Manali Local Sightseeing – Explore the Best of Manali in 2023 & 2024

Note: Our prayers are with Dev Bhoomi to come out stronger from the situation at present.

Whether we are confined to our safe homes or secure office cubicles - on lazy Sundays or productive Mondays - we all have come across a call from the mountains. They do cast a spell on their visitors who keep going back. One such place is the town of Manali in Kullu district of the state of Himachal Pradesh.

Manali sits almost as a crown on the Kullu Valley. Loved by travellers from worldwide, this special hamlet attracts visitors like a moth to a flame. Manali became a household name across India when it came to visiting the mountains. Each year, from every corner of the country, people throng to this ever-welcoming place; there is a certain charm in the chilly winds of Manali that perfumes the entire region with their deft touch on the lofty cedar and deodar trees all around. Overlooked by the snowy peaks of the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas, who are witnesses to the valley’s dramatic climate, where the Sun can be seen playing hide and seek in the day and a million stars along with the Moon shine their brightest at night.

Around 500 Km away from the capital city of New Delhi, Manali is well-connected with roads, rails and air routes. While Joginder Nagar Railway Station, Himachal Pradesh, is the closest station from where Manali is around 145 Km away. Kullu Bhuntar Airport in Kullu is the nearest airport to reach Manali, which is 50 Km away from it. Most travellers also prefer to reach Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh and take cabs for Manali from there. Numerous bus services run from all major North Indian cities to Manali Bus stand.

Manali witnesses a subtropical highland climate across the year, with temperatures ranging from 10 °C to 30 °C in warm summers and from -7 °C to 15 °C in relatively cold winters.

Top Places for Manali Sightseeing

Now that we are sure you will visit this magical town to quench your nomadic thirst - here’s our handpicked list of local sightseeing and famous places in Manali to support the noble cause.

• Mall Road
• Hidimba Temple
• Old Manali
• Johnson's Café
• Rohtang Pass
• Solang Valley
• Vashishtha Temple and Kund
• Jogini Waterfall
• Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery
• Naggar Village

Mall Road

Located in the heart of Manali, the lined stores of locals give you a variety to choose from -handlooms and souvenirs to cheap yet quality winter clothes and delectable food. One of the famous things to do in Manali, a stroll through the organised chaos of the Mall Road will fulfil your convenience and needs along with providing some business to the locals.

Tip: Give your taste buds a delicious storm by eating at Chopsticks Restaurant - serving Indian, Tibetan, Japanese and Chinese cuisines.

Hidimba Temple

Amongst the popular places to visit in Manali, Hidimba Temple has been at the top since the 16th century. Guarded by humungous cedar trees that you can witness on your sides while climbing the stairs towards the temple, what will tug your heartstrings are the pagoda-style architecture and temple's wooden work held together by a highly spiritual environment. A step into the temple will make you connect with the energetic environment instantly. Hidimba temple is a famous local sightseeing in Manali that you must include in your tour package.

Tip: Visit the temple early in the day as it can become overcrowded later. The charm, however, stays for the entire day.

Old Manali

When they say Old is Gold, maybe they meant the Old Manali. It is a laid-back Manali with winding alleys, a serene atmosphere, reverberating hippie cafes, and a testament to the peace and tranquillity of mountains. You can book your stay in one of the cottages or homestays in Old Manali or choose among the best stays in Manali and come for a stroll here. Old Manali is only 3 Km away from Manali. The appeal of Old Manali is sure to make its place in your heart and memories that you will take away with you.

Tip: Well, do visit it.

Johnson's Café

If you are looking to savour good food and refresh at a cosy café, it has to be at The Johnson’s Café, right near the iconic Mall Road. It is a beautifully-designed café tucked in the premises of Johnson’s Hotel. Sit indoors among wooden interiors or take a seat outdoors overlooking lush lawns and mountains afar, you will feel at ease immediately. With a delectable menu and a well-stocked bar, you will be in for a gorge'us treat. It is certainly not one of the famous places in Manali, which makes it less crowded!

Tip: Don’t miss their cheese-laden, hot Pizzas!

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is one of the most popular places in Manali and sits on the top of the Kullu district. It is a gateway towards Lahual & Spiti Valley of Himachal Pradesh and Leh city in Ladakh. You can experience breathtaking views of mountains and huge amounts of ice here. Plus, people from all walks of life, covered in a heap of woollen layers, can be seen the happiest playing on the white sheets of ice; such is the charm Rohtang Pass promises.

Tip: Reaching Rohtang Pass can be arduous with narrow, treacherous roads. Leave early in the day.

Solang Valley

One of the most famous places in Manali, Solang Valley, is only 13 Km away from the town’s centre and calls out to all the adventurers. Here, you can indulge in mountain activities like rappelling, bungee jumping, river rafting, skiing, paragliding, and even horse riding, etc. The quad biking and ATV rides are a new addition to activities you can experience here. In short, Solang Valley is a must-visit place. It is a hub of famous things to do in Manali. The place is full of enthralling activities for people of all ages against the backdrop of never-before-seen views of the mighty Himalayas wrapped up in snow.

Tip: Avoid wearing sarees or skirts. Take some extra clothes that might be helpful while you indulge in snow activities.

Vashishtha Temple and Kund

Only 4 Km from Manali sits a 4000-year-old temple, which is uniquely blessing people! Naturally occurring hot spring on the premises of Vashishtha Temple is said to have healing properties. It is believed that people come and visit the temple and take a dip to cure their skin ailments. There is a separate section for men and women to take the dip. Amongst the famous places to visit in Manali, Vashishtha temple and Kund is a must-visit place to relax and rejuvenate.

Tip: Bring your essentials like clothes and towels.

Jogini Waterfall

To witness this 160-foot tall waterfall, one needs to trek for around 3-4 Km starting from Vashishtha temple, which is 4 Km away from the New Manali town. This easy and scenic trail goes through swaying pine trees, bountiful apple orchards, and gushing sounds of water streams all along, helping you connect with nature. This short trek is among the famous things to do in Manali, which ends with a small pool formed at the base of the waterfall where you can take a plunge and enjoy! It is one of the best short treks among many treks in Manali.

Tip: Put on good trekking shoes. After reaching the waterfall, give yourself 20 minutes more and reach the top for exhilarating views!

Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery 

The valleys and hills of Himachal Pradesh have historical links with Buddhism. The towns are dotted with many Buddhist temples and monasteries. When in Manali, you can pay a visit to Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa Monastery, which is located on Mall Road itself. Here, you can learn Buddhist culture and traditions from the residing monks, offer prayers, and meditate in the dedicated spaces. This local sightseeing in Manali bears a strong spiritual atmosphere that will only extend your celebration of life in Manali.

Tip: Open from 6 Am to 6 Pm; try to visit here around sunrise or sunset for the best environment.

Bonus Place: Naggar Village

Located at a distance of 21 Km from Manali town, Naggar is a fascinating hamlet, also known as the heritage village of Himachal Pradesh. It has a special mention because it is a hidden gem and appeals to the travellers who seek off-beat spots. It is home to centuries-old Naggar Castle, which is a must-visit place to witness wooden craftsmanship and architecture not to be found anywhere else! Naggar Village offers extraordinary views of snowy peaks covered in floating clouds. A perfect slice of a fairy tale, where homes are developed in Kath-Kuni way of architecture, Naggar is a place that will heighten your overall Manali experience if added to your Manali sightseeing package.

Tip: Just visit it!

There is so much to see and do in the magical Manali! Now that you have a list of the best local sights in Manali, creating a customised holiday package to Manali will be easy.

Dev Bhoomi (The Land of Gods) of Himachal awaits your visit!