Manali is a popular hill station nestled in the Beas River Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is a beautiful hill town that falls within the province of Kullu Valley and in close proximity to the hill station of Kullu. Since there is a very small distance between the two hill stations, they are often considered as one single Himalayan destination. It is perched at an altitude of about 2050 meters above the sea level and its surroundings consist of enchanting hills that are capped with thick deodar and teak forests, paddy fields, grasslands, with the babbling Beas River flowing in close proximity. The hills of the region are dotted with numerous old and new Hindu temples and therefore the place is just often fondly referred as the “Valley of Gods”. It is a small town with a small population. Agriculture and some small trades are the traditional industries here, whereas the past few decades have also experienced a rise in tourism industry.
Today Manali is one of the most visited places in north India. The clean and salubrious environment, pleasant weather, unmatched natural beauty, simple and laid-back attitude towards life, sumptuous north Indian cuisine, and everything else that goes in to make your tour of the place an experience of a lifetime, Manali tourism is an aspect of India tourism that you may not like to miss.
There are a couple of interesting activities at Manali that can be done and relished when you are in the town. The popular being:
Trekking to Beas Kund – Beas Kund is a small tranquil lake set in the midst of mystic mountains and hills. It is a few kilometers away from the main town and counted amongst the chief trekking sites. The place is also significant religiously as it is believed that in ancient times sage Vyas used to bathe here. The site is also a popular camping spot.
A refreshing drive away to the Rohtang Pass – Rohtang pass is a few kilometers ahead of the town. The mountain pathway passes through mountains, glaciers, and landscapes and offers amazing views of the surroundings. It is one of the places that experience snowfall. It is one of the best getaways far from the chaos of maddening cities. Tourists here enjoy activities like trekking, mountain biking, skiing, and paragliding.
A fascinating stroll down the Mall Road – Mall Road is one of the chief markets in the town. It is a perfect place to rejuvenate, gusto appetizing cuisines, and buy some wonderful souvenirs. It is the nerve centre of the place and the venue of all the actions. It is lively, colorful, and full of attractions.
A visit to the highly revered Manu Maharishi Temple – Located in Old Manali the Manu Maharishi Temple is an old temple dedicated to Sage Manu. It is said that the temple is the oldest and only Manu Temple in India. Locals put the temple high on esteem. The architecture of the temple is a treat to the eyes and its location is scenic and tranquil.
The other major tourist attractions in and around the town are: Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Vashist Hot Water Springs, Snow Point, Nehru Kund, Basheshwar Mahadev Temple, Bijli Mahadev Temple, Maa Sharvari Temple etc.