Manali

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• 4 Manali Hotels

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Introduction

Manali at about 2000 metres above sea level is one of most popular mountain resort in the state of Himachal Pradesh. Though it lacks the colonial characteristics of Shimla, yet it has grown over the years into a major hill resort with numerous hotels, lodges, resorts and offers a range of adventure sports activities. Situated along the Beas River, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow capped mountain peaks. Originally known as Manu-alaya or the abode of Manu, the Hindu Law giver, the name was later simplified to Manali.

Manali also serves as a base camp for trekking and mountaineering expeditions into the Solang Valley and over the Rohtang Pass into the Lahaul-Spiti region. It is also the starting point of the epic 2 day Trans Himalayan journey to the cold desert region of Laddakh, connected by the Leh-Manali highway.

Hadimba Temple, Manali

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Traditionally Manali is a Hindu town with the important shrine dedicated to the Goddess Hadimba and the temple of Manu. However, in recent times a large population of Tibetan refugees has set up a mini-township with ‘Gompas’ and prayer flags fluttering across the houses.

History

Suburbs

Sights

Some of the important sites of tourist importance in the city are:

• Hadimba Temple was constructed in 16th century and is dedicated to the Hindu Goddess Hadimba, wife of Pandav prince Bhim. This temple has been built in the style of a 4-tiered pagoda with exquisite wooden carvings. A major festival is held here usually in the month of May.
• Godhan Thekchokling Gompa built in 1969 has a prominent yellow colored pagoda roof and bright frescoes on the walls. The monastery is maintained by donations and sale of carpets woven by the lamas within the temple workshop.
• Manu Temple is dedicated to Manu, the Hindu lawgiver who is believed to have lived here in 2nd century BC. His book, ‘Manusmriti’ is the foundation of Hindu law and forms the basis of the rigid caste system which is still prevalent in many parts of India.
• Government Recreation Centre is situated along the Beas river and offers lots of sports activities besides having a bar and restaurant.

Some of the excursions that can be undertaken are:

• Rohtang Pass is one of the most popular day excursions available from Manali. It is around 50 kms from Manali and considering the altitude of nearly 4000 metres, it can be cold even on a summer day. The pass remains open to vehicular traffic from July to September and is the gateway to the cold desert region of Lahaul-Spiti and Leh-Laddakh. The source of Beas River which flows through Manali, can also be found closeby.
• Solang Valley situated around 14 kms from Manali is known for adventure sport activities and also for it enchanting beauty with snow covered peaks and pine forests.
• Vashisht around 3 kms from Manali is famous for its hot sulphur springs. Government tourism department has arranged tubs which are connected to the hot springs and tourists can use it for 30 minutes upon payment of a small fee.
• Rahala Waterfalls located around 26 kms from Manali on the Rohtang Pass road are beautiful and well worth a stop.

Activities

Events and Festivals

Weather

Getting There

By Plane

The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, 10 Kms from Kullu and 50 Kms from Manali. Regular bus service is available from the airport to Kullu and Manali. Taxis are also available but they usually operate on a fixed fare basis.

By Train

The nearest railhead is Jogindernagar, which is around 135 Kms from Manali.

By Car

By Bus

Manali is well connected by road to most of the North Indian towns. Bus stand is right in the centre of the town and frequent buses are available from Manali to other important towns like Shimla, Kullu, Chandigarh, Delhi, etc. State Transport Corporation has recently inducted modern air conditioned buses on important routes like Manali-Shimla and Manali- Delhi.

By Boat

Getting Around

Plenty of Taxis/Autos are available to explore the city. It is better to fix the rate before boarding any vehicle as most of the meters in auto are not working.

By Car

By Public Transport

By Boat

By Bike

Eat

Drink

Sleep

Budget

Mid-Range

Upscale

Work

Learn

Keep Connected

Cyber cafes are available in the main market with access rates of around 40-80 rupees per hour.

Internet

Phone

Post