Manali

The Kullu valley has an ancient town in its lap called Manali. Surrounded by towering peaks at an arm length, Manali's major asset is its proximity to the snowline. It is a flourishing orchard industry, a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks as well as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers.

Manali literally means the 'Home of Manu'. Manu is the mythological character who is supposed to have survived when the world was drowned in Flood. He then came to Manali and recreated human life. Thus, the area of Manali is sacred and Hindus treat the temples over here as pilgrimage.


PLACES TO SEE IN MANALI

Arjun Gufa
On the left bank of the river Beas, near Prini village, is the "Arjun Gufa" or the cave of Arjuna. It is believed that Arjuna practiced austerities to get Pashupata Ashtra or weapon from Lord Indra.
Hadimba Temple
Built in 1553, this four-story wooden Hadimba or Dhungiri temple is famous for its exquisitely caved doorway. It is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri Van Vihar.

Jagatsukh
About 6 kms. from Manali is the famous Shiva Temple in "shikara" style. It houses temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and Sandhya Gayatri.

Kothi
This is a quiet but picturesque spot, at the foot of the Rohtang pass, 12 kms. away from Manali town. It offers a magnificent view of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

Manu Temple
Manali is named after the sage Manu who was the creator of human race on the earth and it is believed that he meditated here. This is supposed to be the only temple of Manu in India.

Monasteries
Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. It is maintained by donations from the local community and by sale of hand-woven carpets in the temple workshop.

Rahala waterfalls
About 16 km from Manali at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, are the beautiful Rahalla Falls at an altitude of 2,501 m.

Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass (3979 m) is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road. It provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly a breath taking sight.

Solang Valley
Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. It has fine ski slopes. The Mountaineering Institute has installed a ski lift for training purpose. The 12-km hike up the western banks of the Beas to the Solang Valley is noteworthy.

Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple
Across the Beas river is Vashist, a small village with natural sulphur springs. Modern bathhouses, with Turkish-style showers, have the hot water piped into them for the convenience of the visitors who come here to benefit from the medicinal properties. There is a pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni and another Temple of Lord Ram.

SHOPPING
The Mall in Manali offers many interesting items to be purchased, from cloths to decorative pieces and gift items. Woollen goods are the town's real forte, particularly the brilliantly patterned shawls for which it is known for. The NSC or 'New Shopping Centre' Market near the bus stand sells a good selection. Another reliable emporium is the government - sponsored Bhutico, which has an outlet on the Mall, just opposite the tourist office. Around the bazaar there are innumerable stalls stacked with hand-woven goods and pillbox Kullu Topis. Manali's other specialty is Himalayan handicrafts, mainly assorted Tibetan curios such as prayer wheels, amulets, dorjees or thunderbolts, masks, musical instruments, jewellery and thangkas.

HOW TO REACH:
Manali is located 40 kms away from Kullu to the North at the end of the valley on the national highway leading to Leh. Manali is not easily approachable by rail. The nearest rail head is Chandigarh at a distance of 315 kms. There is narrow gauge trail to Joginder Nagar at a distance of 135 kms from Manali. By air Manali is much closer. The nearest airport is Bhuntar that is about 50 kms away from Manali. Flight can be availed from Delhi on a regular basis. Another option is to take a road trail from Delhi. Manali is connected by road from Delhi through the National Highway 21 that goes top Leh. It is interesting to know that it is the second highest motorable road in the world.