Manali

Perched at a height of 6700 feet above sea level, and at a distance of 320 kms from Chandigarh lies the beautiful and one of the most popular hill resorts of the country Manali. Manali has attractive view of snow capped peaks covered with thick forests on one side and Scenic River Beas with crystal clear water on the other side. With its abundant beauty, flourishing orchards, Manali has been attracting nature and adventure loving Tourist for years. Tourist attractions and activities include, Hadimba Devi Temple, Vasisht Temple, Manu Temple, Solang Valley, Rohtang La pass, Rohala Waterfalls, and Shri Manikaran Sahib.

BEST TIME TO VISIT: The climate in Manali is moderately cool during summer (April to July) and predominantly cool and chilly during winters (December to February). There is Spell off snow during November and January. The best time to visit is:

Summer: April to July

Winter: December to February

1. HADIMBA TEMPLE

Surrounded by the wooded deodar forests. The Hadimba Temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba was constructed in the 16th century. This four story wooden temple, located in the middle of the Dhungiri Van Vihar has fine wrought four – tiered pagoda roof. The temple has some intricate wooden carvings which depicts mythological characters and motifs of animals & cosmic dancers. Every year in May a major festival is organized here. This place is very popular among the tourists.

2. VASHISHT TEMPLE

Located on the bank of River Beas and 3 kms from Manali, Vashist is a small village. The village is the site of some old temples, dedicated to the great sage Vashisht and to Lord Rama. These temples are believed to be more than four thousand years old. The village is renowned for its Hot Water Springs. The Himachal Tourism has made special and separate arrangements for Sulphur baths for Ladies and Gents. Natural Hot Sulphur water baths are very popular and are always full of tourists. Turkish Style Showers fitted baths are also available here for tourist.

3. MANU TEMPLE

This is dedicated to the sage Manu. Just near the Hadimba temple flows the Manalsu River, that culminates in the main Beas River. Across the Manalsu river is the original village of Manali that houses the ancient temple of the sage Manu. The great rishi Manu has lived here and this land was known as Land of Manu and was later renamed Manali after him.

4. SOLANG VALLEY (13 kms)

Located between Solang village and Beas Kund, Solang Valley is the major tourist attraction of Manlai. Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. Solang Valley has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute of Manali has installed a ski lift for training purpose. The Manali winter skiing festival is organised in Solang Valley. Apart from Parachuting, Skiing and Paragliding many other adventure sports like Zorbing, Horse riding & Snow Motor Bikes riding etc are also available here. Tourists can also enjoy Ropeway ride to summit.

5. ROHTANG PASS (50 kms)

Located at a height of 13000 feet above sea level, on Manali – Leh road Rohtang pass connects the Kullu valley with Lahul and spiti valley. The Rohtang Pass offers a panoramic and spectacular Snowy Mountain Views. Once served as a crucial trade route the pass is the gateway to the districts of Lahaul and Spiti. The Pass is open from mid April to November each year. The Rohtang pass is the main tourist attraction of Manali and tourist from all over India come here for skiing, play with snow and other snow related activities.

6. RAHALLA WATER FALLS (16 kms)

The beautiful Rahalla falls are the result of melting glaciers. The Rahalla falls with a height of around 165 feet lies on the way to Rohtang Pass. The area around the Rahalla falls is marvelous which can’t be expressed in words. It provides a very clear view of surroundings that includes silver birch trees and forest of deodar. The fresh and aromatic air around the fall provides relaxation and peace of mind to the visitors. The Rahalla waterfall is a very popular Picnic spot for the tourists.

7. SHRI MANIKARAN SAHIB (80 kms)

Located at an distance of 85 kms from Manali. Manikaran is the famous Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage destination. It is believed that Guru Nanak Devji had visited this place and a Gurudwara has been constructed here to mark the visit of the great Guru. Manikaran is also famous for Lord Ramchandra Temple which is the most important temple of Manikaran. The idol of Shri Ram installed here is believed to have been brought straight from Ayodhya. Manikaran is famous for its Hot Springs with curative properties. One can enjoy a dip in the Hot Springs water. There are altogether three baths, one of which is located in the Gurudwara complex.