Manali - India HillTop Trips - Splendid hills and Majestic retreats

Manali Once called the "end of the habitable world," Manali is an important hill station of Northern India and is the destination of thousands of tourists every year. Its cool atmosphere provides a perfect haven for the ones afflicted by the hot Indian summers. Besides offering quite a few places for sightseeing, Manali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking. In brief, Manali-the veritable "valley of the Gods"-is an ideal place for the ones in search of both adventure and comfort. Manali is situated near the end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. The landscape here is spectacular.

Hill Resort | Elevation | Travel | Season | Tourist places | Accommodation | Location | Manali Map

The Hill Resort

Manali is an important hill station of northern India and is the destination of thousands of tourists every year.Manali derived its name from Manavalaya meaning the abode of Manu or "Home of Manu" and here, the temples are treated as pilgrimages. Its cool atmosphere provides a perfect haven for the ones afflicted by the hot Indian summers. Manali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, para gliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking Manali, first sight in the Hills cradling this picturesque town seems so inviting that the foot on the accelerator gets quiet firm if you are driving. Drive upto the centre of Manali and into the market place. Manali is the first choice of many people who want to see and touch snow for the first time. But there is far more than this happening Himanchal Town than just snow and ice. Manali has everything you need to know to enjoy your stay along with your family. It offer so much to see and do that your family will be spoilt with wide choices. It has a magnificent setting for a host of activities, from a leisurely stroll, to rock climbing with the experts. It is an excellent place for a holiday, a favorite resort for trekkers to Lahaul, Spiti, Kinnaur, Leh and Zanskar regions in Kashmir valley.

Manali is situated at an altitude of 1,829 m in Himachal Pradesh. It is the main tourist destination of the Kullu Valley. Suggested clothing - heavy/light woolens in winter & summer. It receives an annual rainfall of 1,780 mm. In summer Manali is packed with Pahari speaking Kullus, Lahaulis, Nepali labourers, Tibetan refugees and foreign and Indian tourists. Apple growing has been the mainstay of the local economy. Manali is the centre of a flourished orchard industry. A host of small shops, restaurants and small hohotels provide the necessities of daily life. Every year more hotels are opened in and around Manali.

History

Manali has a pre-historic legend behind its name. Vaivasvata, the seventh incarnation of Manu, the first creation according to Hindu mythology, found a tiny fish in his bathing water. The fish told him to look after it with devotion, for one day it would do him a great service. The seventh Manu cared for the fish until it grew so huge that he released it into the sea. Before departing, the fish warned Manu of an impending deluge when the entire world would be submerged and bade him to build a seaworthy ark. When the flood came, Matsya (fish), the first avatar of Lord Vishnu, towed Vaivasvata and the Seven Sages to safety. As the waters subsided, the seventh Manu's ark came to rest on a hillside and the place was named Manali after him.

Vaivastava, the seventh incarnation of Manu found a floating fish in his bathing water, which he nurtured till it grew into a mammoth fish big enough for sea. Then, the story goes that the saint and Manu went on making a big vessel as the fish warned them of a gigantic deluge, which was soon to take over mankind. The place where this all saving and securing vessel was built is known to all of us as, "Manali. "Currently, it is this life saving height of the mythical age of Saints, Asuaras and Gods, which provides succour and relief to the people in search of calm and quietitude amidst nature's solitude.Tours to Manali, India India Travel Destinations provides a window of opportunity through which tourists and interested travelers can go ahead and explore the natural beauty of Manali, the prominent Hill Station in India. Tours to Manali in Himachal Pradesh opens up new vistas of nature seeking before us with all its resplendent glory. Manali is a charming and ebullient Hill Station in India capping the hills in Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh.

Trekking

There are number of interesting trekking possibilities out of Manali or from the nearby villages of Jagatsukh or Nagar, or from Manikaran in the Parbatti Valley. There is a Mountaineering Institute, which offers training courses to organised groups. The institute staff will offer expert advice to trekkers. There are several agencies which can assist with the hiring of staff.

Shopping

Woolen goods are the town's real forte, particularly the brilliantly patterned shawls. The New Shopping Center (NSC) near the bus stand has a good selection. A good place to familiarize oneself with fair prices is the Shawl Factory Shop, just off the Mall south of the bus stand, which sells high-quality shawls at fixed rates. Elsewhere around the bazaar, innumerable stalls are stacked with hand-woven goods and pillbox Kullu topis or caps. Manali's other specialty is Himalayan handicrafts: mainly assorted Tibetan curios such as prayer wheels, amulets, dorjes (thunderbolts), masks, musical instruments and thangkas.

