Manali Travel Guide- All You Need to Know Before You Go 2025

                                                                           Manali travel guide

Manali is a very beautiful place. This place is ideal for those who want to spend time with nature. Manali attract the tourists with their atmosphere and traditional culture. Manali is near Kullu Town in Kullu district in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated in the northern place of Kullu valley.

                Top Attractive Place To Visit In Manali

• Solang valley

  Solang Valley is the famous tourist destination of Manali which is known for adventure tourist and natural beauty. Tourist take experience for paragliding, skiing, zorbing and snowboarding which is exciting for all age group people. In winter, it is popular for snow activities and In summer, they enjoy adventurous sports and greenery view. Must try the ropeway ride in Solang valley which seeing the breathtaking views. It attracts the tourists with snow covered mountains and Beas river. There is also a temple named Anjani Mahadev Temple which is peaceful spot and perfect for spiritual seekers.

•  ANJANI MAHADEV TEMPLE

              This Temple is very peaceful and sacred place which is situated near Solang Valley. This temple is dedicated to GOD SHIVA and this is also known as “AMARNATH OF HIMACHAL”. This SHIVLING is made naturally and it is made in winter during snowfall, which is sacred for devotees. You can reach this temple with a short and easy trek. This path gives experience of mountains serene and beauty of beas river. there is also a waterfall which enhance the beauty of this trek and temples. it is  must-visit place for nature lovers and temple spiritual seekers. it is a memorable experience for tourist to explore this temple while coming.

• ROHTANG PASS

  

It is most popular tourist destination near MANALI, which is located in 13050ft to SAMUNDAR TAL. this place is known by beautiful view of snow covered mountain, glacier, and green valley. It connect the valley of KULLU AND LAHAUL SPITI with each other. you can experienced the activities like skiing, snowboarding and sledging in winter season. It is also perfect place for trekking in summer season.It is also known as GATEWAY OF LADAKH, and it is a dream destination for adventure lovers. “PERMIT IS IMPORTANT FOR TOURIST FOR VISIT THIS PLACE.”  May to October month is best for travel. It is also must visit place to see the beauty of HIMALAYA’S MOUNTAIN.

• HIDIMBA TEMPLE

This temple is historical and famous place of Manali which is situate between dense cedar forests. This temple made in 1553 and it is devoted to  HIDIMBA DEVI, who was wife of BHIM in MAHABHARAT. THE Architecture of this temple is veru unique, which shows the design of traditional pagoda style. It was made without any idol, there is a rock which is beleived to represent HIDIMBA DEVI. THE area around temple is very beautiful and peaceful  make it even more special. This temple is perfect place for religious people as well as nature lover and history enthusiants. The atmosphere of this temple feels the postivity and peaceful for tourists

• MANU TEMPLE 

Manu temple is situated in OLD MANALI and it is devoted to MAHARISHI MANU, who is the creater of mankind, according to hindu mythology. the temple holds immense spiritual and it said to be that it is the only temple in INDIA  dedicated to MAHARISHI MANU. The architecture of this temple is in HIMACHAL-style, which is mainly made by woods and rocks and it’s traditional design make it more supecious. To reach this temple, you walk through little and quaint street of OLD MANALI and trek little uphill. While walking you may experienced the himachal cultures, local handmade goods, cafes etc. Rush of people is less in the morning, which is the best time to experienced this temple and peace. It is also must visit destination for travelers.

• OLD MANALI

OLD MANALI is small and peaceful town in Manali, which is famous for their rustic charm. This place is perfect for those people who want to live far from crowded area and who finds the relaxed environment. It is known for their quaints cafe, narrow lanes and traditional himachali vibes. The cafes and restaurants are popular in travelers, it serves both INDIAN  and INTERNATINAL cuisines. You will get a chance to enjoy live music and cozy environment. Long walk near Bias river and lush greenery enhance its natural beauty. Routes for trekking and biking starts from there for adventure lovers. Manu temples and HIMALAYAN NYINGMAPA GOMPA like famous spot also there. this is must-visit destination for their uniques blend of culture, natural beauty and relaxed vibes. It gives the experience for different travel with slow paced lifestyle.

