Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Snow-crested Himalayan peaks, cedar forests & alpine mountain adventure
About Manali
Perched in the Beas River valley at 2,050 meters, Manali is India's premier mountain hub. Whether embarking on thrilling high-altitude snow drives across the engineering marvel Atal Tunnel into Lahaul Valley, paragliding at Solang, or unwinding in the bohemian cafes of Old Manali among apple orchards, Manali mesmerizes travelers across seasons.
Top Places to Visit in Manali
Atal Tunnel & Sissu Waterfall
World's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet connecting Kullu Valley with the surreal, rugged landscape of Lahaul.
Solang Valley Adventure Grounds
Epic natural amphitheater known for winter skiing, snowmobiling, zorbing, and high-altitude paragliding.
Hadimba Temple & Van Vihar
Four-tiered wooden pagoda temple built in 1553 AD surrounded by soaring centuries-old deodar cedar forests.
Old Manali Village & Manu Temple
Atmospheric hillside village lined with wooden Himachali homes, live music cafes, bakeries, and woolen boutiques.
Recommended 4 - 5 Days Itinerary
Cedar Woods & Old Manali Culture
- Arrive by scenic Volvo or flight to Bhuntar; check in at your mountain retreat
- Visit the historic Hadimba Temple amidst cedar forest
- Walk through the cedar trails of Van Vihar park
- Evening cafe hopping and acoustic music in Old Manali
Solang Valley & High-Altitude Atal Tunnel
- Morning adventure sports at Solang Valley (Skiing or Paragliding)
- Drive through the historic 9.02 km Atal Tunnel
- Discover the snow fields of Sissu in Lahaul Valley
- Return for hot mountain tea by the fireplace
Vashisht Hot Springs & Jogni Waterfalls Trek
- Soak in the natural sulfur therapeutic baths of Vashisht village
- Short scenic 3 km pine-trail hike to Jogni Waterfalls
- Picnic with panoramic vistas over the Kullu Valley
- Souvenir shopping on Mall Road for Himachali shawls and local honey
Naggar Castle & Roerich Art Gallery
- Day excursion to medieval wood-and-stone Naggar Castle
- Visit the Nicholas Roerich Russian Art Estate
- Sample local apple cider and traditional Siddu
- Evening departure via overnight semi-sleeper coach
What to Eat in Manali
Himachali Siddu with Ghee & Dal
Steamed wheat bun stuffed with seasoned walnuts, poppy seeds, and roasted lentils, soaked in warm ghee.
Pan-Fried Tirthan Valley Trout
Freshly caught river trout lightly seasoned with mountain herbs, lemon, and garlic butter.
Wood-Fired Pizza & Mountain Coffee
Crispy artisanal sourdough pizzas baked in stone ovens overlooking the Beas river.