Top Tourist Places to Visit in Manali, India

Vashisht Temple, Manali

At a distance of 3.5 km from Manali Bus Stand, Vashist Temple in Manali is dedicated to sage Vashisht, the Kula guru of Lord Rama in the village Vashisht across the River Beas. It is among the most famous places to visit in Manali.The village of Vashisht was named after Rishi Vashisht one of the seven sages of Hindu. According to the legend, Rishi Vashisht was left depressed on finding out that his children had been killed by Vishwamitra. Rishi Vashisht tried to commit suicide by jumping into a river but the river refused to kill him. He then started a new life in the village here. The river which took the rishi to the village was named Vipasha, meaning freedom from bondage. The Vipasha River is now known as the Beas River.The Vashisht temple is believed to be more than 4000 years old. Inside the temple there is a black stone image of the Rishi wearing dhoti. The Vashist temple is decorated with excellent and beautiful carvings on wood. The interior of this temple is rather traditional which is ornamented with antique painting and figures.The Vashisht Hot Water Spring is one of the famous attractions of this region. The hot springs is believed to have medicinal value. The springs are said to cure many skin diseases. Many people go to the Vashisht baths to take a dip and rid themselves of skin infections and diseases. There are also separate bathrooms for both men and women.There is another ancient stone temple known as Rama Temple adjacent to the Vashisht Temple. Inside the Rama temple the idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana have been installed. Dussehra is celebrated for seven days. The village was the centre of Vaishnava cult for a long time.
The timing of Vashisht temple is 7am to 9 pm and of vashisht bath is 7 am to 1 pm, and 2 pm to 9 pm on all days. There are buses and cabs available from Manali bus stand to Vashisht Temple.

Beas Kund, Manali

A place of historical significance, Beas Kund is one of the most beautiful places in the Dhauladhar range (literally ‘the white range’) of the mighty Himalayas. Besides being regarded as sacred, Beas Kund is where the river Beas originates from and offer spectacular views of the nearby located Shitidhar, Ladakhi, Friendship and Hanuman Tibba peaks. One of the most alluring treks in the Kullu region, the trail offers panoramic views of the Pir Pangal range as well, and follows the banks of the river Beas. This is one of the most popular short treks through the Solang valley and takes you through an expanse of picturesque mountain landscapes. This trek is suitable for people for all age groups, and no prior trekking experience is required to join in. The best season to visit the place is from May to October.The trail follows river Beas, many times crossing the stream from one side to the other, reaching Dhundi which is another alpine meadow full of wild flowers. The trek takes one  over loosely held boulders and moraines of a dying glacier at places.Tt’s easy to find flocks of sheep grazing peacefully while travelling.The trek takes one through Bakarthach and finally to the Beas Kund.

Solang Valley , Manali

Located at a distance of 13 kms from Manali, Solang Valley lies between Solang village and Beas Kund. It offers a beautiful view of glaciers and snow capped mountains. Since the valley has fine ski slopes, it is a perfect place for skiing. The guest house of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, Manali is based here. This institute is the venue for winter skiing festival and also offers training in skiing to the tourists. In winter, the valley becomes a skiing paradise with children of all ages slipping and sliding over the fresh white snow. When snow melts in the summer, skiing is replaced by parachuting, zorbing, paragliding and horse riding. For snow lovers, the best time to visit Solang Valley is between the months of December to February.There is also a ropeway which take one to such a height that the view of all the valley could be seen. One can see the orchards of Apples, roaring Beas river and sky full of paragliders. There are small dhabas, road side stalls which offer food,tea, and other fast foods. Gum boots and snow dresses are also availabe in the stalls. One can also take ride on snow scooter.One is likely to spot a huge transparent ball with mostly two people inside it rolling down the slope during summers, it is as much fun as it looks like. One of the most vibrant and enjoyable places in Manali, there is no way one can possibly miss this valley, while travelling Manali.There is no entry fees but one has to pay fortaking part in  different activities and sports. It can be reached via buses and cabs available from Manali.

Rahalla Falls, Manali

The stunning Rahalla falls is a waterfall which is located about 16 km from Manali on  the way to Rohtang pass and whoever visits the Rohtang pass takes a halt at this place to enjoy the panoramic beauty of this place.One can click pictures, trek above the cliff and enjoy the melting ice of this fall. The Rahala waterfall is a result of melting glacier, and so the water of this fall is extremely cold. This fall is set amidst dense forest of deodar, silver birch trees, and fresh and aromatic air.This place is easily accessible from Manali and one can take a bus, car, bike, or pony to reach the spot. The view of the place is really attention-grabbing and it gives mental peace to the visitors. The pleasant weather and the marvelous surroundings make it one of the best attractions in Manali.Cascading waters add to the Magnificent sight. There is no entry fees.

