Where is Manali?
Manali (274 km from Shimla) is located at the confluence of the Beas and the Manalsu rivers in the northern end of the Kullu Valley in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It lies at an elevation of 6,726 ft above sea level.
How will you gain access?
Bhuntar (50 km/ 2 hours) is the nearest airport, from where one can take a taxi or a bus to Manali. At a distance of 95 km from Kullu is the closest railhead- the narrow gauge railway station. Manali is connected by road to all the major destinations in the state and outside it. One can avail of both the private and state government buses.
Nearby Attraction in Manali
Hadimba Temple
The Hadimba Temple is the most popular and the most important temple in the region. The temple, a four-story wooden structure, stands amidst a forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar. The zigzag course of the path and the forest of Deodar trees provide a wonderful setting for the temple. The environs are sure to leave you enthralled forever.
Vashist Springs
The hot spring at Vashist is yet another attraction of Manali. These medicinal Sulphur springs emerge out of the mountains at Vashist. There is a bath complex here, provided with a restaurant and a beautiful view. It invites a number of tourists and couples from far and wide.
ArjunGufa
At a distance of 5 km from Manali near the Prini village, lies the ArjunGufa. ArjunGufa or the 'Cave of Arjun' is the place where Arjunaparctised non-indulgence to get the PashupataAshtra (Weapon) from Lord Indra. It is a not-to-be-missed site.
Jagatsukh
TheJagatsukh village lies at a distance of 6 km from Manali. The village is known for its celebrated Shiva Temple. Close to the temple lies ye another temple of Devi Sharvati.
Rohtang Pass
The Rohtang Pass, 50 km from Manali, is perched at an elevation of 4,111 m on the Highway to Keylong. The Pass is the only access to the Lahaul Valley, remaining open from June to November each year.
What are the adventures in store?
For adventure seekers, there are ample options in Manali to indulge themselves in numerous adventure activities. The ManaliMuntaineering Institute provides training facilities for basic and advanced climbing. The institute also conducts a number of other adventure activities like trekking, mountaineering, rock-climbing, skiing, and altitude rescue and relief courses. The Beas river gives excellent options of white-water rafting, canoeing, and kayaking. The Solang Nullah, Patalsu, Kothi, Marhi, and Rohtang slopes are fabulous for skiing. The slopes of SolangNallah are also fit for paragliding.
Which are the nearby hotels?
Piccadilly Hotel (40 km from the airport) is a 4-star in Manali. This business and leisure hotel provides modern amenities catering, in a friendly and homely atmosphere, to the needs of the guests and visitors. The 4-star group of hotels includes names like Timber Trail (50 km from the airport), VacresManali Resorts (50 km from the airport), Hotel Manali Ashok (52 km from the airport), and Sagar Resort (50 km from the airport).
What is the best time?
Manali can be best viewed between mid-April and end-June and between July and August. Another good option is to visit between the months of July and August, for the Rohtang Pass is open during the period.