Manali - India Travel Guide hero image

Manali!

india-guide.in

groups

Population

8,000

schedule

Best Time

March to June

calendar_month

Time Needed

3-5 days minimum

currency_rupee

Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

View full travel guide
See timings and practical tips

Plan by Intent

Trip Planning pages built for fast decisions and deeper discovery.

photo_camera

Did You Visit Manali?

Showcase Your Photography Skills β€’ Help Thousands of Travelers β€’ Get Featured with Credit

location_on Himachal Pradesh map North India πŸ”οΈ Adventure ⛰️ Mountains πŸ”οΈ Hill Stations +1 more Adventure Travel Honeymoon Destinations Manali Himachal Pradesh hill station adventure honeymoon skiing trekking

Manali is a high-altitude Himalayan resort town in Himachal Pradesh, India. Known for its stunning mountain views, it's a popular destination for adventure sports and a romantic getaway. The town is situated on the Beas River and is a gateway to the Spiti Valley and Leh.

Manali offers a mix of adventure activities and serene natural beauty. The pros include opportunities for skiing, trekking, and paragliding, as well as exploring ancient temples and enjoying the local culture. However, it can get crowded during peak season, and the traffic can be challenging. The accessibility in winter can also be affected by snowfall.

To explore Manali and its surroundings, plan for at least 3-5 days. The best way to reach Manali is by air to Bhuntar Airport, followed by a taxi ride, or by overnight bus from Delhi. Getting around Manali is manageable with taxis, auto-rickshaws, and rental scooters.

When To Visit

Best Time

March to June

10-25 degrees C

Pleasant and sunny weather with clear skies. Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Why Visit:

This is the best time for trekking, paragliding, and exploring the valleys around Manali. The weather is perfect for honeymooners and families to enjoy the natural beauty. The Beas River is also at its fullest, offering excellent rafting opportunities.

Tip: Expect higher prices for accommodation and activities. Book hotels and tours in advance to avoid disappointment.

Shoulder Season

September to November

5-15 degrees C

Cool and crisp weather with occasional showers. The landscape turns vibrant with autumn colors.

Why Visit:

The crowds are thinner, and the prices are more reasonable compared to the peak season. It's a great time for trekking and enjoying the scenic beauty without the summer rush.

Tip: Some adventure activities might be limited due to weather conditions. Pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop significantly in the evenings.

Avoid

December to February

-5 to 10 degrees C

Very cold with heavy snowfall. Many roads and passes are closed due to snow.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during these months unless you are specifically interested in skiing and snow-related activities. Most trekking routes are inaccessible, and the town can feel isolated.

Note: If you do visit, be prepared for extreme cold and potential travel disruptions. Ensure that your accommodation has proper heating facilities.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Hadimba Devi Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Hadimba Devi Temple is a unique wooden temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. Built in 1553, it features intricate carv...

Read more arrow_forward

Solang Valley

⏱ 3-4 hours Free (activities extra)

Solang Valley is a picturesque valley known for its adventure activities and scenic beauty. During winter, it is covered in snow, making it ideal for ...

Read more arrow_forward

Vashisht Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Vashisht Temple is famous for its hot springs, believed to have medicinal properties. The temple is dedicated to Sage Vashisht, one of the seven great...

Read more arrow_forward

Rohtang Pass

⏱ 5-6 hours β‚Ή500 (permit required)

Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys....

Read more arrow_forward

Manikaran Sahib

⏱ 3-4 hours Free

Manikaran Sahib is a Sikh gurdwara located in the Parvati Valley. It is known for its hot springs and the belief that food can be cooked in the hot sp...

Read more arrow_forward

Manu Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Manu Temple is dedicated to Sage Manu, who is believed to be the creator of the human race. The temple is located in Old Manali and offers panoramic v...

Read more arrow_forward
View all attraction details

Things To Do

attractions

Paragliding in Solang Valley

⏱ 15-30 minutes πŸ’° β‚Ή1500-3000 per person

Experience the thrill of flying over the Solang Valley with breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Tandem paragliding is a...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Skiing in Rohtang Pass/Solang Valley

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή1000-2500 per person

Enjoy skiing on the snow-covered slopes of Rohtang Pass or Solang Valley. Skiing equipment and instructors are available...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

Trekking to Jogini Falls

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° Free

Embark on a scenic trek to Jogini Falls, a beautiful waterfall located near Vashisht village. The trail passes through a...