Rohtang Pass, Manali

At an elevation of 13,054 ft, Rohtang Pass serves as the gateway to Lahaul and Spiti valleys in Himachal Pradesh. The name Rohtang means ‘ground of corpses’ due to the number of people who lost their lives trying to cross it.Known for its scenic beauty, Rohtang Pass holds strategic importance for India. The Pass offers beautiful sights of glaciers, peaks, Lahaul Valley and the Chandra River. The twin peaks of Geypan are also visible from Rohtang. The pass is on the watershed between the water basins of the Chenab River and the Beas River.Rohtang remains open from June to October and it is the best time to travel to the pass. However, trekkers do head for the pass even before it opens for vehicular traffic.The road remains jam-packed and delays are inevitable. Besides sightseeing, tourists can also enjoy sledge rides and skiing. Ski sets and sledges are available on rent.There are no accommodation options in Rohtang Pass unless you bring your own tent and set up camp by the roadside. Manali, which is the closest big town, offers a wide range of accommodation which includes luxury resorts, riverside cottages, deluxe hotels and 3-star budget properties. Manali also offers homestays which are a good option to enjoy the nature and culture of the locals.There are no food stalls or eateries at Rohtang Pass. One will have to carry one's own food while crossing Rohtang Pass.It is recommended to hire a local cab or take a bus, as the drive to Rohtang Pass becomes quite tough with slippery road and narrow curves.Tourists can go for various thrilling activities like snow scooter, skiing and mountain biking. 

Arjun Gufa, Manali

Arjun Gufa is a major tourist attraction  owing to its splendid beauty and the legend associated with it. The Arjun Gufa is linked to the legend of Mahabharata. It is said that Arjuna, the great Pandava warrior from the Indian epic Mahabharata meditated in this place. Impressed by Arjuna's devotion Lord Indra gave him the most powerful weapon 'Pashupat Astra'. Because of this belief the Arjuna Gufa or the Cave of Arjuna got its name.The Kunt Bhayo lake and Kunti Mata temple are also located close to Arjun Gufa, at a distance of 2 km. The Arjun Gufa is among the most remarkable tourist spots in Manali. The stunning views of hills and valleys can be viewed from the Arjun Gufa by taking half a day excursion to the place. While Manali town is known for its clamor, Arjun Gufa offers pristine beauty and unending silence. It is best to set out for Arjun Gufa early in the morning as darkness sets in quite early. It is also important for visitors to carry light woolens as it can get chilly.The Arjun Gufa is at a distance of 21 km from Manali Bus Stand, 23 km from Kullu and 10 km from Prini Village, Arjun Gufa (Arjuna's Cave) is located towards Naggar and is based on the left bank of Beas river. The nearest village to Arjun Gufa is Prini and this village is largely known for its natural beauty. It is very close to Naggar Castle.The best time to visit the Arjun Gufa is during April to June and September to october.The nearest airport is Bhuntar airport which is at an approximate distance of 50km from Manali.This airport is well connected from many major cities in the country such as Delhi, Shimla and Ludhiana. Several airlines including Indian Airlines and Jagson Airlines operate regular flights to and from this airport.

Kothi village, Manali

Kothi is an awe-inspiring destination, which is located at the foothills of Rohtang Pass, approximately 12 kilometers from Manali at an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level. This splendid village offers a magnificent view of snow capped mountains and glaciers and of the Beas River that flows through a very deep and narrow gorge at this point. Kothi is a perfect place for camping if one is planning to climb the Rohtang Pass valley on foot. The majestic locations of Kothi have been featured in many Bollywood movies and a lot of poets, writers, and painters have visited this beautiful sight to soak themselves in the magic of nature.Though the village can be visited throughout the year, the most appropriate time to visit the place is from May to October. It also has a comfortable staying option in the beautiful PWD Rest House, which lies in the middle of a picture-perfect surrounding of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers. The village is commonly visited from Manali bus stand by travelling for 2 hours. The transportation options available are Buses and Cabs.

Manu Temple , Manali

This magnificent temple is dedicated to the sage Manu, who is said to be the creator of the world and the writer of Manusmriti.Manali is named after sage Manu. The Manu Temple is located in old Manali, at a distance of three kilometers from the main market. Though this area is quite congested, the presence of the River Beas adds to its attraction. The temple is one of the prime attractions in Manali and is believed to be the same place where sage Manu meditated after stepping on earth. This place has a distinct historical background that appeals to most of the people who visit Manali. The popularity of this majestic temple lies in the fact that it is the only temple dedicated to Manu; so whoever visits Manali makes it a point to visit this temple. The travelers are advised to wear dresses covering the knees and shoulders, while inside the temple.There is a waterfall near the manu temple which one can see but can't reach as it is on height. The temple is made up of wood and stone and Marble is used for flooring.The temple has many doors from where fresh air and light passes  inside the the temple which keep it glowing every time.

