Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in north India. It is a high-altitude Himalayan resort town in India’s northern Himachal Pradesh state. It has a reputation as a backpacking centre and honeymoon destination.
How to Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, located approximately 50 kilometres away from Manali. Domestic flights connect Bhuntar with Delhi and Chandigarh.
Road
The drive up to Manali is simply breathtaking! You can catch scenic glimpses of the adjoining mountains and valleys from almost every turn that the twisty uphill road throws you in.
From Delhi – 553 km, takes 15 hrs
From Chandigarh: 307km, takes 8 hrs
Seasons
Monsoon Season in Manali
Manali experiences monsoon in the months between July and mid-September. It is not at all the best time to visit Manali as due to heavy rain landslides are very common here.
Summer Season in Manali
Summer starts in the month of March and lasts till June. It is the best time to visit Manali if you want to enjoy paragliding, rafting and mountain sports in Solang Valley.
Best Time to Visit Manali
The Manali weather plays an important role that falls upon the upsurge of emotions in tourists. Well, one can obviously backpack anytime round the year but one should be aware of the climatic. Mountains have their own charisma. Even during the heavy monsoon in July and August, it draws in some freak adventurers but all of a sudden he might have to chance upon an accidental landslide. Well, summers are naturally received with jam-packed leisure travellers as well as honeymooners and the chilling winters are also frequented by the same group.
Places to Visit
Solang Valley
A valley between the Beas Kund and the Solang village tends to be a favorite for all its visitors as well as the locals. Solang valley is famous not only famous for the glaciers and snow-clad landscapes but also for the countless activities that one can enjoy here.
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang pass is the stretch which connects Manali to Himachal’s more dreamy and dessert like landscapes, Spiti and Lahaul, and is one itself. This vast snow desert is a landscape like only a few other and a view one should not miss, while here.
Hadimba
Hadimba temple, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. It is a peaceful place surrounded by towering deodar trees. The temple is dedicated to Hidimba, the wife of Bhima, one of the five Pandava prince from the great Indian epic Mahabharata.
Manikaran
Manikaran is a small town situated between rivers Parvati and Beas, famous for its hot water springs and beautiful landscapes. The town has a famous Gurudwara called Manikaran Sahib and it is frequented by Sikhs from all over the country.
Van Vihar
Van Vihar is a municipal garden located on the Mall Road. It has a pond for boating surrounded by tall deodar trees watching over. A good place to hang around and take a quiet walk.
Jogini Fall
Jogini Waterfall is located 3 kilometres away from the bustling town of Manali and 2 kilometres away from Vashisht Temple. Tourists have to trek ahead from the temple to reach Jogini Waterfall.
