15 Best Places to Visit Manali: Discover the Enchanting Beauty of Serene Wonderland

Manali is heaven on earth for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Manali and its mountains will never fail to interest you, whether you are looking for a solo trip in search of self and inner peace, a backpacking trip with your besties, or a romantic honeymoon vacation with your beloved. The hill town has evolved into a haven for the traveling heart, with cultural riches and heritage sites. The places to visit in Manali are full of natural charm and beauty, welcoming tourists to indulge in activities they love to do.

Top 15 Places to Visit Manali: Explore the Majestic Beauty of the Mighty Himalayas

Manali is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh with the kind of opportunities it offers to visitors. These locations provide the most mesmerizing scenery of majestic mountains, green valleys, and adventure sports. The attractions in the city like Hadimba temple, Solang Valley, and Mall Road to the adventure-filled destinations like Jogni waterfall, Great Himalayan National Park, Beas River for rafting, and Bhrigu Lake are waiting for your arrival. Thus, whichever you prefer to spend your time in, enthralling places to visit in Manali will leave you befuddled.

1. Hadimba Temple: Step into the World of Ancient Charm
2. Solang Valley: Experience the Thrill of Himalayas
3. Rohtang Pass: Conquer the Ultimate High-altitude Adventure
4. Mall Road: Shop, Dine, and Unwind on the Vibrant Lane
5. Bhrigu Lake: Embark on a Mystical Journey to the Breathtaking Lake
6. Beas River: Flow with the Thrilling Rhythm of Nature
7. Jogni Waterfall: Let the Enchanting Waterfall Rejuvenate Your Soul
8. Manu Temple: Step into the Realm of Divine Bliss at the Temple
9. The Great Himalayan National Park: Explore the Wilderness of the Great Marvel
10. Nehru Kund: Quench Your Thirst for Pristine Water and Adventure
11. Manali Sanctuary: Nature's Haven Unleashed
12. Bijli Mahadev Temple: Where Divinity Meets Lightning
13. Rahala Falls: Nature's Cascading Beauty
14. Jagatsukh: Serenity Amidst Himalayan Splendors
15. Gauri Shankar Temple: Carved in Devotion

1. Hadimba Temple: Step into the World of Ancient Charm

The famous 15th century old Hadimba Temple is a popular landmark in Manali, dedicated to Deity Hadimba, the wife of one of the Pandavas, Bheema. The temple is located in the Dhungri forest in the middle of pine trees and is one of the best Manali tourist places. The pagoda-style temple mesmerizes people with it’s architecture and religious significance. Couples, either visiting the place for their honeymoon in India or to explore the beauty of Manali, come here to take blessings and feel the tranquil atmosphere.

Location: Hadimba Temple Rd, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 8 am to 6 pm

Best Times: March-June and September

Popular tourist attractions: Manu Temple, Solang Nala

Things to do: Worshipping, Strolling around

2. Solang Valley: Experience the Thrill of Himalayas

Solang Valley is a synonym for adventure sports as the hill station boasts to be the land of thrilling activities. Adventure enthusiasts keep on checking the Manali snowfall time as they love to come here to try their hands at different kinds of sports including skiing in Solang during the winter season and paragliding, zorbing, quad biking, and snowmobiling. One of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, Solang Valley attracts people looking for a peaceful destination and also flock here to feel the pristine beauty of the valley.

Location: Manali, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175131

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 9 am and 5 pm, Skiing: 10 am and 2 pm

Best Times: Throughout the year

Popular tourist attractions: Rohtang La, Hamta Pass

Things to do: Zorbing, camping, quadbiking, snowmobiling, skiing, paragliding

3. Rohtang Pass: Conquer the Ultimate High-altitude Adventure

The famous Rohang Pass is known for its breathtaking beauty and thrill that it offers tourists looking for adventure places in Manali. The best season to visit Manali for traveling to the Rohtang Pass is between April to October and coming here is going to be one of the best experiences of one’s lifetime. Rohtang La or Rohtang Pass is one of the highest passes in the Himalayas that provides pristine views of the mountain. The view of the terrain and the path in itself is so spectacular that you will start observing variations in the panoramas while experiencing this one of the most beautiful places to visit in India in Summer.

