Whether you are on a solo sojourn in search of inner peace, an adventure backpack tour with your besties or a honeymoon trip with your beloved, Manali and its mountains will never cease to fascinate you. The hill town has blossomed into a paradise for the wandering heart and it also has some cultural gems that are unique to this part of the world. And the budget-friendly hotels in Manali will take care of your accommodation while giving you a taste of the hospitality the region is known for.
1. Hadimba Temple
Hadimba Temple | #1 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
Also known by the names Hidimba Devi Temple and Dhungari Temple, this ancient shrine was built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh way back in 1553. As the name suggests, the temple is dedicated to Hidimba Devi, wife of Bheema. The wooden architecture of the shrine is very distinct from most Hindu temples you will come across in the country. There’s another shrine dedicated to Hidimba Devi’ son Ghatotkacha in the premises. Surrounded by thick cedar groves and with snow-capped mountains serving as the backdrop, the temple is one of the best places to visit in Manali.
- Location: Old Manali
- Timings: 8:00 am to 6:00 pm; every day
2. Solang Valley
Solang Valley | #2 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
A mini valley located at about 8400 feet above sea level, Solang Nala is a short drive away from Manali. It is a haven for adventure and sports lovers and while here, you can try your skills on a pair of skis or go for a snowmobile exploration. When the weather warms up, people flock here for zorbing and paragliding. You can also hop onto a cable car and enjoy mesmerizing views of the Himalayas. If you are looking for snow-based activities and sports, winters are the best time to visit while the months of summer are ideal for other adventure sports.
- Location: Burwa, Manali
- Distance from Manali: 14 km (approx.)
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3. Jogini Waterfalls
Jogini Waterfalls | #3 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
The rushing cascades of Jogini Falls are a short and invigorating trek away from the main town of Manali. The trail that leads to the waterfall is scenic and gives you a glimpse of the River Beas and the snow-capped peaks of Rohtang. Apart from the serene setting, Jogini is also an important place of pilgrimage and you can visit many old shrines around the pool at the bottom. An early start is recommended so that you can spend more time at this picturesque natural spot, which is one of the top trekking as well as picnic places in Manali.
- Location: Vashisht Village, Manali
- Timings: 24×7
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4. Manu Temple
Manu Temple | #4 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
The Manu Temple is dedicated to an old sage after whom it has been named. The pagoda-style architecture of the shrine stands out amidst the deep valleys and mountain peaks that form a postcard-worthy backdrop. You will have to hike a little to reach the temple, but the views at the summit and the spiritual vibes it exudes make all your efforts completely worth it.
- Location: Old Manali
- Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm; every day
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5. The Manali Gompa
The Manali Gompa | #5 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
The ornate design and the quintessential Tibetan architecture make the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, more commonly referred to as the Manali Gompa, one of the finest landmarks in Manali. Built by Tibetan refugees in the 1960s, this monastery allows you to enjoy quiet settings and unmatched spiritual vibes. Some of the key highlights of the Manali Gompa include exquisite murals that depict important events of Buddhism in vivid colors and roofs built in the Pagoda style. The stalls in the complex are a good place to pick up some souvenirs and Tibetan handicraft items.
- Location: Old Manali Road, Manali
- Timings: 6:00 am to 6:00 pm; closed on Sundays
6. Bhrigu Lake
Bhrigu Lake | #6 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
Take a moment and think of postcard-perfect alpine meadows and evergreen tree forests near a serene high-altitude water body. Well, you have just now pictured Bhrigu Lake, one of the best trekking destinations around Manali. A bit of acclimatization is needed if you are going for the trek as the lake is located more than 4000 meters above sea level. The scenery and panoramic views of the Pir Panjal Range are what draws most visitors to this place.
- Location: Kullu District, Manali
- Distance from Manali: 19 km (approx.)
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7. Hampta Pass
Hampta Pass | #7 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
Counted as one of the easy-to-medium-difficulty Himalayan treks, the Hampta Pass trek allows you to enjoy mesmerizing views of the Kullu Valley and Lahaul Valley. The Chandratal Lake located en route is another key attraction of the trek. The pass is located on the Pir Panjal Range at an elevation of over 4000 meters and the route includes fascinating river crossings. There are many groups in Manali that conduct Hampta Pass trekking tours and their charges vary based on the itinerary and the number of days.
- Distance from Manali: 15 km (approx.)
8. Nehru Kund
A natural spring located on the Manali – Rohtang Pass Highway, Nehru Kund is a good place to visit during summers. The spring is named so because Nehru, India’s first prime minister, used to visit it during his stay in Manali and drink water from this natural spring. The clear waters and the calm Himalayan landscapes make this a good stop for those heading over to the Rohtang Pass. It goes without saying that Nehru Kund makes for an ideal destination for photographers and nature lovers.
- Location: Vashisht, Manali
- Timings: 7:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
9. Arjun Gufa (Arjun Cave)
Located close to the gushing currents of the Beas River, the Arjun Cave is associated with a legendary story from the Hindu epic Mahabharata. As per the legend, Arjun, who was one of the Pandava brothers, meditated here. One of the best places near Manali for a basket picnic, Arjun Cave offers stunning views of the hills and the valleys surrounding it. You can also visit the Kunt Bhayo Lake and Kunti Mata Temple, two of the key attractions near the cave.
- Location: Near Prini Village, Manali
- Distance from Manali: 21 km (approx.)
10. Van Vihar
Van Vihar | #10 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
If you are looking for some tranquil moments in the bohemian setting of Manali town, a short stroll through the Van Vihar Park is highly recommended. One of the most popular attractions in Manali, Van Vihar is a public park complete with lushness and sky touching deodar trees. You can even hop onto a boat and maneuver around the man-made lake here. Bird watchers will enjoy spotting local species in the park, especially in the morning hours.
- Location: Dhungri Village, Manali
- Timings: 8:00 am to 7:00 pm (summer); 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (winter)
- Entry Fee: ₹ 5 per person; ₹ 30 for 15 minutes of boating
11. Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple
Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple | #11 of 28 Best Places to Visit in Manali
The soothing silence of the Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple in Manali will calm even the most frazzled of nerves. This Shangri-La-like haven sits in the middle of the busy town, while its pagoda-style architecture and vibrant tones add a mystical allure to the whole setting. While here, don’t forget to spin the prayer wheels and admire the Sakyamuni idol and wall paintings. Counted among the best monasteries in Manali, Nyingmapa is where you can connect with your spiritual side.
- Location: Near Manali Mall Road, Manali
- Timings: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm; every day
- Entry Fee: No entry fee; photography is charged at ₹ 20
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