Things to do in Manali

Once upon a time, Manali was the dream destination of many and an aloof capital of India. Unexplored and a pure paradise that every explorer seeks. Far from the Colonization, day to day rush and traffic of the cities. I remember when I was a child I used to get fascinated by those serene places. A muddy track from Kullu to Manali was once a part of the popular hippie trail, which we used to watch in videos. Today the scenario is a hell lot different. Manali has become one of the most popular hill stations in India with a tourist surge almost throughout the year.

Manali stands tall for the needs of every kind of traveler whether be it’s for a family looking to re-energize their bonds, couples looking for some quality time, solo travelers urging for some solitude or a group of friends seeking an adventure.

There are a whole lot of things to do in and around Manali.

Indulge yourself in the serenity and peace of Hidimba Devi Temple

Walk from Old Manali through the beautiful forest that leads to the Hidimba Devi Temple. The best time to visit is in the evenings as one can attend the evening Aarti as well as can pay a visit to the famous  Ghatotkach Temple located near the temple.

Experience Adventure at Solang Valley

Solang valley is famous for its adventure sports. 

Also known as 'Adventure Valley' one can find a variety of activities right from Paragliding to Ropeway to archery, you’ll find everything here.

A perfect blend of culture and fun. The place also houses a famous Mahadev temple (Popularly known as Anjani Mahadev Temple) situated at a distance of 2.5 km from the base. One can either walk down or can hire a horse or a motorbike to reach there

Every year during winter season natural Shiv Ling forms here due to the deposition of ice. The height of the Shiv Ling goes up to 40 feet. A natural wonder like Amarnath. Must visit though it is situated at a height.

Cleanse yourself in the Himalayan Spa’s

Situated on the outskirts of Manali, there stangs the famous Vashisht Temple, where you can detoxify yourself naturally amidst the pristine forests. Vashisht is a small village located around 3 km from Manali across the River Beas. This beautiful village is famous for its sulfurous hot water springs and Vashisht temple, built just next to the springs. The water from this spring is believed to have great healing powers, which can cure many skin diseases and other infections.

Visit the Rohtang Pass 

Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas around 51 km from Manali. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh, India. Reserve a day of your trip to Manali for the Rohtang Pass. It usually requires half a day to fully explore and enjoy this place. At parts of the Rohtang Pass, the snow never liquefies. Which means what you see and grasp could possibly be antiquated snow. Be a child again and let yourself free as you play in the snow. Be amazed by the lavish green winding streets that gradually lead to snow and the mountains and clouds moving with you as you pave your way through Rohtang Pass.

Go for a Local Sightseeing

A walk through the thick deodar forest with Beas River flowing along and numerous birds following you throughout your journey from old Manali to the famous The Manali market (also known as Market Street) is the best walk one can have. A walk to Remember. It’s hard to believe that such places can too have well-connected roads.

 You can find ample eateries along the roadside like roasted corn, the steamy momo which serves as a savior there. Usually, a little crowded in the evening but it holds a unique experience in itself. 

Dance on the Rythm of River Beas

You might have heard of birds singing but have you heard of river singing? I bet you can feel that in Manali.

The river Beas flows through Manali and dominates the major landscapes here. Enjoy your breakfast with a cup of morning tea amazingly perched on the lawns over this river as the gushing water plays a unique rhythm every time it hits the small rocks and shores. This place hosts ample restaurants and café’s providing an altogether thrilling experience. Spend this blissful time with your family, your loving partner and with yourself. If you’re a book worm like me, open a book and lose yourself in the lap of mountains and blanket of clouds. 

For adventure freaks, you can just go and enjoy river rafting across.

Apart from this, there are a lot of hidden places in and around. Don’t forget to be an explorer in Manali. Look beyond the obvious horizons. Interact with localities. Find a new path, be curious at where it leads to, how easy or difficult it can be. And armed with this information, just follow your heart.

After all, Life is all about exploration.

Have you ever been to Manali? Do let me know your experiences in the comment section below. I hope I am able to justify the important things to do in Manali.