12 Best Places To Visit In Manali, Himachal Pradesh:
History and Significance:
Manali, himachal pradesh derives its name from “Manu-Aalaya”, which means “the abode of Manu”. The region is steeped in legends, making it both culturally and spiritually significant. One of the top tourist destinations in India, Manali has retained its old-world charm and culture.
1. Old Manali:
Old Manali town is situated about 3 km away from the main Manali town and is a charming and serene place for tourists to visit. With its quaint villages and peaceful atmosphere, Old Manali town is better than New Manali. The forests and apple orchards are located close to the town, making it a wonderful sight. The bridge over the high-flowing Manaslu River that separates Old Manali and Main Manali is an iconic image in itself. Some of the popular cafes to visit in Manali are 1947, Born Free, Evergreen, and Sunshine.
2. Solang Valley:
Location: Burwa, Manali
Distance from Manali: 14 km (approx.)
A small valley located at around 8400 ft above sea level, Solang Nala is just a short drive from Manali. It is a paradise for adventure and sports lovers and while staying here, you can try out your skills on a pair of skis or go for a snowmobile exploration. When the weather is warm, people come here for paragliding and snowmobile exploration. You can also use a car to enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Winters are a good time to visit if you are looking for snow-based activities, while summers are ideal for different activities.
3. Bhrigu Lake:
Location: Kullu District, Manali Himachal Pradesh
Distance from Manali: 19 km (approx)
One of the best places to trek around Manali is Bhrigu Lake. If you are on a Manali trek then this lake is situated at an altitude of 4000 meters above sea level. From this place, you can see the spectacular views of the Pir Panjal range and the picturesque scenery. Stop for a moment near Bhrigu Lake and experience the peaceful atmosphere.
4. Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave):
Location: Nazik of Preeni Village, Manali
Distance from Manali: 5km Lagnahag
Arjun Cave is an ancient cave in the Himalayas, located in Preeni Village, about 5 km from Manali. It is a quiet and mysterious cave full of stories and surrounded by the beauty of the Himalayas. This cave is the place where Arjuna, one of the Pandavas of the epic Mahabharata, meditated to seek the blessings of Lord Shiva. Hence the name of this place can be related to Arjun Cave, and it also becomes a revered place.
Arjun Cave Yatra is also conducted which starts from Manali and proceeds towards Preeni Village, which can be reached by car or bike. The route passes through terraced fields, pine forests, and apple orchards, along the way you can also enjoy the spectacular views of the snow-clad mountains. There is dim light inside the cave so you can use a lamp or torch.
It is believed that Arjuna meditated here to please Lord Shiva and obtain the powerful divine weapon Pashupata. Preeni village is an attraction in itself with traditional wooden houses and local people who welcome you warmly. You can enjoy Himachali cuisine there and have a picnic and relax on the banks of the Beas River nearby. A little away from the cave is the Jogini Falls surrounded by lush green trees. To reach Arjun Cave, one can take a taxi from Manali and drive to Preeni village and a small trek from the village leads to the cave which can be walked.
5. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple:
Location: Near Manali Mall Road, Manali
Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
Entry Fee: No entry fee; photography is charged at ₹ 20
Also known as the Tibetan Monastery, the Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple is situated in the Himalayas. It is one of the most peaceful and culturally significant temples. It is not only a place of worship but also a repository of Buddhist philosophy, culture, and art. Built in ancient Tibetan style, this temple is a symbol of peace and spiritual knowledge, which attracts tourists, devotees, and meditation enthusiasts from all over the world.
The main features of the Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple are architecture, a giant Buddha statue, prayer wheels, a peaceful atmosphere, and Tibetan art and culture. One can experience meditation and prayer in the temple, learn about Buddhism, and do photography. One can buy handicrafts, woolen clothes, souvenirs, and jewelry in the Tibetan market located near the temple.
One can enjoy Tibetan cuisine like momos and Thukpa in the eateries around this temple. The Best time to visit the Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple Morning is the ideal time for a peaceful visit and meditation. The temple is beautifully decorated during Tibetan festivals like Losar (Tibetan New Year).
6. Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple:
Location: Vashishtha Village, Manali Himachal Pradesh
Timing: 7:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day
Vashishtha Hot Water Springs and Temple is located 6 km from Manali and is a unique amalgamation of spiritual significance and ancient wonder. The site attracts tourists, pilgrims, and health seekers alike. The hot water springs are believed to have medicinal properties.
Named after Sage Vasishtha, one of the seven sages revered in Hindu mythology, the temple dates back over 4000 years and features Himalayan architecture made of wood and stone. There is also a temple dedicated to Lord Rama next to the temple.
The hot water springs are special because the temperature of the water is between 43°C and 50°C. One can take a comfortable bath in this water. There are separate bathing areas for men and women. Many people believe that bathing in this hot water cures all skin diseases.
7. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art:
Located a short distance from the famous Hadimba Devi temple in Manali, the Himachal Culture and Folk Art Museum is a wonderful treasure of history, tradition, and craftsmanship. This museum was started in 1998. Located in the Himalayas, this museum gives a glimpse of the cultural heritage, which displays the rural life, and the architectural and artistic talent of the state. This museum preserves and presents artifacts, models, and objects, which depict the daily life and festivals of the people of different regions of the state.
The museum has miniature replicas of houses, temples, and forts. The model of Hadimba Devi temple is a special attraction. The museum provides household items, agricultural implements, and the simplicity of life in Himachal. The museum provides ancient Himachali costumes, jewelry, masks, statues, musical instruments, and historical weapons and tools. The best time to visit the museum is during the summer and autumn months when the weather is pleasant.
8. Beas River:
The Beas River is not just the river that flows through the Kullu valley, it is also the symbol of life, beauty, and adventure in Himachal Pradesh. Originating from the glacier-fed lake Beas Kund at Rohtang Pass, the Beas River flows through Punjab in Himachal Pradesh to join the Satluj River. The river is a tourist attraction that offers a blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and adventure activities.
The river is named after the sage Vyasa, who is credited with composing the Mahabharata. It is believed that Vyasa first meditated on the banks of the river, which was earlier called “Vipasha”, meaning “freedom from bondage”.
The Beas served as a turning point when Alexander’s army was forced to retreat from the eastern border in 326 BC from invading India due to his reluctance to cross the river. This river flows through beautiful scenery, with dense forests, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful terraced fields on its banks.
Many beautiful cities like Kullu, Manali, and Mandi are situated on the banks of this river, which makes the nature of Himachal even more beautiful. Beas River is famous for rafting.
Camping on the banks of the river gives an opportunity to connect with nature. Boating in the Beas River can be a great pleasure. Solang Valley is located near Manali, where one can enjoy paragliding, zorbing, and skiing along with beautiful views of the Beas River. Pandoh Dam is located in Mandi, from where there is a beautiful view of the river and a wonderful marvel of engineering. Naggar Castle, a historical palace built on the banks of the river, provides amazing views of the heritage of Himachal.
9. Great Himalayan National Park:
Distance from Manali: 49 km (approx)
Timing: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm; Every day
Entry fee: ₹ 50 for Indians; ₹ 200 for foreigners
The Great Himalayan National Park (GHNP) is a treasure trove of biodiversity and pristine nature located in Kullu, Himachal Pradesh. Spread over an area of 754.4 sq km, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the major national parks in India.
Known for its diverse flora and fauna, high peaks, grasslands, and streams, GHNP is a must-see destination for trekkers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Key Features of Great Himachal National Park 1. Rich biodiversity It is home to over 375 species of animals. It is home to species such as snow leopard, Himalayan bear, musk deer, and western tragopan. The park has dense forests of deodar, oak pine, alpine meadows, and medicinal plants. It also has wildflowers such as blue poppies and orchids.
Many rivers like Tirthan, Sainj, Jeevnal, and Parvati combine to enhance the beauty of this park. Trekking, wildlife watching, camping, photography, and cultural exploration are some of the activities one can do in Great Himalayan National Park.
If you visit Great Himachal National Park once, you will get to see new things and learn something new.
10. Naggar Castle:
Naggar Castle is a stunning architectural marvel located in the hills of Kullu Valley, showcasing the rich culture and history of the place. The palace was established in Kullu by Raja Siddh Singh in the 16th century. Today, the palace stands as a heritage hotel managed by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) and is a popular tourist destination.
Naggar Castle, built in 1460 AD, is a wonderful example of great Himachali architecture. The palace served as the Kullu King’s seat. The palace is a mixture of stone, wood and wood-kuni. The British took over the palace in the 20th century and later expanded it into a rest house.
The palace is built using wood-kuni, wood, and stone. Its rugged design provides strength against the weather. Intricate carvings on the wooden beams and doors reflect the craftsmanship of that period.
A small temple dedicated to Lord Krishna is inside the palace, which reflects the Himachali religious architecture. At Naggar Castle, one can explore the architecture, enjoy beautiful views, experience the heritage hotel, the influence of Russian artist Nicholas Roerich, photography and filming, and enjoy the cafe and dining.
The fascinating Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery is located about 1 km away from the palace, A 12th-century gem temple of Lord Shiva is situated near the palace, The sacred stone brought from the Shankaracharya temple of Kashmir is kept in a Jagatipatta temple located within the palace.
11. Gauri Shankar Temple:
The Gauri Shankar Temple, located near Naggar Castle, is dedicated to Lord Shiva in the beautiful Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. It is a revered site. Dating back to the 12th century, the temple is a unique example of the Shikhara style. The temple is full of carvings and a serene atmosphere. Situated amidst lush greenery, the Gauri Shankar Temple is a site of historical and architectural significance.
One of the oldest temples in the region, the Gauri Shankar Temple dates back to the reign of the Kullu kings. The temple is a symbol of devotion and divine union of Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. The temple is well preserved despite being from ancient times. The temple follows the Shikhara style design, a style common in North India. The temple houses a beautiful Shivlinga of Lord Shiva. During the Shravan and Mahashivratri festivals, the Gauri Shankar Temple becomes the focal point of religious activity.
