Encircled by towering snow-clad peaks and nourished by the gushing Beas River, Manali is a breathtaking hill station tucked away in the lap of the Indian Himalayas. Flourishing green valleys, sparse pine forests, apple orchards and swaying wildflowers contrast the majestic mountains that surround Manali.
Be it seeking blessings at ancient shrines shaped out of wood and stone, conquering the high-altitude mountain passes on an exciting trek, paragliding over blankets of snow at Solang Valley, or soaking tired feet in the ice-cold waters of the Jogini waterfall after a long day of sightseeing, Manali promises a myriad of magical experiences that make you fall in love deeper with every passing day.
Regardless of whether you book Manali tour packages or chart your own path, these top 10 attractions should be on every visitor’s list when exploring this hill station:
Table of Contents
1. Rohtang Pass
The iconic Rohtang Pass, at a dizzying height of 3978 m, is one of Manali’s top attractions. This high mountain pass is the gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys and promises stunning landscapes.
As you drive up the steep road, stop at picturesque spots to admire views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, waterfalls and valleys enveloped in mist. Go paragliding over the Solang Valley or ride a yak on the verdant grasslands topping the pass.
Come winter, Rohtang Pass transforms into a snow lover’s paradise, offering activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobile rides.
Every trip to Manali is complete with crossing this natural marvel off your bucket list!
2. Hadimba Temple
Surrounded by towering cedar trees, the exquisite Hadimba Temple is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhima in the Mahabharata. Built in 1553 in pagoda style with a conical roof, this temple is entirely made of wood.
Step inside to admire intricate carvings on the door and wall panels depicting gods and goddesses. Seek blessings from the resident deity before heading out to shop for souvenirs in the market, lining the walkway to the temple.
With its soothing ambience and unique architecture that blends Hindu and Buddhist styles, Hadimba Temple is among Manali’s most popular tourist destinations.
3. Solang Valley
Solang Valley promises adrenaline-pumping experiences for adventure lovers, including paragliding, zorbing and skiing. Come winter, the landscape transforms with snow-laden trees and slopes perfect for skiing.
When you want a break, relax at a cafe or savour hot snacks from local food stalls. With such varied options, Solang Valley deserves a spot on every Manali tourist’s bucket list.
4. Nehru Kund
At the foothills of the Rohtang Pass lies the icy cold natural spring of Nehru Kund, named after India’s first Prime Minister. Highly revered by locals, its crisp water is considered extraordinarily pure and revitalising.
Fed by natural streams, Nehru Kund is nicely tucked amidst towering mountains. Its secluded location and pristine surroundings make a tremendous offbeat pitstop to soak in the peaceful ambience.
5. Manikaran
Just 85 km from Manali, Manikaran’s hot sulphur springs are encouraging. Pilgrims come to bathe in their revitalising waters, known for their healing powers.
Manikaran is also home to ancient Hindu and Sikh pilgrimage sites, such as the temples of Raghunathji and Lord Shiva. The hot springs originate from the river here. As a spiritual centre, Manikaran promises tranquillity, beautiful views, and historic shrines to explore.
6. Manu Temple
Dedicated to the Hindu sage Manu, this iconic temple is nestled between the Beas River’s noisy rapids and tranquil mountains. Set amidst lush greenery, it is an ideal spot for nature lovers and culture buffs.
The temple’s architecture showcases intricate wood carvings and the vibrant symbol of a fish, representing the goddess of water. According to legends, Manu meditated here after surviving the great flood, giving Manali its name.
Located just three km from the town, this ancient shrine can easily be combined with other attractions on your Manali trip.
7. Bhrigu Lake
The sacred Bhrigu Lake, set at an incredible altitude of 4300 m, promises a thrilling trekking experience. Towering peaks, gurgling streams and lush forests accompany you throughout before the brilliant blue Bhrigu Lake emerges.
Surrounded by majestic Himalayan ranges, Bhrigu Lake offers heavenly scenery and calm turquoise waters. For trekkers, it is easily among Manali’s most rewarding experiences.
8. Jogini Waterfall
Plunging from an astounding height of around 160 ft., Jogini waterfall is just 4 km from Manali, making it an exceptional picnic spot. Enjoy a packed lunch by the lake created at its base as you soak your feet in the chilled water.
Listen to the water’s soothing roar and admire the Chanderkhani Pass from afar. Remember to visit the nearby Jogini Mata Temple, dedicated to the goddess Jogini.
With its secluded location and pristine surroundings, Jogini waterfall promises a rejuvenating break.
9. Old Manali
A stroll through Old Manali is necessary to peek into traditional life. Away from Mall Road’s chaos, get lost in the narrow cobblestone lanes dotted with ancient village houses, roadside cafes and souvenir shops of this quaint hamlet.
Grab a book and watch the Beas River flow by as you sip on coffee at a riverside cafe. Browse through curios, shawls and woollens sold at tiny shops in the Old Manali market.
10. Parvati Valley
The stunning Parvati Valley near Manali is a trekker’s paradise with abundant natural beauty and hidden gems far from mainstream tourist trails.
Stretching over 100 km across the Himalayas, the Parvati River cuts through this valley dotted with mountains, glacial lakes and thick forests. From the hippie haven of Kasol to the remote Gargi village, Parvati has many secrets waiting to be uncovered.
Go on challenging treks to Pin Parvati Pass, Sar Pass or Mantalai Lake amidst breathtaking scenery. Discover ancient shrines like Manikaran Gurudwara and Jagatsukh Temple. Camp under the stars and soak in the peaceful ambience of quaint hamlets like Malana, Chalal and Tosh.
Conclusion
From ancient hill temples and gushing waterfalls to paragliding over snow slopes or finding inner peace at spiritual sites – Manali promises immense scenic beauty and memorable experiences galore.
So pack your bags and get ready to be mesmerised by Manali’s bountiful natural allure on your next holiday. Visiting Manali guarantees spectacular scenery, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural discovery, whether you opt to navigate the city independently or through Manali tour packages from Delhi. Thoughtfully designed Manali itineraries cater to all types of travellers seeking the ideal blend of experiences.
Apart from that, if you want to know about Road Trip Ready: How Minivans Make Family Adventures Epic then please visit our Travel Category.
