Welcome to my Manali travel guide. I’ve frequented Manali, and with each visit, its beauty only grows. The Indian mountains are a captivating destination for travel enthusiasts, and among them, Manali shines as the premier hill station of Himachal Pradesh.
Manali, known as the ‘resort town’ of Himachal Pradesh, is renowned for skiing and trekking. Its landscape boasts the natural splendor of the Himalayan ranges, Kedar trees, flowing streams, and hot springs, making it a must-visit destination. This blog will detail how to reach Manali, the best times to visit, and the array of adventurous activities awaiting you.
Reaching Manali is relatively straightforward, though it can vary depending on the season. Travelers may encounter difficulty during heavy snowfall when transportation options become limited.
Manali by Train: Since Manali lacks a railway station, the most convenient way to reach it by train is to arrive at Chandigarh or Ambala railway station and then proceed by bus or taxi. Chandigarh railway station is well-connected to major railway stations across the country.
Manali by Air: The nearest airport to Manali is Kullu Manali Airport, located 50 km from the city center. Taxis are readily available outside the airport for direct transportation to the city.
Manali by Road: Traveling from Delhi to Manali by bus typically costs between 700 to 900 rupees per person for an average package, while a Volvo bus ticket ranges from 1300 to 1500 rupees per person. Taxis or gypsies can be hired from the railway station or airport for drop-offs at a private bus stand. During heavy snowfall, buses may drop passengers on the city’s outskirts, requiring a taxi or gypsy ride, which can cost around 500 rupees per person or less with negotiation.
The stunning sight of snow-covered Manali is a seasonal delight that can’t be experienced year-round. The ideal time to visit is during the winter season, from October to February, with the peak snowfall period occurring from December to February. This period attracts a large number of visitors, though senior citizens may prefer to avoid it due to slippery roads. For the most accurate snowfall information, it’s recommended to check Google Weather.
Looking for accommodation in Manali? The average hotel rates range from 800 to 1600 rupees per night per person, varying by season. Opting for a hotel near the Hidimba Devi temple or Mall Road can save you travel time and expenses. Hotels can be booked both online and offline in Manali, offering a convenient stay with picturesque views of snow-covered mountains.
Hotel Recommendations:
1. Krishna Cottage: Situated just a few minutes from Manali’s main city, this cottage offers easy access to the Hidimba Devi Temple. Costing 600 rupees per person per night, it’s a budget-friendly option.
2. Uncle Nomad: Located at a higher altitude, this hotel is 1.2 km from the Hidimba Devi Temple. It features an outdoor garden and a bonfire, with an average cost of 850 rupees per person per night.
3. The Doors Inn: Offering stunning views of snow-covered mountains, Kedar trees, and flowing streams, this hotel also boasts a cafe. Situated 1.3 km from the Hidimba Devi Temple, the average cost for an individual per night is approximately 1000 rupees.
4. Villa Riverine Cafe & Riverview Residences: This villa provides a range of rooms with varying levels of comfort and free parking. Located 3 kilometers from Vashist hot water springs and temples, the standard cost for a night’s stay is approximately 1000 rupees per person.
Please note that the hotel rates mentioned above are exclusive of taxes and other charges.
Manali is renowned for its breathtaking sights, offering a stunning blend of mountains, rivers, and trees that make it a top destination in the Himalayan region. The beauty of Manali can be enjoyed in both the winter and summer seasons.
Duration and Extended Trips: A trip of 2 days and 3 nights is typically enough to explore Manali and its nearby attractions. However, for those wishing to visit places like Solang Valley and Kullu Valley, extending the trip to 3 days and 4 nights is recommended. Some people also opt for 6-day and 5-night packages covering both Shimla and Manali hill stations.
Seasonal Adventures: Winter in Manali offers adventures like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding, while summer activities include paragliding, river rafting, camping, and trekking.
Day-wise Itinerary:
1. Hadimba Devi Temple: Reachable via two paths, the back route offers stunning views, especially during snowfall. Affordable food options are available along this path, making it a great spot for breakfast. Visitors can also find snow animals like rabbits and yaks here, adding to the picturesque setting.
2. Mall Road: A prominent tourist attraction, Mall Road features numerous eateries and shops, making it ideal for shopping and dining.
1. Rohtang Pass: Located 50 km from old Manali, Rohtang Pass is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts, offering risky yet rewarding routes. Covered with a thick layer of ice for most of the year, it attracts tourists seeking a thrilling experience. Note that the pass is closed during winter. To reach the viewpoint of Rohtang Pass, a 3-kilometer trek is required. Off-road bikes are available for 3000 rupees for one side, and horses can be hired for 2000 rupees per person.
2. Nehru Kund: Situated 5 km from the Manali bus stand on the way to the Rohtang Pass Highway, Nehru Kund is a natural spring known for its drinkable water and soothing environment created by the flowing water.
On the third day, after checking out, visitors can engage in adventurous activities or trekking. One of the most popular trekking spots in Manali is Jogini Falls.
Jogini Falls: Among the many trekking spots in Manali, Jogini Falls stands out for its majestic beauty. The waterfall appears to emerge from the snow-covered mountains, offering a serene spot for meditation. The water is crystal clear, and the surroundings are well-maintained, enhancing the experience of being close to nature.
Manali is considered safe for solo female travelers with a bit of awareness about the areas to visit. The friendly environment and helpful gestures of locals make it a comfortable destination for solo female travelers. Opting for a travel package is recommended for solo trips, as it not only offers budget-friendly options but also reduces the effort required to reach different places.
Manali boasts a well-developed mobile network, though there may be occasional disruptions during snowfall or inclement weather. Even at the highest points in Manali, there is reliable network connectivity with internet access. The network coverage extends to popular areas like Solang and Kullu Valley.
Locals recommend Vodafone for the best network connectivity, while BSNL and Jio also offer good coverage in Manali.
Hiring a car or gypsy is the most convenient way to get around Manali. However, during snowfall, these vehicles may be restricted due to roads being covered in snow. Another option is to hire a bike or scooty when the roads are clear. Scooty rentals start from 600 rupees per day, while bikes can be rented for Rs 1000 per day. Renting a bullet can cost up to 1500 rupees per day. Note that these rates do not include petrol charges.
Indulge in the affordable street food available at Mall Road, offering a wide variety of dishes. From hot snacks like bread pakoda to traditional Indian desserts like jalebi, along with hearty meals like rajma curry, Mall Road has something for everyone.
Don’t miss out on trying the local and renowned cuisine of Manali, including Katta and Sidhu. Katta is a quick and easy-to-prepare dish, while Sidhu, made with bread, is known for its warming properties, perfect for the winter season. Other famous dishes among tourists include Babru, Aktori, and Trout.
Expand your trip to Manali by exploring the Solang Valley, one of the most famous sightseeing spots in the region.
For trekking enthusiasts, Manali offers hidden treasures like
While Manali can be more expensive than nearby hill stations, buying a package is a cost-effective option. For a 2-day, 2-night stay including accommodation, food, Volvo bus journey from Delhi, and sightseeing of Kullu and Solang Valley, the cost is approximately 6000 rupees per person. To visit Rohtang Pass, additional transportation charges apply due to its distance. Cab charges for up to 4 people can amount to 3000 rupees.
Sample Budget for 2 Days in Manali:
– Transportation: 1500 rupees
– Hotel: 1600 rupees
– Meals: 1000 rupees
– Miscellaneous activities: 500 rupees
Total Budget: Approximately 4500 to 5000 rupees, excluding shopping expenses.
So hurry up to pack your bags for the Himalayan Adventure!
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