Kullu Manali Tour Himachal Pradesh, Interesting Facts, Attractions, Things to do, Best Time to Visit, How to reach, Accommodation

Kullu Manali Tour Himachal Pradesh, Interesting Facts about Kullu Manali, Attractions of Manali, Things to do in Manali, Best Time to Visit Manali, How to reach Manali, Accommodation in Manali, Useful Contacts Manali, Climate, Shopping in Kullu & Manali, Interesting Facts about Kullu Manali.

About Kullu Manali 

Nestled in between the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges, Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in the country. With jaw-dropping views, lush green forests, sprawling meadows carpeted with flowers, gushing blue streams, a perpetual fairy-tale like mist lingering in the air, and a persistent fragrance of pines and freshness –  Manali has been blessed with extraordinary scenic beauty. From museums to temples, from quaint little hippie villages to bustling upscale streets, river adventures to trekking trails, Manali has ever a reason to be the tourist magnet it is, all year round.

Clean roads, swaying eucalyptus trees, endearing little eateries, small kitschy local market places, and cafes which serve delicious local food at unbelievable prices, Old Manali is a serene, tranquil place, whose lingering silence is broken only by the twittering of the birds and the sound of the roaring waters of the Kullu river.

Solang Valley is the of the most visited places in Manali, with the drive up to Solang being as picturesque as the valley itself. Not only does Solang Valley offer some breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, but its slopes are also a very popular skiing destination, especially during the winters. In summers, the place turns into a paragliding haven. If you?re an adventure enthusiast, Solang Valley has adrenaline-pumping activities such as zorbing and horse-riding available.

With more than 25 lakh visitors every year, Rohtang Pass easily stands out as one of the most popular scenic spots to visit in Manali. Connecting the Lahaul and Kullu valleys, the Rohtang Pass is famous among nature lovers, photographers and adventure seekers alike. Mountain biking or skiing whilst surrounded by the awe-inspiring glaciers and snow-capped peaks on all sides is an exhilarating experience.

Manali is also home to a tiny slice of history, in the form of the Naggar castle. Located among the breathtaking forests in Naggar town, the Naggar Castle is a stunning historical edifice. Once used as the residence of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu, the castle is a fine blend of traditional Himalayan and European architecture. With majestic fireplaces, beautifully built staircases, and meticulous wood and stone works, the Naggar Castle is a must-visit when you’re in Manali.

Interesting Facts about Kullu Manali

• Manali is named after the famous Hindu lawgiver Manu; Manali was previously known as Manu-Allaya meaning the abode of Manu.
• Manali is a collection of three adjacent hills, each of which has a village and an old temple – old Manali has Manu Temple, Vashishtha has Vashishtha Temple, and Dhungri has Hadimba Temple.
• Manali houses many European cafes, the reason being European tourists discovered this region, stayed on, married locals, and started their own cafes.
• The Hadimna Temple in Manali is framed by towering deodars, which are pretty much untouched in all its 400-year-old wooden glory.
• The major language that are spoken are Hindi, Himachali, and English.
• Manali is the ultimate destination for adventure sports such as mountaineering, trekking, and skiing.

Attractions

Hadimba temple Manali has many attractions but the chief centre of interest, historically and archeologically, is undoubtedly the DHOONGRI TEMPLE dedicated to goddess Hidimba, the Bhim of Mahabharat fame. It has four-tiered Pagoda shaped roof and the doorway is carved with legendary figures and symbols. This temple located amidst wooden forest of deodar is about 2.5 Kms. from the tourist office. It is a pleasant experience to stroll in the temple complex which was built in 1533 A.D. A large festival is held here in May.

Jagat sukh 6 Kms. from Manali located on the left bank on Beas on the road to Naggar. The place is famous for very old temples of Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri in Shikhara style, these are worth a visit. Arjun Gufa  4Kms. from Manali towards Naggar, the cave is situated near Prini village 1Km. above the road where Arjun had meditated. This is good 1/2 a day excursion with charming view of the brilliant mountains.

