Top 10 Places to Visit in Manali You Shouldn’t Miss

Everyone looks forward to escaping to a hill station during summer to enjoy the chill breeze of the mountains and valleys. Therefore, this summer’s best place to go is Manali.

It is also known as the Valley of the Gods. This beautiful location includes snow-capped mountains, breathtaking valleys, and green pine forests that soothe the mind and soul. 

Manali’s name is derived from the name ‘Manu-Alaya’, which means the home of Manu. Many monuments and places in Manali are related to Rishi Manu and his disciples. 

No matter if you’re an adventure enthusiast, a peace-seeker, or a religious person, this hill station is a must-visit. In order to assist you in planning your trip, we have compiled a list of the best places to visit in Manali, from which you can choose according to your preferences.

List of Tourist Attractions in Manali

1. Solang Valley

If you are a fan of road trips in the mountains, the journey from Manali to Solang Valley will win your heart. Situated on the other side of Rohtang Pass, the road trip is filled with beautiful scenic views of the mountains and valleys of Himachal.

Many adventure-loving tourists flock to Manali specifically to participate in summer and winter sports. 

The Solang Valley’s winter climate can be extremely cold; even in the summer, you can feel a chill. If you’re looking for places in Manali to help you escape the summer heat, you should include Solang Valley in your itinerary.

Time to explore: You can explore anytime, but some activities are only available between 9 am and 5 pm.

Entry fees: Activities are Chargeable

Distance from Manali: 12.7 km

Things to do:

• Enjoy a paragliding flight over the valley.
• Take the ropeway for panoramic mountain views.
• Ride a snowboard for an adrenaline rush.
• Enjoy trekking through scenic trails and forests.

2. Hadimba Devi Temple

Do you like the Mahabharata character Bheem? If so, include the Hadimba Devi Temple in your list of the best Manali attractions.

You might be thinking, why? Let me tell you.

This beautiful temple is said to be where Hidimba used to live with her brother Hidimb during the Mahabharata. Legend says that Hidimba had vowed to marry the man who would defeat her brother in a fight. 

During the exile, as the Pandavas explore India, Bhima comes across Hidimba and defeats him. He married Hidimba, who later gave birth to Ghatotkach.

The place was a cave temple, and the structure was constructed later by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553. 

Time to explore: Open 24 hours

Entry fee: Free

Distance from Manali: 1.4 km

Things to do: 

• Participating in the religious acts of Pooja and Archana 
• Enjoying a peaceful nature walk in the cedar tree forest
• Marvel at the woodwork of the temple.

3. Jogini Waterfall 

The Jogini waterfall is one of the largest in Manali and offers a variety of tourist attractions and activities. This waterfall cascades 150-160 feet, forming a tranquil pool among lush greenery.

You can take a refreshing dip in the pool, enjoy picnics, or relax at nearby cafes serving Himachali cuisine. 

Whether you are here with friends, family, or your significant other, this waterfall is a must-see in Manali.

Time to explore: 6 am–6 pm

Entry fee: Free

Distance from Manali: 4.8 km 

Things to do: 

• Trekking and picnicking with friends 
• Swimming and other water sports 

4. Manu Temple

If you are religious, this next attraction on our list of must-visit places in Manali is for you. Manu Temple in Old Manali is believed to be where Sage Manu meditated.

As per Hindu mythology, Rishi Manu was the first king to save humans from the flood. Lord Vishnu informed him about the flood and told him to make a big boat to save everyone.

Photography is not allowed inside the temple; do not carry your cameras.

Time to explore: 6 am to 5 pm

Entry fee: Free

Distance from Manali: 2.8 km

Things to do: 

• You can offer prayers and meditate in a peaceful environment.
• Observe the traditional Himachali architecture with a pagoda-style wooden structure.
• Interact with local people to know more about the stories.

5. Beas Kund

In the state of Himachal, the Beas Kund is located near the upper valley of Solang. If you enjoy adventure, spending time with loved ones, and nature, Beas Kund is the right place for you. 

