With many places to visit in and near Manali, you will be spoilt for choices. Kullu offers scenic valley views and adventurous spots, while Bhuntar offers panoramic natural beauty. Hampta Pass is a hotspot for trekkers and explorers, while Manikaran is a divine land with many religious temples. Kasol is a go-to place for backpackers, while Sethan is loved by nature lovers. Places to visit around Manali have something for everyone.
Manali is the go-to destination for mountain lovers. The picturesque landscapes, narrow valleys, and spectacular vibe make it a great place for an ideal vacation. However, there are many places to see near Manali that will leave you spellbound. Sky-high mountains, lush greenery, and whispering rivers welcome tourists in all their glory. These hill stations offer a perfect blend of tranquillity, adventure, spirituality, and Himalayan culture. Each destination has a different story to tell. Here are the top places to see and things to do near Manali for a fulfilling vacation:
Top Places to Visit near Manali
- Kullu
- Kasol
- Bhuntar
- Hampta Pass
- Manikaran
- Sethan
- Deo Tibba
- Jibhi
Kullu
Kullu is a famous place to visit near Manali. It is known as the “Valley of Gods”. Every year, tens of thousands of tourists visit this destination to experience the thrill of adventurous activities in a natural setting. The place is a pleasurable retreat for travellers thanks to its cultural heritage, natural surroundings, and spiritual significance.
Distance from Manali: 41.3 km
How to Visit: Bus, private cars, taxi
Places to Visit: Bijli Mahadev Temple, Raghunathji Temple, Khirganga National Park, Great Himalayan National Park, Vashisht Hot Spring
Things to Do: River Rafting, Paragliding, Camping, Trekking
Kasol
Kasol is a popular place to see near Manali that is frequented by backpackers and explorers. It is situated on the banks of the Parvati River. The hill station is picture-perfect, like a scene from a dream. It has a laid-back vibe with some riverside restaurants, where visitors enjoy good food and good music. Many Manali tour packages include the scenic village of Kasol. Once an offbeat destination, Kasol now enjoys ample tourist attention.
Distance from Manali: 75 km
How to visit: bus, private car, taxi
Places to Visit: Chalak trek, Tosh village, Kheerganga, Parvati river, and Malana Village
Things to Do: café hangout, trekking, rafting, camping
Bhuntar
Bhuntar is a majestic town in the Kullu district. Its marvellous landscape, cascading waterfalls, and the confluence of the Beas and Parvati rivers make it an appealing place to visit near Kullu and Manali. Bhuntar is a picture-perfect town that has a pleasant climate all year round. Tourists especially plan a trip to this place during the summer months to get respite from the hot climate in big cities. Popular for adventurous activities like trekking and camping, Bhuntar is a hidden gem near Manali.
Distance from Manali: 49.8 km
How to visit: bus, private car, taxi, flight (Bhuntar Airport), train
Places to Visit: Basheshwar Mahadev Temple, Adi Bramha Temple, Khauli Pass and Tosh Waterfall
Things to Do: Trekking, camping
Hampta Pass
Hampta Pass is yet another beautiful place to visit around Manali. This multi-day trek is a paradise for adventure seekers. The journey as well as the destination has unparalleled natural beauty. Visitors click beautiful pictures during the trek. The valley is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. A large number of flowers, like blue poppies, pink rhododendrons, and orchids, welcome trekkers during the blooming season. This mountain pass offers a breathtaking view of Kullu and Spiti Valley from the top.
Distance from Manali: 15 km
How to Visit: Taxi or shared vehicle to Jobra (Trek starting point)
Places to Visit: Chandratal Lake, Chika and Balu ka Ghera campsites
Things to Do: Trekking, Camping
Manikaran
Manikaran is a small town located at a comfortable distance from Manali. The place is known for its spiritual relevance and scenic splendour. It is situated at an altitude of 1,760 metres above sea level. The Shiva Mandir and Gurudwara Sahib are holy shrines located in Manikaran. This is why Hindu and Sikh pilgrims visit the place in large numbers. Along with this, tourists visit Manikaran to admire the torrential flow of the Parvati River surging through the valley. Hot springs near the Shiva Temple are believed to have healing properties. Manikarn is surely one of the best places to visit near Manali.
Distance from Manali: 80 km
How to visit: bus, taxi, private car
Places to Visit: Gurudwara Sahib, Shiva Temple, Naina Bhagwati Mandir, Kheerganga
Things to Do: Bathe in hot springs, trekking, temple hopping
Sethan
Sethan is a part of the best Manali tour packages for couples. It is away from congested alleys and offers you a chance to explore the wilderness of Hampta Valley. This place is situated at an altitude of 2,600 metres above sea level. It is a hidden paradise where you can spend days in the lap of Mother Nature. The quaint surroundings, lush greenery, and untamed landscape of Sethan give it a unique charm. It is known as the “igloo village”. If you plan a trip during the winter months, you can stay in an igloo for a one-of-a-kind experience. It is important to note that you need to get a permit at the Hydro Project checkpoint to visit Sethan.
Distance from Manali: 15 km
How to Visit: Bus, Taxi, Private Vehicle
Places to visit: Pandu Ropa, Indrasana Trek, and Hampta Trek
Things to Do: Stargazing, trekking, camping, and skiing
Deo Tibba
Deo Tibba is one of the most interesting places to visit around Manali. It is a mountain peak in the Pir Panjal Ranges. The place is a magnet for thrill chasers and mountain climbers. Located at an altitude of 6,000 metres above sea level, it is a challenging trek. If you want to feel the adrenaline rush, summiting the Deo Tibba peak should be on your list. For a less challenging trek, you can attempt Deo Tibba base camp, which is equally thrilling. It is an exciting thing to do near Manali.
Distance from Manali: 35 km
How to Visit: Trekking from Manali
Places to Visit: Chota Chandrataal Lake, Seri Campsite, and Chikka
Things to Do: Trekking, camping, and mountain climbing
Jibhi
Jibhi is a must-visit place to see near Manali if you want to enjoy a laid-back vacation. The place has many homestays, where you can enjoy village life away from hustle-bustle of the city. Snow-capped mountains, flowing river, and ample greenery will rejuvenate your body and mind.
Distance from Manali: 100 Km
How to Reach: Private vehicle, taxi
Places to Visit: Jibhi Waterfall, Kulhi Katandi, and Raghupur Fort
Things to Do: Trekking, Nature Walk
Best Time to Visit Manali
The best time to visit Manali depends on your travel plans. The hill station has different seasons, including summer, winter, and monsoon. Each season comes with its own charm. For an adventurous trip, the summer season is best. During the winter season, the mountain range looks like a wonderland. Lastly, the monsoon season breathes new life into the valley, bringing out its best. If you want to have a low-key vacation, this season is the best. However, make sure to check the weather forecast before planning your trip. It can help you pack according to the weather.
Manali is surrounded by popular and offbeat destinations with unparalleled natural views, spiritual solace, and cultural gateways. From the serene beauty of Solang Valley to the gushing sound of the Parvati River, you can explore the best of nature at these destinations. With several places to visit in and near Manali, you must plan your travel itinerary for a memorable vacation.
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