Top 26 Places to Visit in Manali

Manali's Top 26 Places to Visit

Manali and its mountains will never cease to interest you, whether you are on a solo journey in quest of inner peace, an adventure backpacking trip with your besties, or a honeymoon trip with your lover. The hill town has grown into a haven for the wandering heart, with cultural treasures that are unique to this region of the world. And the budget-friendly hotels in Manali will look after you while also providing you with a taste of the region's famous friendliness.

Here's a list of the best things to visit in Manali if you're considering a vacation to this Himalayan resort town in Himachal Pradesh:

Places to Visit in Manali:

1. Solang Valley, Manali

Solang Nala is a little valley located about 8400 feet above sea level, just a short drive from Manali. It's a mecca for adventure and sports enthusiasts, and you can test your talents on a pair of skis or go on a snowmobile excursion while you're here. People come here to go zorbing and paragliding when the weather warms up. You may also take a cable car ride to see breathtaking vistas of the Himalayas. Winter is the greatest time to visit if you want to participate in snow-based activities and sports, while summer is best for other adventure sports.

Location: Burwa, Manali

Distance from Manali: 14 km (approx.)

2.The Manali Gompa, Manali

The Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, also known as the Manali Gompa, is one of Manali's most beautiful attractions, because of its intricate design and traditional Tibetan architecture. This monastery, which was built by Tibetan refugees in the 1960s, offers peaceful surroundings and unrivaled spiritual vibrations. Exquisite murals depicting important Buddhist events in vibrant hues, as well as roofs fashioned in the Pagoda style, are among the features of the Manali Gompa. The complex's vendors are a great spot to pick up souvenirs and Tibetan handicrafts.

Location: Old Manali Road, Manali

Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm; closed on Sundays

3.Hampta Pass, Manali

The Hampta Pass trip, which is one of the easy-to-medium-difficulty Himalayan treks, offers breathtaking vistas of the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley. The trek's main feature is Chandratal Lake, which is located along the way. The pass is located at an elevation of approximately 4000 meters in the Pir Panjal Range, and the path includes fascinating river crossings. Many groups in Manali provide Hampta Pass trekking treks, with prices varying depending on the itinerary and number of days.

Distance from Manali: 15 km (approx.)

4. Nehru Kund, Manali

Nehru Kund, a natural spring on the Manali – Rohtang Pass Highway, is a popular summer destination. The spring was named after Nehru, India's first prime minister, who liked to visit it and drink water from it during his stay in Manali. This is a popular halt for travelers traveling to the Rohtang Pass because of the clean rivers and peaceful Himalayan landscapes. Nehru Kund is, without a doubt, a great location for photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Location: Vashisht, Manali

Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

5.Hadimba Temple, Manali

This historic temple, also known as Hidimba Devi Temple and Dhungari Temple, was established by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. The temple is devoted to Hidimba Devi, Bheema's wife, as the name suggests. The shrine's wooden architecture stands out among the many Hindu temples found around the country. On the grounds, there is another shrine dedicated to Hidimba Devi's son Ghatotkacha. The temple, which is surrounded by thick cedar woods and has snow-capped mountains as a backdrop, is one of the best sites to visit in Manali.

 

Location: Old Manali

Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day

6. Jogini Waterfalls, Manali

The gushing cascades of Jogini Falls are a short and energising hike from Manali's main town. The walk leading to the waterfall is beautiful, with views of the River Beas and Rohtang's snow-capped hills. Apart from the tranquil scenery, Jogini is also a significant pilgrimage site, with many antique shrines dotted around the pool at the bottom. It's best to get up early so you can spend more time at this beautiful natural site, which is one of Manali's best trekking and picnic spots.

Location: Vashisht Village, Manali

Timings: 24×7

7. Manu Temple, Manali

The Manu Temple is named after an ancient sage after whom it was built. The shrine's pagoda-style construction shines out against the vast valleys and mountain peaks that make for a picturesque setting. You'll have to trek a little to get to the temple, but the views from the top and the spiritual emotions it gives off make it all worthwhile.

Location: Old Manali

Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day

8. Bhrigu Lake, Manali

Consider postcard-perfect alpine meadows and evergreen tree forests alongside a tranquil high-altitude water body for a moment. You've just seen Bhrigu Lake, one of the top trekking sites in the Manali area. The hike requires some acclimatization due to the lake's elevation of more than 4000 meters above sea level. The beauty and panoramic vistas of the Pir Panjal Range attract the majority of visitors.

Location: Kullu District, Manali

Distance from Manali: 19 km (approx.)