• JOGINI WATERFALL

This waterfall is famous tourist attraction which is situated in VASHIST VILLAGE, Manali. You trek 3-4km to reached this waterfall view with is passing by dense forest, apple orchardsand mountain village which make it adventure filled journey. The water of this waterfall fall from big rock cliff, which make it more spectacular. the view is perfect blend with their greenery, which is heaven for nature lovers and photographers. It holds spiritual significance, because there is a small temple near waterfall, which devotes JOGINI MATA. Local people consider this place sacred. the best time to visit is early morning or evening because in this time, there is less crowd, allowing you to enjoy the nature.

• VASHIST HOT SPRINGS

it is famous place near Manali, which is famous for natural hot water spring. It is also located in Vashisht village, which is within 3km far from Manali. the water of hot sring is sulfur-rich, which is also known as medicinal properties and many people come to relax and heal their health issue. There is historical temple, who devotes RISHI VASHISHT. There  are different water tanks, in which there is separate arrangements for men and women.

• HAMPTA PASS

Hampta pass is popular trekking destination in Manali and it is better than SOLANG VALLEY. It connect Kullu Valley and Spiti Valley with each other and it is also known as breathtaking view. This route passes through different terrains like dense forest, lush green meadows, rocky landscape and snow covered trails. Chandratal lake also there in this trek. Scenic beauty and surreal environment is unforgettable experience for travellers and trekkers. Trekking level is moderate for beginners but basic fitness is important for beginners. You can also see SHEPHERD VILLAGE and HIMACHAL CULTURE which make journey supecious. Best time to visit in this trek is June to September because in this month there is pleasent weather and easily accessible trail.

• GREAT HIMALAYA NATIONAL PARK

THE GREAT HIMALAYA NATIONAL PARK (GHNP) is located in KULLU district of HIMACHAL PRADESH and it is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is known by it’s rich biodiversity and stunning natural beauty. GHNP is spread about 1,171 square kilometers and you can also see dense forest, alpine meadows and snow covered packs. This park is house of rare flora and fauna  in which you can see blue sheep, snow leapord, himalayan brown bear, musk deer and unique bird also there. It is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. There are different type of trails for trekking which is suitable for beginners and experienced trekkers. PIN PARVATI PARK AND TIRTHAN VALLEY ARE THE POPULAR TREK ROUTES. This area promote eco-tourism and sustainable travel. So, strict rules follow there

Adventure Activities in Manali

Manali is paradise for adventure enthusiasts, where many thrilling activities available. Different type of terrain and natural beauty make its perfect adventure activities.

• PARAGLIDING

Paragliding is unique experience activity in Manali. Solang valley and Dobhi are the popular spot, in there you can see views of snow-capped mountains and stunning aerial view of Valleys. It is safe and thrilling for both beginners and experienced because experienced instructure and proper safety measure available all time. Height and duration of flight changes due to the change in weather.    

• River rafting

    River rafting is most exciting adventure activity in Manali. Fast flowing rapids and surrounding nature make this activity more thrilling. There are different type of difficulty levels available for beginners and experienced people. Best time for this activity is from MAY to JUNE, when flow of water is perfect.      

• Trekking

There are many option for trekking in Manali like HAMPTA PASS and BHRIGU LAKE TREK. THIS trek passes between dense forest, green meadows and snow-clad peaks and give adventoures and scenic experience. Trail are available for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. Best time for trekking is summer and autumn season.      

• Camping

Tirthan Valley and Solang Valley or much more areas are ideal for camping in Manali. you can have fun of camping in river side and lush green surrounding area. Experience of Starry nights and bornfire makes memorable for tourists        

• Skiing

Solang Valley and Gulaba village are the top destination for skiing in winter in Manali. fresh snow and wide slopes are perfect for beginners and experts. Equipment and instructors are available easily for skiing. December to February is the best time for skiing.      

• Snowboarding

Solang Valley and surrounding area are the perfect destination for snowboarding in winter in Manali. It is similar to skiing but you make balance and thrill in this activity. December to February is the ideal season in which you can experiencing this activity.      

