullu Valley and this solitary village is located at an altitiude of 9,938ft above sea level. The village of Malana is connected to Kullu by three mountain passes. Many trekkers have traversed these mountains in search of adventure and discovered wonders that they have brought back home with them.  So grab your gear and head to this oldest democracy in the world and trek up the famous and intimidating Chanderkhani Pass and Rashol Pass.

Distance from Delhi: 543km

Best time to visit: Throughout the year

Attractions: Chandrakhani Pass, Kais wildlife sanctuary, Parvati Valley, Shiv Mandir, Hot Springs

Activities: Trekking, Sightseeing and Hiking 

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 as 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 waterfall 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.

Timing:  Always

Entry Fee: None

Photography Allowed:Yes

Built in 1960, this is amongst the important spiritual pilgrimage centers for Buddhists. People from all over the world come here to see the giant statue of Lord Buddha and embrace the sea of spirituality that pervades here as part of their Manali tour packages.

Importantly, this place functions as a gathering place for Buddhists from neighbouring regions such as Lahaul, Spiti, Ladakh and Nepal. The monastery is renowned for its unique roof built in the Pagoda style. Inside the monastery, there are splendid paintings that portray the life and teachings of Lord Buddha.

This four storey wooden temple is located in the middle of the Van Vihar forest in Kulu Manali. Being one of the oldest temples in this region, it is a prime tourist attraction and an important part of the Manali tour packages. Built in 1553, it is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, the wife of Bheema, the Pandava brother.

There is also a sacred rock in the temple premises that is believed to possess mystical powers of healing. The Hadimba Temple’s unique architectural style that combines elements of Buddhist temple architecture is palpable.

Cascading 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 stop over 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.

Timing: The waterfalls are best visited in the months of March and November

Entry Fee: None

Photography Allowed: Yes

The region of Kullu Manali has a large Tibetan population and their monasteries are the testimony to their spiritual beliefs and traditions. These monasteries also houses ancient artefacts, scriptures and murals related to the history and development of Tibetan people in Manali.

Some of the well-known monasteries in this picturesque hill station includes Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa, and a visit to them is amongst the best things to do in Manali. The former is run by the locals based on donations and it also has a Tibetan handicraft centre, from where the visitors can get souvenirs and other traditional gifts. The latter has a modern architecture and is situated amongst a sprawling sunflower garden.

Located in the Parvati valley between the hill stations of Bhuntar and Manikaran, Kasol is an idyllic valley rich with stunning views of the Himalayan peaks Kasol is one of the most popular weekend getaways from Delhi, located at a distance of about 528km from the capital. 

The untouched beauty, quiet surroundings, low population and a relatively moderate climate throughout the year, attracts backpackers to Kasol year after year. It is also the start point of various treks such as Sar pass, Pin Parvati and Khirganga. The Youth Hostels of India have a very strong presence here and are usually the ones organizing the treks in and around Kasol.

Distance from Delhi: 528km

Best time to visit: October to June

Attractions: Quiet and serene Valleys

Activities: Trekking, Nature Walks, Culture

Each time around the dawn of New Year, Himachal Pradesh gets ready to welcome the oncoming year with aplomb and festivities and makes up for one of the most exciting Manali tourist places.  The festival is called Himachal Winter Carnival and it is surely one of the most unique and exciting cultural experiences.

The tradition of celebrating the festival goes way back to 1977, and over the passing years the festival has assumed a bigger and more glorious role and look. The Himachal Winter Carnival, that once promoted the culture of the hills with folk dances and music; has now become varied as other activities like Bazaar, Street plays, band competitions and food festivals have been added. 

Usually celebrated on the mall road, which is one of the busiest areas of Manali, it is surely a festival that cannot be missed. You will get to see colourful dancers, upbeat music of the hills, yummy food and most of all get to know what the pulse of the people of Manali really is!

Ideal dates to travel: Jan 02 - Jan 06, 2016            

Attractions: Cultural extravaganza           

Activities:

-Folk Dances

-Music

-Bazaars

One of the oldest and best known cafes in Old Manali, Café 1947 was its first music café. 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 world, Indian and European cuisine. Get your favorite book and relish the stories with some ginger or lemon tea in your hands. The café also hosts quite a few live gigs at regular intervals.

Timing:

 Wednesday - 7 PM - 12 AM

Thursday - Tuesday 11 AM - 12 AM

Speciality:

-Burger of Bodom

-Vegeta

-Dimebag (the burgers)

-UFO

-Slayer (the pizzas)

Built in 1460 AD, the Naggar Castle has a unique architecture that comprises of stones and wood. About a century ago, this castle of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu was converted into a rest house, and presently it is being taken care by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation.

