A place filled with scenic beauty and adventure, Manali is amongst the most visited tourist destinations in India. This stunning hill station invites visitors to slow down, explore scenic trails, enjoy exhilarating adventure sports, experience the rich heritage, and create memories that will last a lifetime. There are many popular and off-beat places to visit in and around Manali for a rejuvenating getaway.
Tucked away in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is one of those places that makes you stop and stare. One of India’s most beloved travel destinations, Manali is not just a place but a feeling and a soothing pause from a chaotic and busy life. It is a place where you can feel the whispers of snow, crisp, pine-scented air, and a silence that is almost sacred and soul-fulfilling. Places to visit in and around Manali are both adventurous and serene, offering a unique experience that makes you feel alive. With stunning snow-covered peaks, thrilling outdoor activities, and a host of mountain cafes, Manali makes an ideal destination for families, friends, and couples looking for adventure, tranquillity, and romance in one place. Here is a list of top places to be included in your Manali tour package.
What are the Best Places to Visit in and Around Manali?
- Solag Valley
- Hidimba Devi Temple
- Rohtang Pass
- Jogini Waterfalls
- The Manu Temple
- Bhrigu Lake
- Old Manali
- Manikaran Sahib
- Naggar Castle
- The Manali Gompa
Solang Valley
Called the white wonderland during the winters, Solang Valley is popular among adventure enthusiasts. Located just 13 km from Manali, it is a place to enjoy serenity and add thrill to your trip. Situated between the Solang Village and Beas Kund, Solang Valley offers magnificent sights of the surrounding snow-covered mountains and glaciers. In winter, the entire valley is covered in snow, turning it into a playground for snow lovers. Solang Valley is a major attraction in the Manali package from Mumbai.
Things to do at Solang Valley: Paragliding, skiing, snowboarding, zip lining and ATV rides
Hidimba Devi Temple
Built in 1553, the Hidimba Devi Temple is locally known as the Dhungari Temple, surrounded by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar. It is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimba Devi, the wife of Bhima, the second among the five Pandavas in the epic Mahabharata. What is unique about this 16th-century temple is its pagoda-shaped structure and serene backdrop. It’s a short walk from Mall Road, and worth visiting even if you are not particularly religious.
Things to do at Hidimba Devi Temple: Seek the blessings of Goddess Hidimba, capture memorable photographs in the backdrop of lush cedar forest, and soak in the vibes amidst bountiful nature.
Rohtang Pass
Another gem in the list of top places nearby Manali, Rohtang Pass is a place for tourists seeking adventure, snow-covered landscapes, and scenic landscapes. Nestled at 13,000 feet, Rohtang Pass is the ultimate place to revive your body and mind with snow, sights, and activities. With snow-covered landscapes, misty air, and jaw-dropping views of the Himalayas, Rohtang Pass is sure to give you goosebumps and memories for a lifetime.
Things to do at Rohtang Pass: Mountain biking, snowboarding, skiing, sledding and paragliding.
Pro tip: Start early to avoid traffic and give yourself time to stop and take in the views. Also, don’t forget to check if you need a permit to go up — it's required for most vehicles.
Jogini Waterfalls
Sightseeing around Manali is incomplete without visiting this gorgeous waterfall. Situated on the Northern edge of Vashisht Village, this fascinating waterfall flows down from 7850 feet and joins the Beas River in Kullu Valley. If you are interested in hiking or nature walks, and witnessing nature in the best form, the Jogini Falls trek is a must. The trail starts near Vashisht village and takes you through lush greenery and apple orchards. This 3 km hike takes you to the waterfall at the end, and is absolutely worth it.
Things to do near Jogini Waterfalls: Capture breathtaking pictures, visit nearby apple orchards, and Vashisht village, and relax and enjoy the relaxing sound of the waterfall.
The Manu Temple
One of the best places to visit in and around Manali, the Manu Temple is the only temple in India dedicated to the sage Manu, believed to be the creator of humanity. Surrounded by majestic mountains and the gentle sounds of the Beas River flowing nearby, and a serene ambience, the temple welcomes all with open arms, offering a peaceful retreat away from the bustling streets of Manali. The temple showcases traditional Himachali architecture, having a pagoda-style roof and intricately carved wooden doors. Manu Temple is a perfect place for meditation and witnessing the local rituals and traditions.
Things to do near Manu Temple: Explore hippie cafes and vibrant markets near this temple.
Bhrigu Lake
Situated at an altitude of 14,000 feet, Bhrigu Lake is a stunning high-altitude glacier lake in the Kullu district. Surrounded by open meadows and evergreen tree forests, Bhrigu Lake is one of the best places to visit nearby Manali. The trek to this lake is moderately challenging and offers an enthralling journey through the different Himalayan terrain of Manali. Covering a distance of around 25 km, the trek passes through quaint villages, enchanting forests, and meadows, showcasing the exotic flora and fauna of Himachal Pradesh. You will need a guide or to book through a trekking group, but the experience of camping under the stars and reaching the lake is unforgettable.
