Manali, a popular Himalayan destination in India, attracts numerous tourists year-round with its stunning scenery, adventure activities, religious sites, and charming cafes. Ideal for various travelers, the town and nearby areas provide diverse experiences. This blog highlights the top places to visit in and near Manali for a memorable Himalayan getaway.
1. Solang Valley
Solang Valley, situated 13 km from Manali, offers adventure activities year-round. Summer provides opportunities for paragliding, zorbing, and quad biking. During winter, the valley becomes ideal for skiing and snowboarding in its snowy landscape.
Highlights: Cable car ride, skiing, snowmobiling.
2. Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass, situated 51 km from Manali, offers stunning panoramic views of the Pir Panjal range. Open from May to November, this high-altitude spot is a favorite among snow lovers and photographers.
Tip: You need a permit to visit Rohtang; book in advance.
3. Hadimba Temple
Dating back to 1553, this ancient wooden temple honors Hadimba Devi, Bhima’s consort from the Mahabharata. Surrounded by majestic deodar trees, the temple provides a serene spiritual atmosphere and showcases remarkable architectural craftsmanship.
Don’t Miss: The peaceful forest trails around the temple.
4. Manu Temple
Situated in Old Manali, this temple is believed to be the only one in India dedicated to sage Manu, the creator of mankind. The setting is serene and offers a lovely walk through traditional Himachali homes.
5. Vashisht Temple & Hot Springs
Located just 3 km from Manali, the village of Vashisht is known for its sulfur hot water springs and temples dedicated to Sage Vashisht and Lord Rama. A dip in these springs is believed to have healing properties.
6. Old Manali
Old Manali offers a laid-back vibe with quaint cafes, riverside trails, and charming wooden homes. It’s a great place to relax, shop for local handicrafts, and enjoy some delicious Israeli and Continental cuisine.
7. Jogini Waterfall
A short trek from Vashisht, Jogini Falls is a serene and less crowded destination. Surrounded by pine trees and apple orchards, the waterfall is perfect for a peaceful picnic or photo session.
8. Nehru Kund
Named after India’s first Prime Minister, Nehru Kund is a natural spring 5 km from Manali. It’s an ideal stop for nature lovers seeking clean air, clear water, and solitude.
9. Beas River
The Beas River flows gracefully through Manali and offers opportunities for river rafting and riverside picnics. Walking along the riverbank is one of the best ways to enjoy Manali’s natural beauty.
10. The Mall Road
For shopping and street food, Mall Road is the beating heart of Manali. You’ll find cozy cafes, woolen clothes, souvenirs, and local Himachali handicrafts here.
11. Tibetan Monasteries
Manali is home to peaceful Tibetan monasteries like the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa and Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa. They offer a slice of Tibetan culture and spiritual solace.
12. Naggar Castle
Located about 22 km from Manali, Naggar Castle is a heritage structure built by Raja Sidh Singh in the 15th century. Today, it serves as a museum and hotel with mesmerizing views of the Kullu Valley.
13. Kullu
Just 40 km away, Kullu is known as the “Valley of Gods.” It offers white water rafting, beautiful temples, and vibrant Dussehra celebrations.
Must Visit: Raghunath Temple and Great Himalayan National Park.
14. Kasol
Often called “Mini Israel,” Kasol is 75 km from Manali and is a haven for backpackers. Known for its cafes, hippie culture, and base for treks like Kheerganga, it’s a must-visit nearby destination.
15. Manikaran Sahib
Just 6 km from Kasol, this holy spot is famous for its hot water springs and the Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib. It holds religious significance for both Hindus and Sikhs.
16. Tirthan Valley
Located about 100 km from Manali, Tirthan Valley is ideal for offbeat travelers looking for peace, trout fishing, and nature trails in the Great Himalayan National Park.
17. Hampta Pass
This trek connects the Kullu Valley to Lahaul and offers jaw-dropping views of glaciers, alpine forests, and wildflower meadows. Ideal for adventure seekers.
18. Bhrigu Lake
A high-altitude glacial lake located at around 14,000 feet, Bhrigu Lake is a popular trekking destination that offers pristine Himalayan views and a peaceful ambiance.
19. Sissu
Sissu, located in the Lahaul Valley and accessible via the Atal Tunnel, is a scenic village that features waterfalls, glacial rivers, and snow-covered peaks. A great day-trip from Manali.
20. Atal Tunnel
Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet, connects Manali to Lahaul Valley. It cuts travel time dramatically and offers incredible mountain views.
21. Gulaba
A lesser-known gem on the way to Rohtang, Gulaba offers snow in winter and lush meadows in summer. It’s a good alternative when Rohtang is closed.
22. Arjun Gufa
This cave near Prini village is linked to the Mahabharata legend of Arjuna meditating here. It’s a quiet and mystical spot surrounded by nature.
23. Van Vihar
Located on Mall Road, Van Vihar is a peaceful park with tall deodar trees and a small lake for boating. Great for families and couples.
24. Rahala Falls
Situated on the way to Rohtang Pass, this waterfall is a beautiful roadside attraction surrounded by birch and deodar trees.
Offbeat Places in and Around Manali (For a Quiet, Crowd-Free Experience)
If you want to avoid the tourist rush and explore less crowded destinations near Manali, this section is for you. These hidden gems offer raw natural beauty, solitude, and a glimpse into authentic Himachali culture.
a. Sethan Valley
Just 12 km from Manali, Sethan is a quiet Buddhist village known for its snow-covered landscape, perfect for snowboarding, camping, and stargazing. In summer, it’s filled with wildflowers and panoramic views.