12. Bijli Mahadev Temple:
Situated on a hillock in the Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh, the Bijli Mahadev Temple is one of the most revered and attractive temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is believed that when a lightning strike broke the Shivling inside the temple, the priests re-established the Shivling using butter and sattu (a mixture of roasted gram flour and barley). Hence, the name Bijli Mahadev Temple was given to the temple. According to legend, Bijli Mahadev took the onus of lightning strikes on himself to protect the people of Kullu, thus making the people’s faith divine.
The temple is built in the Kath-Kuni style, using wood and stone which is known for its earthquake resistance. According to folklore, it was Bijli Mahadev Temple where Lord Shiva used his trident to absorb lightning strikes and saved the region from destruction. Legend says that this is the place where Lord Shiva defeated the demon Jalandhar and scattered his ashes in the same valley.
how to reach:
Manali, a popular hill station nestled in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, is well connected by road, air, and nearby railway stations. Here is a detailed guide to reach this beautiful place:
Manali, a popular hill station nestled in the Himalayas of Himachal Pradesh, is well connected by road, air, and railway stations. Here is a detailed guide to reach this beautiful place:
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By Road:
Manali is well accessible by road and the journey is filled with beautiful views of mountains, lush green valleys, and rivers. From Delhi (570 km) it takes 12-14 hours, from Chandigarh (310 km) it takes 8-9 hours, from Shimla (248 km) it takes 7-8 hours. Self-driving can be done by driving through the NH3 (Delhi-Manali Highway) route.
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By Air:
Bhuntar Airport (also known as Kullu-Manali Airport) is located 50 km from Manali. Direct flights connect Bhuntar to Delhi and Chandigarh. Taxis and buses are available from Bhuntar, it takes around 1.5-2 hours to reach Manali.
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By Train:
Manali does not have a direct railway station. You can travel to nearby stations and proceed by road. There is a narrow-gauge station at Joginder Nagar, 145 km (approx.) away.
Best Time to Visit:
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Summer Season (March to June):
Weather: Temperatures range between 10°C to 25°C,
Solang Valley: Perfect for paragliding, zorbing and quad biking.
Bhrigu Lake Trek: An exciting trekking experience amidst lush green meadows.
Flowering apple orchards and clear skies add to the scenic charm.
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Monsoon Season (July to September):
Weather: Temperatures range between 10°C to 20°C, but the region receives moderate to heavy rainfall.
Manali turns into a lush green paradise with mist-clad mountains.
Ideal for those looking for a calmer, less crowded experience.
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Winter Season (December to February):
Weather: Temperatures drop between -1°C to 10°C and snowfall is frequent.
Snowfall: Experience the magical snowy landscapes of Manali.
Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass: Popular for skiing, snowboarding and sledding.
Christmas and New Year Celebrations: Enjoy the festivities with bonfires and parties.
Travel Tips for Visiting Manali, Himachal Pradesh:
Plan according to the weather like carrying breathable clothes in summer and jackets to avoid cold. Carry a raincoat and waterproof shoes in monsoons. Carry thick woolen clothes and some winter wear in winter book tickets well in advance during peak tourist seasons (summer and winter).
FAQS:
Top Tourist Destinations in Himachal Pradesh?
Manali, Shimla, Dharamshala, Spiti Valley, Kullu, Dalhousie, Kasol, Chamba, Bir-Billing.
Which is the best month to visit Manali?
For most travelers, March to June is considered the best time due to the comfortable climate and access to all the attractions.
Why is Manali so famous?
Manali is famous for its natural beauty, adventure activities, and cultural significance. Surrounded by beautiful scenery like snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, and the Beas River, Manali is a popular tourist destination. Adventure activities like paragliding, trekking, skiing, river rafting, and zorbing add to the beauty of Manali. Ancient temples like Hidimba Temple, Vasisht Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, and Bijli Mahadev Temple represent the cultural heritage of Manali. Manali is a wonderful destination for honeymooners and romantic getaways.
Which month is the snowfall in Manali?
Snowfall in Manali usually occurs during the winter months, from late November to February. Heavy snowfall can be experienced in December and January. For early snowfall, higher peaks like Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley start receiving snowfall in late October. If you want to experience full snowfall, plan your trip between December and January.
Which language is spoken in Manali?
Hindi, Pahari, and English are the languages spoken in Manali. Tourists in Manali can easily communicate using Hindi and English.
Is Manali safe to visit now?
Manali is a safe destination for tourists. But it can be even more beautiful and safe if the current weather, road, health, and safety are taken care of.
Which is the coldest month in Manali?
January is the coldest month in Manali. In which the temperature goes below freezing.
Which month is not good to visit Manali?
July and August are not ideal months to visit Manali due to heavy monsoon rains. Landslides are possible during this time which may hamper your travel.