Read more arrow_forward
attractions

River Rafting in Beas River

⏱ 1-2 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή800-1500 per person

Experience the thrill of river rafting in the Beas River. Different stretches are available for varying levels of diffic...

Read more arrow_forward

Cultural Experiences

celebration

Himachali Folk Dance Performance

1-2 hours | β‚Ή200-500

Experience the vibrant culture of Himachal Pradesh through traditional folk dance performances. Thes...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Visit a Local Village

3-4 hours | β‚Ή500-1000 (transport)

Explore the traditional way of life in a local Himachali village. Interact with the villagers and le...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Attend a Local Festival

Varies | Free

Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional Himachali festival. These festivals...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Learn Himachali Cooking

2-3 hours | β‚Ή1000-2000

Learn to prepare traditional Himachali dishes in a cooking class. Discover the unique flavors and in...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Visit an Apple Orchard

1-2 hours | β‚Ή100-200 (entry/tour)

Explore the apple orchards that Manali is famous for. Learn about apple cultivation and enjoy the sc...

Read more arrow_forward
celebration

Attend a Prayer Ceremony at a Monastery

1 hour | Free

Witness a traditional prayer ceremony at a Buddhist monastery in Manali. Experience the peaceful atm...

Read more arrow_forward
View all cultural experiences

Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Trout Fish
Trout Fish

Freshly caught and grilled, available at restaurants near the Beas River.

Sidu
Sidu

Steamed bread made from wheat flour and stuffed with potatoes or poppy seeds.

Thukpa
Thukpa

A Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables or meat, available at Tibetan restaurants.

Babru
Babru

A type of pancake made from black gram flour, served with chutney or vegetables.

Where to Eat

Casa Bella Vista

Casa Bella Vista

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Italian

πŸ“ Old Manali

A cozy restaurant with a rustic ambiance and delicious Italian food. Known for its wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Located in Old Manali.

Wood-fired pizzas

β‚Ή800-1200 for two

Drifters' Cafe

Drifters' Cafe

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Continental

πŸ“ Manu Temple Road

A popular cafe with a relaxed atmosphere and a diverse menu. Offers a range of continental dishes, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. Located near Manu Temple Road.

Burgers and sandwiches

β‚Ή700-1100 for two

Street Food Spots

Mall Road

Mall Road

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-150 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the steamed momos and chow mein from the street vendors. Be cautious about hygiene and choose vendors with fresh food.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Manali

More restaurants & dishes from Manali

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Old Manali

Ideal for backpackers and budget travelers looking for a laid-back atmosphere. Offers a range of guesthouses, cafes, and shops. However, it can be noisy at times.

Best For: Backpackers, solo travelers

Near Mall Road

A convenient location with easy access to shops, restaurants, and attractions. Suitable for families and travelers who prefer a central location. Expect higher prices and more crowds.

Best For: Families, first-time visitors

Vashisht

A peaceful village known for its hot springs and scenic beauty. Ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. It is located a bit away from the main town.

Best For: Relaxation, spiritual seekers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή500-1000/night

Zostel Manali

πŸ“ Old Manali

A popular hostel with a lively atmosphere and great views. Ideal for backpackers and solo travelers.

β‚Ή500-1000/night

The Hosteller Manali

πŸ“ Near Mall Road

A comfortable hostel with modern amenities and a convenient location. Offers both dorms and private rooms.

β‚Ή600-1200/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή3000-5000/night

Hotel Snow Valley Resorts

πŸ“ Near Hadimba Temple

A well-maintained resort with comfortable rooms and beautiful views. Offers a range of amenities and services.

β‚Ή3000-5000/night

Honeymoon Inn Manali

πŸ“ Aleo

A cozy hotel with comfortable rooms and a romantic atmosphere. Popular among honeymooners and couples.