9. Beas River, Manali

The Beas River is a natural icon in the area that will accompany you on your Manali journey for the majority of the time. Vashisht hamlet is known for having some of the best views of the river valley, while a trip to Kothi will get you up close to its pure blue waters. The Beas is a hotspot for water activities like kayaking and rafting, with the settlement of Pridi boasting some of the most thrilling rapids.

Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave), Manali

The Arjun Cave, which lies near the Beas River's rushing currents, is linked to a legend from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. Arjun, one of the Pandava brothers, is said to have meditated here. Arjun Cave, one of the best sites around Manali for a basket picnic, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. You can also go to Kunt Bhayo Lake and Kunti Mata Temple, which are two of the cave's main attractions.

10. Gulaba, Manali

A journey to Manali should involve trips to neighboring villages to learn about the local culture as well as take in the breathtaking scenery. If you add Gulaba to your list, you will not be disappointed. The town contains some of Himachal Pradesh's most appealing trekking paths, making it a popular winter destination for those seeking snowy scenery. Because of the low light pollution and high altitude, many people consider it a good site for camping and stargazing.

Distance from Manali: 20 km (approx.)

11. Kothi, Manali

Kothi is a lovely hamlet in the mountains that is renowned for its scenic location and spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers. It is located on the historic Spiti highway at a height of 2500 meters. The topography is molded by the Beas, which runs through this area of the country, and it is located near the foothills of Rohtang Pass. A town is also a great place to camp, especially if you're intending on hiking to Rohtang Pass. A shrine dedicated to Goddess Shuwang Chandika can also be found in the village.

Distance from Manali: 14 km (approx.)

12. Rahala Falls, Manali

Rahala Falls is an extraordinarily powerful sight during the monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, with its waters tumbling down the rocks and splashing tourists with fresh, cool mountain water. Near the falls, there are numerous picnic spots where you can tuck into some basket treats and have a nice time with your family and friends. Around the waterfalls, there are many magnificent hiking paths, and exploring the area through densely populated deodar and silver birch trees is an adventure in itself.

Location: Leh Manali Highway

Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day

Entry Fee: No entry fee

Distance from Manali: 29 km (approx.)

13. Naggar Castle, Manali

Naggar Castle is a 15th-century historical structure in the Kullu region, located on the Beas Valley amidst magnificent surroundings. The castle, which was built by Kullu's Raja Sidh Singh, is now a heritage hotel maintained by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. The castle's wooden structure is an architectural masterpiece that embodies the region's own design, as well as some European characteristics that have been added over time. From the castle, you may get a great view of the town and the surrounding alpine forests.

Location: Naggar Town, Manali

Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm (winter timings may differ)

Entry Fee: ₹ 15 per person

Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)

14. Manali Sanctuary, Manali

Manali Sanctuary, just 2 kilometers from town, provides an unrivaled wilderness experience. Many endangered and rarely seen species and animals live in the sanctuary, which covers 31.8 square kilometers. If you enjoy taking images, have your zooming lenses accessible throughout the summer when ibex herds descend into the range. This refuge is enhanced by the presence of maple, walnut, and deodar groves, which form a tapestry of colors in the autumn months. Trekking and camping are available at the refuge for adventure lovers.

Timings: 9:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day

Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per person

15. Chandrakhani Pass, Manali

A walk to the Chandrakhani Pass encapsulates Himachal Pradesh's striking natural splendor. You can also visit the legendary settlement of Malana, which is home to a unique people and noted for its cannabis fields, from this pass. The Deo Tibba, the Parvati range, and the Pir Panjal are just a few of the noteworthy peaks visible from Chandrakhani Pass, which is a favored place for photographers.

 

Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)

16. Gauri Shankar Temple, Manali

The Shikhara style of architecture and intricate sculptures on the stone walls distinguish the Gauri Shankar Temple. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and dates back to the 12th century. It is thought to be the final monument in the Gurjara-Pratihara traditions. The wall sculptures show a variety of gods and other holy elements. Gauri Shankar Temple is one of Manali's most important temples, surrounded by lush nature.

Location: Naggar Castle Road

Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day

Distance from Manali: 22 km (approx.)

17. Van Vihar, Manali

A brief stroll around Van Vihar Park is highly suggested if you are searching for some calm moments in the bohemian environment of Manali town. Van Vihar, a public park with rich vegetation and sky-touching deodar trees, is one of Manali's most popular attractions. You may even get a boat and cruise around the man-made lake. Bird lovers will have a great time observing local species in the park, particularly early in the morning.