Gulaba, Manali

Gulaba is the next best alternative in case you have planed to go to Rohtang pass and Rhotang is closed because of snowfall.

Gulaba is a small village which is located 20km from Manali on the road to Rohtang pass and  remain covered with snow during the months of November to February. Named after Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir, the village of Gulaba is flanked by the picturesque beauty of snow covered mountains, grasslands and the Beas river that washes away its landscapes. Owing to such an amazing topography. Being reputed as a heavy snowfall region, the landscapes of Gulaba have turned out to be a hub for adventure sports.

Sports enthusiasts and adventure lovers drive in huge numbers to Gulaba village. Popular adventure sport, Skiing is the main adventure activity to enjoy in Gulaba. Besides skiing, one can also get involved in exploring the beauty of the region through Paragliding. Gulaba has numerous high peaks, from where one can have a full view of the scenic location. The village remains open for during all the week days. The best time to travel is during the day and  it works as alternative to Rohtang pass during the time the pass is closed. There are food facilities available at the village and one can enjoy Maggie and corn at this place. Snow dresses and shoes are available here on rent. If one is planning for picnic with a boost of adventurous activities and scenic snowy mountains, then this place is perfect  for this purpose.

Club House, Manali

Located at a distance of 2 kms from Manali, the club house is an amusement zone. It has indoor game facilities and is situated on the left bank of river Manalsu Nallah. The structure of Club House finds resemblance from British style of architecture. It is managed by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) and offers avenue for playing popular indoor games such as carrom, table tennis, karting and skating. Tourists can enjoy a cup of tea or coffee with some delicious snacks from their in-house restaurant. Adventure freaks can indulge in river crossing which can be done by ropeway.There are small shopes which offer winter and snowy dresses, handicraft items. The entry fees is 20 bucks per adult. And the boting fees is 100 bucks per couple.It remain open from 10 am to 8 pm. If one want to enjoy boting and zipline, this is an excellent place to visit.

Hidimba Devi Temple, Manali

Hadimba Temple mostly called as the Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region. This Temple of four wooden stories is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri Van Vihar. The temple derives its name from the forest parkland near the temple.It is located on a deodar covered hill in Manali, some 3kms from the bus stop and few minutes walk from Old Manali. It is an ancient cave temple built in 1553 by Raja Bahadur Singh. Built over a huge rock, the sanctum is covered by three tiered roof of wooden planks. The fourth metal umbrella completes the outermost covering. The ‘shikhar’ or the wooden tower is 24m tall. The wooden facade and windows of the temple are richly carved. The quadruple wooden door frame is ornamented with carvings of various deities and other designs. The walls of the temple are strangely decorated with horns of animals.People come to visit this temple in large numbers not only to offer their prayers but also to witness the beauty exhibited in the construction of this temple. The temple does not contain any idol, just a footprint on a stone. Legend behind the construction of the temple states that the king who commissioned this temple was so awestruck by its beauty that he ordered the artist’s right hand to be cut. This was done in order to avoid his being able to repeat his masterpiece. The temple is dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, sister of Hidimba and wife of Bhima one of the Pandavas from Mahabharata epic.Because of its architectural and historical importance the temple is protected as a monument of national importance. It is also one of the crowd-est destination around Manali Town.  One can enjoys a ride on a 'yak' and clicking of snaps with rabbit by paying some money. One can ejoys shopping of small local ornaments. 

River Beas Manali, Manali

"The Beas River, also known as Vipasha in Sanskrit, flows in Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. From its originating point (4361 m) at Beas Kund in the Himalayas, this holy river passes through lush evergreen forests and hills before reaching Punjab. Here, it embraces the Satluj River and finally enters the territory of Pakistan, covering a total length of around 470 km. The river is the main drinking water source of the population living in Kullu, Mandi and Kangra regions.The tranquil environments of the river and riversides have incited many great sages, including Vashisht, Narad, Vishwamitra, Vyas, Prashar and Parshuram to meditate in the ancient times. Even today, the River Beas reflects the same charm, attracting tourists and pilgrims from different parts of the country to pay it a visit once in their lifetime. " The river can be visited on all the days except during heavy monsoon when the water level rises above the normal level.When the backdrop is a large clearwater river, your pictures can never go unnoticed! Surrounded by timbered hills, this river is no doubt, every nature lover's delight.Not only has the River Beas attracted poets and sages, it has drawn interests of filmmakers, as well. The most famous movie shot here is Krrish (2006) starring Hrithik Roshan and Priyanka Chopra. Numerous river rafting options are available at various stretches of the river like in Pirdi near Kullu. There are many picturesque locations along the National Highway, which runs along the river, to Manali. There are many hotels along the bank of the river which offer very attractive view of the river. It can be said that the river offer charm, advanture, scenic beauty throughout its length.

