- Best time
- Mar–Jun, Sep–Jan
- How long
- 3–5 days
- Stay a night
- ₹900–7,000
- Food a day
- ₹400–1,800
- Nearest railhead
- 250 km away
- Nearest airport
- 50 km away
Plan Manali in a minute. Day-by-day plan, stays, budget and trains — free on JrnyLoop.
Plan this tripAbout Manali
A Beas valley town that does it all — apple orchards, Old Manali cafes, adventure sports at Solang and the gateway to Atal Tunnel, Lahaul and Spiti.
Things to do in Manali
Hadimba Devi Temple
Hadimba Devi Temple is an ancient wooden cave temple in Manali, dedicated to Hidimbi Devi from the Mahabharata. Built in 1553, the pagoda-style structure is surrounded by a dense cedar forest at the foot of the Himalayas.
Tip: Wear warm layers as the surrounding forest keeps the area quite cool
Old Manali
Old Manali is a charming neighborhood known for its lively cafes, artisan bakeries, and peaceful walks along the Manalsu stream. It offers a relaxed village atmosphere away from the bustling main town.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes as the village roads are narrow and cobbled
Mall Road
Mall Road is the main street of Manali, buzzing with showrooms, department stores, shops, restaurants, and cafes. It is a pedestrian-only zone where automobiles are not allowed except for emergency vehicles. Visitors can find the Himachal emporium offering locally designed woolen clothes, pottery, wooden products, and jewellery.
Tip: Look for authentic Himachali handicrafts and pottery items at the local emporium.
Solang Valley
Solang Valley is a side valley located northwest of Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass. Known for summer and winter sports conditions, it features vast slopes of greenery and offers activities like paragliding, ropeway, and zorbing with snow in winter.
Tip: Look for ski agencies offering courses and equipment during the winter season.
Atal Tunnel & Sissu
Atal Tunnel and Sissu offer a scenic drive through a nine-kilometre tunnel to the Lahaul valley. Located on the right bank of the Chandra river, Sissu is a small town featuring a lovely waterfall.
Jogini Falls
Jogini Falls is a tall waterfall reached by a 3 km trek from Vashisht in Himachal Pradesh. The trail offers a scenic walk through local villages and pine forests before leading to the picturesque falls.
Tip: Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for a trekking trail
Vashisht Hot Springs
Natural sulphur springs located beside an old stone temple in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. Visitors can experience the traditional bathhouse setup fed by these mineral-rich waters.
Tip: Separate bathing areas are available for men and women
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass at 3,978 m on the eastern end of the Pir Panjal Range. Located around 51 km from Manali, it connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh.
Tip: Book your online permit well in advance before planning the trip
Naggar Castle
Naggar Castle is a 15th-century stone-and-wood castle overlooking the Beas river. It once served as the capital of the Kullu kingdom and offers scenic valley views.
Van Vihar
Van Vihar is a peaceful park located in Manali, Himachal Pradesh. It features tall deodar trees and offers boating on the Beas river.
Where to stay in Manali
Old Manali
Cafes, live music and a backpacker vibe — best for couples and friends.
Mall Road
Central and walkable, easy for families; everything is a short cab away.
Vashisht
Quiet village above town with hot springs and valley views.
Aleo & Prini
Riverside resorts and boutique stays away from the bustle.
What to eat
Siddu
Steamed wheat bun stuffed with walnut/poppy — try it with ghee.
Himachali trout
Fresh river trout, grilled or pan-fried.
Johnson's Cafe
Garden restaurant on Circuit House road, famous for trout.
Cafe 1947
Riverside Old Manali cafe with live music.
Dylan's Toasted & Roasted
Coffee and the famous cookies in Old Manali.
Mall Road momos
Steamed and fried momos at the stalls near the bus stand.
How to reach Manali by bus
Delhi to Manali bus
Board at: ISBT Kashmere Gate, Majnu Ka Tila
Run by: HRTC, private Volvo, private AC sleeper
When: Mostly overnight, leaving in the evening
Book tickets in advance during peak holiday season.
Ready-made Manali itineraries
Good to know
- Rohtang permits sell out — book on the HP tourism site a day ahead.
- Carry layers even in summer; evenings drop below 10°C.
- Avoid the Kullu–Manali highway after dark in the monsoon.
Going to Manali? Build the plan, split costs with your group and keep tickets in one place.
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