Why Visit: Minimal tourists, perfect for camping, magical winter snow.
b. Shoja
Around 105 km from Manali, Shoja is a tiny hamlet near Jalori Pass. This untouched paradise offers scenic hiking trails, wooden homes, and views of the Serolsar Lake.
Why Visit: Hidden hiking trails, peaceful environment, rustic charm.
c. Kalga, Pulga & Tulga Villages (near Kasol)
These villages offer lush green landscapes, wooden houses, and calm surroundings. Ideal for artists, writers, or anyone needing a digital detox.
Why Visit: No crowds, perfect for long stays and nature walks.
d. Chalal Village
Just a short hike from Kasol, Chalal sits along the Parvati River and offers forest-side homestays, reggae music, and laid-back vibes.
Why Visit: Offbeat backpacking, riverside peace, scenic cafes.
e. Malana Village
Known for its unique culture and customs, Malana is a remote village 21 km from Kasol. Trekking up is an adventure in itself, and the reward is unmatched peace and panoramic views.
Why Visit: Ancient village with unique traditions, surrounded by high mountains.
f. Rumsu Village (near Naggar)
A charming traditional Himachali village that often gets overlooked by tourists. Ideal for peaceful homestays and cultural exploration.
Why Visit: Untouched by commercialization, ideal for village walks and slow travel.
g. Jana Waterfall
A scenic spot 12 km from Naggar, surrounded by apple orchards and pine forests. There’s a local dhaba offering traditional Himachali food near the falls.
Why Visit: Secluded, authentic Himachali food, short treks.
h. Gadagusaini Valley (Near Banjar)
Truly off the tourist map, this valley is about 110 km from Manali and offers virgin forests, traditional wooden temples, and complete solitude.
Why Visit: No crowd at all, picture-perfect scenery, rural Himachal.
Absolutely. Here are some FAQs with trending keywords related to the “25 Best Places to Visit in and near Manali” article, designed for easy understanding:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Places to Visit in and near Manali: Manali Travel Guide
Below are the answers to frequently asked questions about Places to visit in and near Manali:
Q: What is Manali famous for?
Manali is a popular destination known for mountain views, adventure sports (skiing, paragliding), ancient temples (Hadimba Temple), and the lively Mall Road, attracting honeymooners, adventurers, and families..
Q: When is the best time to visit Manali?
- Summer (March to June): Ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and pleasant weather.
- Monsoon (July to September): Be prepared for heavy rainfall, landslides are possible. Some areas may be closed.
- Winter (October to February): Best for snow activities like skiing and snowboarding. Rohtang Pass might be closed due to heavy snow.
Q: How do I reach Manali?
- By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport (KUU), about 50 km away.
- By Road: Manali is well-connected by road. You can take buses or hire taxis from Delhi, Chandigarh, and other nearby cities.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Chandigarh or Pathankot, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Manali.
Q: Do I need a permit for Rohtang Pass?
Yes, you need a permit to visit Rohtang Pass. It can be obtained online or at the SDM office in Manali. It’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak season.
Q: What are the top attractions in Manali?
- Solang Valley (Adventure sports)
- Rohtang Pass (Snow and scenic views)
- Hadimba Temple (Ancient wooden temple)
- Old Manali (Cafes and laid-back vibe)
- Jogini Waterfall (Trekking and nature)
Q: What adventure activities can I do in Manali?
- Paragliding
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- River rafting
- Trekking
- Zorbing
- Quad biking
Q: Are there any religious places to visit in and near Manali?
Yes, there are several:
- Hadimba Temple
- Manu Temple
- Vashisht Temple & Hot Springs
- Tibetan Monasteries
Q: What are some offbeat places near Manali?
- Sethan Valley
- Shoja
- Kalga, Pulga & Tulga Villages (near Kasol)
- Chalal Village
- Malana Village
- Rumsu Village (near Naggar)
- Jana Waterfall
- Gadagusaini Valley (Near Banjar)
Q: Is Manali good for families?
Yes, Manali is great for families. There are many activities and attractions suitable for all ages, like:
- Van Vihar (Park and boating)
- Shopping at Mall Road
- Visiting temples and monasteries
- Easy treks to waterfalls
Q: How many days are enough for a Manali trip?
At least 3-4 days are recommended to explore the main attractions and enjoy some adventure activities. If you want to explore offbeat places, plan for 5-7 days.
Q: What kind of clothes should I pack for Manali?
- Summer: Light cotton clothes with a light jacket or sweater for evenings.
- Winter: Heavy woolens, thermal wear, gloves, caps, and warm jackets.
- Monsoon: Raincoats, waterproof shoes, and clothes that dry quickly.
Q: Are there good places to visit in and near Manali?
Yes, Manali offers a wide range of accommodation options from budget hotels and guesthouses to luxury resorts and homestays. Old Manali and Mall Road areas are popular choices.
Q: Is it safe to travel to Manali?
Generally, Manali is safe for tourists. However, it’s essential to:
- Be cautious during the monsoon season due to landslides.
- Follow local advice and warnings.
- Take necessary precautions during adventure activities.
Q: Where can I shop in Manali?
Mall Road is the main shopping area where you can find:
- Woolen clothes
- Handicrafts
- Souvenirs
- Local Himachali products
Q: Is there local food to try in Manali?
Yes, try local Himachali dishes like:
- Sidu
- Dham
- Tudkiya Bhat
- Trout fish
Final Thoughts
From buzzing valleys and majestic temples to remote hamlets and forest trails, there are endless places to visit in and near Manali. If you’re seeking iconic attractions, adventure sports, or off-the-grid escapes, Manali offers a perfect mix for every kind of traveler.
Let the locals show you the real magic of the Himalayas. Contact for treks, day trips, and taxi services with Manali Explorer Cabs to enjoy stress-free, customizable travel experiences.