This beautiful hill station lies in the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is at a height of 6,398 (ft) in the Himalayas. It turns snow white in winter and in summer it welcomes the tourist warmly. Manali is 270 km from the state capital Shimla. It lies in the valley of Kullu. This hill station mesmerizes you. It is devoid of colonial structures.
Manali leads you to Ladakh through the valley of Lahaul and Spiti. The main attraction is the Rohtang Pass. It is on the eastern part of the Pir Pinjal Range of the majestic Himalayas. The Pass is 51 km from Manali. It is at an altitude of 13,050 (ft) above sea level. The tourists are all very well clad with woolen coats, gloves, gumboots, caps, and snow shoes. It is biting cold even in summer. You just cannot believe your eyes. It is a magnificent view as you watch the mountain rising above the clouds. It’s a tricky climb. Hence, vehicles take you up to the Pass. It is on the Manali-Keylong Road. On your way to the pass, you come across waterfalls. If the Rohtang Pass is closed to tourist per chance, then the tourist stop at Snow-Point. This point too has its own icy charm. With cups of piping hot tea tourists trudge along up the point. It’s fun sliding on the snow, making a snowman or throwing snowballs at each other.
Kalath Hot Water Springs contain water from the bowels of the earth. These are sulfurous water springs. They are at a distance of 6.5 km downstream from Manali.
Then you have the Vashist Hot Water Springs which are 3 km from Manali. These are found in a village called Vashist across the River Beas. These are also sulfur springs. The water here has medicinal properties. You will find here well maintained bath houses with Turkish style showers.
Solang Valley is 13 km northwest of Manali. You can ski here for it has a 300 meter ski lift. The tourists are at the most charming spot, surrounded by snow clad mountains and glaciers. In the valley you can also do paragliding, snorkeling, etc. Go to Naggar and dine there at the Roerich restaurant. Here, you can visit The Castle, Roerich House and the Art Gallery. As you savor your food, look out at the beautiful twinkling lights just below in the Beas Valley. There is a Mahadev temple 20 km away.
Witness the Zana Falls that are 36 km from Manali. A little village named Zana has them. One can eat traditional Himachal food. The valley has a very scenic view.
Manali Gompa is a very important place for the Buddhist. They come here from Ladakh, Tibet, Spiti, Lahul and Kinnaur. This Gompa is known the world over and has a statue of Buddha.
Nehru Kund has natural water springs. It is around 6 km from Manali. It is on Manali Keylong Road. When in Manali, the tourist can do a lot of things. One can enjoy paddle boating at a fun park. Along with guides go zorbing, snow scooting, river crossing, skiing, paragliding, river rafting and rock climbing. Do check out with the High Himalayan Company before proceeding to do these activities. They are undertaken by the adventurous souls.
Trekking is another activity undertaken while in Manali by the trekker tourist. Take the route of Deo Tibba Base Camp Trek. One can trek from River Beas Kund and Dhundi. It is known as Friendship Peak Trekking. Then you have the most famous trek named as Hampa Pass Trek. This trek takes you through forests. Remember you have to be fit and healthy for these activities.
Eco zone has a number of villages. You can take some treks from here too. A number of Indian and foreign tourist come to this place. Only nature lovers are allowed here. It is a walking park minus the vehicles. You can avail accommodation here. Do make prior reservations through the authorized offices.
Pandoh Dam generates hydroelectricity. This dam is built by diverting the waters of the River Beas. It is about 10 km from Manali.
Apple Orchards are worth a visit. Manali is famous for them. You can munch on the juicy apples provided you are there during the season.
Great Himalayan Park covers an area of 754 sq. km. It’s a new park added to the already existing ones in India. It is in the Kullu District surrounded by alpine and temperate forests and glaciers. Species of wildlife found here are Snow Cock, Snow Leopard, Monal, Brown Bear, Goral, Serow, Trangopan etc.
Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is 2 km from the hill resort of Manali in Kullu district. It is spread over 3180 hectares. From behind the town it goes all the way up in the mountains. It is a fantastic experience for you to remember. It is set in untouched natural surroundings of dense lush green forests, glaciers and its colourful inhabitants, the awesome birds and animals. The vegetation is a mix of maple, willow, fir, chestnut, poplar, robina and walnut trees. In summer, a number of migratory birds also come here. If you have an adrenal rush, then do take some trekking routes from here. Camping is allowed here for the tourist in summer. May and June should be your most preferred months for trekking. Let me inform you that the temperature here in winter drops below freezing point. Heavy woolens are necessary to cover you up completely. In summer, it is pleasant, and the temperature is mild. Do carry light woolens and cotton outfits. Keep maps handy as well as torch lights, mobiles with emergency numbers and a first aid kit. Do hire a guide who knows the area very well before you leave for trekking or any sport adventure.
Old Manali
Old Manali has an old world charm with restaurants, cafés and bars. It is about 3 km northwest from Manali. Visit Mall Road for shopping or else The Handicraft Emporium, Tibetan Carpet Center and The Tibetan Bazar where you can pick up bamboo souvenirs, turquoise and silver jewelry and Buddhist paintings.
Manali has about 251 hotels. Stay where you wish to. Be sure, you will not be left hungry in Manali for it has about 74 places to savor your appetite.
Manali is not too difficult to reach. From India cities, you can take a flight to Delhi, or a train. Then go to Manali by bus or tourist vehicle. The same is applicable for tourist from abroad.