Location: Highway to Keylong/Leh, Manali, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175131

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Times: Throughout the year

Popular tourist attractions: Bhrigu Lake, Hadimba Devi Temple

Things to do: Trekking, photography, sledge ride, skiing, mountain biking

Suggested Read: Stunning Places To Visit In India To Rejuvenate Your Senses

4. Mall Road: Shop, Dine, and Unwind on the Vibrant Lane

If you are traveling to Manali, you cannot miss strolling on the well-known Mall Road, especially in the evening as it is most famous among tourists as Manali visiting places. The lane of mall road features hundreds of stores offering wooden handicrafts, woolens, bookstores, German bakeries, and cafes, souvenir stores and local food outlets rich in flavors and giving you glimpse of culture. One can go shopping in Manali for the mementos from Mall Road. One should not even miss the Hong Kong Market, Dragon Shopping Complex and Snow Lion Underground Markey for clothes and accessories.

Location: Main Manali Street

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 8 am to 9 pm

Best Times: Throughout the year

Popular tourist attractions:  The Ridge, Christ Church

Things to do: Shopping, strolling around, and Exploring cuisines

5. Bhrigu Lake: Embark on a Mystical Journey to the Breathtaking Lake

Trekking to Bhrigu Lake should be on your list of things to do in Manali. One can reach the lake after a 4 day trek as the lake is situated in upper Kullu to the east of Rohtang Pass. Hanuman Tibba and Seven Sisters Peaks will give you stunning glacial and panoramic views from the lake as you pass through pine and oak trails. One can camp at Rola Kholi under the limitless sky and glittering stars.

Location: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175101

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Times: Mid-May to October

Popular tourist attractions: Hamta Pass, Kareri Lake

Things to do: Trekking, camping, photography

Suggested Read: Nightlife In India: Get Overwhelmed With Newfound Side Of The Country

6. Beas River: Flow with the Thrilling Rhythm of Nature

Beas River is like a vein to Manali as it floats side by side with you when you travel towards Shimla-Manali and enhance the picturesque vistas of beautiful Manali. The river gets water from the snow-clad mountains and after monsoon allows adventure seekers to indulge in thrilling water sports like Kayaking and river rafting in Beas River. One of the best things to do in India is river rafting on the Beas River for which adventurers from around the country and outside come here. On the bank of the river tourists can enjoy camping and walking as well. If you are fan of rapids, you can get that thrill in the village of Pridi.

Location: Near Manali Bus stop

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Times: May-October

Popular tourist attractions: Mata Vaishno Devi Temple, Beas River viewpoint

Things to do: River rafting, Kayaking, Camping

Suggested Read: Beaches In India: Recreate The Wildness With Sand Water And Foam

7. Jogni Waterfall: Let the Enchanting Waterfall Rejuvenate Your Soul

One of the best tourist attractions in Manali, the Jogni Waterfall gives breathtaking experience to tourists. If you are in search of nature, thrill and adventure, the route to Jogni fall has it all. One can reach the fall after crossing the Vashisht Hot Spring towards Vashisht Village. The fall is reached by trekking a small trail that gives you the glimpse of the river Beas and the peaks of Rohtang. Trekkers like to spend some time here listening to the thundering sound of the water.

Location: Vashisht Village

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Times: Mid-September, March-June

Popular tourist attractions: Nehru Kund, Rehala Falls

Things to do: Trekking, Bathing, Photography

8. Manu Temple: Step into the Realm of Divine Bliss at the Temple

With religious significance to Hindus, the pagoda style Manu temple is one of the must visit places in Manali. The ancient, alluring architecture and the wooden craftings and carvings attract people as they tell tales of ancient times. The tranquil atmosphere and serene ambiance of the temple is truly soul soothing. You will have to hike a little to achieve this serenity, and the views from the top will blow your senses.

