Manali, Himachal Pradesh – The Queen of the hill stations, this nature’s wonderland is one of the famous tourist destinations in India
Only 40 kms away from Kullu to the north, Manali is situated near the end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. Here the breathtakingly beautiful landscape will greet you. Manali is one of the important hill stations of the state of Himachal Pradesh. Situated at a height of 6,398 ft., it lies at the end of the Kullu Valley. It has a rich cultural heritage for being known as the home of Saptarshi. Manali has an extra appeal for the clean and beautiful River Beas that flows through the Himalayan valleys. This place derived its name from the word ‘Manavalaya’ which means the abode of Manu. It is an ideal place for the holidays and the a favorite resort for trekkers. Added to it the picturesque sight-seeing spots also add to the attractions.
Places to see in Manali: The prime attractions of Manali include:
Jagat Sukh
Located on the left bank on Beas on the road to Naggar, Jagat Sukh is famous for very old temples of Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri in Shikhara style and hence its name. These are worth a visit.
Arjun Gufa
This cave is situated near Prini village just 1km above the road where Arjun had meditated. This is good 1/2 a day excursion with charming view of the brilliant mountains.
Rahala water falls
This scintillating water falls is just 16 kms on the way to Rohtang pass. If one goes to Marhi on foot from Kothi from the old road, the sight of the falls is fascinating. It is a good picnic spot as well.
Solang Valley
This is a splendid valley resting between the Solang village and Beas Kund. Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. It has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute has installed a ski lift for training purpose. Located here is a hut and guest house of the Mountaineering and Allied sports Institute, Manali. Now a few hotels have also come up. The winter skiing festival is organised here. Training in skiing is imparted at this place.
Nehru Kund
Just 5 kms. on the National Highway to Leh, this natural spring of cold clear water is named after Pt. Jwahar Lal Nehru, who used to drink water from this spring during his stay in Manali. This spring is believed to originate from the Bhrigu lake situated high-up in the mountains.
Vashist
This small village Vashist is located on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang pass and is worth visiting. It is renowned for its hot springs and temples. Nearby is the pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is another Temple of Lord Ram here. Natural hot sulphur springs with two separate bathing tanks for gents and ladies are always full of tourists. Turkish style showers fitted baths have also been built nearby. Hot water from the nearby spring is provided for bathing.
Mountaineering Institute
Located 3 km on the left bank of river Beas towards Kullu, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports Manali, organises basic & advance training courses, in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired from here by booking in advance. There is also an interesting showroom here.
Tibetian Monastries
There are 3 newly constructed colourful monasteries, where visitors can buy carpets and other Tibetan handicrafts. Two are located in the town and one at Aleo on the left bank of Beas river.
Club House
2 kms from the town, the club house has indoor games facilities which has been located on the left bank of Manalsu Nallah. There are some picnic spots near it.
Manu Temple
3 kms. from the main bazar in old Manali lies the temple of MANU RISHI. It is believed that this is the only temple of Manu in India, who was the creator of human race on the earth.
Hadimba Temple
Manali has many attractions but the chief centre of interest, historically and archaeologically, is undoubtedly the DHOONGRI TEMPLE dedicated to goddess Hidimba, the wife of Bhim of the Mahabharat fame. It has four-tiered Pagoda shaped roof and the doorway is carved with legendary figures and symbols. This temple is located amidst wooden forest of deodar and is about 2.5 kms. from the tourist office. It is a pleasant experience to stroll in the temple complex which was built in 1533 A.D. A large festival is held here in May.
The great Indian National Park
The National Park with an area of 754 sq. km. is located in Kullu District and has the representative area of temperate and alpine forests of Himachal. It has some the virgin coniferous forests of the State. Vast areas of alpine pastures and glaciers cap this park. This area has many important wildlife species of Western Himalayas, like Musk deer, Brown bear, Goral, Thar, Leopard, Snow leopard, Bharal, Serow, Monal, Kalij, Koklas, Cheer, Tragopan, Snow cock etc. Trekking of Rakti-Sar, origin of Sainj river and camping in alpine pastures is unforgettable. Similar is the trekking route to Tirath the origin of Tirthan river. Visitors can contact Director, Great Himalayan National Park at Shamshi or Range Officer wildlife at Sainj or Range Officer Wild Life at Sai Ropa (Banjar) for assistance and guidance. Camping equipment and guides are provided by the Forests Department.