Local cuisine in manali

Manali’s local cuisine and himachali cultures and there traditional cooking techniques are the unique blend. here’s food is not only culinary experience, but it is the reflection of Himachal’s rich heritage and authentic flavour. Local spices, fresh ingrediants and himachali hospitality are there is all dish. All tousrist have must-try experience to try their local cuisine, which make it more memorable.

• Siddu

Siddu is an iconic dish of Himachal Pradesh, which is made by wheat dough. Dough is filling with stuffing, in which grounded walnuts, poppy seeds and local spices use. This dish is made through steam which make it’s structure soft and smooth. Siddu is served with ghee and eat with traditional chutneys. Siddu is famous between all the tourist specially in winter season      

• Dhaam

Dhaam is a traditional feast which is made and serve in special occassion like wedding, festivals etc. In this thali, there is rajma, madra, khatta, boondi and sweet rice. It is vegetarian meal and it is serve in pattal (leaf plate). Dhaam is prepared by local chefs also known as botis. It is not only a meal but it is respect of himachali culture and reflect love.      

• Babru

Babru is Himachali-style stuffed puri, which is made with Chana dal and sugar or spices. this dish is perfect to eat in breakfast and evening and spices babru eat with chutney and achaar. It is also known as local varient of himachali cuisine which gives flavouable twist. Sweet babru is made in occassion and spices babru is meet in local street food stall you can take experience of it.      

• Madra

Madra is a signature dish of himachal pradesh, which is made with yogurt and kabuli chana. The yogurt based gravy is cooked slowly with a blend aromatic spices like cardamom, cloves, cinnamon and turmeric which gives it a distinct tangy. Madra is known as essential part of himachali thali and it is served with boiled rice. IT’s tangy and spicey flavour shows simplicity and richness of cuisine.      

Shopping in Manali

Shopping in Manali is delightful experience, offering various types of Himachali traditional handicraft, warm clothes and souvenirs. Famous shopping spots in Manali are given below

• Mall road

Mall road is a shopping hub, in there you can find various of things. Woolen cloth like jacket, sweater, sawls and much more are popular to buy in Mall road and wooden artifacts, tibetian jewellery and colourful decor item are also most demanded in it. Small stalls and cafes make this area more lively.      

• Tibetian market

Tibetian market is a unique place in which you will find Tibetan culture’s influence market. there are prayer wheel, wall hangings, tibetian rugs and buddhist artifact available in this market. Handmade jewellery and handicraft are popular in visitors.        

• Old manali market

Old manali market is famous for their bohemian vibe. Shop of this place offers different types of varities like funky accessories, trendy t-shirts and handmade goods. This spot is favourate for backpackers and tourists. In this place you can take experience of their local cafes and cultures    

 

Best time to visit in Manali

Summer season ( March to June)

If you want to enjoy pleasant weather and outdoor activity, then summer season ( March to June) is the best time and suitable to you. In this time, the weather of Manali   is very beautiful and temperature ranges from 10 to 25 degree, which is the best time to do outdoor games like trekking, paragliding, sightseeing, etc. activities. Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass like famous destination have easily accessible in this time. This time is ideal for doing outdoor activities with your friends and family because you can experienced the beauty of nature and relaxed vibes.

Monsoon season (July to September)

If you like greenery and real beauty of nature, then monsoon season(July to September) is the best time and comes out in the form of paradise. Due to heavy rainfall, waterfalls and rivers become more beautiful. there is greenery view surrounding us in this season, which becomes dream destination for nature lovers. This time is best for those people who wants to enjoy peaceful, relaxed and solitude life, because due to rainfall, there are less crowd in this time. But, there is heavy risk of landslides so, it is necessary to plan trip carefully for your safety. This season is best for those who want to take off-beat experience and love to take fun of rain-soaked valleys.

Winter season ( October to February)

Winter season is perfect for those people who wants to thrill enjoy of snowfall and adventures sports. The tempreature ranges 0 degree or less than 0 degree and all cities or villages covered with snow, which create magical and romantic vibe. Winter is the best time to do adventures activities like skiing, snowboarding etc. Solang Valley become hub spots for snow activities, where people make snowman, fight with snowball and many more. This place is a festive aura in Christmas and New year festival, which make the experience more special.

 You may also read-https://treknchow.com/all-you-need-to-know-about-spiti/