Sightseeing Places Manali – A Tourist’s Journey Through Top Attractions

Manali is a gift from the Himalayas to the world. Let’s bunch this beautiful experience of exploring Manali’s Mountains and greenery in the simple words of one of our blog followers’ Smita who visited Manali in May 2023 and shared her stories with us.

Smita had a 4 days and 3 nights tour in Manali. She had this trip with her husband and son. With them was one another family – her friend (Rupali), Rupali’s husband and her son. These two families went to Manali from Delhi by their car.

It was an amazing journey that started at about 12:00 am on August 26.

Till 5 am, they reached to Chandigarh (it was a non-stop 5 hours journey from Delhi to Chandigarh). Roads remain comparatively less crowded during the night, so it’s easy to cover more distance. But at the same time, your speed limit should be in control and you have to be more attentive while driving.

Now, it was the time for a tea break. They stopped their car at a small dhaba and enjoyed tea and some chips/biscuits there. It was a 45 minutes break. 5:45 am, they were again ready to move.

While entering Himachal, they faced a little bit of traffic, but after that, the journey was smooth by enjoyed the ups and downs of the mountains. Both families were enjoying the roadside views.

It was 10:30 am, when they stopped again for breakfast. It was a spacious restaurant where their children could play as well as have their breakfast. They ordered pranthas and curd for a heavy breakfast.
Now, it was time to move – they spent more than an hour for the breakfast.

The journey was getting more amazing, now they were feeling a very cool breeze of air in the car and were enjoying it.

In the next two hours of the journey, till 2 pm – now they were in Manali. They had booked their hotel in old Manali and reached there directly.

Now it was time to explore and enjoy the marvellous views of Manali, Himachal Pradesh.

Places that they discovered in beautiful valleys of Manali in four days are:

Manali Mall Road

• One of the best places for street shopping in Manali
• Buy handicraft items, woollen clothes, artificial jewellery, wooden furniture & a lot more.
• Well-known eateries, cafes & restaurants for mouth-watering food

Manali’s Hadimba Temple

• One of the popular temples of old Manali
• Hadimba temple is dedicated to Hidimba Devi, a deity from the Mahabharata.
• Only 100 meters from Manali Mall Road
• Hadimba Devi Temple’s visiting time is from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
• Temple is open for devotees all 7 days from Monday to Sunday.

Manu Temple in Manali

• Only 3 km from Manali main market
• This temple is dedicated to Lord Manu
• Manu temple is known for its architectural simplicity and peaceful ambiance.
• Manu temple visiting time is from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

Solang Valley Manali

• Solang Valley is a famous place for adventure activities in Manali
• Tourists can enjoy adventure sports like skiing, trekking, mountaineering, paragliding, zorbing.
• Solang Valley’s visit timing is from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm all days of the week.
• Solang Valley remains completely covered with snow in December.

Jogini Waterfall Manali

• Jogini falls is one of the famous waterfalls in Himalayas, cascading from a heigh of 160 feet.
• Jogini waterfalls is about 3 km from Manali.
• Jogini is also one of the romantic attractions in Manali for couples.
• Jogini waterfall is near to Vashisht village which is famous for adventure and recreational activities and a popular picnic spot among tourists.

Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art Manali

• Himachal Culture & Folk Art museum is one of the major tourist attractions of Manali.
• Museum is located near Hadimba devi temple.
• Manali’s cultural and folk museum represents the culture of Himachal Pradesh. It presents the traditional dresses, utensils, musical and ritual instruments, the wood carvings and many other traditional articles used by the people of Himachal Pradesh.
• Himachal Culture & Folk Art is open to the public and was setup in 1998.

Manali Beas River

• The scenic views and clear blue water of Beas River in Manali attract a lot of visitors every year.
• The adventurous rafting is another important attraction of Kullu-Manali Beas River.
•  Beas River is about 5 km from the Manali bus stand.

Vashisht Temple Manali

• Vashisht temple is one of the famous Hindu temples in Manali which has a 4000-year-old history.
• Vashist temple is most famous for its sulphurous hot springs.
• The hot springs at Vashisht temple has rejuvenating benefits for both the body and mind.
• The temple is located about 3 km from main Manali.
• Vashisht temple timing are 7 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 10 pm

Great Himalayan National Park Manali

• Manali’s National Park is a UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspot.
• This is the home to endangered species like the snow leopard.
• Manali’s Great Himalayan National Park offers stunning Himalayan landscapes.
• The National Park Manali is ideal for trekking and wildlife photography.
• Rich in diverse plant species and promotes conservation and eco-tourism.

Nehru Kund

• Nehru Kund is a natural spring in Manali named after Jawaharlal Nehru.
• Nehru Kund is located at a distance of 5km from Manali bus stand.
• Nehru Kund spring is one of the most popular tourists’ spots in Manali.
• Nehru Kund is famous for its crystal-clear cold water and a scenic spot with surrounding mountains.

Arjun Gufa

• Arjun Gufa, also known as Arjuna’s Cave, is a famous attraction near Manali.
• According to legends, it is believed to be the meditation spot of Arjuna from the Mahabharata.
• The Arjun cave is situated on the left bank of the Beas River.
• Inside, you can explore the naturally formed rock structures and marvel at their beauty.
• It’s a spiritually significant and historically intriguing site for visitors.

