Manali is a unique tourist destination, nestled amidst snow-capped mountains and fast-flowing rivers. The place has emerged as a popular tourist destination for its ancient temples, adventurous treks, scenic waterfalls, and more places to visit in Manali. From snowboarding and skiing to having the opportunity to stay in igloos, Manali offers a great deal of tourist activities.
In addition to that, tourists can also visit the Hidimba Temple of the Manali Gurudwara for a peaceful pilgrimage after a thrilling series of travels. Furthermore, to learn more about the best places to visit in Manali and have a great adventure in the region, keep reading this blog. Whether it is a family trip or a solo adventure, Manali provides the perfect opportunities for all. Families can enjoy a rejuvenating trip to Manali in the peaceful ambiance, while solo adventurers can go on thrilling treks here.
10 Best Places to Visit in Manali
Manali is suited for any kind of traveler, whether it is a pilgrim, a couple looking for a great spot for vacation, a family wanting to try out new activities, or a bunch of friends on an adventure. Here are the best places to visit in Manali for fun and adventure:
Hidimba Temple
Located in the foothills of the Himalayas, the Hidimba Temple is a significant Hindu temple near Manali. Also known as Dhungari Temple, this shrine is built amidst a cedar forest, locally called the Dhungiri Van Vihar. The deity, Hidimba Devi, who was the wife of Bhima, a core character in the epic Mahabharata, is worshipped here with great devotion.
The temple architecture is famous for its unique Kathkuni style, which is a dominant style in hilly areas. The temple has a prominent ‘shikhara’ and square roofs, which fascinate many tourists, too. Tourists visit this place during important festivals like Navaratri to witness this 16th-century marvel in detail. This temple also showcases a unique blend of Hindu and Buddhist styles, making it one of the best places to visit in Manali.
- Location: 65XJ+8J Manali, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance From Manali: 1.4 Km
- Travel Time From Manali: 5 minutes
- Entry Fees: Free
- Best Time to Visit: April to June
Great Himalayan National Park
The Great Himalayan National Park is considered one of the most amazing national parks in India. Built at a whopping height of 1500 to 6000 meters, this national park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for being a biodiversity hotspot in the Western Himalayan region. It houses many endangered species of flora and fauna, such as the Tragopan, Snow Leopard, Brown Bear, and Musk Deer.
One of the best places to visit in Manali is the National Park, which is best visited in summer and autumn. People can witness beautiful landscapes here, go trekking and bird-watching, and even enjoy camping and wildlife safaris. The park is located in alpine meadows and large hills, making it one of the top Manali sightseeing places.
- Location: QGX8+CC Mashyar, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance From Manali: 48.8 km
- Travel Time From Manali: 1 hr 9 minutes
- Entry Fees: 800 INR
- Best Time to Visit: March to June; Mid-September to November
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is a gorgeous snow-clad road connecting Manali to Leh. Situated at a height of about 3,978 meters, the pass is normally open between May and October. During this time, tourists can enjoy treks here and even meet the locals living nearby. This place is flooded with tourists, and it gets around 25 lakh tourists each year.
Further, this location is known for its beautiful landscape among the Manali tourist places. As people travel from here, they can get a glimpse of the beautiful backdrop of snowy hills and faraway settlements, too. However, it is important to keep in mind that personal tents should be brought up on the roadside since there are no hotels or accommodation options nearby.
- Location: Rohtang La, Himachal Pradesh
- Distance From Manali: 35.9 km
- Travel Time From Manali: 1 hour 9 minutes
- Entry Fees: 550 INR
- Best Time to Visit: May to October
Solang Valley
The Solang Valley is counted among the best places to visit in Manali for its adventure activities. Situated at a grand height of about 2500 meters, this village near Manali is known for its tall peaks and sporting opportunities. One of the most famous sports carried out here is skiing. In fact, many skiing programs are provided here for tourists.
It has certainly become one of the best places to visit in Manali for people who want to experience other activities like parachuting, horse riding, and paragliding. With its beautiful snow-capped backdrop, people are never bored of its wonders. Moreover, skiing training is also provided here, and people can partake in its renowned Winter Skiing Festival, too.
- Location: Solang, Burwa, Himachal Pradesh 175131
- Distance From Manali: 12.5 km
- Travel Time From Manali: 29 minutes
- Entry Fees: Free
- Best Time to Visit: April to June
Manikaran
Manikaran near Kullu is one of the famous Manali tour places known for its exquisite hot springs. One of the most famous hot water springs is at the bank of a river near the village. This particular hot spring houses water at boiling points and extremely hot rocks lining the spring. Moreover, hot springs are said to have radioactive elements that are useful to people with rheumatism.
In addition, the Hindu temple Raghunathjee and the Manikaran Gurudwara are two of the most important pilgrimage sites in the region. Many tourists visit these places for their spiritual significance, while others come to admire the gorgeous mountainous landscapes. Thus, Manikaran has emerged as one of the best places to visit in Manali.
- Location: Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh 175105
- Distance From Manali: 79.5 km
- Travel Time From Manali: 2 hr 22 minutes
- Entry Fees: Free
- Best Time to Visit: April to June
Jogini Waterfall
The Jogini Waterfall is one of the most beautiful spots in Manali, known for its spectacular view and height. It is located only a few kilometers away from Manali and falls at an altitude of around 150 feet. People visiting this place can picnic nearby and take great pictures of the spot at the same time.