Things to do at Bhrigu Lake: Trekking, capturing the spectacular views, camping, exploring Gulaba, a picturesque village, and more.
Old Manali
Nestled in the lap of quiet nature, Old Manali is a place recognised for its hippie cafes and lively yet laid-back vibes. Located 3 km from the main Manali town, across the Manalsu River, Old Manali takes you to a world of exotic charm and tranquillity. It is a great place to just slow down. A prominent place in Manali tourism, it is a place to sip coffee by the river, read a book in a hammock, or hang out with fellow travellers. Here, you will love visiting the apple orchards and cosy cafes for the amazing food scene. When in Old Manali, do not miss to visit Café 1947, The Lazy Dog, and Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted.
Things to do at Old Manali: Explore the nightlife and dining scene, enjoy shopping, and visit ancient temples.
Manikaran Sahib
Next on the list of the top places to visit around Manali, Manikaran Sahib is a highly revered Sikh pilgrimage site. Located on the banks of the Parvati River, Manikaran Gurudwara is famous for its spiritual vibes and hot springs, which are believed to have healing properties. Situated at an altitude of 1,829 metres, Manikaran’s history is related to both Lord Shiva and Guru Nanak, making it a holy site for both Sikhs and Hindus. The entire experience of exploring this place will leave you enchanted. You can also enjoy the langar (free meal) served at the Gurudwara — a warm and humbling experience.
Things to do at Manikaran Sahib: Take a dip in the therapeutic hot springs, seek blessings of Lord Shiva, Visit Naina Bhagwati Mandir, and explore the nearby Tosh village.
Naggar Castle
About 45 minutes from Manali, Naggar Castle is a hidden gem and amongst the top places to visit in and near Manali. This 15th-century structure was once a royal residence and now operates partly as a heritage hotel. It offers stunning views of the Kullu Valley and has a beautiful mix of Himalayan and European architecture. There’s also a small art gallery nearby dedicated to Nicholas Roerich, a Russian painter who made Naggar his home. It is a perfect place to enjoy a peaceful day trip, learn some local history, and enjoy photography.
Things to do at Naggar Castle: Enjoy a leisurely walk through the fascinating Naggar Village, visit the ancient Gauri Shankar Temple, and trek to Chandrakhani Pass.
The Manali Gompa
Also called Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, The Manali Gompa is a beautiful Buddhist monastery. One of the top places to visit in and around Manali, it is a place where spiritual vibes and Tibetan architecture merge, creating a vibrant tapestry of faith and tradition. Crafted with love by Tibetan refugees in the 1960s, the Gompa has pagoda-style roofs and a palette of vibrant colours. The exquisite murals and paintings on the walls describe the tales of major Buddhist events and Lord Buddha’s philosophy of life. It is a perfect place to meditate and learn about Buddhism.
Things to do in the Manali Gompa: Relax and enjoy the natural beauty, spin the prayer wheels, and buy unique Tibetan handicrafts and carpets at nearby small shops.
With so many places to visit in and around Manali, it is an important destination to visit in India. However, the best time to visit Kullu Manali depends on your weather preferences and points of interest. You can book one of the most suitable tour packages to experience all the major attractions this gorgeous hill station has to offer!
FAQs
Q1. Can I visit Rohtang Pass without a permit?
No, you’ll need a permit to visit Rohtang Pass (about 51 km from Manali). It’s available online or at designated offices in Manali. Permits are limited daily, so it's best to book in advance, especially during peak season (May–October).
Q2. What local experiences should I not miss in Manali?
Don’t miss a walk through Old Manali — full of cosy cafes, traditional homes, and local crafts. Visit a local apple orchard (especially in August–October), try siddu (a steamed Himachali dish), and if time allows, stop by the Naggar Castle for history and art.
Q3. Are cafes and restaurants open during off-season months like January and February?
Many cafes in Old Manali and Mall Road stay open in winter, especially those with indoor heating. However, some smaller or seasonal places in Solang Valley or nearby villages may close from late December to February due to heavy snow.
Q4. What is the best time to visit Atal Tunnel, and can tourists go beyond it?
The Atal Tunnel is open year-round and best visited in the morning to avoid traffic. After crossing the tunnel, you can visit Sissu, a beautiful village in Lahaul valley. Roads may be snowy in winter but are usually cleared by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).
Q5. Are there any quiet places to stay in Manali away from the crowd?
Yes. Try Vashisht Village, Sajla, or Naggar for peaceful stays with mountain views. These places are 10–30 minutes from Manali and offer homestays, boutique guesthouses, and a calm vibe — ideal for travellers who want to avoid the busy center.
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