Manali is a place that will never disappoint you. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie, on a trip with your friends, or you are on a solo trek, or traveling with your significant other, Manali has everything for you.
If you want to indulge in adventure sports or go on a trip for soul searching, Manali is going to amaze you with everything you are looking for. This hill town is now a paradise for the travelers.
There are a few cultural gems as well, which are unique to this part. You do not have to worry about accommodation, as there are numerous budget-friendly hotels. So, if you are planning a trip to the Himachal, specifically Manali, here are some of the best places to visit in Manali.
Best Places to Visit In Manali
Manali is a place that you should visit once in your lifetime. If you want to go on a trip for soul searching or if you are looking for the best Himachal Pradesh trekking places, Manali is going to be the ideal destination for you.
So, let’s look into the best places to visit in Manali that you should never miss on your trip.
Hadimba Temple
This temple is also known as Dhungari Temple or Hidimba Devi Temple. Maharaja Bahadur Singh built this temple back in 1553. Going by the name, Hidimba Devi is the deity worshipped in this temple.
The structure of the temple is quite different from any other Hindu temples found across the country. The temple has a backdrop of snow-capped mountains and cedar groves, making this a must-visit place in Manali.
Location: Old Manali
Timing: 8:00 in the morning till 6:00 in the evening, every day
Distance from bus stand: 3.5 kms
The best time to visit: Mid-September, just after the monsoons, during March-June during the pleasant summer season
Solang Valley
Solang is a tiny valley located approximately 8400 feet above sea level. It is just a short drive away from the main town of Manali. This is a haven for sports and adventure lovers, and you can try skiing or go on a snowmobile exploration.
During the summers, people try paragliding and zorbing here. You can take a cable car ride and enjoy the amazing aerial view of the Himalayas. If you have plans to indulge in snow-based sports and activities, then you should visit during the winter.
If you are spiritual, there is the Anjani Mahadev Temple in the valley, which you should definitely visit. This is a popular pilgrim site, and during the winters, the waterfall freezes and forms a 30-meter-long natural Siva Lingam.
Location: Burwa, Manali
Distance from Manali: 14 kms approximately
The best time to visit: Mid-September, just after the monsoons, during March-June during the pleasant summer season
Jogini Waterfalls
You have to take a small trek from the town of Manali to reach Jogini waterfalls. The trail you have to cross to reach the waterfall is going to present some scenic views. Giving you a small glimpse of the Beas River and the snow-capped peaks of Rohtang, the trail is going to amaze you.
It is not just famous because of the picturesque landscapes, but it is also an important place of pilgrimage. There are many old shrines at the bottom. It is better to start early so you can spend more time at the spot. This is among the best trekking places as well.
Location: Vahisht village, Manali
Timing: Open all-day
Manu Temple
Manu Temple is of great significance to the Hindus. You will get to hear different folklore associated with the temple and how it was established. The temple is dedicated to Sage Manu, who is believed to have created mankind.
Tourists and pilgrims flock to this temple all through the year. This is one of the best places to visit in Manali, not only because of the religious significance it holds but also because of the great architecture.
Moreover, the temple is located between the hills covered in lush green forests which is going to take your breath away. It is not only peaceful to the eyes but to the soul as well. You will have to take a small hike, but in the end, it will be all worth it.
Location: Old Manali
Timings: 6:00 in the morning till 5:00 in the evening, every day
The Manali Gompa
Classic Tibetan architecture with ornate design is what the Manali Gompa features. It is also known as the Thekchhokling Gompa. This is among the finest landmarks, and thus, it is one of the best places to visit in Manali.
Back in the 1960s, the Tibetan refugees built the Gompa. This place offers much-needed peace to the soul searchers and has unmatched spiritual vibes. The Manali Gompa highlights the exquisite murals that explain important events from the Buddhist culture.
If you want to get some Tibetan handicrafts or some kind of souvenirs, the stalls inside the Gompa are a good option for that.
Location: Old Manali Road, Manali
Timings: 6:00 in the morning till 6:00 in the evening; Sundays are closed
Bhrigu Lake
Think about this: the evergreen tree forests, along with the perfect alpine meadows, close to a serene water body. How does it feel? Amazing, isn’t it? This is the view that you are going to get when you reach Bhrigu Lake.
But you have to prepare yourself and get yourself acclimatized when you are trekking to the lake. The lake is 4000 meters above sea level and the view of the Pir Panjal Range is what calls out to the tourists.
Location: Kullu, Manali
Distance from Manali: Approximately 19 km
Beas River
Beas River is like the geographical landmark of the region, and it is going to accompany you through most parts of Manali. It is said that one of the best places to enjoy the view of the river is while you are traveling to Kothi through Vashisht village.
Vashisht village is going to get you close to the clear blue waters. Beas River is a hub for adventure sports, and you can try rafting, kayaking, and other water sports as well. You can just relax with the people you are traveling with by the riverbanks and enjoy a picnic.
Vashist Village
Vashisht village is home to one of the most beautiful temples located in the Himalayan topography. This place has immense spiritual importance to the people. The history of the temple dates back to almost 4000 years.
The interiors of the temple have wooden carvings, paintings, and various unique figures. The destination is even more unique because of the hot springs, which, according to the local people, have healing properties.
The place offers a glimpse into the his tory of Manali to modern-day visitors. You can go shopping in the locality to get some of the local shops as well.
Location: Vashisht Village, Manali
Timing: 7:00 in the morning till 9:00 in the night, every day
Distance from Manali: 3.5 kms
Old Manali
Old Manali is a charming district that is popular for still holding the old-world charm. It is separated from its new counterparts in Manali by the Beas River. Old Manali is filled with apple orchards and mountain trails.
Because of the elegance of the little town, this place is included in any Manali tour package you choose. The Mall Road stretches through the town and is the heart of the village. You will come across various charming cafes, low-key stores, along with affordable guesthouses.
There is a cave temple that dates back to the 16th century surrounded by the cedar forest, which is another must-visit place. There are various picnic spots by the bank of the Beas River, and you should positively visit the Manali Club House.
Rohtang Pass
You have to dedicate one day to visiting the gem, Rohtang Pass, and I can promise you that you will not regret it. Situated at a height of 4000 meters above sea level, this mountain pass is on the Pir Panjal Range, and it is going to leave you breathless.
This is an absolute favorite for nature lovers, photographers, and artists; this is a haven for adventure sports lovers who want to indulge in skiing and biking. This is a pass which has been featured in various Bollywood movies.
Location: Leh (Manali highway)
Timing: Open all time
Distance from Manali: Approximately 51 km
Wrapping up!
Manali is a place that is going to give you everything that you need on a trip. You can relax, you can go on a trek, try adventure sports, and so on. Even though this article lists ten places to visit in Manali, there are numerous other places that you can add to your list.