Many people spend four to five days exploring the region around Beas Kund and the valleys.

Mountain views, snow-covered glaciers, and the majestic Pir Panjal range will leave you mesmerized.

Time to explore: You can visit any time of the day.

Entry fee: Free  

Distance from Manali: 16.8 km

Things to do: 

• Trekking and picnicking with friends and family 
• A trip to Shitidhar and Ladakhi Peaks.

6. Gulaba

Do you enjoy village life? When a village is located in the mountains, what could be better than that? So, the next stop on our list of places to visit in Manali is the hilltop village of Gulaba.

It offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush meadows, and vibrant wildflowers. Experience a serene environment here.

For an up-close experience of village life, make sure you stay in the village.

Time to explore: 8 am to 5 pm

Entry fee: Free

Distance from Manali:  12.9 km

Things to do: 

• Have conversations with locals to learn more about Himachali life.
• Capture Gulaba’s breathtaking landscapes

7. Vashisht Bath

Vashisht Bath, or Kund, located in Vashisht village, is a hot spring in Manali. 

It is believed that hot springs with high sulphur content have healing properties, providing relief for skin ailments, infections, and stress. 

If you wish to avoid crowds, arrive early in the morning, especially during peak season. Whenever you visit, be sure to take a dip in the water.

Time  to explore: Morning to Evening

Entry fee:  Free

Distance from Manali: 3 km

Things to do:

• Enjoying soaking in a hot spring.
• Exploring the surrounding areas and villages.
• Visiting the Vashisht Temple.

8. Sethan Valley

We continue our list of the top Manali attractions with the Sethan Valley, a perfect spot for nature lovers. Imagine a valley surrounded by snow-capped peaks, panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range, and dense pine forests.

Sethan offers thrilling activities all year long. Heavy snowfalls in winter make it an excellent place for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, suitable for both beginners and experts. 

Those looking for adventure should trek from Sethan to Hampta Pass.

Time to explore: 7 am to 7 pm (March to June and September to November)

Entry fee: Rs 200 per person

Distance from Manali: 14.7 km

Things to do:

• Take in panoramic views of the Dhauladhars.
• Meditate in peaceful surroundings.
• Enjoy the sunrises and sunsets.

9. Old Manali 

The majestic Himalayas, apple orchards, and tranquil landscapes of Old Manali make it a stunning destination. It is located along Manu Temple Road, surrounded by wooden houses and snow-capped mountains.

If you are someone who enjoys shopping, the enumerable shops and handicraft stores in old Manali will attract you the most. 

Time to explore: March to June and September to November

Entry fees: free

Distance from Manali: 2 km

Things to do 

• Shopping and sightseeing

10. Naggar Castle

We conclude our list of the best places to visit in Manali with Naggar Castle. Like many other Himalayan monuments, Naggar Palace also exhibits Himalayan architectural practice. 

It was built in 1460 by Raja Sidh Singh. The roof of this palace is adorned with an elegant wooden sloping roof made with precision and skill. Its walls and windows are decorated with intricate wooden work, giving it a classic Himalayan vibe. 

Time to explore: 7 am to 10 pm 

Entry fee: Rs 30 per person

Distance from Manali: 20 km

Things to do 

• Discover the architectural beauty of the palace.
• Visitors can explore the castle’s small art gallery inspired by Nicholas Roerich.

Manali has many tourist attractions other than those mentioned above. But If you are on a short trip, these places are famous, so don’t miss visiting them. 

Conclusion

Manali will always remain the best option if you want to travel to any hill station. The fresh green forests, beautiful valleys, and thrilling snow-capped mountains can lure anyone into the grandeur of Manali’s beauty. 

Interested in learning more about Manali tourist attractions? Contact SuperbWorldTrip.com. In addition, you can find great deals on vacation packages, hotels, and flights.

So, hurry up and contact us now to book your trip!