14 Most Amazing Places To Visit In Manali

Widely popular and loaded with tourists, Manali is one of the most travelled tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh. Manali is just 534 KMS away from Delhi, a 14-hour bus journey will take you to the city surrounded by lofty peaks covered with snow. The best part about Manali what we feel is that one can enjoy the place in any season. If you are an avid snow lover and want to experience snowfall, visit in winter. Those, who are living in plains and finding escapism from scorching summers can go in summers and enjoy the cool breeze from the mountains and moderate snow of Rohtang pass.

Whether you are a mountain lover or not, you just cannot hate Manali at all. Being a popular tourist destination and crowded all seasons, still this place has the charm to attract anyone again and again. Here is a list of a few places to visit in Manali.

14 Manali Tourist Places You Cannot Miss

There are lots of places to visit in Manali. Whether you are coming in Summers or Winters, this place will never miss a chance to mesmerize you with its dazzling beauty. However, there are some of the best tourist places in Manali one should never miss while spending time here.

Hadimba Temple

Manali Hidimba Temple

When one discusses Manali, the Hadimba temple is the first thing that comes to mind for sure. Whether you are religious or not, this place has a lot to offer to every visitor. The temple is nestled in the middle of pine trees and is believed to be the place where the goddess Hidimba from the time of Mahabharata meditated. Going back to the Mahabharata age, Hidimba Devi was from the Rakshas clan. Although born in a Rakshas clan, she was unlike her brother Hidimba, who was completely evil. Bhim, one of the five Pandavas, defeated Hidimba in a fierce battle and later Hidimba and Bhim married each other. 

Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553, built the temple for the devotees of Devi Hadimba. It is a four-story temple surrounded by dense forest. The forest is so dense that you will find a scarce amount of sunlight in it. The temple certainly creates a mystical aura and enchants the visitors towards it. The temple has sacrificial remains of the animals at its wall and doors that enforce the thought of sacrifices of animals that were prevalent in ancient times. 

Solang valley

Solang Valley Manali

One of the main attractions of Manali is Solang Valley which is also called Snow valley at times. It is an ideal spot for tourists. Solang Valley is famous for hosting a list of winter adventure sports such as skiing, trekking, paragliding and mountaineering. Solan Valley is a treat to the eyes of all the tourists who come to Manali to enjoy snow and glaciers. The valley is settled between Solang village and Beas Kund, and also one can have a look of dazzling glaciers and snow-capped mountains from the valley.

Another point of attraction of Solang Valley is Anjani Mahadev temple, before heading back to your hotel, visit this temple and enjoy the tranquility of the place. Every year, out of thin air, a Shivling made up of snow appears here just like the one in Amarnath. Now you understood why we said earlier that this place would be a treat for your eyes. 

Rohtang La

Rohatnag la Manali

Rohtang La or widely known as Rohtang pass is 51 Km away from Manali. The pass acts as a route or gateway between Kullu valley and Lahaul – Spiti valleys. Rohtang La should get first place in your itinerary. The panoramic view of the Rohtang pass will leave you awestruck indeed. It has unparalleled beauty and this makes it a vital place to visit on the Manali trip. The best time to visit this place is between May to November. In winter snowfall, this place is not accessible for tourists. Rohtang La’s unprecedented beauty has lured Bollywood as well. Movies like Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani and Jab We Met have shot various scenes in Rohtang pass. Thus, one can imagine the magnificence of this place. So, if you are ready to admire the beauty of this place and want to experience the chilling breeze of Rohtang Pass, do visit this place on your Manali trip.

Beas Kund Trek

Beast Kund trek

Beas Kund trek is a perfect place for those who love trekking. For most people, Manali is a tourist destination having some selective places to visit. However, Beas Kund Trek is the least traveled yet thrilling and beautiful trek. It is about 17 km away from the main city. Pir Pinjal mountain range view would indeed be a feast for your eyes that you can experience from Beas Kund Trek. The breathtaking view of Dhundi and Bakharthach along with the gleaming lake make this place worthy of all the efforts you put into hiking. So, pack your bag and be ready for a Beas Kund trek.

Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran

Manikaran

One of the most acclaimed pilgrimage points near Manali is Manikaran Gurudwara, in Kullu. Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran has nestled on the bank of river Parvati. It is believed that Guru Nanak Dev Ji meditated at this place. The sanctity and sacredness of this sanctum fascinate tourists in an unparalleled number. 

The place is having precedented significance for Hindus as well. There are three hot water springs that are considered sacred bathing ghats. One can be located in the Gurudwara and the other two in the vicinity of the Manikaran Gurudwara. The creation of these hot water springs itself contains a mystical aura. As per the mythology, Once Goddess Parvati lost her precious stones (Mani). Lord Shiva asked her servants to find those stones. However, their efforts went futile. Upon learning about their futile efforts, Lord Shiva got angry and opened his third eye. In order to pacify Lord Shiva and protect the Earth from his rage, Sheshnag hissed and vented the hot water springs. The water was so hot that it spread in the nearby area and formed the Mani almost similar to those lost by Goddess Parvati. Since then, this place holds a tremendous amount of significance for Hindus as well. Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran is one of the main attractions of tourists who visit Manali.

Gulaba

A small yet beautiful village, Gulaba is a gift of nature to Himachal Pradesh. It is approximately at a distance of 27 Kms from Manali and 25 Kms away from Rohtang Pass. Gulaba is a picturesque village in the lap of Milk-white mountains, Beas River, and lush green meadows. This all makes this village an enthralling one. The name of the village was after the Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir. 

Gulaba is not just famous for its scenic beauty but also for adventure sports. A large number of tourists come here to enjoy various adventure activities such as Paragliding, trekking, Skiing, Snow Mobile riding, and hiking. Therefore, if you are seeking tranquillity and want to enjoy yourself alongside, then Gulaba has everything you wished for.

Jogini falls

Jogini Falls
Source: Pinterest

The precipitous falls of the Jogini falls are a short and difficult walk away from the main city of Manali. The path to the waterfall is panoramic and offers a glimpse of the Beas River and the snow-capped peaks of Rohtang. In addition to the serene setting, Jogini is also an important pilgrimage site and you can visit many ancient shrines around the pool at the bottom.  An early departure is recommended so that you can spend more time in this picturesque natural site, which is one of the best places to visit in Manali for excursions and picnics.

Temple of Manu

Source: Pinterest

The Manu temple is dedicated to an old sage who bears his name. The pagoda-style architecture of the sanctuary stands out among the deep valleys and mountain peaks that form a background worthy of a postcard. You will have to walk a little to get to the temple. But the view from above and the resulting spiritual vibrations are worth all your efforts.

The Manali Gompa

Source: Dreamstime

The ornate design and quintessential Tibetan architecture make Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, better known as Manali Gompa, one of the best sites in Manali. Built by Tibetan refugees in the 1960s, this monastery allows you to enjoy a peaceful environment and an unparalleled spiritual atmosphere. Some of the highlights of Manali Gompa include exquisite murals depicting important Buddhist events with bright colors and roofs built in the style of the pagoda. The stalls in the complex are a good place to buy Tibetan souvenirs and handicrafts.

Lake of Bhrigu

Source: Pinterest

Take a moment and think about the perfect alpine meadows for postcards and evergreen forests near a clear body of water at high altitude. Well, you have just imagined Lake Bhrigu, one of the best trekking destinations in Manali. Small acclimatization is necessary if you make an excursion because the lake is over 4000 meters above sea level. The landscape and panoramic views of the Pir Panjal mountain range attract most visitors to this place.

Nehru Kund, Manali

Source: Pinterest

Nehru Kund, a natural spring located on the Manali – Rohtang Pass highway, is a good place to visit during the summers. The source is so-called because Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, used to visit it during his stay in Manali and drink water from this natural source.  The crystal clear waters and calm landscapes of the Himalayas make it a good stop for those heading for the Rohtang Pass. Needless to say, Nehru Kund is an ideal destination for photographers and nature lovers.

Arjun Gufa (Arjun cave), Manali

Located near the dizzying currents of the Beas River, the Arjun cave is associated with a legendary history of the Mahabharata Hindu epic. According to legend, Arjun, who was one of the Pandava brothers, meditated here. Arjun cave, one of the best places near Manali for a picnic, offers a breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and valleys.  You can also visit Kunt Bhayo lake and Kunti Mata temple, two of the main attractions near the cave.

