10 Things to Do in Manali: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide
Before you pack your bags for a vacation to the picturesque hill station, you might want to check out the Top 10 Things to Do in Manali. Manali, a popular destination for both adventurers and nature lovers, provides the ideal balance of peace and excitement.
While visiting this lovely location, you may engage in a range of activities that extend beyond merely admiring the breathtaking views of mountainous meadows. Here’s a handpicked collection of experiences worth considering.
1.Hadimba Mata Temple
If you’re wondering why the Hidimba Devi Temple is one of the best locations to visit in Manali, it’s due of its tranquil setting amidst snow-capped mountains. This shrine is dedicated to Hidimba, the mother of Ghatothkach and Bhima’s wife in the Mahabharata.
This temple is one of the must-see attractions to visit in Manali, with a unique design that sets it apart from other temples. The tranquil and serene environs make it an ideal location for anybody wishing to unwind in nature during their visit to Manali.
2.Mall Road of Manali
Mall Road should be on your list of top 10 things to do in Manali. This busy boulevard is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and relaxation. Mall Road, with its range of accommodations and charming eateries, provides many opportunity to unwind while exploring local gems.
Beautifully woven shawls, trendy tweed coats, faux jewelry, Tibetan handicrafts, and one-of-a-kind wooden name boards are all must-haves. Shopping in Manali enhances your experience and allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture. Visiting Mall Road is one of the top 10 Things to Do in Manali, providing the ideal balance of leisure and discovery.
3. Trek to bhrigu lake
Bhrigu Lake, encircled by the gorgeous Himalayas, is a must-see on any list of top 10 things to do in Manali. This stunning lake, known for its high-altitude walking routes, provides breathtaking vistas and a peaceful escape into nature. It’s also a popular spot for Trekking in Manali, offering an unforgettable experience for adventurers. The lake holds historical significance, as it is believed that Rishi Bhrigu meditated here and wrote the Bhrigu Samhita. Another nearby attraction is the Nehru Kund spring, which flows from the lake. The best time to visit Bhrigu Lake is during the day, and the trek typically takes 1-2 hours.
4.Vashist Temple
The Vashist Temple, located in the hamlet of Vashist near Manali, is dedicated to the sage Vashist, Lord Rama’s Kula guru. This ancient temple, said to be over 4,000 years old, attracts a large number of visitors each year.
The neighboring hot water springs are a feature of the area, noted for their medicinal effects and peaceful atmosphere. The temple is about 3.5 kilometers from the Manali bus station, making it easily accessible. It is open everyday from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., with hot springs swimming accessible from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. and again from 2 p.m.
5. Van vihar Park
Manali is a beautiful hill station, with 10 things you can do in Manali, and Van Vihar Park is one of the most popular attractions here. This well-maintained park has tall pine trees that rise high into the sky.
Located on the banks of the Beas River, Van Vihar Park offers a peaceful boating experience on its calm waters, allowing visitors to admire the topiary of stunning pine trees. There are also markets and restaurants nearby, which are convenient for tourists.
This park reflects the unmatched beauty of Manali, providing a calm atmosphere that refreshes the mind and soul. The man-made lake adds to the charm of the park, bringing the whole area alive. With an entry fee of only ₹30, visitors can enjoy a 15-minute boating ride for kids, making it an excellent choice among the 10 things to do in Manali for an outdoor excursion.
6.Ropeway ride at solang valley
Solang Valley is a great adventure destination, especially for beginners! There are many thrilling activities among the 10 things to do in Solang Valley in Manali, including bungee jumping, paragliding, and horse riding. You will find it hard to stay away from the thrill!
The ropeway ride is an experience you must try, which costs ₹500 per person for a round trip. This 10-minute journey offers spectacular aerial views of the valley, and tickets can be bought on the spot. When you fly in the air on this high-quality cable car, you will get to see panoramic views of the stunning surroundings.
This sport is popular among both adults and children, who enjoy the stunning landscapes while flying high above the valley.
