Places to visit in Manali

Hadimba Temple

This 400-year-old temple, protected by a dense cedar forest, is one of the unmissable places to visit in Manali. The history, beauty and peace surrounding this temple is what makes it such a wonderful tourist location.

The temple is dedicated to the demon princess Hidimba Devi. As per the Mahabharata, Bhima married Hidimba after defeating her brother in a fight.

Hidimba stayed back in Manali after the Pandavas left to rule the people of her kingdom. Later in life, she renounced the throne and took to meditating on a rock in the forest. This rock is still a part of the temple and is revered as the spot where Hidimba became a goddess. There is a temple devoted to Ghatotkach, her son, near the Hidimba Devi temple. The architecture of the temple, with pagodas, is a matter of intrigue to visitors. The place is dark and quiet, and is one of the best places to visit in Manali for a peaceful experience.

Manu Temple

Located in Old Manali, this temple is dedicated to the sage Manu, who is thought to have created mankind. He holds an important position in Hindu mythology as the writer of Manusmriti. The town is named Manali after Manu, who is believed to have meditated here after descending on Earth. This is one of the most culturally rich places to visit in Manali.

Situated in the Beas River Valley, the temple of Manu offers a breathtaking scenery of the grand hills and the gurgling river Beas. The beauty that surrounds this temple makes you realise why Manu chose this location to meditate. Even though it is one of the best places to visit in Manali, you might be disheartened to know that photography inside the temple is not allowed. Do not forget to cover your knees and shoulders when you visit the Manu Temple. Support local artists by buying local artefacts and handicraft items sold by the small shops around the place.

Vashisht Temple and Hot Water Springs

There are some places that emanate peace The Vashisht Temple is one such place. Dedicated to one of the seven sages of Hindu mythology, this serene place to visit in Manali is said to be more than 4,000 years old. Structured out of wood and stone, the Vashisht Temple is situated in a picturesque location against the slope of a hill.

The temple is one of the most famous places to visit in Manali, especially due to the hot water springs adjoining it. These natural hot springs are said to have medicinal properties that can cure skin diseases. When Vashishth wished to commit suicide after the death of his children, the river refused to kill him and he began life anew. That river today is known as the Beas River. This place holds cultural value among Hindus, making it one of the most favoured places to visit in Manali. The Vashisht Temple is bound to charm you irrespective of your religious beliefs.

Siyali Mahadev Temple

Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the Siyali Mahadev Temples is the perfect place to visit in Manali if you want to experience the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of this town. The magnificent architecture of the temple exudes an old world charm attracting thousands, making it one of the best places to visit in Manali.

The pagoda-style architecture of the temple with wooden carvings and the tall deodars standing like guardians make for a captivating sight. Tourists flock here every year during Shivratri to offer their prayers. People have claimed that Lord Shiva is extremely benevolent in granting wishes, especially in this temple, making it one of the most holy places to visit in Manali.

Jogini Falls

Jogini Falls is located at a height of 160 feet, a 45-minute trek from the Vashisht Temple. The journey to the waterfall, which takes you through thick forests of pine and apple orchards, is exceptionally beautiful. You will know why this waterfall is called one of the most magnificent places to visit in Manali when you reach the base of the Jogini Falls. Crystal clear waters gushing down the craggy mountains, this waterfall offers a spectacular view.

The small pool of water accumulated below the falls is a perfect spot for tourists to go for a quick dip. There is a temple dedicated to Yogini Mata up top. If you wish to experience the best of the place, do visit during the months of March to May, and October to February. If you feel adventurous enough, go for a trek to the upper portion of the Jogini Falls. Although difficult, the view from the top is straight out of a fairytale. One of the most popular places to visit in Manali, Jogini Falls should definitely be on your list.

Jana Fall

With the rise of buildings and sky-scrapers, we are on the verge of forgetting what the beauty of nature truly feels like. Endowed with natural beauty, all the places to visit in Manali are peaceful yet charming, and Jana Falls is no exception. Situated in the village of Jana, and hidden behind a cluster of rocks, the Jana Waterfall is exquisite, falling from a height of 30 feet. Among all the Manali tourist places to visit, the Jana Falls offer a beauty so pristine that you would want to come back to it again and again.

While you are here, you can also enjoy traditional Himachali food from the shops near the waterfalls. Have a seat near the waterfall and try out the Himachali siddu, which is a delicious local bread made with wheat flour and enjoyed best with mutton curry or chutney. This enchanting place to visit in Manali is a nature lover’s perfect spot.