Sissu Lake

• Sissu Lake, one of the beautiful lakes of Manali, is a serene and lesser-known destination.
• It’s nestled amidst the picturesque Lahaul Valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
• The lake is fed by the Chandra River and is known for its crystal-clear blue waters.
• Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the lake and the reflection of the mountains on its surface.
• Sissu Lake is an offbeat gem for nature enthusiasts seeking a peaceful getaway in the lap of the Himalayas.

Atal Tunnel

• The Atal Tunnel, located near Manali, is a remarkable engineering marvel in the Himalayas.
• Named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, it’s the world’s longest high-altitude tunnel.
• The Atal Tunnel, also known as Rohtang Tunnel connects Manali to Lahaul-Spiti Valley, making it accessible year-round, even in heavy snowfall.
• It reduces the travel time to Lahaul and provides a safer and more convenient route for travelers.
• The tunnel has become a significant tourist attraction due to its engineering feat and strategic importance.

Rohtang Pass

• Rohtang Pass is one of the popular destinations for tourists seeking snow and adventure, attracting visitors throughout the year.
• The Rohtang Pass offers breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and pristine landscapes.
• Visitors can enjoy activities like snow sports, trekking, and simply soaking in the natural beauty.
• Rohtang Pass is also the gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys, making it a crucial route for transportation and a thrilling experience for travelers.

Manikaran Gurudwara Manali

• Manikaran Gurudwara, located in Himachal Pradesh near Manali, is a significant religious site for Sikhs and Hindus. Manikaran Gurudwara is about 15 minutes from Kasol.
• Manikaran is famous for its natural hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties and are used for cooking langar (community meals).
• The Gurudwara complex also includes a beautiful temple and a peaceful atmosphere for meditation and prayer.
• Visitors can participate in the langar and witness the communal spirit of the place.
• Manikaran Gurudwara is a place of religious significance and tranquility, nestled in the stunning Parvati Valley.

FAQs about Manali

Why is Manali famous for Tourism?

Manali’s fame as a tourist haven is rooted in its unique blend of “perplexity” and “burstiness.” Nestled amidst the Himalayan splendor, its perplexity lies in the mesmerizing contrast between serene landscapes – snow-capped mountains, lush valleys – and the bustling energy of its vibrant markets and cultural offerings. The town’s burstiness is evident in its thrilling adventure opportunities like trekking, paragliding, and river rafting, providing an adrenaline rush amid the tranquil backdrop. This harmonious coexistence of calm and dynamism makes Manali an irresistible magnet for travelers seeking both serene contemplation and exhilarating escapades in one picturesque setting.

Which is the best month to travel Manali?

The best time to travel to Manali, a popular hill station in India, largely depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip. Manali experiences distinct seasons, each offering a unique charm:

Manali Trip in Summer (March to June):

• Best time for adventure activities like trekking, paragliding, and river rafting.
• Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.
• Ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking relief from the summer heat.

Manali Trip in Monsoon (July to September):

• Offers lush green landscapes and is less crowded.
• There can be occasional landslides and road closures due to heavy rainfall.
• Not recommended for adventure sports, but great for a peaceful retreat.

Manali Trip in Autumn (October to November):

• Post-monsoon, the weather is pleasant, and sky is clear.
• Good for trekking, sightseeing, and photography.
• Fewer tourists compared to the summer season.

Manali Trip in Winter (December to February):

• Best time for snow enthusiasts and winter sports lovers.
• Snowfall occurs, creating a picturesque landscape.
• Temperature can drop below freezing, so be prepared for cold weather.
• Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying snowfall.

The choice of the best month depends on your interests. If you prefer pleasant weather and adventure activities, summer is the best time. For those seeking solitude and lush greenery, consider the monsoon season. Autumn is suitable for sightseeing, and winter is perfect for experiencing snowfall and winter sports.

How much will Manali trip cost?

The cost of Manali trip majorly depends on the number of days that you spend in Manali. There are 4 major areas that you should focus on while planning your tour of Manali.

Accommodation in Manali

• Budget Hotels/Guesthouses: ₹500 – ₹2,000 per night
• Mid-Range Hotels/Resorts: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 per night
• Luxury Hotels/Resorts: ₹5,000 and above per night

Transportation for Manali

• A bus trip from Delhi to Manali, can cost around ₹800 – ₹2,500 one way, depending on the type of bus and season.
• Distance from Delhi to Manali by car is about 550 km, so consider the fuel cost.
• Flights to nearby airports like Kullu-Manali Airport may also be an option, with prices varying.

Food/Restaurants in Manali

• Dining at local restaurants and street stalls is cost-effective and can range from ₹200 – ₹500 per meal.
• Eating at mid-range restaurants may cost ₹500 – ₹1,500 for a meal.

Sightseeing Places in Manali

• Adventure activities (trekking, paragliding, skiing) have varying costs. For example, paragliding can cost around ₹2,000 – ₹3,500.
• Visiting attractions like Rohtang Pass or Solang Valley may require entry fees.
• Local sightseeing tours can be arranged for a fee.

Are 2 days enough to visit Manali?

In two days, you could cover some of the main attractions like Hadimba Temple, Mall Road, and maybe even venture to Solang Valley for some adventure activities. However, Manali’s true charm lies in its multifaceted nature, which requires a bit more time to fully appreciate. The serene landscapes, bustling markets, and adventure opportunities all deserve their own moments of exploration.

For a more comprehensive experience that truly captures the essence of Manali, a longer stay would be recommended. This would allow you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of its natural beauty, absorb the vibrancy of its markets, engage in adventure pursuits, and perhaps even explore nearby destinations like Rohtang Pass or Naggar Castle.