Moreover, this waterfall flows down and later joins the nearby Beas River. Also, at the bottom of the waterfall, a special temple is dedicated to Goddess Jogini, a prominent deity in the area. Many people visit the temple and then climb up the rocks to the top of the waterfall for a thrilling adventure. This is considered as one of the best Manali places to visit.
- Location: On Waterfall Way V.P.O.- Vashist 5 km.from Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175103
- Distance From Manali: 4.9 km
- Travel Time From Manali: 15 minutes
- Entry Fees: Free
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
Parvati Valley
The Parvati Valley is a beautiful landscape near Manali, known for its proximity to the Beas and Parvati rivers, as well as the great Himalayan ranges. Adventure enthusiasts love this place for its extreme trek conditions, rafting opportunities, and spaces for mountain biking, making it one of the best places to visit in Manali.
In addition, it is a frequently visited place for tourists who visit Kullu. While the tourists are allowed to camp in the valley, they can also visit the nearby villages to learn more about the local culture. The valley offers many ancient shrines to visit, delicious food to taste, and even sporting opportunities like paragliding, making it one of the best places to visit in Manali.
- Location: Parvati Valley, Kasol, Sosan, Himachal Pradesh 175105
- Distance From Manali: 75.2 km
- Travel Time From Manali: 2 hr 9 minutes
- Entry Fees: Free
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
Sethan Valley
The Sethan Valley is an unexplored place in Manali, known for being pristine and peaceful. People often go trekking here for a serene journey. Located only a few kilometers away from Manali, this place is also famous for being a peaceful Buddhist settlement. In addition, many tourists also visit the Pandu Ropa, a sacred Hindu site in the valley.
Moreover, Sethan Valley houses the local tribes, who keep traveling during winter to warmer lands. Tourists can choose to interact with these locals, and camp near the village to learn more about their traditions. The valley also offers many adventure activities, such as snowboarding and skiing. People can also stay in Igloos here, making it one of the best places to visit in Manali.
- Location: Sethan, Himachal Pradesh 175136
- Distance From Manali: 14.7 Km
- Travel Time From Manali: 46 minutes
- Entry Fees: 100 INR
- Best Time to Visit: March to June
Bhrigu Lake
The Bhrigu Lake in Manali is one of the most beautiful locations in the region, also referred to as the ‘Pool of Gold’ for its beauty. Located at an astounding height of about 4,235 meters, this place is covered by mountains from all sides. Hence, people have to go on a trek to reach the lake. This is also located only a few kilometers away from the Rohtang Pass.
Moreover, it is believed that the lake is situated in the same place where Rishi Bhrigu, a revered Hindu sage, meditated. Hence, for many, this site bears a spiritual and religious significance as well. Besides that, the lake itself is considered sacred, and many tourists come here to witness the auspicious region. Thus, for any traveler, this remains one of the best places to visit in Manali.
- Location: Bashisht, Himachal Pradesh 175104
- Distance From Manali: 18.5 km
- Travel Time From Manali: 58 minutes
- Entry Fees: Free
- Best Time to Visit: October to May
Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art
The Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art is one of the best places to visit in Manali, mainly because of its vivid attractions and artifacts. Many tourists come here to take a look at the traditions and culture of Manali, while others come to research the history and heritage of the region more. Besides that, the museum houses a lot of artefacts, including musical instruments and paintings.
People can also explore everyday-use items, handicraft items, traditional clothes, ornaments, and other accessories that trace back to the history of Himachal Pradesh. This museum is also only a few minutes away from Manali, making it a perfect place to visit in the proximity of the region.
- Location: Near Hadimba Temple, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131
- Distance From Manali: 2.4 Km
- Travel Time From Manali: 9 minutes
- Entry Fees: 10 INR
- Best Time to Visit: October to April
Manali is a wonderful place to visit, with beautiful natural wonders and human-made marvels. Tourists can enjoy visiting religious sites like the Hidimba Temple or enjoy challenging treks and splendid waterfalls. The list of the best places to visit in Manali just never ends.
Hence, if you want to take a thrilling adventure in Manali, book a trip to Manali with JustWravel right away! Pack your bags, invite your friends, and embark on an exciting exploration of the beautiful landscapes of Manali.
FAQs
What is Manali famous for?
Manali is famous for many tourist attractions, including sacred pilgrimage sites like Hidimba Temple, treks like the Rohtang Pass and the Sethan Valley, and waterfalls like the Jogini waterfall.
Which food is special in Manali?
In Manali, the most famous dish is the Tibetan Thukpa, a noodle soup. Dhaam and Aktori, a type of pancake, are also very popular among the locals. Tourists can also try Babry bread, and the lotus stems dish of Bhey.
What is best to buy in Manali?
Manali is famous for its markets. Here, tourists can buy the region’s hand-made clothes, Kullu shawls, and Kinnauri. People can also buy dry fruits and Kesar. Besides that, the thangkas and textile artworks are also famous here.
Which is better, Shimla or Manali?
While Shimla has its wonders and attractions, Manali is more popular for its adventure activities, gorgeous local markets, unique tourist spots, and much more. Both provide great experiences, but Manali definitely provides an unforgettable trip.
Which waterfall is famous in Manali?
The Jogini waterfall in Manali is undoubtedly the most famous in the region and is also considered one of the most scenic places to visit.
Explore more: Tour packages for Manali