Beas Kund Trek

The Beas Kund trek is a beautiful short trek at an altitude of 3,810 metres above sea level. This trek roughly takes three days to point where the River Beas originates. According to legend, Ved Vyas used to bathe in this river giving rise to the name Beas. One of the finest places to visit near Manali, Beas Kund is a glacial lake that is best enjoyed during the months of July to September.

The trek starts from Dhundhi in Solang Valley, a village which is a famous place to visit in Manali for skiing and paragliding. From Dhundhi, the trek takes you to Bhakarthatch a sprawling green field with streams and wild flowers. You will reach the Beas Kund after a 3.5 kilometer ascend from Bhakathatch. The view is stunning, which is reward enough for the somewhat strenuous trek you’ve had. One of the best places to visit in Manali if you want to challenge yourself and experience serenity first hand.

Bhrigu Lake

This place to visit in Manali is a piece of heaven. Situated at a height of 11,000 feet, the journey to Bhrigu Lake is as alluring as the destination. The green mountains and snow capped peaks accompany you to your destination that is Bhrigu Lake. The lake is a true example of divine beauty, and is considered holy, owing to the fact that Maharishi Bhrigu meditated near it.

After you have been to all the touristy places to visit in Manali, go for a ride to Gulaba. From there head to the Jonker Thatch Campsite which should take about two hours. The next step is going to Rola Kholi Campsite from where you shall be able to see a perfect view of Hanuman Tibba. It is from Rola Kholi that you advance to Bhrigu Lake. The image of true beauty and serenity is here, where the green of the alpine meadows, the clear blue sky with wisps of white clouds scattered about, and the clean air makes you wonder how lucky you are to have witnessed this. Night time here is as beautiful as the morning – you get to see a million twinkling stars and a clear view of the Milky Way.

Deo Tibba Base Camp Trek

There are a lot of places to visit in Manali from where you can go for a trek. The Deo Tibba Base Camp trek is one of them. This six day trek is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It takes you through alpine forests, meadows dotted with wild flowers, cascading waterfalls and stunning lakes.

The Deo Tibba peak is said to be the seat of Gods, because of its dome shape. This is an easy to moderate trek, made worth it by the lush green forests of pine and spruce. Additionally, the snow peaks of Deo Tibba and Norbu are a stunning sight and are sure to fill your heart with joy. You can enjoy nights under the stars with a bonfire by your side when you are here. If you wish to escape the crowded places to visit in Manali and be one with nature, then the Deo Tibba trek is not going to dishearten you.

Solang Valley

If you are in Himachal Pradesh, then this exciting place to visit in Manali should definitely be on your list. Known to be the adventure lovers’ paradise, Solang Valley offers a wide array of adventure sports for you to choose from. A famous Manali tourist place, visitors flock here from every part of the country to enjoy their days and return with colourful memories.

Falling on the way to Rohtang from Manali, Solang Valley is a place best known for paragliding. You will be trained on how to properly use the harness by professionals. Once you are ready, be prepared to glide through the mighty hills and witness the thick pine forests and green slopes from up above. The best time to paraglide is from June to May and October to December. It doesn’t stop at that – Solang Valley provides you with horse riding, parachuting and zorbing facilities. Have you ever thought that tumbling down the slopes of the Himalayas would be enjoyable? Well, now you will, because zorbing makes that fun. Locked securely inside a large transparent ball, you will go down the slopes, laughing and relishing every moment. Head straight to Solang Valley, renowned as one of the most enjoyable places to visit in Manali, because the experiences gathered here will stay with you for life.

Mall Road

The Mall Road is one of the most lively places to visit in Manali. Crowded and noisy, the Mall Road stands as a contrast to the otherwise peaceful town of Manali. The streets are lined with shops and stalls on either sides, so keep your eyes peeled for things that attract you. For those of you who like to haggle, your skills will be rewarded here. Famous for Kashmiri shawls, winter clothes, sarees, and various antique items, visiting this Manali tourist place should definitely top your list.

Old Manali Market

Take a walk down the cobblestone lanes of time in this rustic market in Old Manali. This market is guaranteed to dazzle you with its various colours and lights. One of the most quirky places to visit in Manali, you can buy bohemian jewellery, old CDs, woollen items and T-shirts from this market. If you walk further down the lane, you will find tasty jams and pickles on offer.