Van Vihar, Manali

The Van Vihar Park is beautifully adorned by deodar trees and is a perfect place to spend memorable time with loved ones. A number of locals and tourists visit the park to relax and get the fresh breeze of the Deodar trees. 

The main attraction of the park is the beautiful man-made lake situated in the middle of the woods. Tourists can enjoy boating in the lake. There are also lot of swings for the children as well as couples in the park. The River Beas runs nearby the park. Visiting the park in the evening can give one a chance to enjoy the stunningly beautiful view of sun setting against the glorious backdrop of the majestic mountains. The park remain open from 8 am to 7 pm in summer and 8 am to 5 pm in winter.The entry Fee is 5 bucks per person, and Boating Charge is 30 bucks / Person for 15 mins. The park is at approx. 750m from the Manali Bus stand and buses, cabs are available from the bus stand to the park. One can also take a walk to the park.
The park is recommended for the people who wants to have some clicks on their camera in the woods.

Tibetan Monastery, Manali

Along with the hills and rivers, Manali is also famous for its Tibetan Monasteries as many people from Tibetan origin have settled here. The two prominent monasteries that attract a large number of tourists from all across the world are Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa and Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa. These monasteries are a storehouse for Tibetan culture, literature and crafts. Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa is located near the busy old Manali road and was built in the year 1969. Though small in area, it has beautifully decorated interiors alongwith an impressive statue of Lord Buddha. Meditation can be done in the well-maintained garden situated outside the Gompa. The Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa is located near the market square of Manali. Also, there is one another monastry located at 8km from the small town of Patlikul,near to Manali.

These monasteries are known for their handicrafts, especially paintings and carpets. The aroma of incense sticks, sounds of hymns/chants and the rotating prayer wheels together creates a divine ambience. The tranquil surroundings of these monasteries act as a great stress buster and hence, they must be included in travel itineraries. The monastry also runs a Thanka school of arts and a carpet weaving centre.Tourists keep coming to these places to understand the teachings and values of Buddhism.

Old Manali, Manali

A bridge over gushing Manalsu River, near to the Van Vihar Nature park is a gateway to another world known as the Old Manali. The village has an exotic charm; not foreign, not entirely Indian. It is as if one have crossed into another country.Swaying eucalyptus, lovely roads, sweet little eateries, small kitschy market places, and cafes that serve your favourite continental food at unbelievably low prices, the serenity of Old Manali is only disturbed by twittering birds and the sound of the gushing waters of the Kullu River.The village is as idle as a fairy tale but at the same time it is exposed to the comfort of today’s world.The Guests Houses with cafes are important facets of Old Manali. There is only one main road and all the cafes are located along the slanting road which leads deeper into the village.There are cafes catering to different nationalities. Sitting on the cafes listening to unconventional music and talking about irrelevant things made up bulk of the day.This is a small place where all nationalities met. Everyone seemed to own this place; not any lesser than the locals. Once one go deeper from the main road through narrow footpaths one will find countless guest houses with odd names. The road leads one through apple and pear orchards. One could hear the sloshing sound of the river from distance,'babul' singing on apple trees. And from the porch one could see snow capped mountains surrounding Manali. There’s a fine balance between the globalized World and the unadulterated local population. Though the street is lined with cafes with sophisticated names such as German Bakery, Dylan Toasted and Roasted, Riverside Cafe etc. the locals still preferred living in traditional houses made of mud and woods with their cows. The uncompromising lifestyle of the villagers is what attracts tourists. One could visit the place if want to see meeting of two worlds at Manali. 

Jagatsukh Shiva Temple , Manali

This temple is located in a small village located only 6 km south of Manali in the northern end of the Kullu Valley. Jagatsukh, which is well known for its old temples, houses a Shikhara style built Shive temple, also known as Jagatsukh Shiva Temple. This temple is surrounded by picturesque valleys and lofty snow-clad mountains that look even striking during the winters. Other than being a Hindu pilgrimage site, this place is a perfect honeymoon destination and a lot of tourists visit this spot to enjoy the wholesome beauty of the place.
Jagatsukh was the former capital of Manali and presently is the biggest village in Kullu district. Its main claim to fame is the Gaurishankar Temple, which is dedicated to the Hindu god Shiva. Jagatsukh can be easily reached by taxi from Manali.A shikhara style shrine, Jagatsukh Shiva Temple dates back to the early 8th century.  Having similar architecture as that of the Naresar group of temples, it has a tri-ratha sanctum roofed by a shikhara. No pets are allowed in the temple and the best time to travel is during daytime. The temple remained open throughout the week from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. There are food available for pruchase, toilet facility and camera/ videography allowed.