In its rechristened avatar, the castle is now The Castle Heritage Hotel. Naggar Castle came into the limelight after a bollywood movie was shot here. A grand Tibetan carnival dance was shot here and hence this castle grew in touristic prominence.

The Beas river which is also known as Vipasha in Sanskrit, is one of the most important and holy rivers that flows through the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. Carrying with it years of history, legends and folklore, it is one of the longest rivers in the northern provinces of India flowing for a total of 470km in its entire course and length.  

At Manali, the river passes through dense, evergreen forests of pine, deodar and birch as well snowy mountains of the lower Himalayas. It is a water body that flows all year round and provides drinking and usable water to residents of Kullu and Manali. It attracts tourists, adventurists and pilgrims from all over the world to its awe inspiring flows and provides a stunning backdrop for all your Himalayan adventures including the thrill of Rafting

Activities:

-Rafting

-Biking

-Skiing at Rohtang Pass

-Cycling

-Trekking

Are you in Kullu for your honeymoon? Then the Pandoh dam is a must-visit place. Located on the River Beas in the Mandi district, the Pandoh dam is an appealing destination to all. This place holds a prominent position, being easily accessible from both Kullu and Manali. This quaint spot also proffers boating facilities. 

Imagine, sailing in the midst of the Mother Nature with your better half. This place has the power to enhance the romance in your life in every way. Escape from your hectic schedule and be in awe of God’s stunning creations.

Also check: Camping in the immaculate panorama of Manali

Located at about 17km from Manali, the beautiful Rahala Falls is also amongst the famous tourist spots in Manali. Situated in a region that leads to the Rohtang Pass, the surroundings to this cascade serves as a perfect habitat for picnic lovers.

Trekking routes in this region are a pure delight to the trekkers and also takes them through lush and forests, scenic landscapes and many more. These trails are also popular amongst the nature photographers. Be it the aromatic air or dense silver birch trees, a visit to this waterfall offers you with pristine views and keeps you immersed in the lap of the nature.

Located towards Naggar and 4km from Manali, this is a cave where once Arjun, the Pandava king meditated. Situated near the Prisni village, visiting the Arjun Gufa is a good excursion for about a day. Surrounding this cave, are resplendent natural settings including snow capped mountains and streams.

More than the mythological aspect of this cave, it is the visual appeal of these rocky structures that endear you during your Manali trip. Take a stroll around this cave and embrace the richness of its green ambience; enjoy the exotic views from this region and put colours to your imaginations by festing your eyes on scenic views.

Vashist is located near the Beas River and a short distance from the Rohtang Pass. Although a quaint village, this place is full of tourists. The highlight attractions here are the hot water springs and two temples. One temple is dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is also a Lord Ram temple here.

Of things to do in Manali, you can have a dip in the hot water springs. Devotees believe that this water possesses healing powers. These natural hot sulphur springs are divided into two tanks. One tank is for men and the other for ladies. Interestingly, shower fitted baths have also been erected close by.

Also known as the ‘Pool of Gods’, Bhrigu Lake is a majestic an 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 ways 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 the Kullu-Naggar-Manali Road through the village of Gulaba

Best time to Visit: May to June 

Attractions/Activities: Trekking

Type of destination:  Trekking and religious

Located 13 kilometers from Manali, Solang Valley is nestled away between the Beas Kund and Solang Village. The valley is famous among tourists for its stunning views of snow-capped mountains and magnificent glaciers that attract ski fanatics from all over the world.

The beauty of Solang Valley is unparalleled and many people visit the valley every year just to enjoy its pristine, snow-white magnificence. Especially in winter, when the entire place is covered by fluffy, milky white snow, the whole place appears as if it is straight out of a movie. groves of emerald green trees dotting the pure white landscape, clear blue skies, and magnificent mountains as far as the eye can see – Solang is truly at its most splendorous in winters.

Besides admiring its unmissable picturesque landscapes, people also visit Solang Valley to enjoy various winter sports. Adventure enthusiasts love skiing in the pure, driven snow here, and when the winters ease off a little, you can also try zorbing and paragliding.

The views of the place from the open sky as you paraglide through the valley are truly indescribable and need to be witnessed to be believed. If you really want to get a full dose of the pristine beauty of this valley, try camping here amidst its lush green meadows.

You can also try other adventure sports like quad biking and snowmobiling in Solang Valley. For the true thrill chasers, there is Solang Ropeway – a state of the art cabin to enjoy the sweeping views of the valley. However, if you are traveling with family, there are several places you can check out too.

The Great Himalayan National Park, Kothi, and Rohtang Pass make for very interesting sightseeing places. Whether you go to Solang Valley with friends or family, there is a lot to explore and enjoy here.