Where is Manali?
Manali
(274 km from Shimla) is located at the confluence of the Beas and the
Manalsu rivers in the northern end of the Kullu Valley in the state of
Himachal Pradesh. It lies at an elevation of 6,726 ft above sea level.
How will you gain access?
Bhuntar (50 km/ 2 hours) is the nearest airport, from where one can take a
taxi or a bus to Manali. At a distance of 95 km from Kullu is the closest
railhead- the narrow gauge railway station. Manali is connected by road to
all the major destinations in the state and outside it. One can avail of
both the private and state Government buses.
What magnetises people?
» Hadimba Temple
The Hadimba Temple is the most popular and the most important temple in the
region. The temple, a four-storey wooden structure, stands amidst a forest
called Dhungiri Van Vihar. The zigzag course of path and the forest of
Deodar trees provide a wonderful setting to the temple. The environs are
sure to leave you enthralled forever.
» Vashist Springs
The hot spring at Vashist are yet another attraction of Manali. These
medicinal Sulphur springs emerge out of the mountains at Vashist. There is a
bath complex here, provided with a restaurant and a beautiful view. It
invites a number of tourists and couples from far and wide.
» Arjun Gufa
At a distance of 5 km from Manali near the Prini village, lies the Arjun
Gufa. Arjun Gufa or the 'Cave of Arjun' is the place where Arjuna parctised
non-indulgence to get the Pashupata Ashtra (Weapon) from Lord Indra. It is a
not-to-be-missed site.
» Jagatsukh
The Jagatsukh village lies at a distance of 6 km from Manali. The village
is known for its celebrated Shiva Temple. Close to the temple lies ye
another temple of Devi Sharvati.
» Rohtang Pass
The Rohtang Pass, 50 km from Manali, is perched at an elevation of 4,111 m
on the Highway to Keylong. The Pass is the only access to the Lahaul Valley,
remaining open from June to November each year.
What are the adventures in store?
For
adventure seekers there are ample options in Manali to indulge themselves in
numerous adventure activities. The Manali Muntaineering Institute provides
training facilities for basic and advance climbing. The institute also
conducts a number of other adventure activities like trekking,
mountaineering, rock-climbing, skiing and altitude rescue and relief
courses. The Beas river gives excellent options of white-water rafting,
canoeing and kayaking. The Solang Nallah, Patalsu, Kothi, Marhi and Rohtang
slopes are fabulous for skiing. The slopes of Solang Nallah are also fit for
paragliding.
Which are the nearby hotels?
Piccadily Hotel (40 km from airport) is a 4-star in Manali. This business
and leisure hotel provides with modern amenities catering, in a friendly and
homely atmosphere, to the needs of the guests and visitors. The 4-star group
of hotels include names like Timber Trail (50 km from airport), Vacres
Manali Resorts (50 km from airport), Hotel Manali Ashok (52 km from airport)
and Sagar Resort (50 km from airport).
What is the best time?
Manali can be best viewed between mid-April and end-June and between July
and August. Another good option is to visit between the months of July and
August, for the Rohtang Pass is open during the period.