Manali Sanctuary
This sanctuary starts about 2 km from Manali town. A bridle path from Manali log huts/ Dhungri temple passes through dense Deodar, Kail, Horse chestnut, Walnut and Maple forests. Night stay in tents at Lambadug or Gallant thatch is an unforgettable experience. Alpine lush green pastures and glaciers beyond Galant thatch are a romantic attraction for the enthusiastic but enduring visitors. One may see Musk deer, Monal and Brown bear digging or ploughing the land and also pug marks with scent of Leopard or Snow leopard. Those who venture up to snows can see herds of Ibex in the glacier zone in summers.
Nearby attractions from Manali: Manali is also admired with a no. of nearby spots. These include:
Rohtang Pass
RohtangPass (3979 m) is 51kms. from Manali on highway to Keylong/Leh. It offers a panorama and spectacular mountain view. The pass is open from June to October each year although trekkers can cross it earlier. It is a gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi and Leh valley just as Zojila pass is a gatway to Ladakh. There are beautiful sights of glaciers, peaks and Chandra river flows down in the Lahaul valley. Slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypan. During summer(mid June to October) regular buses ply between Manali-Keylong/Darcha, Udaipur, Spiti and Leh. Rohtang Pass is best visitable between May/June to October/November.
Kullu
Kullu was probably the most ancient state next to Kashmir and Kangra. Kullu valley is gifted with every thing that you can imagine. The Marvelous landscapes, hospitable, peaceful & co-operative people having distinct life style & culture are some of the points that separate Kullu from rest of Himachal Pradesh. The place is located at a distance of 42 km from Manali.
Manikaran
It is located in the Parvati Valley between the rivers Beas and Parvati, northeast of Bhuntar in the Kullu District of Himachal Pradesh. 79 km from Manali this is an esteemed pilgrimage of both the Hindus and the Sikhs. The place is famous for the hot springs. The water is so hot that dal, rice & vegetables etc. can be cooked in it. Thousands of people take a holy dip in hot waters here. It has many temples and a gurudwara. There are temples dedicated to Lord Rama, Vishnu and Krishna. There is also a tempe of the Great Maratha Raja Shivaji. According to an old legend, Manikaran is connected with Lord Shiva and his divine consort, Parvati, who lost her ear rings here, which gave birth to hot waters on the bank of Parvati river.
Naggar
Situated on the left bank of river Beas at an altitude of 1851m, Naggar – an ancient town commands extensive views, especially to the North West of the valley. Naggar was the former capital of Kullu. It was founded by Raja Visudhpal and continued as a headquarters of the State until the capital was transferred to Sultanpur (Kullu) by Jagat Singh in 1460 A.D. Today this ancient and beautiful Palace is a popular tourist spot.
Kasol
Kasol is located at an altitude of 1640 meters above sea level, and is known for its enormous scenic beauty. With wide open clearings which slope down to wide expanses of clear white sands at the Parvati River.
Things to do in Manali: Take a stroll around to view the mesmerizing surrounding that will surely cast a magic spell on you. Enjoy the sight seeing trip and make a visit to the HidimbaTemple, which is the prime attraction of Manali. Sit on the stony banks of the frivolous and restless BeasRiver, forgetting about all tensions and worries completely loosing oneself to nature. The adventurous can organize trekking. Manali is the starting point for numerous multi-day treks. While in Manali, do make a visit to Manikaran and take a dip in the pristine hot spring which is a blessing of the God.
Best time to visit Manali: September to June is the best time to visit Manali.
How to go ?
By Air
Bhuntar, which is 50 km away from Manali, is the nearest airport. Bhuntar is connected to Delhi by air. Delhi is the major nearest airport, which is about 565 km away from Manali. Delhi airport is well connected with all major cities in India and many cities abroad.
By Train
Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station to Manali, which is nearly 50 km away. Joginder Nagar is a narrow gauge railway station, hence connectivity is not so good. Other closest railheads are at Chandigarh (310 km) and Ambala (300 km). Kalka train station is near Manali and distance is 279 km. This is connected to some major train stations like Howrah, Barmer, Bandra, Shimla.
By Road
Manali is well connected to other tourist destinations near by in Himachal by private deluxe bus services. State owned services are also available connecting Manali to other cities.
Where to stay ?
There are numerous hotels, resorts and lodges in Manali. Some options are:
Log Huts (HPTDC): +91-01902 -253 226
Hotel Beas : +91-01902 – 25228 Website: www.hotelbeasmanali.com
Hadimba Cottages (HPTDC): +91-01902- 252334
Shingar Regency: +91 01902 -252251-52 Website: www.shingarregency.com
Note : Phone numbers given above are according to the information available with us. If you find any contact number/s given above is/are incorrect or not in use, please let us know.
