Top 23 Places to Visit in Manali for an Exciting Vacation

Manali is a heaven on earth for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Located in Himachal Pradesh, Manali will never fail to impress, whether you are planning for a solo trip in search of self and inner peace, a backpacking trip with your besties, or a romantic honeymoon vacation with your beloved. With exotic valleys, picturesque views and snowcapped mountains, there are many amazing places to visit in Manali. The hill town has evolved into a haven for the traveling heart, with cultural riches and heritage sites.  Read this blog to learn about all the beautiful attractions Manali offers for a memorable vacation.

23 Best Places to Visit in Manali for a Perfect Getaway This Year

Manali is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh with the kind of opportunities it offers to visitors. These locations provide the most mesmerizing scenery of majestic mountains, green valleys, and adventure sports. The attractions in the city like Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, and Mall Road to the adventure-filled destinations like Jogini Waterfall, Great Himalayan National Park, Beas River for rafting, and Bhrigu Lake are waiting for your arrival. Thus, whichever you prefer to spend your time in, the exciting places to visit in Manali will leave you mesmerized.

1. Hadimba Temple: Step into the World of Ancient Charm
2. Solang Valley: Experience the Thrill of Himalayas
3. Rohtang Pass: Conquer the Ultimate High-altitude Adventure
4. Mall Road: Shop, Dine, and Unwind on the Vibrant Lane
5. Bhrigu Lake: Embark on a Mystical Journey to the Breathtaking Lake
6. Beas River: Flow with the Thrilling Rhythm of Nature
7. Jogini Waterfall: Let the Enchanting Waterfall Rejuvenate Your Soul
8. Manu Temple: Step into the Realm of Divine Bliss at the Temple
9. Great Himalayan National Park: Explore the Wilderness of the Great Marvel
10. Nehru Kund: Quench Your Thirst for Pristine Water and Adventure
11. Manali Sanctuary: Nature's Haven Unleashed
12. Bijli Mahadev Temple: Where Divinity Meets Lightning
13. Rahala Falls: Nature's Cascading Beauty
14. Jagatsukh: Serenity Amidst Himalayan Splendors
15. Gauri Shankar Temple: Carved in Devotion
16. Manikaran: Where Hot Springs Meet Holy Vibes
17. Atal Tunnel: Drive Through the Heart of the Himalayas
18. Old Manali: Chill Vibes and Cozy Cafes
19. Vashisht Temple: Soak in Peace and Healing Waters
20. Parvati Valley: Nature’s Escape for the Free Soul
21. Van Vihar Manali: A Quiet Walk Under Tall Deodars
22. Sethan Valley: Hidden Snow Gem near Manali
23. Hampta Pass Trek: Adventure through Changing Landscapes

1. Hadimba Temple: Step into the World of Ancient Charm

The Hidimba Devi Temple or Hadimba Temple is a popular tourist destination in Manali due to its unique architectural style, religious significance and peaceful surroundings. Built in the 15th century, this old Hadimba Temple is dedicated to Hindu Deity Hadimba, wife of Bheem, one of the Pandavas. The temple is located in Dhungri forest in the middle of pine trees and is one of the best Manali tourist places. The pagoda-style temple mesmerizes people with its architecture and religious significance. Couples, either visiting the place for their honeymoon in India or to explore the beauty of Manali, come here to take blessings and feel the tranquil atmosphere.

Opening Hours: 8 am to 6 pm (Daily)

Best Times to Visit April to June Popular tourist attractions Nearby: Manu Temple, Solang Nala

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2. Solang Valley: Experience the Thrill of Himalayas

Another destination that lies on the list of top 10 places to visit in Manali is Solang Valley. It is a popular destination, known for its stunning natural beauty, adventure activities like paragliding and trekking, and cultural experiences. It is a synonym for adventure sports as the hill station boasts of being the land of thrilling activities. Adventure enthusiasts keep on checking Manali snowfall time as they love to come here to try their hands at different kinds of sports, including skiing in Solang during the winter season and paragliding, zorbing, quad biking and snowmobiling. One of the best places to visit in Himachal Pradesh, Solang Valley attracts people looking for a peaceful destination and to feel the pristine beauty of the valley.

