Manali is a high-altitude town in Himachal Pradesh of India. It is also known as "resort town" of Himachal and located at the Beas River Valley. It is one of the most popular honeymoon destination and backpacking center. Manali is known for its natural beauty, stunning landscapes, adventure sports and rich history. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains of Himalayas and rivers.
Here is a list of best popular must-visit places in Manali that you should not miss on your trip.
1. Hadimba Devi Temple
Hadimba Devi temple is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Manali town. It is an ancient Hindu temple built entirely from wood dedicated to the deity Hidimba Devi. Bhima's wife Hadimba and Bhima’s son Ghatothkaja were staying in this forest during the Mahabharatha period. It is located in the middle of forest and walkable distance from Manali mall road. The temple is a must-visit place for those who interested in spirituality and cultural heritage of the town.
2. Solang Valley
Solang Valley is located around 14 kilo meters from Manali town. It is counted among the best places to visit in Manali for its adventure activities. In winter, valley is called as winter wonderland and it is covered with heavy snow. During summer, it is a perfect place for exploring and trekking. It is situated at a height of about 2500 meters, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and it is known for popular sports activities like paragliding, horse riding and skiing.
3. Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass situated at a height of about 3,980 meters and around 51 kilo meters from Manali. It is a road connecting Manali to the Spiti Valley, Lahaul Valley, and Leh. The pass is normally open between May and November. It's is famous for its beautiful landscape and breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains of Himalayas. This place is flooded with tourists, and it gets around 25 lakh tourists each and every year. Here tourists can experience snow and enjoy activities like skiing, trekking, snowboarding and also they can meet the locals living nearby.
4. Manu Temple
Manu Temple is a beautiful wooden temple dedicated to Sage Manu, located in Old Manali. According to Hindu mythology Manu is the creator of human civilization. Temple situated at the Beas River Valley, in Kullu District. It is popular place for trekking and surrounded by lush green mountains. It’s also a best place for meditation and by meditating here one can connect with beautiful nature as well as divine powers. According to mythology, Manu Temple is said to be the only temple dedicated to the King Manu, who was later known as Sage Manu in India.
5. Old Manali
Old Manali is located at the walking distance about 3 kilometers from New Manali town. One can reach here by trekking uphill from New Manali. One can also reach here by auto rickshaw or taxi from New Manali. It has several cosy cafes and you can also see the colors of hippie culture here. This old town has a different kind of charm, not foreign, not entirely Indian. It is also a favorite spot for backpackers, solo travelers and it has become paradise for foodies. With its charming cozy cafes and scenic beauty, it’s a great place to sit, relax and enjoy the cool mountain breeze.
6. Naggar Castle
It is located in Kullu, about 20 kilometers from Manali town. It is built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu around 1460 A.D. It is a historic structure built in the traditional Himachali style using stone and wood. It was taken over by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, to run as a heritage hotel, in 1978. Hence, it serves as a museum and hotel, offers tourists a glimpse of Himachal’s history and rich culture. It’s an excellent place for photography as it offers views of the surrounding mountains and the Beas River.
7. Shri Vashishtha Temple
Vashisht is a small village located around 3 kilometers from Manali town across the River Beas. This village is a home to an ancient Vashishtha temple. This temple is said to be 4000 years old, dedicated to the great sage Guru Vashisht, who is one of the oldest and most respected Vedic sages. Vashisht was the Kula guru of Lord Rama. This place is very popular for it’s sulphureous hot water springs and temple is built just next to the hot water springs. It is surrounded by beautiful lush green mountains and view of Beas river, which makes it one of the popular tourist spots in Manali.
If you are travelling to Manali, don't miss to visit these places. Enjoy your vacation and have a safe journey!!