β‚Ή2500-4500/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή8000+/night

The Himalayan

πŸ“ Hadimba Road

A luxurious resort with elegant rooms and stunning views. Offers a range of amenities and personalized services.

β‚Ή8000+/night

Span Resort & Spa

πŸ“ Kullu-Manali Highway

A premium resort with luxurious rooms and a world-class spa. Offers a serene and relaxing experience amidst nature.

β‚Ή10000+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Bhuntar Airport (KUU), 50km from city

train

By Train

Stations:

Joginder Nagar (JDNX)

Narrow gauge railway, slow and scenic, located far from Manali.

Chandigarh (CDG)

Major railway station, connect to bus or taxi to Manali

Routes:
  • From Delhi: 7-8 hours to Chandigarh (β‚Ή800-2000)
  • From Mumbai: 20-24 hours to Chandigarh (β‚Ή2000-5000)

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Manali Bus Stand
Routes:
  • From Delhi: 12-14 hours (β‚Ή800-1500)

Note: Trains more comfortable, buses can be tiring.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1500 per day

Best for: Sightseeing and reaching remote locations

Negotiate the fare before starting the journey. Book taxis from reputable agencies.

directions

Scooter/Motorbike

πŸ’° β‚Ή500-800 per day

Best for: Exploring the town and nearby areas at your own pace

Wear a helmet and drive carefully. Check the road conditions before starting your journey.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200 per trip

Best for: Short distances within the town

Negotiate the fare before getting in. Avoid traveling in auto-rickshaws during peak hours.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Pack warm clothing, especially if you are visiting during the winter months. Comfortable shoes are essential for trekking and sightseeing.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Manali town and near Mall Road.

Cash vs Card: Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected at local markets and with taxi drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or filtered water to avoid stomach problems.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic.

Common Issues: Altitude sickness can be a problem at higher altitudes. Acclimatize gradually and drink plenty of water.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Jio offer good coverage. SIM cards are available at local stores with proper identification.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available at most hotels and cafes.

translate

Language & Tipping

Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Learning a few basic Hindi phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

Nearby Destinations

Explore More Of India

Panathady - India Travel Guide

Panathady - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Ranipuram Wildlife Sanctuary
  • β€’ Bekal Fort
  • β€’ Ananthapura Lake Temple

+2 more attractions

Along - India Travel Guide

Along - India Travel Guide

map Northeast India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Hanging Bridge over Siang River
  • β€’ Mechuka Valley (Day Trip)
  • β€’ Kane Wildlife Sanctuary

+3 more attractions

Loktak Lake - India Travel Guide

Loktak Lake - India Travel Guide

map Northeast India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Keibul Lamjao National Park
  • β€’ Sendra Island
  • β€’ Loktak Lake Viewpoint

+3 more attractions

Bidar - India Travel Guide

Bidar - India Travel Guide

map South India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Bidar Fort
  • β€’ Bahmani Tombs
  • β€’ Chaukhandi of Hazrat Khalil Ullah

+2 more attractions

Orchha - India Travel Guide

Orchha - India Travel Guide

map Central India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Orchha Fort Complex
  • β€’ Raja Ram Temple
  • β€’ Chaturbhuj Temple

+3 more attractions

Dhanbad - India Travel Guide

Dhanbad - India Travel Guide

map East India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Maithon Dam
  • β€’ Panchet Dam
  • β€’ Birsa Munda Park

+3 more attractions

Netarhat - India Travel Guide

Netarhat - India Travel Guide

map East India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Netarhat Sunrise Point
  • β€’ Netarhat Sunset Point (Magnolia Point)
  • β€’ Lodh Falls

+3 more attractions

Modhera - India Travel Guide

Modhera - India Travel Guide

map West India

Top Attractions:

  • β€’ Sun Temple
  • β€’ Surya Kund (Stepwell)
  • β€’ Modhera Dance Festival

+2 more attractions

Share Your Manali Photos!

Help fellow travelers by sharing your authentic travel photos. Get credited with your name and social links!

Found an Error?

Help us improve! Report incorrect information or suggest updates.

Suggest a Destination

Know a hidden gem we're missing? Help us add it to the guide!