Location: Dhungri Village, Manali

Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm (summer); 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (winter)

Entry Fee:  ₹ 5 per person; ₹ 30 for 15 minutes of boating

18. Jagatsukh, Manali

Jagatsukh is a charming village nestled in the Himalayas known for its temples. Visiting this location is a beautiful pleasure, with sparkling snowy peaks and rich emerald forests as a backdrop. Jagatsukh is one of the Kullu region's major settlements and a fantastic spot to see some of the region's traditional architecture. Jagatsukh can be used as a base for treks into the Deo Tibba Mountains. The Devi Sharbali temple is one of the numerous fascinating tourist attractions in the Manali region.

Distance from Manali: 12 km (approx.)

19. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple, Manali

The serene serenity of Manali's Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple will soothe even the most stressed nerves. This Shangri-La-style refuge stands in the heart of the bustling city, with pagoda-style buildings and brilliant colours adding a mysterious enchantment to the scene. Don't forget to spin the prayer wheels and gaze at the Sakyamuni idol and wall murals while you're here. Nyingmapa is one of Manali's best monasteries, and it's where you can connect with your spiritual side.

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

20. Rohtang Pass, Manali

You will not be sorry if you set out a day in your Manali itinerary to see Rohtang Pass. This high mountain pass on the Pir Panjal Range, at an elevation of 4000 meters above sea level, will take your breath away. Rohtang Pass is a paradise for adventurous activities like mountain biking and skiing, in addition to being a favorite hub of nature enthusiasts, painters, and photographers for years. The pass has appeared in a number of Bollywood films, including Jab We Met.

Location: Leh – Manali Highway

Timings: 24×7

Distance from Manali: 51 km. (approx.)

21. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Manali

Those interested in learning more about the region's traditions and rich local heritage may pay a visit to the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art. A collection of masks used in festival dances, traditional costumes, and musical instruments are among the exhibits. This small but culturally rich museum, which opened in 1998, also exhibits models of old houses and temples.

Location: Utopia Complex, Hadimba Temple Road, Manali

Timings: 9:00 am to 7:00 pm (April to November); 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (December to March)

Entry Fee: ₹ 10 per person

22. Great Himalayan National Park, Manali

The Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is regarded as one of the best sites to visit in Manali and the surrounding areas. Many unique species, including over 1000 plants, 209 bird species, and 31 animal species, may be found in the park. The secretive snow leopard reigns supreme, with populations of Himalayan tahr and brown bears also present. Photographers will be enthralled by the abundance of wildflowers and glacial valleys that dot the landscape. In approved sections of the National Park, you can also engage in some exciting natural activities like hiking and camping. Permits to visit the park must be secured in advance, and the park offers a variety of simple but adequate lodging alternatives.

 

Distance from Manali: 49 km (approx.)

Timings: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm; every day

Entry Fee: ₹ 50 for Indians; ₹ 200 for foreigners

23. Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple, Manali

Vashisht hamlet is home to a stunning temple located within the dramatic Himalayan scenery, making it a spiritually significant location. The shrine's interiors exhibit wooden carvings, antique figures, and paintings, and the temple is thought to have a history of over 4000 years. The existence of hot springs, which are thought to have healing effects, adds to the uniqueness of this site. Furthermore, the site

provides modern-day tourists with a glimpse into Manali's past. You can also go shopping in the nearby area, which is known for its woolens.

Location: Vashisht Village, Manali

Timings (Temple): 7:00 am to 9:00 pm; every day

24. Old Manali, Manali

The term "Old Manali" refers to the older area of town. Visitors can walk the alleys and catch glimpses of a bygone era when Manali was a peaceful pilgrimage town before the influx of tourists. Because of the trees and apple orchards that surround the village, Old Manali has some of the nicest vistas in the region. The Manaslu River bridge, which connects Old Manali and the main town, is an iconic image in and of itself. While you're here, go café hopping at some of Manali's most popular spots, including Café 1947, Born Free, Evergreen, and Sunshine, or go shopping for dream catchers, boho-chic apparel, shrugs, and woolens.

25. Katrain, Manali

Katrain is a fishing paradise with an undulating topography that differs from the sweeping terrains you'll see on the remainder of your Manali excursions. The village fulfills all of the characteristics of a typical Himachali village. While you're here, sample some of the local dishes, which are full of rustic, wholesome flavors. Katrain is a fantastic place for hiking, in addition to the abundance of trout in its clear rivers.

Distance from Manali: 25 km (approx.)

26. Nicholas Roerich Art gallery and Museum, Manali

The Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery and Museum, named after a famous Russian artist who spent decades in Himachal Pradesh after fleeing the revolution, honor his artistic contributions. Rare images of the artist, landscape paintings, and portraits of the indigenous community are among the artifacts on show. The museum, which opened in 1962, is housed in the same building where he used to live.

Location: Naggar Village

Timings: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm; closed on Mondays

Entry Fee: ₹ 30 per person

Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)