Manali, the heart of the Himalayas, is one of the most popular travel destinations in India. This Himalayan hill station is the perfect place for those who enjoy nature or adventure or travel. From breathtaking landscapes to thrilling adventure sports, Manali is the perfect escape. If you’ve ever dreamt of experiencing the exciting moments that Bunny, Naina, Aditi and Avi shared in Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, Manali will help you relive those magical moments.
This blog will take you to all the must-visit places and exciting activities of Manali.
Best Places to Visit in Manali:
1. Solang Valley:
Solang Valley, paradise for adventure lovers, offers activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing. Solang Valley has the perfect environment to take amazing photographs because of its beautiful appearance. Solang Valley turns into a snowy fantasy in winter which attracts winter sports enthusiasts. In summer, the lush greenery provides a scenic escape for tourists and trekkers. This is a must visit for nature and adventure lovers.
ACTIVITIES: Photography, Trekking, Cable Car Ride, Paragliding.
2. Rohtang Pass:
Rohtang Pass is a must-visit for those who love snow. The pass serves as a gateway to Lahaul and Spiti Valley, giving viewers spectacular seasonal shifts in the landscapes. Thousands of visitors come to Rohtang Pass during summer because heavy winter snowfall forces the pass to remain closed. Visiting Rohtang Pass provides a thrilling experience because the journey features roads that take motorists through spectacular views of glaciers and mountains alongside waterfalls.
ACTIVITIES: Skiing, Snowboarding, Photography.
3. Hidimba Devi Temple:
An important temple honoring Hidimba Devi located in an atmospheric setting of cedar tree forests. The sacred site represents a quiet and religious spot for all visitors to Manali to explore. The locals recognize Hidimba Devi as the Mahabharata’s Bhima’s wife who meditated at this place thus turning it into a historical landmark.People can experience regional customs and cultures while visiting.
ACTIVITIES: Photography, Spiritual experience.
4. Sissu:
The scenic Lahaul Valley hosts Sissu Village as its secret treasure showcasing serene views alongside peaceful surroundings. Situated on the banks of the Chandra River, it offers mesmerizing views of snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys. The Sissu waterfall, a major attraction, offers a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers. This is a must visit destination for nature lovers.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Photography.
5. Atal Tunnel:
The Atal Tunnel stands as one of the longest highway tunnels worldwide, linking Manali to Lahaul Valley. The highway operates under the Rohtang Pass as a 9 kilometer tunnel that enables people to see Lahaul valley. This tunnel is a must visit for lovers of road trips as it provides an exciting driving adventure. Once you exit the tunnel, you are greeted by the stunning scenery of Sissu and the Lahaul region, making the journey even more memorable.
ACTIVITIES: Photography, Road trip.
6. Jogini Waterfall:
A short trek from Vashisht Temple, Jogini Waterfall is a breathtaking natural attraction. Nature lovers will love the beautiful trail along with the cool waterfall. You can experience the local way of living while you walk through three different areas consisting of apple orchards, pine forests and small villages. The waterfall produces a picturesque scene of flowing water with a backdrop of dense greenery. Tourists love having picnics at the waterfall area where they experience natural air.
ACTIVITIES: Trekking, Photography, Picnic.
7. Kasol:
Kasol, also known as “Mini Israel of India,” is a must-visit destination near Manali for backpackers and nature lovers. Kasol provides visitors with dazzling Parvati River scenery combined with peaceful vibes and active hippie community activity. Trekking options to Kheerganga, Malana, and Tosh from this village turn it into a prime destination for adventure lovers. Whether you want to relax by the riverside or indulge in thrilling treks, Kasol is a perfect getaway from Manali.
ACTIVITIES: Camping, Photography, Israeli Cuisines, Manikarnika Gurudwara.
Top Adventure Activities in Manali:
1. Paragliding
You can find paragliding at its best in Manali among all Indian destinations. The popular spots are Solang Valley and Kasol.
2.River Rafting
The Beas River features several options for exciting white-water rafting tours. People who enjoy water activities must do this adventure.
3. Camping
Enjoy mountain camping while gazing at the Himalayan mountains. Best places to camp are: Solang Valley and Tirthan Valley.
4. Trekking
Manali is a gateway to some of the most popular trekking routes, including Hampta Pass, Beas Kund, and Bhrigu Lake. These treks offer stunning views and a chance to explore the raw beauty of the Himalayas.
5. Skiing & Snowboarding
Winter transforms Manali into a snowy paradise. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley are perfect for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts.
Best Time to Visit Manali:
- Summer (March to June): Perfect for sightseeing and adventure activities.
- Monsoon (July to September): Offers lush greenery but is prone to landslides.
- Winter (October to February): Ideal for snow and sport lovers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs):
Q1. How many days are enough for a Manali trip?
A 3 to 5-day trip is ideal to explore the major attractions, enjoy adventure activities, and experience the local culture.
Q2. Is Rohtang Pass open throughout the year?
No, Rohtang Pass is closed from November to April due to heavy snowfall and reopens in May or June.
Q3. Are there any offbeat places to explore near Manali?
Yes! Explore Sethan Valley, Hampta Pass, Jibhi, Tirthan Valley, and Malana for a quieter, less crowded experience.
Q4. What are the must-try foods in Manali?
Try Siddu, Thukpa, Momos, Trout Fish, and traditional Himachali cuisine at local cafés and dhabas.
Q5. What are the best shopping spots in Manali?
Visit Mall Road for souvenirs, Old Manali for handmade jewelry and clothes, and Tibetan Market for woolens and handicrafts.
CONCLUSION:
Manali is the perfect spot for breathtaking experiences. The Himalayan paradise of Manali provides everything you need to spend an unforgettable time. Get ready as you transform into your inner Bunny from Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani to embark upon a mesmerizing adventure to this gorgeous hill station.
