13 Best Places to Visit in Manali Himachal Pradesh

Have you ever wondered about a place with tall mountains covered in snow, peaceful valleys, and beautiful landscapes everywhere you look? Well, that place is Manali. In our blog post, “Top 13 Places to Visit in Manali,” we are taking you on a virtual tour of this amazing place in the Himalayas. We will show you the best places to visit and share stories about the beauty of Manali.

Suggested Read: 12 Best tourist places to visit in Spiti Valley

Get ready to see stunning views, find hidden treasures, and experience the magic of the mountains. Join us, and we promise a guide that will make you feel like you are right there in Manali, exploring the coolest places to visit in Manali. Come along, read on, and let’s discover the incredible places waiting for you in Manali.

13 Best Places to Visit in Manali Himachal

1. Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass, just 51 kilometers away from Manali, is one of the best places to visit in Manali, offering a mesmerizing travel experience. During summer, it provides access to Lahaul and Spiti. But in winter, from November to May, it gets closed because of heavy snow. From June to August, lots of tourists go there to enjoy the snow and have fun doing things like paragliding and skiing.

Suggested Read: 17 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Mandi Himachal Pradesh

There are also other cool places nearby like Nehru Kund and Jogini Fall. To keep Rohtang Pass beautiful, the government has some rules about how many people and cars can go there. This helps protect the natural scenery, like streams, meadows, and waterfalls. So, if you plan to visit, follow the rules and enjoy the beauty responsibly.

Rohtang Pass Permit

To control the number of visitors and vehicles at Rohtang Pass, the government has put rules in place. If you want to visit Rohtang Pass for tourism, you need a special permit for petrol and diesel vehicles. This permit can be obtained from the designated authority in Manali. You can apply for the Rohtang Pass permit online through the official website of the District Administration Kullu at https://rohtangpermits.nic.in.

It is a way to make sure everyone enjoys their visit while taking care of the environment and keeping things in order. 

Suggested Read: 11 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Nahan Himachal Pradesh

• Location: Leh – Manali Highway
• Timings: 24×7
• Distance from Manali: 51 km. (approx.)

2. Solang Valley Manali

Solang Valley, just 13 km from Manali, stands out as a beautiful meadow on a slope, surrounded by tall deodar trees and massive mountains, making it a must-visit among places to visit in Manali. This lively spot attracts tourists throughout the year, offering a range of adventure sports in both summer and winter. From quad biking and zorbing to paragliding and ropeway rides, Solang has it all.

Suggested Read: Triund Trek Himalayas Popular Trekking Destination 2024

In winter, the snow-covered slopes turn it into a hub for winter sports, including skiing and hosting state and national level championships. Serving as a base camp, Solang also opens doors for mountaineering expeditions to Anjani Mahadev, Hanuman Tibba, and Patalsu Peak, making it an exciting gateway to explore the majestic mountains.

• Location: Burwa, Manali
• Distance from Manali: 14 km (approx.)

3. Hidimba Devi Temple

The Dhungri Temple, also known as the Hidimba Devi Temple, is a significant site among the top Places to visit in Manali. Situated near Mall Road, this ancient temple stands out with its unique four-tier pagoda-style structure made of wood and stone, built a long time ago.

Suggested Read: 16 Best Tourist Places To Visit In Sirmaur Himachal Pradesh

Inside, there is a special cave believed to have the footprints of Hidimba Devi, a character from the Mahabharata. It is fascinating that Manali is the only place in India where people worship Hidimba as a goddess. The temple attracts both religious devotees and those who appreciate historical architecture, offering a blend of spirituality and unique design.

• Location: Old Manali
• Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm every day

4. Naggar Castle

Naggar Castle, a 15th-century historical building situated in the picturesque Beas Valley of the Kullu Region, was constructed by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu. Today, it stands as a heritage hotel managed by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation, making it one of the best places to visit in Manali.

Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit In Chail Himachal Pradesh

The castle’s wooden structure is a remarkable example of local architecture, showcasing a unique style typical to the region with added European influences accumulated over the years. Visitors to the castle are treated to breathtaking views of the town and nearby alpine forests, making it a must-visit attraction for those seeking historical charm and scenic beauty.

• Location: Naggar Town, Manali
• Timings: 7:00 am to 10:00 pm (winter timings may differ)
• Entry Fee: ₹ 15 per person
• Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)

5. Vashisht Village

Vashisht is a small village near Manali, and it is considered one of the best places to visit in Manali. You can easily get there by following a path from the market. This village has a temple dedicated to Sage Vashisht. People believed that this temple was more than 4000 years old, and inside, there were cool things like wooden carvings, old figures, and paintings.

Suggested Read: Best Places to Visit In Chail Himachal Pradesh

What makes it even more special is the hot springs, which some belief have healing powers. This place is also a window into Manali’s old history. And if you like shopping, you can find really famous woolen stuff around here.