Opening Hours: 9 am to 6 pm (Daily) for adventure activities, Skiing:  9 am to 5 pm (subject to weather conditions)

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Rohtang La, Hamta Pass

Things to do: Zorbing, camping, quadbiking, snowmobiling, skiing, paragliding

3. Rohtang Pass: Conquer the Ultimate High-altitude Adventure

Rohtang Pass is  one of the best places to visit in Manali in one day. The Rohang Pass is known for its breathtaking beauty and thrill that it offers to tourists looking for adventure places in Manali. The best season to visit Manali Rohtang Pass is between April to October. Rohtang La or Rohtang Pass is one of the highest passes in the Himalayas that provides pristine views of the mountain. The view of the terrain and path is so spectacular that you will start observing variations in the panoramas while experiencing this one of the most beautiful places to visit in Kullu Manali in February.

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Time to Visit: May and November

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Bhrigu Lake, Hadimba Devi Temple

Things to do: Trekking, photography, sledge ride, skiing, mountain biking

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4. Mall Road: Shop, Dine, and Unwind on the Vibrant Lane

Are you looking for some good places to visit in Manali at night? Then, Mall Road is highly recommended for you. If you are traveling to Manali, you cannot miss strolling on the well-known Mall Road, especially in the evening as it is the most famous among tourists as Manali visiting places. The lane of Mall Road features hundreds of stores, offering wooden handicrafts, woolens, bookstores and local food outlets rich in flavors and giving you a glimpse of culture. It is an ideal place for shopping in Manali for mementos or to buy souvenirs. You should not even miss the Hong Kong Market, Dragon Shopping Complex and Snow Lion Underground Market for clothes and accessories.

Opening Hours: 9 am to 9 pm (Daily)

Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year

Popular tourist attractions nearby:  The Ridge, Christ Church

Things to do: Shopping, strolling around and exploring cuisines

5. Bhrigu Lake: Embark on a Mystical Journey to the Breathtaking Lake

Bhrigu Lake in Manali is one of the best places to visit in Kullu, Manali for nature lovers and adventure seekers because of its stunning scenery, historical significance, and the opportunity to experience a challenging but rewarding trek. Trekking to Bhrigu Lake should be on your list of top things to do in Manali. One can reach the lake after a 4-day trek as it is situated in upper Kullu to the east of Rohtang Pass. Hanuman Tibba and Seven Sisters Peaks will give you stunning glacial and panoramic views from the lake as you pass through pine and oak trails. Additionally, one can camp at Rola Kholi under the sky and glittering stars. So, don’t forget to include this place in your list during your visit to Manali for the best trekking experience.

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Time to Visit: May to June and September to October

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Hamta Pass, Kareri Lake

Things to do: Trekking, camping, photography

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6. Beas River: Flow with the Thrilling Rhythm of Nature

Beas River is like a vein to Manali as it floats side by side with you when you travel towards Shimla-Manali and enhances the picturesque vistas of Manali. The river gets water from the snow-clad mountains and  allows adventure seekers to indulge in thrilling water sports like kayaking and river rafting in the Beas River. One of the best things to do in India is river rafting on the Beas River for which adventurers from around the country and outside come here. On the bank of the river tourists can enjoy camping and walking as well. If you are fan of rapids, you can get that thrill in the village of Pridi.

Best Time to Visit: May-October

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Mata Vaishno Devi Temple Things to do: River rafting, Kayaking, Camping

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7. Jogini Waterfall: Let the Enchanting Waterfall Rejuvenate Your Soul

One of the best tourist attractions in Manali, the Jogini Waterfall gives a breathtaking experience to tourists. If you are in search of nature, thrill and adventure, the route to Jogini Fall has it all. One can reach fall after crossing the Vashisht Hot Spring towards Vashisht Village. The fall is reached by trekking along a small trail that gives you a glimpse of the Beas Riverand peaks of Rohtang. Trekkers like to spend sometime here listening to the thundering sound of the water.

