About Manali
Manali literally means the 'Home of Manu'. Legend has it that Manu stepped off a boat in Manali to recreate human life after floods had devastated the world. Manali offers marvelous walks through orchards and fairly tale forests of deodar. As one climbs the grassy path the fluid fluting notes of the whistling thrush comes across the forest.
Surrounded by towering peaks at an arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline. Manali is circled by beautiful glades of deodars and flowering horse chestnuts. It is one of the most popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks as well as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers. In the summer, Manali is packed with Pahari-speaking Kullus, Lahaulias, Nepali labourers, and foreign and Indian tourists.
Tourist Attractions
Hadimba Temple - Hadimba or Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region. This four-story wooden temple is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri Van Vihar. Manali has many attractions but the chief centre of interest, historically and archeologically, is undoubtedly the Dhoongri Temple , dedicated to goddess Hadimba, the Bhim of Mahabharat fame.
Manu Temple - 3 kilometers from the Main Bazaar in Old Manali lies the Temple of Manu Rishi . It is believed that this is the only temple of Manu Rishi in India , and Manu Rishi was the creator of human race on the earth.
Jagatsukh - Situated on the left bank, Jagatsukh is famous for it's Shiva temple in Shikhara style. Shooru village, nearby, has the old and historically interesting Sharvali Devi temple. Jagatsukh was formerly the capital of Kullu state.
Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple (3 kms) - Vashist, a small village located on the Left Bank of River Beas in Manali towards Rohtang pass is worth a visit. The place is renowned for it's Hot Water Springs and Temples . Nearby is the Pyramidal Stone Temple dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is another Temple of Lord Ram as well. Natural Hot Sulphur Water Springs with two separate bathing tanks for Gents and Ladies are a favourite amount the tourists.
Club House (2 kms) - Club House in Manali is walking distance from down town. The Club House has indoor games facilities and Club House is located on the Left Bank of Manalsu Nallah, which further flows down to River Beas. Club House and its surroundings have been developed into beautiful picnic spot.
Mountaineering Institute (3 kms) - Mountaineering Institute in Manali is located 3 kms. from down-town on the Left Bank of River Beas. Mountaineering Institute in Manali organizes basic & advance training courses in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and water sports. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired from Mountaineering Institute by booking in advance. Tourists can visit an interesting showroom of Mountaineering Institute.
Solang Valley (13 kms) - Located at a distance of 13 kms from Manali, Solang is a splendid valley between Solang village and Beas Kund. Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. It also offers fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute of Manali has installed a ski lift for training purpose. Located here is a hut and guest house of the Mountaineering and Allied sports Institute, Manali. Now a few hotels have also come up. The winter skiing festival is organized in Solang Valley . Training in skiing is imparted at this place.
Old Manali (3 kms) - The old Manali area is located some 3-km from the present day Manali. The old Manali is covered with guest houses, which look ancient now, and orchards where the livestock move at will.
Rahala water falls (16 kms) - This water fall is on way to Rohtang pass. If one goes to Marhi on foot from Kothi from the old road, the sight of the falls is fascinating. It is a good picnic spot as well.
TransportationAir: The airport at Bhunter is connected by Vayudoot services with Delhi and Chandigarh . Jason & continental airlines also operate flights from Delhi to Kullu. (50 km. from Manali and 10kms from Kulu) where taxis and buses are available.
Rail: The closest narrow gauge railhead is at Jogindernagar (126 kms from Kullu & 166 kms from Manali). The closest broad gauge railheads are Chandigarh (397 kms from Kullu and 357 kms from Manali) and Ambala (355km.).
Road: Kullu and Manali are both on the National Highway No. 21. Motorable roads and regular bus services connect Kullu & Manali to most of the important places in Himachal Pradesh and the neighbouring states.
By road the distance from Delhi to Manali is 570 km and from Shimla the distance is 280 km. |