• Location: Vashisht Village, Manali
• Timings (Temple): 7:00 am to 9:00 pm, every day

6. Brighu Lake

There is a small lake at the bottom of Bhrigu Peak, and it is a cool place to visit in Manali. It is pretty high up, at 4,235 meters, and lots of trekkers come here every year. The lake looks like a jewel because it’s surrounded by snowy mountains. Legend says that a wise person named Sage Bhrigu meditated here. People who live nearby think this place is holy, and they believe that gods and goddesses from the valley come here to take a special dip.

7. Jogini Falls

Jogini Falls located a bit beyond Vashisht Hot Springs, towards Vashisht Village, is a breathtaking waterfall near Manali. It is a fantastic spot for tourists who adore nature. Here, you can listen to the lovely sounds of nature, take in the amazing views, and savor some delicious Himachali food. To ensure a safe visit, wear comfortable shoes and follow the usual trekking path. Jogini Falls is one of the top Manali tourist places, especially for backpackers and nature lovers.

8. The Manali Gompa

Close to the Manali Mall, there is a brightly colored Buddhist monastery that stands out as one of the best places to visit in Manali—welcoming you with a large Buddha statue at the entrance, freshly painted walls, well-kept lawns, and colorful paintings on the walls showing scenes from Buddha’s life. It is a place that offers a really spiritual experience. This monastery was constructed in the early 1960s.

9. Old Manali

Old Manali is a peaceful village surrounded by big mountains. It is a special place among the places to visit in Manali. There are traditional houses, a spiritual spot called Manu Temple, and a lively market with colorful shops. If you like nature, you can check out Jogini Falls, and if you enjoy trying different foods, there are cozy cafes to explore. Old Manali is like a calm and beautiful painting, waiting for you to discover its simple and unique charm.

10. Mountaineering Institute, Manali

The Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports, renowned for promoting adventure sports, stands as one of the famous places to visit in Manali. This leading institute offers a range of courses, from basic to advanced levels, covering activities such as mountaineering, rock climbing, trekking, river rafting, paragliding, and various other adventure sports disciplines.

11. Jagat Sukh Village

12. Nehru Kund

On the way to Rohtang Pass, just 5 km beyond Manali, lies a small spring-fed by the sacred waters from Brighu Lake. This spring, known as Nehru Kund, holds significance as one of the top Manali tourist places. Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first prime minister, during his frequent visits to Manali, would exclusively drink water from this spring, adding to its historical importance.

13. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

There is a dense forest near Manali with lots of different trees, and it is like a safe home for shy Himalayan animals. It is a great place for people who love nature and want to see animals. This special area, about 2 km from Manali, is considered one of the top Manali tourist places.

To get there, you can walk on a path through the woods that starts near Dhungri Temple and goes to Gallant Thatch. Beyond Gallant Thatch, there is a nice open area with grass and ice, perfect for camping and watching animals. You might see birds like Monal, Musk deer, and Brown bear.

If you go even higher up towards the snow during the summer, you might be lucky enough to spot Blue Sheep, Ibex, and the rare Snow leopard.

Things to do in Manali

Manali is not just about mountains and calm vibes – it is also a super fun place for people who love excitement. Check out these cool Things to do in Manali:

1. Quad-Bike Rides

• Ride a powerful quad-bike on bumpy trails and see the beautiful views around you.

2. Zorbing

• Roll down hills inside a big, see-through ball. It’s like being inside your own adventure bubble.

3. Paragliding  

• Fly high in the sky and see Manali from above. It’s like being a bird for a while.

4. Gondola (Ropeway) Ride

• Take a ride high up in the air and see all of Manali below you. It is like a magical sky tour

5. Rock Climbing

• Climb big rocks in the mountains and feel like a real adventurer.

6.  Hot Air Ballon

• Float in the sky in a big balloon and enjoy the peaceful views of the mountains.

7.  Camping:

• Spend a night in a tent outdoors. It’s like having a mini adventure sleepover!

8.  Mountaineering

• Climb the big mountains around Manali and feel super strong. The views from the top are amazing.

The best time to visit Manali

The best time to visit Manali depends on the kind of experience you are looking for. Here are the different seasons and what they offer:

1. Summer (March to June)

• Ideal for adventure sports, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
• Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C.
• A popular time for honeymooners and families.

2.  Monsoon (July to September)

• Rainfall can lead to landslides, making travel challenging.
• However, the lush green landscapes are visually appealing.
• Some adventure activities may be restricted due to weather conditions.

3. Autumn (October to November)

• Post-monsoon, the weather is clear, and the landscapes remain green.
• Ideal for those seeking a quieter experience.
• Temperatures start to drop, ranging from 5°C to 20°C.

4. Winter (December to February)

• Perfect for snow lovers and those wanting a winter wonderland experience.
• Snowfall occurs, and temperatures can drop below freezing.
• Ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying the snow-covered landscapes.
• The famous Manali winter carnival usually takes place in January.

Overall, the summer months (March to June) are considered the peak tourist season in Manali, offering pleasant weather and a variety of activities. However, each season has its unique charm, and the best time depends on your preferences and the experiences you wish to have.

Frequently Asked Questions About Places to Visit in Manali