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Best Time to Visit: Mid-September, March-June

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Nehru Kund, Rehala Falls

Things to do: Trekking, Bathing, Photography

8. Manu Temple: Step into the Realm of Divine Bliss at the Temple

With religious significance to Hindus, the pagoda style Manu Temple is one of the must visit places in Manali. This ancient temple is dedicated to Sage Manu, who was the creator of humans in Hindu mythology. The ancient, alluring architecture and the wooden crafting and carvings attract people as they tell tales of ancient times. The tranquil atmosphere and serene ambiance of the temple is truly soul soothing. You will have to hike a little to achieve this serenity, and the views from the top will blow your mind.

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 5 am – 9 pm

Best Time to Visit: May to June

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Hadimba Devi Temple, Rehala Falls

Things to do: Trekking to the temple

9. The Great Himalayan National Park: Explore the Wilderness of the Great Marvel

The Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and that is why it is a famous location among tourists. Tourists come here to see some of the rarest species of birds, mammals, and plants. This place is paradise for photographers coming here to click snow leopard, Himalayan Tahr and brown bears along with wildflowers. Rich with flora and fauna, and alpine meadows, riverine forests and snowy mountain peaks, this place is among those places to go camping in Manali.

Opening Hours: 24 hours

Great Himalayan National Park Price: 50 INR per person

Best Time to Visit: March to June and September to November

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Pin Valley National Park, Bijli Mahadev Temple

Things to do: Wildlife watching, bird watching, nature photography

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10. Nehru Kund: Quench Your Thirst for Pristine Water and Adventure

Named after the first prime minister of India, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, Nehru Kund is a freshwater spring, and a tourist stop on Manali - Rohtang Pass Highway. Located around a distance of 5 km from Manali Bus Stand, Nehru Kund is one of the most popular tourist spots in Manali. The spring is located on the Manali-Leh highway and became famous as Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru drank water here during his stay in Manali. It is believed that spring originated from Bhrigu Lake and that is why it is auspicious for people. Nehru Kund in Manali is special for its natural beauty, historical significance, and serene atmosphere. The beautiful landscape around is another reason making it one of the best Manali sightseeing.

Opening Hours: 7 am to 7 pm (Daily)

Best Time to Visit: May to October

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Jogini Waterfall, Manu Temple

Things to do: Camping, Hiking, Trekking

11. Manali Sanctuary: Nature's Haven Unleashed

Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Manali, the Manali Sanctuary is a nature lover's paradise. Home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, this sanctuary offers a serene escape from the bustling city life. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular places to visit in Manali in April due to pleasant weather and exploring the sanctuary's flora. Here you can witness endangered species like the snow leopard and Western Tragopan. Manali sanctuary timings are so comfortable that one can trek through its dense forests, spot exotic wildlife, and marvel at the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. With its tranquil ambiance and abundant natural beauty, the Manali Sanctuary is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.

Opening Hours: Monday to Sunday - 9 am to 6 pm

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November

Popular Tourist Attractions Nearby: Hidimba Temple, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Jogini Falls.

Things to Do: Nature walks, bird watching, wildlife spotting, photography.

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12. Bijli Mahadev Temple: Where Divinity Meets Lightning

Perched atop a scenic hill, the Bijli Mahadev Temple Kullu is a revered place of worship and a symbol of spirituality. Bijli Mahadev is an ancient Hindu temple which is believed to be one of the 72 Jyotirlingas. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva in Kullu Valley and is a unique place to visit in Manali due to a fascinating legend involving lightning strikes and the restoration of the Shiva Lingam. The panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and the majestic Himalayas add to the temple's allure. The Bijli Mahadev Temple trek allows you to witness its divine aura and embrace the serenity of the Himalayan mountains.

Opening hours: 7am to 7 pm (Daily)

Best Time to Visit: March to October

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Raghunath Temple, Beas River, Manikaran, Great Himalayan National Park.

Things to do: Seek blessings, enjoy panoramic views and photography

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13. Rahala Falls: Nature's Cascading Beauty

Rahala Falls is a breathtaking cascade of water amidst the majestic Himalayan mountains on the way to Rohtang Pass. The gushing water plunges from a great height, creating a picturesque spectacle. Manali to Rahala Falls distance by car is only around 28 km, so, don’t forget to take a ride on the Leh Manali Highway to feel the refreshing mist on your face. Surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks, this waterfall in Manali is a perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Opening hours: 24 hours

Best Time to Visit: March to November

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, Beas Kund.

