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Manali

Manali is an important hill station in the Himalayan mountains of Himachal Pradesh and offers a blend of tranquillity and adventure that makes it one of northern India’s most popular travel destinations. It’s a magical place bordered by cool pine forest and the raging Beas river and its cool atmosphere provides a perfect haven for the ones afflicted by the hot Indian summers. The best time to visit is from April until October.

Sightseeing

Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. With the highest concentration of Tibetan refugees in the entire Kullu valley, it is famous for its Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa. The monastery is maintained by donations from the local community and through the sale of hand-woven carpets in the temple workshop.

The smaller Himalayan Nyingarnapa Gompa stands in a garden blooming with sunflowers. Its main shrine houses a gold-faced Buddha.

Anyone looking for thrilling adventure sports will love Manali, it is among the most popular sports destinations in India. Fishing, white water rafting, paragliding, skiing, mountaineering and hiking are all on offer.

Near Manali you can visit the small village of Vashist with its panoramic views of the valley and hot mineral springs that you can soak in.

A little further, Solang Valley shows nature at its best with splendid views of glaciers and the snow-capped mountains, and trekking opportunities to temples and waterfalls.

A visit to Rohtang Pass, at an altitude of 13,060 ft, where it can be cold even on a summer day, is highly recommended. It is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road (closed in winter) and provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above the clouds. It’s a very popular destination for Indians to visit and play in the snow.

Festivals

The Hadimba Temple Festival, which takes place in May each year, provides an interesting glimpse of local culture. Gods and Goddesses from local villages are dressed up and carried in procession to the temple, and local artists perform traditional folk dances. There is also a carnival for the kids.

Hotels

We have selected a few of the best hotels in Manali and can book rooms for you according to your wishes and budget.