Manali Travel Guide for Inbound Travelers

Description: A 16th-century wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, set amidst cedar forests, known for its pagoda-style architecture and spiritual significance.

Location: 2 km from Manali Mall Road

Best Time to Visit: Morning for serene prayers or evening for cooler weather.

Tips: Dress modestly and remove shoes. Visit during Hadimba Festival (May) for cultural events.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Description: A scenic valley 14 km from Manali, famous for adventure sports like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (winter).

Location: 14 km from Manali

Tips: Book activities through trusted operators like Himalayan Journeys. Winter (December–February) for snow sports; summer for paragliding.

• • Entry Fee: Free; activities ₹500–₹3,000.
• • Timings: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Description: A high-altitude pass (3,978 m) offering stunning Himalayan views, snow activities, and access to Lahaul and Spiti. Requires a permit.

Location: 51 km from Manali

Tips: Book permits online via hp.gov.in (₹550–₹1,000). Visit May–October; closed November–April due to snow.

• • Entry Fee: Free; permit and transport extra.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM (seasonal).

Description: A bohemian enclave with cafes, markets, and a laid-back vibe, known for its vibrant backpacker culture and scenic views.

Location: 3 km from Manali Mall Road

Tips: Explore cafes like Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted. Evening visits are lively.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: Open 24/7.

Description: A sacred temple dedicated to Sage Manu, believed to be the creator of humankind, offering serene Himalayan views.

Location: 3 km from Manali Mall Road

Tips: Combine with Old Manali visit. Dress modestly.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

Description: An ancient temple with natural hot springs, believed to have healing properties, set in a quaint village.

Location: 3.5 km from Manali Mall Road

Tips: Bathe in separate male/female hot spring baths (free). Visit morning for tranquility.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM.

Description: A scenic waterfall accessible by a 3-km trek from Vashisht, offering stunning views and a peaceful picnic spot.

Location: 5 km from Manali

Tips: Wear sturdy shoes for the trek. Visit post-monsoon (October–November) for full flow.

• • Entry Fee: Free.
• • Timings: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

Description: A 15th-century castle-turned-heritage hotel in Naggar village, showcasing Himalayan architecture and history.

Location: 20 km from Manali

Tips: Visit the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery nearby. Ideal for a half-day trip.

• • Entry Fee: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners.
• • Timings: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Description: A picturesque river flowing through Manali, ideal for rafting, picnics, and riverside strolls.

Location: Runs through Manali

Tips: Book rafting (₹1,000–₹2,000) through operators like Himalayan Extreme Adventures. Avoid during monsoons.

• • Entry Fee: Free; rafting extra.
• • Timings: Open 24/7; rafting 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.

Drawing from Udaipur’s fame for lake-based experiences, cultural performances, and heritage exploration, Manali offers parallel activities tailored to its Himalayan setting, emphasizing its natural beauty, adventure, and local Pahari culture.

Beas River Walks and Picnics

Inspired by Udaipur’s Lake Pichola boat rides, Manali’s Beas River walks offer a serene experience along its banks, with views of snow-capped peaks and pine forests. Guided riverside tours (₹800–₹1,500, book via Himalayan Journeys or Viator) explore scenic spots like Van Vihar and local villages, sharing stories of Kullu’s history. Picnics by the river (organized by resorts like The Himalayan, ₹1,000–₹2,000) include Pahari snacks. Best from 8:00 AM–11:00 AM to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes and carry a jacket for cool breezes.

Pahari Cultural Performances

Like Udaipur’s Bagore Ki Haveli shows, Manali’s resorts and cultural centers host Pahari folk performances featuring Kulluvi Nati dance and traditional music. Venues like The Himalayan Resort or Kullu-Manali Culture Centre (7:00 PM–8:00 PM, ₹500–₹1,000, often included in resort stays) offer evening shows with local artists. Paired with Himachali thalis, these performances highlight mountain culture. Book via resorts or Himachal Tourism, especially during Dussehra (October).

Heritage Walks in Old Manali

Similar to Udaipur’s old city walks, heritage walks in Old Manali explore its cobbled streets, wooden houses, and temples like Manu Temple. Guided tours (₹800–₹1,500, book via Manali Heritage Walks or Thrillophilia) cover local history, apple orchards, and artisan shops, offering insights into Pahari life. Tours run 7:00 AM–10:00 AM (2–3 hours) to avoid heat, starting from Old Manali Bridge. Carry water and wear sturdy shoes for uneven paths.

