Manali

Written by Finn Weber, Karen Price, Rahul Sharma
10/08/2025
Charming winter view of snow-covered Manali buildings and mountains in Himachal Pradesh.
Srikanth M, Pexels

Manali, nestled in the Himalayas along the Beas River, is a renowned destination offering a blend of serene natural landscapes and exhilarating adventure activities. It provides a refreshing escape with its majestic snow-capped peaks and lush valleys.

Manali provides several areas for social interaction. Old Manali offers a laid-back and charismatic atmosphere, popular for its charm. The main Manali town, particularly around Mall Road, is a bustling hub with various restaurants and cafes, including popular spots like Cafe 1947 and The Johnson's Cafe, where visitors can gather. Hostels such as The Social Stays Manali (formerly ArtBuzz Hostel) are highlighted for their vibrant common areas and welcoming environment, making them ideal places for solo travelers, couples, and groups to meet other people.

Top 6 Things to do in Manali

The region provides a blend of adrenaline-pumping adventures, tranquil natural retreats, and opportunities to immerse oneself in local culture.

1. Adventure Sports at Solang Valley

Solang Valley is a prominent hub for adventure activities, catering to various thrill levels. During winter, it transforms into a snowy paradise ideal for skiing and snowboarding. In warmer months, visitors can experience paragliding, soaring high above the valley for panoramic views, or try zorbing, rolling down slopes inside a giant inflatable ball. ATV rides are also available for exploring the terrain. These activities offer an exhilarating way to engage with Manali's natural environment.

Cost: Costs vary significantly by activity. Paragliding can range from ₹1,000 to ₹3,000, while zorbing may cost around ₹500 to ₹1,000. ATV rides are typically priced per circuit or time. Skiing equipment rentals and lessons are also available. For paragliding, short and high-flying options are often provided, with the latter being more expensive.

Transport: Solang Valley is approximately 13 kilometers from Manali town. Taxis are readily available, with a round trip potentially costing around ₹1,000 to ₹1,500, depending on negotiation and waiting time. Local buses might be an option but are less convenient for direct access to activity points within the valley.

2. Exploration of Rohtang Pass or Atal Tunnel

A journey to Rohtang Pass (when open) or through the Atal Tunnel offers breathtaking views of the high Himalayas. Rohtang Pass provides a classic snow experience and is a gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti valleys, although it is often closed for several months due to heavy snowfall. The Atal Tunnel offers year-round access to Lahaul, showcasing a modern engineering marvel that dramatically reduces travel time and provides stunning vistas upon exit. These excursions are ideal for experiencing Manali's majestic mountain scenery.

Cost: Access to Rohtang Pass requires a permit, which can be obtained online, and vehicle charges apply. A taxi to Rohtang Pass can cost between ₹2,500 to ₹3,500 for a round trip. For Atal Tunnel, regular taxi fares to the Lahaul side apply, potentially similar to or slightly less than Rohtang Pass, around ₹1,500 to ₹2,500 for a trip covering nearby points.

Transport: Both Rohtang Pass and Atal Tunnel are accessed via car or taxi from Manali. Shared taxis are often available, which can reduce individual costs. Public buses also operate on these routes, especially to the tunnel and beyond, offering a more budget-friendly option.

3. Visit to Hidimba Devi Temple

The Hidimba Devi Temple, a unique wooden temple dedicated to the goddess Hidimba, is set amidst a dense cedar forest. Its pagoda-style architecture, distinct from most Indian temples, and tranquil surroundings make it a significant cultural and architectural site. Visiting offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into local religious beliefs and traditional Himachali craftsmanship. It is particularly serene in the early morning.

Cost: There is no entry fee for the temple. Donations are welcome. Self-serving by walking is free.

Transport: The temple is approximately 2 kilometers from Manali town center, making it easily accessible by a short walk (around 20-30 minutes) or a local auto-rickshaw/taxi. An auto-rickshaw ride typically costs around ₹50 to ₹100 from Mall Road.

4. Relaxation at Vashisht Hot Water Springs & Temple

Vashisht village is home to natural hot sulfur springs, believed to have medicinal properties. Visitors can bathe in segregated public baths. Adjacent to the springs are the ancient Vashisht Temple, dedicated to Sage Vashisht, and a Rama Temple. This location offers a relaxing experience and a chance to observe local village life and spiritual practices.

Cost: Access to the hot springs is generally free, though there might be a nominal fee for private bath areas. Self-serving is free.

Transport: Vashisht village is about 3 kilometers from Manali bus station. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are readily available, costing approximately ₹100 to ₹150 for a one-way trip. It is also a pleasant walk from Manali, taking about 45 minutes to an hour.

5. Trekking to Jogini Falls

A moderate trek leads to the beautiful Jogini Falls, cascading from a height into the Beas River valley. The trail passes through traditional villages, apple orchards, and pine forests, offering scenic views and a peaceful escape from the main town. The waterfall itself provides a refreshing natural spectacle and a serene spot for contemplation.

Cost: The trek itself is free for self-guided exploration. If hiring a local guide, costs can vary but typically range from ₹500 to ₹1,500 depending on the duration and group size.

Transport: The starting point for the Jogini Falls trek is near Vashisht village, approximately 3 kilometers from Manali. One can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to Vashisht, then proceed on foot. The walk from Vashisht to the falls takes about 1.5 to 2 hours one way.

6. River Rafting on Beas River

Experience the thrill of white-water rafting on the Beas River. This activity involves navigating through rapids on an inflatable raft, providing an exciting adventure for groups. The stretch near Kullu, downstream from Manali, is particularly popular for rafting, offering varying levels of rapids suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

Cost: A rafting session typically costs between ₹800 to ₹1,500 per person for a short to medium stretch (around 7-14 km), including equipment and guide. Prices can be negotiated with local operators.

Transport: Rafting usually takes place in the Kullu Valley, which is about 20-30 kilometers from Manali. Tour operators often provide transport from Manali to the rafting site, which is usually included in the package price. If self-serving, a taxi to the rafting start point would cost around ₹500 to ₹800 one-way.

Check out our other pages on Manali

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in India

Central India
Eastern India
Islands
Northeastern India
Northern Himalayas
Northern Plains & Deserts
Southern India
Western India