A mecca for adventure sports enthusiasts, Manali is situated at 6,398 ft in the Himalayas. Located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, its snow covered peaks make it a popular honeymoon destination. Considered the twin town of Kullu, Manali’s scenic beauty, history and culture give it the sobriquet of the Valley of the Gods. When hippies flocked the city in the ’60s and ’70s in pursuit of their utopian dream, Manali became very popular in the west.
With the highest number of tourists during summer, Christmas and New Year, the tariff for food and rooms can rise to almost triple their cost. As the main jumping off point for Ladakh, Lahaul and Spiti, buses from Manali ply to Leh, Keylong and Kaza from June to October everyday.
Adventure Sports in Manali: Manali has a mountaineering institute that organizes basic and advance training courses in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and other water sports. It is located three kms from Manali town.Trout and Masheer are found in the Tirthan and Sainj rivers, angling tours are organized there.The Himachal Pradesh Fisheries Department organises an angling tournament in April and September-October.
Trekking in Manali: Most of the treks from Manali are one day journeys, the Lamadugh Meadows, Solang Valley and the Koshla-Tree line are the most popular of them all. The best time to trek in Manali is between April and November.
With some of the finest stretches of white water, high quality rafts and experienced crew, white water rafting in Manali is a safe sport.
The Rohtang Pass and Solang valley offer great opportunities for paragliding.
You can also practice rock climbing, rappelling, skiing, ice climbing, snowboarding and ski touring in Manali.
BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MANALI
While homestays are the best way to enjoy the culture of the locals, Manali also offers luxury resorts, river-side cottages, deluxe hotels and three star budget properties.
BEST PLACES TO EAT IN MANALI
From Punjabi and south Indian to Italian, Tibetan and Chinese, Manali has a large variety of food options. The mall road in Manali offers roadside food stalls and lavish restaurants.
BEST TIME TO VISIT MANALI
The average minimum and maximum temperature of Manali is as given below. The best time to visit Manali is also specified.