Location: Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 5 am – 9 pm

Best Times: May to June

Popular tourist attractions: Hadimba Devi Temple, Rehala Falls

Things to do: Trekking to the temple

9. The Great Himalayan National Park: Explore the Wilderness of the Great Marvel

The Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and that is why it is a famous location among tourists. Tourists come here to see some rare species of birds, mammals, and plants. This place is paradise for photographers coming here to click snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr and brown bears along with wildflowers. Rich with flora and fauna, and alpine meadows, riverine forests and snowy mountain peaks, this place is among those places to go camping in Manali.

Location: Forest Office Rd, Shamshi, Himachal Pradesh 175126

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Times: March to June and then September to November.

Popular tourist attractions: Pin Valley National Park, Bijli Mahadev Temple

Things to do: Wildlife watching, bird watching, nature photography

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In May In The World That True Explorers Should Know About

10. Nehru Kund: Quench Your Thirst for Pristine Water and Adventure

Named after the first prime minister of India, Nehru Kund is a freshwater spring and tourists stop by the spring and drink the crystal-clear water and feel the serenity of this place. The spring is located on the Manali-Leh highway and became famous as Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru drank water here on his stay in Manali. It is believed that spring originated from the Bhrigu Lake and that is why it is auspicious for people. The beautiful landscape around is another reason making it one of the best Manali sightseeing.

Location: Vashisht, Manali

How to reach: Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport

Opening Hours: 7 am to 7 pm each day

Best Times: May to October

Popular tourist attractions: Jogini Falls, Manu Temple

Things to do: Camping, Hiking, Trekking

11. Manali Sanctuary: Nature's Haven Unleashed

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Manali, the Manali Sanctuary is a nature lover's paradise. Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, this sanctuary offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Manali sanctuary timings are so comfortable that one can trek through its dense forests, spot exotic wildlife, and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. With its tranquil ambiance and abundant natural beauty, the Manali Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India

How to Reach: The sanctuary is located around 2 km from Manali town. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the sanctuary

Nearby Airport: Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 50 km away from Manali

Opening Hours: 9 am to 6 pm

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November

Popular Tourist Attractions Nearby: Hidimba Temple, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Jogini Falls.

Things to Do: Nature walks, bird watching, wildlife spotting, photography.

Suggested Read: Fun Things to Do in Kozhikode: Lose Yourself in the Adventurous Charm of this City

12. Bijli Mahadev Temple: Where Divinity Meets Lightning

Perched atop a scenic hill, the Bijli Mahadev Temple Kullu is a revered place of worship and a symbol of spirituality. Known for its unique tradition of lightning striking the Shiva Linga, the temple offers a mesmerizing spiritual experience. The panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the majestic Himalayas add to the temple's allure. The Bijli Mahadev Temple trek allows you to witness its divine aura and embrace the serenity of the Himalayan mountains.

Location: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, India

How to reach: The temple is located around 22 km from Kullu town. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.

Nearby airport: Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 30 km away from Kullu.

Opening hours: 7am to 7 pm

Best time to visit: March to October

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Raghunath Temple, Beas River, Manikaran, Great Himalayan National Park.

Things to do: Seek blessings, witness the lightning ritual, enjoy panoramic views, photography.

Suggested Read: Things to Do in Ooty: Enjoy the Umpteen Number of Adventurous Activities

13. Rahala Falls: Nature's Cascading Beauty

Rahala Falls is a breathtaking cascade of water amidst the majestic Himalayan mountains on the way to Rohtang Pass. The gushing water plunges from a great height, creating a picturesque spectacle. Manali to Rahala Falls distance by car is only around 28 km so, ride on the Leh Manali Highway to feel the refreshing mist on your face as you admire the beauty of nature. Surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks, this waterfall in Manali is a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India

How to reach: The falls are located around 16 km from Manali town. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the falls.

Nearby airport: Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 50 km away from Manali.

Opening hours: 24 hours

Best time to visit: March to November

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, Beas Kund.

Things to do: Enjoy the scenic beauty, take photographs, have a picnic.

Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Mount Abu: The Only Hill Station Amidst Rajasthan’s Deserts

14. Jagatsukh: Serenity Amidst Himalayan Splendors

A quaint village located near Manali, Jagatsukh is a serene retreat amidst nature's bounty. Jagatsukh tourist places include ancient temples and lush orchards, the village offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Exploring the beautifully carved temples, enjoying leisurely walks through apple orchards, trekking, camping, and soaking in the tranquility of this charming village are the top things to do in Jagatsukh.

Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India

How to reach: Jagatsukh to Manali distance is only 6 km. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach Jagatsukh.

Nearby airport: Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 50 km away from Manali.

Opening hours: 24 hours

Best time to visit: April to June and September to November

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Hidimba Temple, Manu Temple, Vashisht Temple, Solang Valley.

Things to do: Trekking, camping, nature walks, visiting the ancient temples, exploring the village, interacting with locals, and experiencing local culture.

Suggested Read: Places to Travel in Bir Billing: Beauty That will Take Your Breath Away

15. Gauri Shankar Temple: Carved in Devotion

Situated in the village of Dashal, near Manali, the Gauri Shankar Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Adorned with intricate wood carvings and a unique architectural style, the temple is a true marvel. Seek blessings, witness the serene atmosphere, and admire the ancient craftsmanship that adorns the temple walls. Spend as many serene moments here as you want as the Gauri Shankar Temple timing is from early morning to late evening at 9 pm.

Location: Dashal Village, near Kullu, Himachal Pradesh, India

How to reach: The temple is located around 20 km from Kullu town. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple.

Nearby airport: Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 30 km away from Kullu.

Opening hours: 6 am to 9 pm

Best time to visit: The best time to visit is from March to October when the weather is pleasant.

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Bijli Mahadev Temple, Raghunath Temple, Beas River, Great Himalayan National Park.

Things to do: Seek blessings, admire the architectural beauty, explore

Additional Information About Manali

After reading about these mesmerizing places to visit in Manali, you must have got this craving to visit this alluring destination in the heart of Himachal, right? So, to make your Manali trip easy, and comfortable, here's some additional information about Manali:

How to Reach Manali:

By Air: The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers away. Regular flights connect Bhuntar Airport to major cities in India. The nearest international airports are Indira Gandhi International Airport and Chandigarh International Airport.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in North India.

By Road: Manali is well-connected by road to cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Regular bus services and private taxis are available to the city.

Best Time to Visit Manali: May to June and September to October

Best Things to Do in Manali: Exploring the valleys, indulging in thrilling activities (skiing, paragliding, and zorbing, river rafting, trekking, snowboarding, and snowshoeing) sightseeing, photography, praying at temples and monasteries and taking a dip in the hot water springs

Best Hotels in Manali: The Himalayan, Span Resort and Spa, Manu Allaya Resort, and The Orchard Greens.

Best Restaurants in Manali: Johnson's Cafe, Chopsticks Restaurant, Cafe 1947, and The Lazy Dog Lounge.

Best Food in Manali: Manali offers a range of delectable cuisine to satisfy the taste buds. Don't miss out on Himachali Dham, Siddu, Trout Fish, and Madra.

Famous Adventure Activities in Manali: River rafting, paragliding, skiing, zorbing, trekking, and mountain biking.

Famous Skiing Sites in Manali: Solang Valley and Gulaba

Famous Treks in Manali: Hampta Pass Trek, Beas Kund Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, and Chandratal Trek

Famous Paragliding Spots in and around Manali: Solang Valley, Marhi, and Rohtang Pass

Above are the best places to visit in Manali during your trip to this charming and breathtakingly beautiful city in Himachal Pradesh. As you have read, Manali is not only an alluring destination in Dhauladhar mountains that feeds it’s lovers with enchanting vistas but also satisfy the hunger of adventure seekers by offering them thrilling excursions like paragliding, river rafting, skiing, quad biking and so on. So, instead of spending time searching for a good destination, avail yourself of the best Manali tour packages and experience all that Manali has in it’s pocket.

FAQs