Things to do: Enjoy the scenic beauty, take photographs, and have a picnic

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14. Jagatsukh: Serenity Amidst Himalayan Splendors

A quaint village located near Manali, Jagatsukh is a serene retreat amidst nature's bounty. It is worth visiting for its tranquil atmosphere, ancient temples, and stunning natural beauty. It was the former state capital of Kullu, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. Explore the beautifully carved temples, enjoy leisurely walks through apple orchards, trekking, camping, and soaking in the tranquility of this charming village are the top things to do in Jagatsukh.

Opening hours: 24 hours

Best Time to Visit: April to June and September to November

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Hidimba Temple, Manu Temple, Vashisht Temple, Solang Valley

Things to do: Trekking, camping, nature walks, visit the ancient temples, explore the village, interact with locals, and experience local culture

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15. Gauri Shankar Temple: Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati

Situated in Dashal, near Manali, the Gauri Shankar Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Adorned with intricate wood carvings and a unique architectural style, the temple is a true marvel. Seek blessings, witness the serene atmosphere, and admire the ancient craftsmanship that adorns the temple walls. So, if you're looking for Gauri Shankar Temple timings, let us tell you about that too. It remains open for its devotees from 8 am to 7 pm from Monday to Sunday, and the recommended exploration time is 1-2 hours.

Opening hours: 6 am to 9 pm

Best Time to Visit: March to October

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Bijli Mahadev Temple, Raghunath Temple, Beas River, Great Himalayan National Park.

Things to do: Seek blessings, admire the architectural beauty

16. Manikaran: One of the Best Places to Visit in Manali

Manikaran is located in Parvati Valley on the Parvati River near Manali. It is a spiritual destination known for its hot springs, temples, and breathtaking natural beauty. It is most famous for the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, a sacred site for Sikhs. The town of Manikaran also offers visitors a perfect chance to relax in the therapeutic and sulfur-rich hot springs. Surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains, Manikaran is one of the best places to visit in Manali for those seeking a peaceful retreat, spiritual solace or a unique experience in the Himalayas.

Best Time to Visit: October to May

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, Manikaran Hot Springs

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17. Atal Tunnel - Drive through the Heart of the Himalayas

Atal Tunnel, also known as the Rohtang Tunnel, is a highway tunnel built under Rohtang Pass in the eastern Pir Panjal range of Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh. This tunnel is the longest in the world at an altitude of above 10,000 feet and connects Manali to Leh. The tunnel itself is an awe-inspiring sight, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes. Atal Tunnel is one of the best places to visit in Manali for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Opening hours: 24/7

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Rohtang Pass, Laurel valley, Sissu

18. Old Manali - Chill Vibes and Cozy Cafes

Old Manali is a charming and peaceful village nestled in the hills above Manali. The town is most known for its traditional wooden houses, laid-back vibe, and stunning views of the Beas River and surrounding mountains. Also, this place offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Those looking for a great spot for exploring cozy cafes, Old Manali has also something for you. As one of the best places to visit in Manali, Old Manali attracts travelers looking to unwind, connect with nature, and experience the quieter side of the region.

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Hidimba Temple, Naggar Castle, Old Manali Market

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19. Vashisht Temple - Soak in Peace and Healing Waters

Vashisht Temple is a 4000-year-old temple located at a distance of 3.5 km from Manali Bus Stand. It is dedicated to sage Vashisht, who was the teacher of Lord Rama in the Vashisht village. It is one of the top 10 places to visit in Manali with family that offers a tranquil and spiritual environment. Being a revered Hindu pilgrimage destination, this iconic place attracts many devotees every year. Apart from this, Vashisht Temple is also popular for its sulfur hot water springs believed to have healing properties.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday – 7 AM to 9 PM

Timings for sulfur bath in Vashisht Temple: Monday to Sunday - 7 AM to 1 PM and 2 PM to 9 PM

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Rama Temple, Local Markets

20. Parvati Valley - Nature’s Escape for the Free Soul

Parvati Valley is a scenic and spiritual valley located near Manali, with many treks, cascading waterfalls, hot springs, and villages. This is a stunning haven in the Kullu region of Himachal Pradesh and is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear rivers and vibrant culture. Parvati Valley is home to picturesque spots like Kasol, Kheerganga, and Tosh. As one of the top 10 places to visit in Kullu Manali, it draws travelers seeking both peace and adventure. Here, one can discover opportunities for hiking, camping, and immersing oneself in the tranquility of the Himalayas.