Himachali Culinary Workshops and Food Tours

Inspired by Udaipur’s cooking classes, Manali offers workshops to learn Himachali dishes like Siddu, Dham, and Babru. Venues like Cafe 1947 in Old Manali (₹1,200–₹2,500 per session, 2–3 hours) provide hands-on classes with local chefs, emphasizing vegetarian options. Food tours in Mall Road and Old Manali (₹800–₹1,500 via Foodie Trails Manali) include tasting street foods like momos and thukpa. Book via local operators and specify dietary preferences.

• Luxury:
• - The Himalayan (3 km from Mall Road): Gothic-style resort with mountain views, spa, and cultural evenings. Approx. ₹12,000–₹20,000 per night.
• - Span Resort & Spa (15 km from Mall Road): Riverside luxury with adventure activities and fine dining. Approx. ₹10,000–₹18,000 per night.
• Mid-Range:
• - Hotel Snow Peak Retreat (2 km from Mall Road): Cozy rooms with Himalayan views and easy access. Approx. ₹4,000–₹7,000 per night.
• - Apple Country Resorts (2.5 km from Mall Road): Modern amenities with orchard views. Approx. ₹3,500–₹6,000 per night.
• Budget:
• - Hotel Greenfields (1 km from Mall Road): Budget-friendly with basic amenities and mountain views. Approx. ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night.

Tips: Book early for peak seasons (May–June, December–January). Choose stays near Mall Road for convenience. Confirm adventure activity packages.

• The Village House (Old Manali, Rating: 4.8/5): Cozy wooden cottage with Himalayan views and home-cooked Pahari meals. Approx. ₹2,000–₹4,000 per night.


• Zostel Homes Manali (2 km from Mall Road, Rating: 4.7/5): Traditional homestay with orchard setting and local hospitality. Approx. ₹1,500–₹3,000 per night.


• Himalayan Homestay (Vashisht, Rating: 4.6/5): Simple stay with hot spring access and mountain views. Approx. ₹1,000–₹2,500 per night.

Tips: Homestays offer authentic Pahari experiences. Confirm mountain views and Wi-Fi. Check Booking.com or Airbnb for reviews.

• Zostel Manali (Old Manali, Rating: 4.8/5): Vibrant hostel with dorms, private rooms, and a lively cafe. Approx. ₹500–₹1,200 per night (dorm), ₹2,000–₹3,500 (private).


• Moustache Hostel Manali (1 km from Mall Road, Rating: 4.7/5): Social vibe with dorms and adventure bookings. Approx. ₹450–₹1,000 per night (dorm).


• The Hosteller Manali (Old Manali, Rating: 4.6/5): Modern hostel with cozy dorms and travel desk. Approx. ₹400–₹900 per night (dorm).

Tips: Ideal for backpackers. Book early during peak seasons. Ensure locker availability for safety.

• Cafe 1947 (Old Manali): Bohemian riverside cafe serving Himachali, Italian, and Israeli dishes. Approx. ₹300–₹600 per person.


• Johnson’s Cafe (1 km from Mall Road): Cozy spot with trout, pizzas, and Himachali thalis, mountain views. Approx. ₹400–₹800 per person.


• Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted (Old Manali): Famous for coffee, cookies, and vegetarian continental meals. Approx. ₹200–₹500 per person.


• The Lazy Dog Lounge (Old Manali): Riverside dining with Himachali and global cuisine. Approx. ₹350–₹700 per person.


• Chopsticks Restaurant (Mall Road): Popular for Tibetan and Chinese dishes like momos and thukpa. Approx. ₹250–₹550 per person.

Tips: Reserve tables for river or mountain views. Specify vegetarian preferences due to local ethos. Try Himachali specialties like Siddu.

Popular Shopping Items:

• • Woolens: Handwoven shawls, Kullu caps, and socks.
• • Handicrafts: Tibetan thangkas, wooden carvings, and prayer wheels.
• • Jewelry: Silver and beaded tribal ornaments.
• • Local Produce: Apple jam, honey, and dried apricots.
• • Souvenirs: Keychains, postcards, and Himalayan art.

Top Markets:

• • Mall Road: Vibrant market for woolens, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Bargaining expected.
• • Old Manali Market: Bohemian stalls for jewelry, clothes, and Tibetan crafts.
• • Manu Market: Budget-friendly shops for shawls and local produce.
• • Tibetan Market: Known for thangkas, prayer flags, and Buddhist artifacts.

