» Manali

The Kullu valley has an ancient town in its lap called Manali. Surrounded by towering peaks at an arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline. It is a flourishing orchard industry, a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks as well as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers.

Also popular as a hill resort destination, Manali presents some excellent and well-equipped accommodation choices for the tourists. In the past decade Manali has turned out to be one of the best hill resort destination of India, particularly in those resorts, which cater Indian domestic tourists and honeymoon couples. But the ideal places to stay are the small guesthouses, providing a tranquil atmosphere of the Himalayas for those who are looking for solitute.

» Major Attractions of Manali

Hidimba Devi Temple : This temple, with a finely wrought four - tiered pagoda roof, dating back to 1553, is built around a natural cave, which enshrines the footprints of the goddess Hadimba. Hadimba was the wife of Bhima, one of the five great Pandava brothers of the Mahabharata, and later became the patron goddess of the Kulu royal family. Hadimba or Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region.

This four story wooden temple is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri Van Vihar. From the name of the forest parkland this temple derives its name. This temple was erected in 1553 and is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba. The legend goes that Bhima, one of the five Pandav brothers in Mahabharata, killed demon Hadimb and married his sister Hadimba. She became Goddess and is worshipped at time of distress.

Rohtang Pass : Rohtang Pass is the highest point, 4,112m, on the Manali-Keylong road, 51-km from Manali town. It provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is a sight truly breath-taking.

» Shopping in Manali

The Mall in Manali offers many interesting items to be purchased, from cloths to decorative pieces and gift items. Woollen goods are the town's real forte, particularly the brilliantly patterned shawls for which it is known for. The NSC or 'New Shopping Centre' Market near the bus stand sells a good selection. Another reliable emporium is the government - sponsored Bhutico, which has an outlet on the Mall, just opposite the tourist office.

Around the bazaar there are innumerable stalls stacked with hand-woven goods and pillbox Kullu Topis. Manali's other specialty is Himalayan handicrafts, mainly assorted Tibetan curios such as prayer wheels, amulets, dorjees or thunderbolts, masks, musical instruments, jewellery and thangkas.

» Places to Stay in Manali

Check out the Manali Hotels & Resorts Guide, offering a list of options to get online Hotel bookings and instant hotel reservations before planning your trip to Manali.

» How to Get there

Air : The nearest airport to Manali is that of Bhuntar, which is 52-km from Manali. From Bhuntar one can take a taxi or a bus to Manali.

Rail : The nearest railhead is that of and this narrow gauze railway station is 95-km from Kullu. The scenic beauty of Kullu while going to Manali can best be enjoyed on a bus or a taxi. It is better to take a taxi, which one can stop and enjoy the nature at will.

Road : The road to Manali passes through the picturesque valley of Kullu. The motorable roads to Manali connect the town with other major tourist places in Himachal as well as in the nearby states. At the Manali bus stand there are two booths, which do computerised reservation for buses. The reservations can be made one month in advance. Both private and state government buses are in service over here.

Manali Tour Packages
1. Himalaya Jeep Safari Tour     Destinations : Shimla - Manali - Dalhousie     Duration : 09 Nights / 10 Days	Read More :: Book Now

Hotels in Manali
1. Span Resorts  { 5 Star }	Read More
2. Ambassador Resort  { 4 Star }	Read More
3. Hotel Manali Ashok  { 4 Star }	Read More
4. Sagar Resort  { 4 Star }	Read More
5. Hotel Holiday Inn  { 4 Star }	Read More
6. Manali Resorts  { 3 Star }	Read More
7. Shingar Regency Hotel  { 3 Star }	Read More