Manali, nestled in the picturesque mountains of Himachal Pradesh, is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Manali offers a wide range of activities to suit every traveler’s taste. From exploring stunning landscapes to indulging in thrilling adventures, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Manali.
Also Read: Manikaran Shiva Temple Manali – History Timings, How to Reach
Best Things to Do in Manali
- Solang Valley:
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- Enjoy paragliding, zorbing, and skiing in winter.
- Take a cable car ride for panoramic views of the valley.
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- Rohtang Pass:
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- Visit for snow activities like skiing and snowboarding (seasonal).
- Enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and peaks.
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- Old Manali:
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- Explore the charm of old-world Manali with its traditional houses and cafes.
- Shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
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- Manu Temple:
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- Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Sage Manu.
- Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and stunning architecture.
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- Hidimba Devi Temple:
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- Explore this unique temple dedicated to Hidimba Devi, wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata.
- Admire the intricate woodwork and serene surroundings.
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- River Rafting:
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- Experience the thrill of rafting in the Beas River.
- Suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.
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- Trekking:
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- Explore the beautiful trails around Manali, such as the Beas Kund Trek and Hampta Pass Trek.
- Experience the beauty of the Himalayas up close.
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- Hot Springs at Vashisht Temple:
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- Relax in the natural hot springs believed to have medicinal properties.
- Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the temple complex.
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- Nehru Kund:
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- Visit this natural spring named after Jawaharlal Nehru.
- Enjoy the serene surroundings and clear waters.
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- Manali Wildlife Sanctuary:
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- Explore the rich flora and fauna of the region.
- Spot species like monal, musk deer, and brown bear.
Things to Do in Manali in 2 Days
- Day 1:
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- Visit Hadimba Devi Temple and explore Old Manali.
- Enjoy shopping in Manali and dining at local cafes.
- Visit Manu Temple and Vashisht Temple in the evening.
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- Day 2:
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- Explore Solang Valley and enjoy adventure activities.
- Visit the Tibetan Monastery and shop for handicrafts.
- Relax in the evening with a stroll along the Mall Road.
Things to Do in Manali in 3 Days
If you’re planning a three-day trip to Manali, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the best that this charming hill station has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary for three days in Manali:
Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing
- Morning:
- Arrive in Manali and check into your hotel.
- Have a leisurely breakfast and freshen up.
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, a beautiful wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests.
- Explore the nearby Manali Nature Park and take a nature walk.
- Evening:
- Head to the bustling Mall Road for shopping and trying local delicacies.
- Visit the Tibetan Monastery to experience the serene ambiance and shop for handicrafts.
Day 2: Rohtang Pass Excursion
- Morning:
- Depart early for Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass known for its stunning views and snow activities (subject to availability and weather conditions).
- Enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, and playing in the snow.
- Afternoon:
- Have lunch at one of the local eateries near Rohtang Pass.
- Explore the surrounding area and take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
- Evening:
- Return to Manali in the evening and relax at your hotel.
- You can explore the local markets or cafes in Old Manali for dinner.
Day 3: Adventure and Relaxation
- Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to the Solang Valley, known for its adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and ropeway rides.
- Enjoy breakfast amidst the stunning mountain views.
- Afternoon:
- Return to Manali and visit the Vashisht Temple, famous for its hot water springs.
- Take a dip in the hot springs and relax your muscles.
- Evening:
- Spend your evening exploring the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the local restaurants, savoring the local cuisine.
Additional Tips for Manali Travel
- Transportation: It’s advisable to hire a cab for your Rohtang Pass excursion as the road can be challenging and public transport may not be readily available.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before planning your activities, especially for Rohtang Pass, as it is closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall.
This itinerary is designed to give you a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation, ensuring you make the most of your three days in Manali. Adjustments can be made based on your interests and the time of year you visit.
Things to Do in Manali at Night
- Stargazing: Enjoy the clear night skies and stargaze from your hotel or a nearby hilltop.
- Cafes and Restaurants: xplore the vibrant nightlife at cafes and restaurants in Old Manali and Mall Road.
- Bonfire: Many hotels and resorts organize bonfires where you can enjoy music and dance under the stars.
Things to Do in Manali for Couples
- Romantic Dinners: Enjoy a candlelight dinner at one of the many cafes and restaurants in Old Manali.
- Nature Walks: Take a romantic stroll along the Beas River or through the lush forests.
- Adventure Activities: Experience the thrill of paragliding or zorbing together in Solang Valley.
Things to Do in Manali Early Morning
- Morning Walks: Enjoy a peaceful morning walk along Mall Road or in the surrounding nature.
- Yoga and Meditation: Join a yoga class or meditate in the serene surroundings of Manali.
- Visit the Local Market: Explore the local market and watch as it comes to life in the early hours.
Things to Do in Manali with Family
- Picnics: Enjoy a family picnic at the banks of the Beas River or in a scenic spot near Manali.
- Visit to Museums: Explore the Himachal Culture and Folk Art Museum or the Manali Nature Park with the family.
- Adventure Activities: Engage in activities like river rafting and trekking suitable for the whole family.
Unique Things to Do in Manali
- Apple Orchards Visit: Explore the apple orchards around Manali and learn about apple cultivation.
- Attend a Local Festival: If you’re lucky, you might be able to attend a local festival and experience the culture of the region.
- Volunteer at a Monastery: Spend a day volunteering at a local monastery and immerse yourself in the local community.
Book your trip to Manali which offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, Manali has something to offer everyone.
How to Reach Manali
Manali, a picturesque hill station nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular destination for tourists seeking scenic beauty and adventure. Here’s how you can reach Manali:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, also known as Kullu-Manali Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali.
By Road:
- From Delhi: Manali is well-connected to Delhi by road. You can take a bus from ISBT Kashmiri Gate or drive via NH44, a journey of about 540 kilometers that takes approximately 12-14 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
- From Chandigarh: The distance between Chandigarh and Manali is around 310 kilometers, and the journey takes about 8-10 hours by road. You can take a bus or drive via NH205 and NH3.
- From Shimla: Manali is about 250 kilometers away from Shimla. The road journey takes around 7-9 hours, and you can either take a bus or drive via NH5.
By Bus:
Manali is well-connected to major cities and towns in North India by a network of buses run by Himachal Road Transport Corporation HRTC and private buses. Here are some of the top bus routes to Manali:
Top Bus Routes to Manali
- Delhi to Manali: This is one of the most popular routes, with buses plying regularly between Delhi and Manali. The journey takes about 12-14 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.
- Chandigarh to Manali: Buses from Chandigarh to Manali are also frequent, and the journey takes around 8-10 hours.
- Shimla to Manali: The road from Shimla to Manali offers breathtaking views, making it a popular route for tourists. Buses from Shimla to Manali take about 7-9 hours.
- Dharamshala to Manali: This route is preferred by those visiting both Dharamshala and Manali. Buses from Dharamshala to Manali take approximately 8-10 hours.
- Kullu to Manali: Kullu is the nearest major town to Manali, and buses between Kullu and Manali are frequent, with a travel time of about 1-2 hours.
- Amritsar to Manali: Although a long journey, buses from Amritsar to Manali are available, taking approximately 12-14 hours.
- Leh to Manali: This route is popular among adventure enthusiasts. Buses from Leh to Manali take around 15-20 hours, depending on the weather and road conditions.
These are some of the top bus routes to Manali, offering convenient and scenic journeys to this beautiful hill station. You can book your bus tickets to Manali through AbhiBus for a convenient and hassle-free journey.
