Top 10 best things to do in Manali

By- Urusha Mhatre

Think of snowy peaks, lush valleys, historic roots and a thrill to experience new things, Manali is the place to be. Also, Manali is Himachal’s very own adventure hub. The hill station has the perfect landscape to give you a taste of adventure. Despite the wonderful sights coupled with blissful ambiance, the top things to do in Manali are a major draw for tourists. Create your unforgettable trip with some cherished experiences in Manali. Be it thrilling summer or exciting winter holidays in India, the hill town is perfect. While it has for long, lured adventure enthusiasts and couples for a romantic honeymoon, now it receives families for a snow-filled winter holiday in India. Moreover, the high mountains draped in snow, along with rolling valleys of green, swift rivers and clear blue skies provide all visitors with a memorable time.

1. Waterfalls – Listen To The Music

One of the best things to do in Manali in summer is to enjoy the nature. With the most serene cascades that greet you with aromatic air, dense silver birch trees and pristine views, rediscover yourself while you indulge in sweet nothings at Jogini Falls, or Zana Falls. A trip to Manali will be incomplete without a picnic at Rahala Falls. Located at a distance of about 17 km from Manali, nests this romantic fall. Famous waterfalls to visit in Manali: Jogini Waterfalls, Jana Waterfalls, Rahala Falls, and Rozy Waterfalls.

2. Paragliding

Soaring the skies on a glider is among the favorite things to do in Manali. The thrill of enjoying a flight like a bird promises to awaken the true adventure enthusiast in you. In addition, witness the breathtaking view of the Dhauladhar mountain range and the meandering Beas River. The flying time varies according to the winds. Opt for tandem flights if it is your first time to participate in the adventure sport. The Solang Valley is a popular venue to indulge in paragliding. Also, Gulaba, Marhi are other wellknown places for, paragliding in Manali being the most desired activity.

3. Museum Of Himachal Culture & Folk Art – Explore The Past

Walk through time as you explore the unique and extraordinary collection of unknown and rare antiques such as religious relics, household objects, instruments, weapons, architectural wood carvings, scale models and more at the Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk art. You’ll find that spending some time amid Manali’s history and heritage is definitely on the most fun things to do in Manali. Timings: 08:00 am to 08:00 pm

4. Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple

Hadimba Temple is one of the main tourist places in Manali for the visitors. It is a historic temple situated around 1.5 km from the Mall Road. Raja Bahadur Singh built the four-storey wooden temple in 1553 in the middle of dense forest known as Van Vihar. The pagoda style building is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba. Although no idol is worshipped here, a set of foot imprints are revered as holy here. Since centuries, a fair is held every year known as Bahadur Singh Re Jatar. Visit the temple for its peaceful setting. Also, do not miss to click a pic with the impressive building. Best time to visit Hadimba Temple: The best time to plan your trip is May, especially the time of the Fair.

5. Shri Hari Yoga Ashram – Practice Some Yoga

Add a new skill to your life whilst on a trip to Manali! Register for yoga at the Shri Hari Yoga Ashram. Yoga classes at the orange-roofed ashram are quite popular. In fact, yoga is among the best things to do in old Manali for those who are visiting the hills in search of rejuvenation and peace. Location: Village of Vashisht, Manali, H.P

6. Zorbing

Getting tossed in a giant transparent ball down a slope, this is what zorbing is all about. Would you not love it? Zorbing is Manali is one of the popular adventures in the hill station. Zorbing, also known as globe-riding is the recreation or sport of rolling downhill inside an orb, generally made of transparent plastic. It is generally performed on a gentle slope. The 360 degree movement of the ball is pure thrill as it is for the people in control of their guts. Solang Valley is perfect for you to give a try to zorbing.

Best time for zorbing: March to October with exception of the monsoon season.

8. Arjun Gufa – Meditate And Relax

IFind your chi at the historic cave where once the Pandava king Arjun meditated. Embrace the silence of this beauty as you explore the exotic view of this region. And the best part – you won’t find this place crowded with throngs of tourists since not many know about, making a visit to this cave one of the most offbeat things to do in Manali. Best time to visit: March to June

9. Pay a visit to Gulaba Village

Gulaba in Manali is one of the secret sites of Manali. Nestled at an altitude 4000 m, the village is surrounded by snow covered mountain peaks, lush grassland and the flowing Beas River. The picturesque green oasis was the favorite campsite of Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir. Relatively lesser known therefore having lesser crowds, Gulaba Village is the perfect place to snow in peace. It is just 6 km from Rohtang Pass and is the alternative for visitors when the pass is closed. The village offers all snow sports, skiing and other snow adventures.

10. Get blessing at Manikaran Gurudwara

Manikaran Gurdwara is a famous pilgrimage centre for Hindus and Sikhs in Himachal. It is a day trip from Manali. According to legend, the holy site was constructed by Sri Guru Nanak Devji and disciple Bhai Mardana. Also, the holy site is renowned for the hot springs. Visit the tranquil Gurudwara and pay homage to Guru Granth Sahib. This shrine is thronged by countless devotees every year. On a visit to this , savor the sacred langar and take a dip in the hot water springs famed for their healing properties. Best time to visit Manikaran Gurudwara: April to October is the pleasant time to plan your trip