Rohtang pass, Rohtang Pass (3979 m) is 51Kms. from Manali on highway to Keylong/Leh. It offers a panorama and spectacular mountain view. The pass is open from June to October each year although trekkers can cross it earlier. It is a gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi and Leh valley just as Zojila pass is a gatway to Ladakh. There are a beautiful sight of glaciers, peaks and Chandra river flows down in the Lahaul valley. Slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypan. During summer(mid June to October) regular buses ply between Manali-Keylong/Darcha, Udaipur, Spiti and Leh. Rohtang Pass is best visitable between May/June to October/November. For latest information about opening of Rohtang Pass, contact tourist information centre at Manali, Ph: +91-1902-252175; 253531.

Rahala water falls 16 Kms. on way to Rohtang pass. If one goes to Marhi on foot from Kothi from the old road, the sight of the falls is fascinating. It is a good picnic spot as well.

Solang valley 13 Kms. is a splendid valley between Solang village and Beas Kund. Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. It has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute has installed a ski lift for training purpose. Located here is a hut and guest house of the Mountaineering and Allied sports Institute, Manali. Now a few hotels have also come up. The winter skiing festival is organised here. Training in skiing is imparted at this place.

Nehru kund 5 Kms. on National Highway to Leh,a natural spring of cold clear water named after Pt. Jwahar Lal Nehru, who used to drink water from this spring during his stay in Manali. This spring is believed to originate from the Bhrigu lake situated high-up in the mountains.

Vashist hot water springs and temples Vashist, a small village located on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang pass is worth a visit. It is renowned for its hot springs and temples. Nearby is the pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is another Temple of Lord Ram here. Natural hot sulphur springs with two separate bathing tanks for gents and ladies are always full of tourists. Turkish style showers fitted baths have also been built nearby. Hot water from the nearby spring is provided for bathing.

Mountaineering Institute, Manali Located 3 Km on the left bank of river Beas towards Kullu, Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports Manali, organises basic & advance training courses, in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired from here by booking in advance. Tourists can visit an interesting showroom here.

Tibetan monasteries There are 3 newly constructed colorful monasteries, where visitors can buy carpets and other Tibetan handicrafts. Two are located in the town and one at Aleo on the left bank of Beas river.

Club house 2 Kms. from the town, club house has indoor games facilities which has been located on the left bank of Manalsu Nallah. There are some picnic spots near it.

Manu temple 3 Kms. from the main bazar in old Manali lies the temple of MANU RISHI. It is believed that this is the only temple of Manu in India, who was the creator of human race on the earth.

Kothi Kothi is also called Koshtampi. It is little below Kalpa, and is overshadowed by the Kinner Kailash peak. The village with its attractive temple, gracious willows green fields, fruit trees makes an altogether lovely landscape. Goddess Shuwang Chandika temple is in the village

Great Himalayan National Park The National Park with an area of 754 sq. Km. is located in Kullu District and has the representative area of temperate and alpine forests of Himachal. It has some the virgin coniferous forests of the State. Vast areas of alpine pastures and glaciers cap this park. This area has many important wildlife species of Western Himalayas, like Musk deer, Brown bear, Goral, Thar, Leopard, Snow leopard, Bharal, Serow, Monal, Kalij, Koklas, Cheer, Tragopan, Snow cock etc. Trekking of Rakti-Sar, origin of Sainj river and camping in alpine pastures is unforgettable. Similar is the trekking route to Tirath the origin of Tirthan river. Visitors can contact Director, Great Himalayan National Park at Shamshi or Range Officer wildlife at Sainj or Range Officer Wild Life at Sai Ropa (Banjar) for assistance and guidance. Camping equipment and guides are provided by the Forests Department.
For more details, visit Great Himalayan National Park website

Manali sanctury This sanctuary starts about 2 Km from Manali town. ItLeopard forms the catchment of Manalsu khad. A bridle path from Manali log huts/ Dhungri temple passes through dense Deodar, Kail, Horse chestnut, Walnut and Maple forests. Night stay in tents at Lambadug or Gallant thatch is an unforgettable experience. Alpine lush green pastures and glaciers beyond Galant thatch are a romantic attraction for the enthusiastic but enduring visitors. One may see Musk deer, Monal and Brown bear digging or ploughing the land and also pug marks with scent of Leopard or Snow leopard. Those who venture up to snows can see herds of Ibex in the glacier zone in summers.

