Named after the Hindu lawgiver Manu, in the Beas River valley, near the northern end of the Kullu Valley Manali is an important hill station in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is located about 250 kilometers (155 mi) north of state capital, Shimla. Manali is a cosmopolitan town. People from different parts of India have settled here.
It is a popular hill station & a popular honeymoon destination and trail head for numerous treks as well as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers. Manali is also on the road to Ladakh via the valley of Lahaul and Spiti and rohtang pass which is main attraction near Manali. In Manali, 9% of the population is under 6 years of age.
Attractions of Manali
1. Hidimba Temple
Hadimba or Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region. An ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, who was a character in the Indian epic, Mahābhārata. Built in 1533 A.D. with a superbly crafted four tiered pagoda roof, it is famous for its exquisitely carved doorway.
2.Rohtang Pass
At an altitude of 3979 m (13,050 ft) above sea level is another adventure tourist site where it can be cold even on a summer day. It is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road and provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly breath taking. Close by is a small lake called Dassaur Lake. Beas Kund, the source of river Beas, is also nearby. In winter, the road of Rothang Pass is closed.
3.Solang Valley
In a picturesque setting this has good ski slopes and picnic spots. Solang Valley, popularly known as Snow Point is 13 km northwest of Manali and famous for its 300-meter ski lift. The Ski Lift ticket is Rs. 400 per head.
4. Club House
The Club House with its comprehensive facilities that include a roller skating rink, an auditorium, billiards rooms, a library, a bar and restaurant makes wonderful outing for the day. Bungee jumping is also provided.
5. Beas Kund
An igloo shaped temple, on top has a spring which is the origin of River Beas.
Thrills and fun
Paragliding
There are multiple levels, the ultimate is the half an hour flight for 2500, for which they take you up almost halfway to Rohtang, and bring you back to Solang all the way by paragliding. But the basic 1 minute flying for 450 (the most common), to a more fun 5 minute flight for 1500 can also be done. Generally, later in the day you go for it, better are the chances you will do the whole flight because wind plays a big role in Paragliding.
Rock climbing
There are some fabulous routes, however, go with a reputable company that can provide you suitable gear, otherwise this can become a dangerous sport.
Trekking
Himachal Pradesh offers challenging peaks for adventures people and each year expeditions are organized by the Mountaineering Institute at Manali. The Mountaineering Institute has regional centers at Dharamsala, Bharmour and Jispa, which organize adventure courses as well. Regional centers of the mountaineering Institutes.
Himalayan Caravan Adventure
Offer you an array of adventures from off-beat safaris, less-known but more-interesting trekking paths, rock climbing, Canyoning, white water rafting, paragliding, skiing & snowboarding etc.
Hampta Pass Trek
This trek is one of the most famous trekking trails in the Manali region. This trek is suitable for those who have some prior trekking experience and are reasonably fit. This trek is passes through forests.
Gulaba Camp
20-km from Manali is this beautiful place famous for sightseeing, picnic and photography.
How to reach there ?
Airlines
The nearest airport to Manali is that of Bhuntar, which 52-km from Manali is. Indian Airlines and Kingfisher airlines operate flights to Kullu from Delhi and Chandigarh. From the airport the best option to go to Manali is by Pre Paid taxi which is easily available there. Delhi is the major nearest airport, which is about 565 km away from Manali. Delhi airport is well connected with all major cities in India and many cities abroad.
Roads
Passing through the picturesque valley of Kullu. The motor able roads to Manali connect the town with other major tourist places in Himachal as well as in the nearby states.
Buses
At the Manali bus stand there are two booths, which do computerized reservation for buses. The reservations can be made one month in advance. Both private and state government buses are in service over here. Volvo buses—which depart at around 5PM and reach at 09-10 AM next day—are available from Delhi and are the best option in terms of comfort and value for money to reach Manali but you need to book these in advance.
Cabs
Make sure that the driver has experience driving in hilly regions and does not have the habit of drinking alcohol. If you are going to Manali through Chandigarh-Ropar-Kiratpur-Mandi highway, then your driver would need to drive on hilly roads for at least 6 hours.
Trains
The nearest Broad gauge station is Kiratpur Sahib in Punjab near the city of Nangal. It lies in Ropar district of Punjab. The station lies on the Ambala Cantt – Una route of Indian Railways. From here you can easily get buses for Manali. Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station to Manali, which is nearly 50 km away. Joginder Nagar is a narrow gauge railway station; hence connectivity is not so good. Taxi fare from Joginder Nagar to Manali is about 1000. Other closest railheads are at Chandigarh (310 km) and Ambala.
