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Solang Valley
Serene and quiet, visiting Solang Valley is like a way to paradise. Travel by road and enjoy the drive amidst the picturesque nature. The valley is famous for its snowy winters and summer filled with adventure activities and sports. From January to March, enjoy snowboarding and skiing. The new gondola carries tourists 3,200 meters up to enjoy the runs. Once the snow clears, there’s a festive feel and transformation. Quad bike rides, pony rides, zorbing, yak rides, paragliding and many more activities take place there. Take a walk to the Shiva temple, which is 3 km. above the village. Enjoy local Chinese delicacies from the roadside shacks on your Manali tour.
How to reach: SolangValley is 14 km. drive from Manali.
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass, the Snow Point in Manali, is one of the most beautiful destinations with over 25lakh tourists every year. During winters, the Rohtang Pass hills are covered in thick, white snow, making it impossible to explore. The pass remains closed from October to April. It opens only in May. Nature is at its best during the summer time here. Adventure seekers throng the place to enjoy snow scooter riding and skiing. An igloo-shaped temple, Beas Kund, is located on top of the pass.
How to reach: Nearest airport is Bhuntar (104km.) from Rohtang Pass. Manali is 51 km away. Joginder Nagar is the railway station at 103km. from Rohtang Pass.
Old Manali
Lovely roads that take you to the little eateries, swaying eucalyptus, aromatic cafes and a small market, Old Manali is where you can live a holiday. With nature bestowing its bounty effortlessly and the gushing waters of the ever-flowing Kullu River, life in Old Manali is simple and contented. Uphill and above the chaos of the town, you can find yourself in the lap of nature, visit the Manu Temple, and enjoy the scenic beauty.
How to reach: The nearest railway station is Chandigarh (170 km.). There are frequent buses and taxis.
Hadimba Temple
Far away from city life, in a peaceful and serene environment, lies the Hadimba Temple. Surrounded by deodar trees, it is also called the Dhoongri Temple. Mythology lovers may have a lot to learn from this temple dedicated to Hadimba, the beloved wife of Bhima, one of the Pandavas from the great epic Mahabharatha. The temple is famous for its unique four-tiered Pagoda shaped roof and doorway engraved with legendary symbols and figures. Manali tour includes temple visit, which starts from 8 AM to 6 PM.
How to reach: The Hadimba Temple is located at a distance of about 2.5km. from Manali. You can get taxis and buses.
Chandrakhani Pass
Manali is famous for the amazing passes and mountains. In fact, Manali tourism is largely enhanced by these natural beauties. Chandrakhani Pass is one of the chief among all the top places to visit in Manali. Situated in the Pin Parbati range, connecting the Malana Village to Kullu Valley, this is one of the most beautiful passes to see. In addition, it is also the greatest trekking launch pad for nature and adventure lovers. The pass is 3,600m above the sea level. At the Manala Village, you can enjoy the real cultural experience of Manali.
How to reach: Chandrakhani Pass is located about 84.5km. from Manali City. You can take a bus or taxi to reach the spot.
Club House
Club House is the amusement zone of Manali. Located on the bank of the ManalsuNallah, there are several indoor game facilities here like carom, karting, skating, and table tennis. The Club House structure resembles British architecture and style. It is maintained by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation. Tourists can spend their time relaxing over a cup of coffee and snacks from the in-house restaurant. Entry is chargeable (Rs. 10 per adult). The Club House is open from 10 AM to 8 PM.
How to reach: Club House is roughly about 2 km.from Manali. You can either take a walk or hire a taxi.
Van Vihar National Park
One of the most frequented tourist attractions in Manali, the Van Vihar National Park is located on the Mall Road. There are several deodar trees along the park that provides shade to the area. There are wooden benches for visitors to relax and spend some quality time. This is the perfect place for picnics too. The park is open from 8 AM to 7 PM in summer and 8 AM to 5 PM in winter. There’s a lake with boating facility, charged at Rs. 30 per adult.
How to reach: Hire a cab and reach your destination.
Naggar Castle
Naggar Town is a breathtaking forested mountain in Manali. The Naggar Castle is situated in the Naggar Town, and it is a historical edifice of grandeur and magnificence. Made of wood and stone, this is the place that was once the residence of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu. Built in 1460 AD, the impressive Himalayan and European architecture is a must-see place in Manali. There are some incredible art pieces, shrines and beautiful decorations to see. As souvenirs, don’t forget to take home some traditional wall hangings, artefacts and coasters. The castle is open on all days of the week, 7 AM to 10 PM. Entry is charged at Rs. 15 per person.
How to reach: Naggar Castle is at a distance of about 19 km.from Manali. You can get regular buses and taxis.
Tibetan Monasteries
The Tibetan Monasteries in Manali are truly fascinating. These are not just a part of religious activities but also, the guardians of history and culture of the Tibetans settled in Manali and Kullu. The architectural beauty of these monasteries can mesmerize you. You must visit the Himalayan Nyongamapa Gompa and the Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa. Also, take home some of the finest handicrafts made by the Tibetans living here.
How to reach: Book a cab and head straight to the monasteries of Manali.
Beas Kund
Beas Kund is the point of origin of the Beas River, also considered the site where the great sage Vyas took the daily bath. There’s a speciality of the Kund, which is an igloo-like structure of stone, considered auspicious by the Hindus. This site has religious significance and it attracts thousands of devotees annually. On a bright and sunny day, you can also catch a glimpse of the Pir Pangal Range from this spot. The site also offers an excellent ground for adventure lovers. Treks like Shitidhar, Ladakhi, Hanuman Tibba and Friendship peaks go through this point. Beas Kund is open on all days from 6 AM to 6 PM.
How to reach: Beas Kund is located 21.2km. from Manali via LehManali Highway. It is best to drive down. Hire a taxi or take a bus.