Shopping in Kullu & Manali

Both Kullu & Manali are a great place to indulge in shopping as there are a number of markets here that sells everything from woolen clothing to carpets to handicrafts to fruits to local pickles and more. To get the best woolen items & handicrafts, one can visit Manu Market and Khara bazaar,in Manali and pick the best quality Kullu shawls, caps, and jackets. The Mall road area of Manali naturally comes in the list of best shopping destination in Manali as we all know it is packed with shops that sells artifacts, handicrafts, shawls, woolen wear, local tweeds, rugs, Buddhist paintings, Bamboo souvenirs, Chinese goods, artificial jewellery, etc.

Other than this, you can visit the old Manali market for Dorjes, Gadan Thekchokling Gompa market for carpets, Charitable Trust Tibetan Handicrafts market for unique Tibetan items, Mohal market in Kullu for dry fruits, fresh juices, & local pickles, and Lakkar Bazaar for wooden furnitures with intricate carvings.

Things to do

• Trek and enjoy beautiful sight of glaciers, peaks and river Chandra at Rohtang Pass.
• Night stay in tents at Lambadug or Gallant thatch, don’t miss out on animal sightings and spend a romantic evening at the Manali Sanctuary.
• Enjoy picnic and indoor sports at the Club House.
• Rejuvenate and rediscover your spiritual side at the Vashisht hot water springs and temples.

Best Time to Visit Kullu and Manali

The pleasant climate and picturesque surroundings of Manali makes it an ideal destination for people wanting to experience mountaineering, trekking, and skiing. There is nothing as the best time to visit this scenic hill station as people continue traveling to Manali throughout the year. However, if you are planning your trip in accordance to the climate of the region, then autumn and winter is the best time to visit Manali. Not only can you enjoy snowfall during this period, but also experience snow sports without disrupting your journey.

Climate

Temperature : In winter, the temperature gets quite low and it gets pleasant in summers

Clothing : Heavy woollens in winters and cottons in summers are recommended.

Accommodation

Manali is one of the most preferred tourist destinations in India that most of the travelers, especially the backpackers love to visit. The place is highly crowded, especially during the summer season when families, school & college groups, and honeymoon couples visit this majestic hill station to beat the heat and spend time in absolute bliss. To welcome its guests, Manali keeps itself prepared with hundreds of hotels, lodges, cottages and guest houses, classified into budget, deluxe, and luxury accommodation. Here is a list of the best hotels in Manali that would keep you warm and comfortable throughout your stay.

• Hotel Holiday Inn Manali
• Span Resorts Manali
• Apple Valley Resort Kullu
• Baragarh Villa Kullu
• Daffodil Cottages Manali
• De Vivendi Resorts Manali
• Apple Country Resorts Manali
• Solang Valley Resort Manali
• Ambassador Resort Manali
• Hotel Snow Park
• Hotel Honeymoon Inn
• Lord’s Regency
• Hotel Victory Resort Manali

How to reach

Road – Manali is well connected by road with Delhi, Ambala, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Haridwar, Shimla, Dharamsala and Chamba/Dalhousie. Deluxe, semi-deluxe and air conditioned buses run during the tourist season. It is connected with Leh during July to October.

Train – Unfortunately there are no nearer rail gauge to Manali but one can go for the Chandigarh, pathankot and kalka railheads to reach Manali with another few couple of ticks on clock. The railways are still under plans for improvement.

Air – The nearest airport is Bhuntar ( Kullu ) Airport ( Tel: 01902-265037, 265603), 50km from Manali, 10km from Kullu, about two hours away. Air India Regional operate flights to Kullu from Delhi. However the services can be irregular, and airfares can be high. Himalyan Bulls offer flight services from Chandigarh to kullu airport. It can be booked from their site. From the airport the best option to go to Manali is by Pre Paid taxi which is easily available there. The taxi stand is 100 metres from the airport. They have written prices with minimum ₹1200 to Manali. Alternatively just go to Kullu and take a frequent public bus (₹35, see Get Around section).

Useful Contacts Manali