Handicrafts and local souvenirs can be purchased from Main Market, New Shopping Centre, Tibetan bazaar and Tibetan Carpet Centre. The government shop on the Mall also has good collection. For shawls, Bhutico, Himachal Handicrafts at Circuit House Road, and NAC Market can be visited.

Adventure Activities

Skiing is a major pastime in Manali. Facilities for skiing are available at Solang Nullah (January-March) and Rohtang La (during summer). The Mountaineering Institute at Solang Nullah is a good training institute. Heli skiing is possible at the deep snowfields.The Mountaineering Institute and Allied Sports is about 3 km from the Mall and offers mountaineering and kayaking courses.

There are several good hikes from Manali. The 12-km hike up the western banks of the Beas to the Solang Valley is noteworthy. Lama Dugh meadow is a 6-km hike up to the Manalsu Nala, west of Manali town.

Languages

Hindi, Himachali, English

Enticing Beauty

Manali is a perfect place to hike, climb and picnics combined with sun-bathing and fishing. There are many apple orchards and fruit gardens near the lovely town. Experience the local color and beauty in Manali's temples, quaint villages and the vibrant and festive mood of the people and their colorful clothes and handicrafts. Or encounter adventure; on the myriad trekking trails and routes, while skiing

Elevation

Manali - 2050 meters.

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Location Details

Manali is situated in the central parts of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is 32 km from Kullu valley, 280 km north of the state capital Shimla and 108 km from Mandi. Manali is located at an altitude of 2050 meters above sea level and is spread along the banks of the river Beas.

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How to Reach There and Distances

Manali is 40 km from Kullu, 280 Km from Shimla, 312 km from Chandigarh, 560 km from Delhi, 326 km from Pathankot, 201 km from Palampur, 375 km from Dalhousie, 115 km from Keylong, 238 km from Dharamsala and 166 km from Udeypur.

Air

Nearest airport is at Bhuntar, 50 km away. Archana Airways and Jagson Airlines operate daily flights from Delhi to Kullu. U.P Airways flights are seasonal.

Rail

The nearest narrow gauge railhead is at Jogindernagar (135 km). The nearest broad gauge raiheads are at Chandigarh (310 km), and Ambala (355 km).

Road

The distance from Delhi via Mandi is 585 km, and from Simla the distance is 270 km. From Simla, Chandigarh and Delhi, luxury buses run by Himachal Tourism regularly ply to Manali. The bus terminal is well organised and the ticket office is computerised. Deluxe buses are booked, and leave from, the tourist office, while semideluxe are handled from the bus terminal itself.

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Best Season to Visit/Weather

In winters, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. Summer temperatures are mild and light woolens/cottons are recommended. In Manali, one can find high mountains shrouded by silent snows and deep boulder strewn gorges. There are thick forests, filled with cool breezes and bird song.

Best Time to visit
Throughout the year

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Tourist places near Manali

On the left bank of the river Beas, near Prini village, is the "Arjun Gufa" or the cave of Arjuna. It is believed that Arjuna practiced austerities to get Pashupata Ashtra or weapon from Lord Indra.

Hadimba Temple

Hadimba Temple, Manali The excellent combination of wooded forests, snow covered slopes, green open valleys and the fast flowing Beas make Manali an ideal destination for mountain adventure sports. Heavy spells of snowfall open the season of ultimate mountain sports, skiing, which can begin as early as November and last till as late as June. At Solang Nallah you can start on 100 kms of snow. Make a trip to these hotspots by bus or taxi from Manali. For adventure here there is heliskiig from January 15-March 31. This is a week package run by Government around the Hamta Pass such as Johri and Bhrigu Lakes and Rohtang Pass. If you are a first timer you can take paragliding just one minute. The Beas is wild river and rafting here needs a strong nerve.

Manali central attraction in terms of history and architecture is undoubtedly the Dhoongri Temple. Dedicated to goddess Hadimba, the Bhim of Mahabharat fame, it has four-tiered Pagoda shaped roof and the doorway is carved with legendary figures and symbols. It is a pleasant experience to stroll in the temple complex which was built in 1533 A.D. A large festival is held here in May.

Tibetan Monastery

There are 3 newly constructed colorful monasteries, where visitors can buy carpets and other Tibetan handicrafts. Two are located in the town and one at Aleo on the left bank of Beas river.

Tibatan Temple

Tibetans have a base in Manali too. There is a large modern Tibetan temple to the South of the bus stand and also a small handicrafts centre.

Arjun Gufa

On the left bank of the Beas, five kms from Manali near the village of Prini, is the Arjun Gufa or the cave of Arjuna. One of the heroes of the Mahabharata, Arjuna is said to have performed penence here.

Jagatsuhk

About 6 km. from Manali is the famous Shiva Temple in "shikara" style. It houses temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri.