Himalayan Buddhist temple of Nyingmapa

The relaxing silence of Manali’s Nyingmapa Buddhist temple will soothe even the most restless nerves.  This paradise-like Shangri-La is located in the middle of the bustling city, while its pagoda-style architecture and vibrant hues add mystical charm to the whole.  While you’re here, be sure to spin the prayer wheels and admire the Sakyamuni idol and murals. One of the best monasteries in Manali, Nyingmapa is the place where you can connect with your spiritual side.

Vashisht Hot Spring

A place of great spiritual importance, the city of Vashisht houses a magnificent temple amid the dramatic topography of the Himalayas. The temple is said to have a history of over 4,000 years and the interior of the sanctuary features wood carvings, ancient figures, and paintings. What makes this destination even more unique is the presence of thermal springs that have healing properties. Besides, the place also offers today’s visitors a glimpse of the ancient history of Manali. You can also shop nearby: the woolen clothes here are very famous.

Exciting Things To Do In Manali

As we have talked about places to visit in Manali, we must now focus on activities in Manali that one can do while enjoying the nature. There are lot of things do in Manali and we will start one by one discussing all. So, here are the activities you should look forward while enjoying the beauty of this place.

Stroll On Mall Road

Mall Road is the biggest attraction in Manali and you will find a lot of exquisite shops on Mall road. These little road side shops displaying woollen cloths, colourful bags, handicraft items, flag patches, etc. You can purchase the items at good price bargaining with the shopkeepers. Other than that, you can just have a leisurely walk along with your friends and enjoy the scenic view of the place.

Enjoy Adventure Sports In Manali

Most of the youngsters and light adventure lovers seek Manali as the perfect destination for starting their adventure journey. You can do river rafting, paragliding, trekking, Skiing, and enjoy bathing in waterfall in Manali.

Cable Car Ride In Manali

Ropeway in Manali can be found in Solang Valley. If you are planning to visit Solang Valley, you can enjoy the aeriel view of Manali by sitting in cable car. It is a latest installation in Manali and you will get a complete safety in the cabins.

Enjoy The Trip Of Atal Tunnel

Atal tunnel is the famous and world’s first longest and highest altitude tunnel. It is at an altitude of 10,000 feet above the sea level. Atal tunnel is 9.02 km long and connecting Manali and Leh. Atal tunnel reduces the distance of Manali and Leh by 46 km.

Manali Weather Throughout The Year

Kullu Manali is situated at the foothills of Himalayan mountain range in Himachal Pradesh. It offers a pleasant weather year round. But if you want to enjoy the place to the fullest, visit during Summers and Winters.

Manali Weather in Summers

During the months from March to June, this hill station, is crowded with the maximum number of tourists. Most of the people who are interested in adventure sports like, Hiking, River Rafting, Paragliding, etc. come during the summer season. Manali temperature in summers remains between 10°C to 25°C. Thus, an ideal time for those who prefer moderate cold weather.

Manali Weather in Winters

Weather in Manali is beautiful during the Winter season. Winters in Manali is from October to February. The place gets extremely chilly and received snow fall in December and January. A hoard of tourists in Manali can be witnessed around Christmas and New year. People come here in Winters to enjoy Snowfall, Skiing, Paragliding, Snowboarding, and Christmas.

How To Reach Manali

Manali is accessible from Road route easily. You can come here by bus, cabs, or from your own vehicle.

How To Reach Manali From Delhi and Near By Places

Delhi to Manali distance is almost 550 kms if you are coming by NH44. You can book your interstate buses, AC/Non Ac from Kashmiri Gate, Delhi. You can also travel by cab or your own vehicle. However, do remember choose a right time if you are driving on your own. Plan your trip in advance and carry all the travel essentials with you.

Must read: How to plan a road trip

So plan your journey now and enjoy the awe-struck beauty of Manali. Do not forget to share your experience in the comment section below. Find more interesting blogs covering different locations at Travelist. Keep visiting and keep reading.

Also, read: Places to visit in Delhi

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