7. ChandraTal Trek
Chandratal Lake, a crescent-shaped gem, is located in the heart of Spiti Valley on the Samudra Plateau. Known as the ‘Lake of the Moon’, this lake is a popular destination for trekkers and hikers due to its unique charm and stunning landscape at different heights.
Trekking to Chandratal Lake is a must-do activity for those who want a moon-like experience during their Manali trip. This trek takes travellers through the breathtaking Chandrabhaga and Moulkila mountain ranges, offering a wonderful experience. Though it is tough, this trek is great for beginners who want to test their limits.
There are legends surrounding this mystical lake, which further adds to its charm. The best time to visit is between mid-June and mid-October. At the beginning of the season, visitors can see remnants of new snowfall until October. Days are often bright and sunny, while nights are very cold. Situated at an altitude of 4,270 m, Chandratal Lake offers a truly amazing high-altitude excursion.
8. Jogini Waterfall
Manali has long been a mountaineer’s paradise, and no experience is complete until you include hiking among your Manali activities. The Vashisht Jogini Waterfall Trek is a short yet pleasant trip that combines nature and adventure.
This trip is both delightful and energizing, taking around 2 to 3 hours from the Vashisht Temple. It’s great for individuals who want to take in the panoramic views and enjoy the calm beauty of village life.
This trip is both delightful and energizing, taking around 2 to 3 hours from the Vashisht Temple. It’s great for individuals who want to take in the panoramic views and enjoy the calm beauty of village life.
The journey begins at the Vashisht Temple and takes you uphill to the outskirts of the picturesque village. The calm and tranquil Jogini Waterfall, a natural beauty that captivates everyone who visit, awaits you here. Hikers can stop along the route for a hot spring bath, which provides a relaxing escape in the middle of unspoiled environment.
9. Mountain Biking
Mountain biking is a fun sport that gives the adrenaline pump that one needs sometimes! The world’s highest and arguably the best mountain range, so it is also surprising that mountain biking is not a popular sport in India yet.
So, add one thing to do in Manali, get a mountain bike for the day. And set out for a ride. Well, the bad news is that finding a dedicated mountain biking trail is tough. However, fear not, there are plenty of roads where one can have a fun ride too.
Key points: Always have a trail starting from the Solang Ski Pass and ending at Old Manali. Another obvious and main rule is to always keep fingers on both brakes and
never, ever press only the front brake at a time. Using the rear or both brakes together can help avoid the risk of tipping over.
Price: Going for a thrilling mountain bike ride is a must on a trip to Manali. Renting a bike in Manali is easy. Usually, the rent is Rs 500 per day, plus a small amount for security, sometimes it is better not to leave more money for security purposes, try to negotiate to keep it under Rs 1000.
10. Bike Trip from manali to leh ladakh
It deserves credit for being one of the most popular road trips undertaken by youngsters from Manali. On the way from Manali to Ladakh, a unique experience awaits you as you traverse through the narrow trails towards your destination.
The road from Manali to Leh Ladakh is open from May to November. The shortest distance between the two is 473 kms and can take up to 3 days. Do not forget to take a permit to cross the road in Manali and make sure you are well equipped with the necessary resources for the journey.
Conclusion
Trekking should undoubtedly be on your list to get the full adventure experience in Manali. The Vashisht Jogini Waterfall Trek offers a great opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Manali, combining the peaceful rural atmosphere with the beauty of nature. Whether you want to go on a short hike or simply relax in the serenity of the hot springs, this trek promises a memorable experience that showcases the best of Manali’s outdoor charm.
FAQ
Manali offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure lovers. Popular things to do in Manali include trekking, paragliding, river rafting, skiing (in winter), and exploring nature trails like the Vashisht Jogini Waterfall Trek.
Yes, there are several treks in Manali that are ideal for beginners, such as the Vashisht Jogini Waterfall Trek, which is short and scenic, making it perfect for those new to trekking.
The best time for outdoor activities in Manali is between March and June, as well as from September to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for trekking, paragliding, and other adventures
Yes, the Vashisht Jogini Waterfall Trek is one of the shortest treks you can enjoy in Manali, taking only 2 to 3 hours to complete while offering beautiful views and a serene atmosphere.