Manali
Manali Tour Packages
The Heart Of Himachal
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Overview
Manali is a charming hill station nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, situated at an altitude of approximately 2,050 metres (6,726 feet) above sea level. It lies on the banks of the Beas River amidst the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges of the Himalayas.
Manali is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys, gushing rivers, and dense pine forests. The picturesque landscapes attract nature lovers, photographers, and adventure enthusiasts from all over the world.
Hadimba Temple: A famous temple dedicated to Hadimba, the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata epic. It is known for its intricate wooden architecture.
Solang Valley: Located about 14 kilometers from Manali, Solang Valley is a hub for adventure sports such as skiing, paragliding, zorbing, and trekking. It offers stunning views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks.
Rohtang Pass: A high mountain pass situated at an altitude of around 3,978 meters (13,050 feet) above sea level. It connects Manali with the Lahaul and Spiti valleys and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Manu Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Sage Manu, believed to be the creator of the human race according to Hindu mythology. It is located in Old Manali amidst serene surroundings.
Old Manali: Known for its hippie culture, cafes, and vibrant atmosphere. It offers a glimpse into the local way of life and has charming narrow lanes lined with shops selling handicrafts, jewelry, and clothing.
Vashisht Hot Springs: Located near Manali, Vashisht is famous for its natural hot water springs, believed to have medicinal properties. There are temples dedicated to Sage Vashisht and Lord Rama nearby.
Atal Tunnel: It is one of the longest tunnels in India, with a length of approximately 9.02 kilometers (5.6 miles). The tunnel significantly reduces the travel distance between Manali and Keylong
Sissu – Sissu is a small village located in Lahaul Valley, Himachal Pradesh, along the banks of the Chandra River. It is known for its picturesque location amidst green fields and towering mountains. It offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers
Manali Through The Seasons:
The best time to visit Manali is during the summer months, from March to June, when the weather is pleasantly cool, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, Manali has a unique charm in every season.
Here’s what you can expect during each season:
Getting There
By Air:
Though the nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport (Kullu-Manali Airport) which is about 50 kilometers from Manali, Bhuntar is a small airport, and flight availability can be limited and not reliable.
So to reach Manali, it is better to fly to either Delhi and Chandigarh.
By Road:
From Bhuntar: You can reach Manali by taxi or bus, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
From Delhi: The distance between Delhi and Manali is approximately 550 kilometers, and it takes about 12-14 hours by road. You can take either a private car/taxi or use state-run buses operated by Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) or private operators. Overnight Volvo buses are also available from Delhi ISBT to Manali.
From Chandigarh: Chandigarh is about 310 kilometers from Manali, and the journey takes around 7-8 hours by road. Regular buses (state run as well as private) and taxis are available from Chandigarh to Manali.
Stay and Dining
We highly recommend staying in the beautiful guest houses, farmstays, or boutique hotels in Manali, each offering a unique, artfully designed experience. These accommodations not only provide comfort but also give you a deeper insight into the life of the locals, allowing you to immerse yourself in the culture and traditions of the region. Whether nestled amidst lush apple orchards or perched on scenic hilltops, these properties offer serene environments and personalized hospitality.
Manali boasts a variety of such properties across all budget ranges, from affordable yet charming guesthouses to luxurious boutique hotels, ensuring that you can find the perfect stay to match your needs and preferences.
Food: Manali’s culinary scene caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences, offering something delightful for every palate amidst its scenic mountain backdrop.
Local Himachali Cuisine:
- Dham: A traditional Himachali feast served during festivals and special occasions. It typically includes dishes like rajma (red kidney beans), madra (chickpea curry), rice, and curd.
- Sidu: A stuffed bread made from wheat flour and filled with a mixture of local ingredients such as poppy seeds, walnuts, and dry fruits. It’s usually served with ghee (clarified butter) and dal (lentil soup).
- Kullu Trout: Freshwater trout fish found in the rivers of Himachal Pradesh, often prepared in local spices and grilled or fried.
Tibetan Cuisine:
- Momos: Steamed or fried dumplings filled with vegetables or meat, served with spicy tomato-based chutney or soup.
- Thukpa: A hearty noodle soup with vegetables, meat (usually chicken or mutton), and sometimes eggs. It’s seasoned with local spices and herbs.
- Tingmo: Tibetan steamed buns served withvarious accompaniments like soups or curries.