Discovering Offbeat Things To Do In Manali

Written by: Kaushik Jethva

Last Updated: November 29, 2023

hot balloon air over manali beautiful little town in himalayas in himachal india
Hot balloon air over Manali, beautiful little town in Himalayas in Himachal India

Welcome to Manali, a gem nestled in the majestic Himalayan mountains, where every turn offers a new adventure and every view is a postcard in the making. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape or seeking thrilling adventures, Manali is the place where memories are made. Here’s an exclusive guide to the best things to do in Manali, tailored for every type of traveller

1 For the Lovebirds: Things to Do in Manali for Couples

mandi town and beas river aerial panoramic view
Mandi town and Beas river aerial panoramic view

Solang Valley: A Picturesque Escape
Imagine being surrounded by lush green meadows and snow-capped mountains. Solang Valley is the perfect backdrop for couples looking for a mix of beauty and adventure. Don’t miss the opportunity for paragliding, offering an exhilarating experience with breathtaking views.

Strolls and Stories in Old Manali
Old Manali, with its quaint charm, is a haven for couples. Walk hand-in-hand through its narrow lanes, explore its bohemian cafes, and soak in the serene atmosphere. This is where stories begin and love flourishes.

Sunset Walks by Beas River
There’s nothing more romantic than a walk by the river as the sun sets. The Beas River, with its gentle flows and soothing sounds, creates a magical setting for those timeless moments.

Paragliding at Solang or Marhi
Experience the thrill of flying together over stunning landscapes. Solang Valley, a picturesque spot near Manali, is renowned for its panoramic views and favourable paragliding conditions. The valley provides an ideal setting for this aerial adventure, with its open spaces and stunning backdrop of the Himalayan mountains.

paragliding at solang
Paragliding at Solang

2 Famous Things in Manali

a view of hidimba devi temple located in manali
A view of Hidimba Devi Temple located in Manali

Hadimba Temple
This ancient temple, surrounded by a dense cedar forest, stands as a fine example of Indian craftsmanship, featuring a distinctive four-tiered pagoda roof and beautifully carved wooden doors.

Vashisht Hot Springs
Located in the quaint village of Vashisht, these natural sulfur springs are not only a relaxing retreat but also a cultural hotspot, surrounded by old stone temples dedicated to sage Vashisht and Lord Rama.

Manu Temple
Dedicated to the sage Manu, this temple is a hidden gem in Old Manali, offering tranquillity and stunning views of the valley, a must-visit for those seeking peace and spirituality.

3 Activities to Do in Manali

manali himachal pradesh
Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Trekking
The treks around Manali, like the Beas Kund, Hampta Pass, and Bhrigu Lake, offer diverse terrains and mesmerizing views, perfect for both novice hikers and seasoned trekkers.

Skiing in Solang Valley
This winter sports hub turns into a skier’s paradise with its thick snow cover, providing an ideal terrain for skiing enthusiasts of all skill levels, complete with equipment rentals and instructors.

River Rafting on Beas River
Navigate through the thrilling rapids of the Beas River, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst spectacular natural scenery, suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

Explore the Mall Road
The vibrant Mall Road is the heart of Manali’s social life, lined with shops, cafes, and boutiques, perfect for evening strolls and buying local souvenirs and handicrafts.

Visit the Tibetan Monasteries
The monasteries like Gadhan Thekchhokling and Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa are not just spiritual centres but also a testament to rich Tibetan art and culture, with colourful murals and serene prayer halls.

Apple Orchards Visit
Stroll through lush apple orchards, indulge in fresh apple picking, and learn about the local methods of fruit cultivation, a delightful experience, especially during the harvest season.

tibetan monastery in manali
Tibetan monastery in Manali

4 Manali Famous Things

roadside restaurants under dense clouds on the manali
Roadside restaurants under dense clouds on the Manali

Local Handicrafts
Manali’s markets are a treasure trove of local crafts, including intricately woven shawls, handmade woollens, and unique wooden artefacts, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh.

Traditional Himachali Cuisine
Relish the flavours of Himachal at local eateries, where dishes like Siddu, Trout Fish, and Madra offer a taste of the authentic culinary traditions of the region.

5 Things to Do at Manali

view from prashar base camp himachal pradesh
view from Prashar base camp Himachal Pradesh

Camping
Experience the wilderness by camping in scenic locations like Solang Valley or Kothi, where you can enjoy bonfires, stargazing, and a close encounter with nature in comfortable and safe setups.

Mountain Biking
Take on the challenging terrains of Manali on a mountain bike, an exhilarating way to explore the rugged landscapes, suitable for both beginners and experienced bikers.

Yoga and Wellness Retreats
Immerse yourself in holistic wellness at Manali’s yoga retreats, where you can participate in rejuvenating yoga sessions, meditation, and wellness therapies amidst serene natural surroundings.

6 Himalayan Paradise: A Guide to the Top 10 Places to Visit in Manali

Hadimba Temple: A Spiritual Highlight in Manali

At the top of our list of Manali places to visit is the Hadimba Temple. This ancient temple is not just a religious site but a marvel of architecture, surrounded by a tranquil forest, making it a key highlight in Manali sightseeing.

Solang Valley: The Adventure Hub

Solang Valley is a must-visit for those seeking adventure in Manali. This valley, one of the best places in Manali for thrill-seekers, offers activities like paragliding and skiing, depending on the season.

Rohtang Pass: A Breathtaking Destination

A visit to Rohtang Pass is essential when exploring places to visit in Manali. Known for its stunning panoramic views, it’s a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

Manu Temple: A Peek into Manali's Past

Among the best places to visit in Manali is the Manu Temple. Located in Old Manali, this temple offers a mix of spirituality and serenity, integral to Manali sightseeing.

Vashisht Baths: Relaxing Hot Springs

The Vashisht Baths are renowned for their therapeutic hot springs. These natural baths are a highlight among Manali visiting places, offering a unique experience of relaxation.

Jogini Waterfalls: Nature's Wonder

water flows beautifully from jogini waterfalls in manali india
water flows beautifully from Jogini waterfalls in manali India

One of the top 10 places to visit in Manali is the Jogini Waterfalls. A short trek from Vashisht Village leads you to this breathtaking natural wonder, a must-see for every nature enthusiast.

Mall Road: The Heart of Manali

mall road manali
Mall Road Manali

No list of places to visit in Manali is complete without mentioning Mall Road. This bustling street is perfect for shopping, dining, and experiencing the local culture.

Nehru Kund: A Refreshing Natural Spring

nehru kund is a cold water natural spring made up of the bhrigu lake water
Nehru Kund is a cold water natural spring made up of the Bhrigu Lake water

Nehru Kund is known for its crystal-clear water and serene ambience, making it one of the best places in Manali for a quick, refreshing stop.

Tibetan Monasteries: A Slice of Culture

The Tibetan Monasteries in Manali, including Gadhan Thekchhokling and Himalayan Nyingmapa, are peaceful retreats and significant parts of Manali sightseeing.

Van Vihar National Park: A Family-Friendly Spot

main gate of van vihar national park
main gate of van vihar national park

Lastly, Van Vihar National Park, with its serene lake and lush greenery, ranks among the top Manali visiting places for families and nature lovers.

7 Wrapping Up

Manali is a town where every corner holds a new adventure or a peaceful retreat. This list of the top 10 places to visit in Manali is designed to guide you through the best experiences the town has to offer. From the tranquillity of its temples to the exhilaration of its valleys, Manali promises a journey filled with diverse and unforgettable experiences. Happy travelling!

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About This Article

Kaushik Jethva
Written by: Kaushik Jethva author

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Updated: November 29, 2023
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