Tips: Bargain for 20–30% off in markets. Verify woolen authenticity. Visit Tibetan Market for unique souvenirs.

Must-Try Dishes:

• • Siddu: Steamed bread with nut or lentil filling, served with ghee.
• • Momos: Steamed or fried Tibetan dumplings with veg or meat.
• • Thukpa: Spicy noodle soup, a Tibetan specialty.
• • Babru: Deep-fried flatbread with black gram filling.
• • Hot Apple Cider: Warm, spiced apple drink, perfect for winters.

Best Spots for Street Food:

• • Mall Road: Stalls for momos, thukpa, and siddu.
• • Old Manali Market: Known for babru and hot cider.
• • Vashisht Road: Evening stalls for momos and local snacks.

Tips: Choose busy stalls for freshness. Avoid street food during monsoons (July–September). Carry bottled water for spicy flavors.

• • Paragliding in Solang Valley: Soar over the Himalayas (₹2,000–₹3,500, book via Himalayan Extreme Adventures).
• • Rohtang Pass Snow Activities: Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or snowmobiling (₹1,000–₹3,000, May–October).
• • Beas River Rafting: Experience white-water rafting (₹1,000–₹2,000, book via Thrillophilia).
• • Trekking to Jogini Waterfall: A scenic 3-km hike with waterfall views (free, carry water).
• • Heritage Walk in Old Manali: Explore cobbled streets and temples (₹800–₹1,500 via Manali Heritage Walks).

Tips: Book activities through Himachal Tourism or Thrillophilia. Wear warm layers for high-altitude activities. Carry sunscreen and sturdy shoes.

• • Festivals: Celebrate Kullu Dussehra (October) or Hadimba Festival (May) for Pahari dances and rituals.
• • Cuisine: Savor Himachali dishes like Dham, Siddu, and Babru at local eateries.
• • Handicraft Workshops: Learn wool weaving or thangka painting at local shops in Old Manali.
• • Pahari Performances: Enjoy Kulluvi Nati and folk music at resorts like The Himalayan or cultural centers.

Tips: Respect temple customs (remove shoes, cover head). Book cultural events during festivals.

• • Best Time to Visit: March–June (15°C–25°C) for pleasant weather; December–February (–5°C–10°C) for snow activities. Avoid monsoons (July–September) due to landslides.
• • How to Reach:
• - By Air: Bhuntar Airport (50 km, 1.5-hour drive) connects to Delhi and Chandigarh.
• - By Train: Joginder Nagar (150 km, 4–5 hours) or Chandigarh (300 km, 8–9 hours) are nearest stations.
• - By Road: NH3 from Delhi (550 km, 12–14 hours) or Chandigarh (300 km, 8–9 hours).
• • Getting Around: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and app-based cabs (Ola/Uber). Rent scooters (₹500/day) or bikes for flexibility.
• • Travel Tips:
• - Carry cash for markets and small vendors.
• - Dress in layers for fluctuating mountain weather.
• - Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for high-altitude sun.
• - Book Rohtang permits and adventure activities via hp.gov.in or trusted operators like Himalayan Journeys.
• • Safety Concerns: Recent posts note landslide risks during monsoons; check weather updates. Solo women travelers should avoid isolated areas at night.

• Day 1: Spirituality and Culture
• • Morning: Visit Hadimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple. Breakfast at Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted.
• • Afternoon: Explore Old Manali and take a heritage walk. Lunch at Cafe 1947.
• • Evening: Visit Vashisht Temple and hot springs. Dinner at Johnson’s Cafe.
• Day 2: Adventure and Nature
• • Morning: Paragliding in Solang Valley. Breakfast at The Lazy Dog Lounge.
• • Afternoon: Trek to Jogini Waterfall. Lunch at Chopsticks Restaurant.
• • Evening: Shop at Mall Road. Dinner at The Himalayan with Pahari performance.

• • Respect temple customs; remove shoes and cover head.
• • Avoid unofficial guides or suspicious deals. Book through trusted platforms like Himachal Tourism.
• • Women travelers should travel in groups at night and dress appropriately.
• • Stay cautious of high-altitude sickness at Rohtang Pass; carry water and medicines.

• • Kullu (40 km, 1.5 hours): Explore river rafting and Kullu Dussehra.
• • Manikaran (80 km, 3 hours): Visit hot springs and Gurudwara Sahib.
• • Shimla (250 km, 7–8 hours): See colonial architecture and Mall Road.

Manali’s Himalayan beauty, adventure thrills, and Pahari culture offer