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Manikaran, Chalal Village, Rasol

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21. Van Vihar Manali - A Quiet Walk Under Tall Deodars

Manali Van Vihar or Van Vihar Manali, is a picturesque national park and zoo, located in Manali. It is highly known for its lush greenery, serene atmosphere, and a man-made lake. This beautiful forest reserve, with its tall deodar trees and well-maintained walking paths, offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of the town. All these things contribute to Manali Van Vihar, lying in the list of Manali's best places to visit.

Opening hours: Monday to Sunday - 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM in summer and 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM in winter

Entry fee: INR 20 for students, INR 50 for adults

Boating price: INR 100 to INR 200 per person for paddle boats or rowing boats

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Hadimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road

22. Sethan Valley - Hidden Snow Gem near Manali

Situated about 12 km from Manali, Sethan Valley is a small Buddhist village. It is also known as the "Igloo Village" and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and vast meadows. Known for its untouched natural beauty, Sethan Valley is an ideal spot for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers, offering opportunities for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. With its pristine landscapes and tranquil vibe, Sethan Valley is one of the best places to visit near Manali.

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Pandu Ropa, Lama Dug, Jobri Nalla

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23. Hampta Pass Trek - Adventure Through Changing Landscapes

The Hampta Pass Trek is a crossover trek in the Himalayas that offers some of the most stunning landscapes near Manali. This moderate-level trek takes you through the stunning views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, scenic meadows and rugged terrain. This trek will lead you to the stunning Hampta Pass at an altitude of 14,107 feet in the Himalayan Pin Panjal range. As one of the best places to visit in Manali for adventure enthusiasts, the Hampta Pass Trek provides an exciting and picturesque escape for nature lovers and mountain hikers.

Popular tourist attractions nearby: Chandratal Lake, Solang Valley, Beas Kund

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Additional Information About Manali

After reading about these mesmerizing places to visit in Manali, you must have got this craving to visit this alluring destination in the heart of Himachal, right? So, to make your Manali trip easy, and comfortable, here's some additional information about Manali:

How to Reach Manali:

By Air: The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers away. It is officially called Kullu–Manali Airport. Regular flights connect Bhuntar Airport to major cities in India. The nearest international airports are Indira Gandhi International Airport and Chandigarh International Airport.

By Train: The nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in North India.

By Road: Manali is well connected by road to cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Shimla. Regular bus services and private taxis are available to the city.

Best Time to Visit Manali: May to June and September to October

Best Things to Do in Manali: Exploring the valleys, indulging in thrilling activities (skiing, paragliding, and zorbing, river rafting, trekking, snowboarding, and snowshoeing) sightseeing, photography, praying at temples and monasteries and taking a dip in the hot water springs

Best Hotels in Manali: The Himalayan, Span Resort and Spa, Manu Allaya Resort, and The Orchard Greens.

Best Restaurants in Manali: Johnson's Cafe, Chopsticks Restaurant, Cafe 1947, and The Lazy Dog Lounge.

Best Food in Manali: Manali offers a range of delectable cuisine to satisfy the taste buds. Don't miss out on Himachali Dham, Siddu, Trout Fish, and Madra.

Famous Adventure Activities in Manali: River rafting, paragliding, skiing, zorbing, trekking, and mountain biking.

Famous Skiing Sites in Manali: Solang Valley and Gulaba

Famous Treks in Manali: Hampta Pass Trek, Beas Kund Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, and Chandratal Trek

Famous Paragliding Spots in and around Manali: Solang Valley, Marhi, and Rohtang Pass

Above are the best places to visit in Manali during your trip to this charming and breathtakingly beautiful city in Himachal Pradesh. As you already know, Manali is not only an alluring destination in Dhauladhar Mountains that feeds it’s lovers with enchanting vistas but also satisfy the hunger of adventure seekers by offering them thrilling activities like paragliding, river rafting, skiing, quad biking and so on. So, instead of spending time searching for a good destination, avail yourself of the best Manali tour packages and experience all that Manali has in it’s pocket.

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