Manali, one of India’s most well-known hill towns, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. With its captivating views of an abundance of natural beauty, this tourist town is the perfect spot to unwind.
You can never run out of things to do in Manali, from adventure sports like camping, trekking, skiing, and rafting to quiet relaxation.
Manali should be on your list of the top locations to visit in Himachal Pradesh if you’re planning a trip there. This is a list of all the main attractions and places to see in Manali.
WATER RAFTING IN THE RIVER BEAS
Whitewater rafting is a popular activity in Rishikesh, but Manali is also a great place to go. The Beas River, which has rapids of varying degrees of severity, is the most well-known river rafting location in Manali. One of the best lengths for rafting in India is the 20 km stretch between Manaki and Jhiri, which is close to Bajaura. Adventure seekers and thrill-seekers are in for a treat with the extremely cold water rushing in from Rohtang.
BEST TIMES OF YEAR: April to July & November to February; COST: Rs800–3000 per person (depending on the distance)
VISIT THE HADIMBA TEMPLE AND SEEK BLESSINGS
Locals commonly refer to the Hadimba temple, which is situated amidst the Dhungiri Van Vihar forests, as the Dhungri temple. Hindu pilgrims place a high value on the temple since it is devoted to Hidimba Devi, the wife of Bhima, one of the five brothers in the ancient Indian epic Mahabharata.
It was constructed in the 15th century in the vicinity of a grotto where the Goddess is said to have meditated. However, there is only a stone in the shrine that has the Goddess’ footprint as an idol. This site of devotion is charming due to its beautiful architecture, wooden doorways, mud walls, little paintings of the Goddess, and intriguing construction.
This location, which is surrounded by verdant trees and absolute tranquility, is absolutely worth visiting. Meditation by the temple is a peaceful and tranquil experience. Feel the spiritual vibrations there for a few moments.
Well-known temple in northern India Hadimba Temple, became well-known as a result of the movie “Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani.
VISITING HOURS: 08:00–18:00, AVERAGE TIME: ONE-TWO HOUR, FREE ENTRY.
PLAN A TRIP TO OLD MANALI
Old Manali has a beauty all its own, unlike Mall Road and the major Manali market, which are crowded with tourists. Shop till you drop into this charming village, a backpacker’s heaven, and don’t forget to sharpen your haggling techniques.
The best area to enjoy the lively nightlife of the city is Old Manali. To navigate the congested roadways, you can either walk or hire a two-wheeler.
To enjoy a full lunch at one of the many cafés after exploring the town, make sure to visit in the early evening just before the sun sets. A couple of the many historic temples in Manali, including the Hadimba and Manu temples, can be found here.
TIME ESTIMATED: 3 to 4 hours
A HEAVEN FOR ADVENTURE FREAKS
The top of your list of things to do in Manali should be adventure activities due to the huge meadows and hilly terrain. Tourists can participate in adventure activities like rafting, paragliding, and trekking in a variety of locations.
But Solang Valley is unquestionably among Manali’s top locations for adventure sports. You can engage in summertime activities like zorbing, rafting, and paragliding. Snowfall is not a safety threat when paragliding, and vision is best between March and June.
Depending on the duration and season, paragliding might cost anything from INR 500 to INR 1,000 to INR 2,000 to INR 5,000. Zorbing is another fun pastime available here. Zorbing generally costs 500 INR, though this can change according to the time of year. Zorbing lasts for 5 to 10 minutes, and the client is often led downhill by the instructor.
In Manali, the winter months provide a completely new selection of activities. The snow-covered Solang Valley is the perfect location for winter activities. The optimum time to enjoy adventure sports like snowboarding, quad biking, and skiing is from December through February.
THE BEST TIMES TO VISIT ARE IN THE SUMMER, FROM MARCH TO JUNE, AND IN THE WINTER, FROM NOVEMBER TO FEBRUARY.
SPIRITUAL HEALING AT THE MANALI GOMPA
The Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery is a well-known Buddhist temple that was constructed in 1960 by Tibetan refugees. It is also a popular tourist destination in Manali.
At the Gompa monastery, the monks promote nonviolence and peace while inviting visitors from all over to join them in meditation.
The yellow pagoda-style roof and paintings illustrating Buddhist doctrines are this monastery’s most remarkable features, along with the spiritual vibes and serene ambiance.
Including this on your list of things to do in Manali will help you feel peaceful and will also give you a taste of Tibetan and Buddhist culture.
Hours of Visitation: 6:00 to 20:00, Estimated Visitation Time: 1 to 2 Hours, Cost: Free
ROHTANG PASS IS A MUST-SEE SNOW POINT FOR ADRENALINE JUNKIES
The Rohtang pass, which receives thousands of visitors each year, ought to be on your list of the top Manali attractions. The trip as well as the magnificent grandeur that surrounds you make it worthwhile even though this pass is 52 kilometres from the major town.
Riding an ATV or a bike through the Rohtang pass will give you an adrenaline boost. Hindu culture predominates on one side of the pass, which divides the Kullu Valley from the Spiti Valley, and Buddhism on the other.
Skiing, sledding, snowboarding, and quad biking are all available at the snow point. So fasten your seatbelts and be ready to take in the Himalayan range’s breathtaking magnificence.
You will be in awe of the breathtaking scenery in the winter. Make reservations in advance with a local vendor and contact us to set up camping and hiking.
Open only from May to November; estimated visitation time is five to six hours; cost varies depending on the activity.
PLAN YOUR TRIP SHOPPING AT THE RIGHT LOCATIONS
The market on Mall Road is the ideal location for you if you enjoy shopping and are able to bargain for the best price on the goods you want. In Manali, there are yet more markets to discover, each with its unique allure.
The finest place to shop for books, clothing, shoes, small appliances, and other items is at Manu Market near Mall Road.
It is advised to shop in Himachal Emporium, Tibetan Market, and Bhuttico for winter goods like wool, linens, Kullu shawls, and even pashmina. Even if you only have a little time in Manali, choose to stroll around the quaint Old Manali, which is brimming with attractive markets and little shops where you may buy souvenirs to bring back home.
MANALI TRAVEL GUIDE
Manali has a steep topography, however getting around town is simple and convenient.
Motorcycle
Renting a bike would be one of the finest ways to see Manali and its beautiful mountains. For 1000 to 1500 INR, you may rent a Royal Enfield for a day.
Local taxis can carry you around, but you must agree on a fare before setting out on your journey. Taxi Manali does have these taxis. Especially when sightseeing, moving about is convenient. Never settle for the initial price that is given to you; instead, always try to haggle for a better deal.
Car
It is necessary to reserve a car in advance through your lodging or a car rental company.
Conclusion
Manali is one of the most well-liked tourist spots in the entire nation with so many exciting things to do. Therefore, whichever season you choose to visit, you will undoubtedly enjoy yourself in a beautiful vacation city.