Kothi

This is a quiet but picturesque spot, at the foot of the Rohtang pass, 12 kms. away from Manali town. It offers a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Manu Temple

Manali is named after the sage Manu who was the creator of human race on the earth and it is believed that he meditated here. This is supposed to be the only temple of Manu in India. Slippery stones paths lead through the old village houses up to the temple of Manu. Manali is named after the sage Manu who is believed to have resided here.

Monasteries

Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. It is maintained by donations from the local community and by sale of hand-woven carpets in the temple workshop.

Rahala waterfalls

About 16 km from Manali at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, are the beautiful Rahalla Falls at an altitude of 2,501 m.

River Rafting in Manali, Mountaineering Institute

Situated 3 kms. on the left bank of river Beas towards Kulu, this Institute organizes basic & advance training courses, in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired from here by booking in advance.

Vashist Hot Water Springs And Temple

Vashist, a small village located on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang pass is worth a visit. It is renowned for its hot springs and temples. Nearby is the pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is another Temple of Lord Ram here. Natural hot sulphur springs with two separate bathing tanks for gents and ladies are always full of tourists.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang pass, also in the near vicinity of this beautiful Hill Station in India, which a guided tour to Shimla would reveal, is posited at a height of 3980 meters above sea level. It is a major attraction and congregation point for all seasoned trekkers and people out for longer jaunts in Shimla, another of those ethereal Hill Stations in India, Himachal Pradesh.

Road to the Rohtang pass

The formidable 51 kms climb up to the pass 13, 060 ft above the sea level, along rough bridle pass used to send the adrenaline level shooting level. But once on the top, the stunning panoramas of the snow peaks and glaciers, and the desolate Lahaul Valley below would banish all fears. As you get in your four wheel drive and join the crowds heading for the windswept strip of land, 10 kms from this place you will pass Palchan, the turn-off point for Solang Nallah. Prepare yourself for a steep trek and you don't have to bend in for the hair pin curves. The drive here is dizzying, especially for children. But if the road is clear of the snow, you will be rewarded with a spell binding view. 40 kms. away from Kulu to the north, Manali is situated near the end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. One sees well-defined snow capped peaks, the Beas river with its clear water meanders through the town. On the other side are deodar and pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchards.

En route stop-off the Snow Point - not a static point as it 'shifts' with the snow. Interestingly the closest point to Manali is ample of snow for tourist is christened Snow Points by the local taxi and tour operators. Bury here yourself with the snow if you haven't ever seen snow here. En route stop by the village of Kothi, a cold, windy and beautiful alpine meadows where you get to enjoy possibly one of the most phenomenal views ever to be had of the Beas, as the river comes roaring down the through the deep gorge.

Solang Valley

Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. It has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute has installed a ski lift for training purpose. The 12-km hike up the western banks of the Beas to the Solang Valley is noteworthy.

Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple

(3 km)Across the Beas river is Vashist, a small village with natural sulphur springs. Modern bathhouses, with Turkish-style showers, have the hot water piped into them for the convenience of the visitors who come here to benefit from the medicinal properties. There is a pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni and another Temple of Lord Ram.

Skiing

Skiing at Solang Nullah can be arranged by many of the agencies in the town, although one can hire skis and ski independently at this resort. The Mountaineering Institute located at Manali provide straining facilities for basic and advanced climbing, both for Indian nationals and foreigners. This institute also conducts rock climbing, skiing and high altitude rescue and relief courses. There is a hostel, an exhibition of equipment and an auditorium. Himachal Tourism Club House, on river bank has facilities for indoor sports and a well appointed restaurant.

Manalsu river

An interesting walk is along the north bank of the Manalsu river, west of old village, which flows into the Beas. Relatively easy mule track with more adventurous tracks leading from it. Across the river lies old Manali, the original village.

Old Manali Village

The old Manali village is a couple of km away from the current town of Manali. Follow the road across the Manalsu stream, from where one can climb up to this interesting little village, which is becoming popular for budget travellers to stay in. A new temple was recently built in the centre of Old Manali.

Attractions to Manali

Hadimda Devi and Manu Temple are some of the chief centers of worship in Manali which are known all over in the eyes of the connoisseurs both for its architectural beauty and religious significance. Funtsok Coffee house, Little Tibet and Tibet Kitchen in this Hill Station in India, are some of the places of Tibetan origin and significance, which need to be visited to have a feel of Tibet without visiting the real place.

Shimla, another gem of a Hill Station in India, to unearth its magnificence in the form of locales of the order of, Club House, Vasisth Baths and the glacier closest to Manali, Solang valley. It has attained lorish and legendary proportions both for tourists who have visited the glacier and the prospective ones who are yet to live the experience of this locale rich in grassy slopes and numerous picnic spots.

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