Manali: A Wonder Getaway

Of all the hilly destinations for travelers in India, Manali probably tops the list as one of the popular tourist places out there. Manali is a small town nestled in the heart of Kullu district in the mountain state of Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by the snow-covered peaks of Hanuman and Deo Tibba ranges, this small valley is a heaven for hippie nomads and low-budget travelers. Located at the bank of Beas river, Manali is known for its various temples and sight-seeing locations. This place holds variety of landscape scenery, ranging from lush-green elevated hills to snow-clad mountains. One can behold the beauty of mighty Patalsu peak while enjoying a sip of Indian masala chai by the small streams of Beas river. Home to hundreds of travelers daily, Manali is practically a place where people come to find inner solace. It serves as a mecca for travel and adventure enthusiast. From river rafting to para-gliding. from skiing to snow-boarding from atrocious hiking to gut-wrenching trekking, this place has it all. The first encounter of this place will take you by surprise. And if you are an admirer of beauty in its full form, I bet, you will not be disappointed after taking a breath in this place.

- Tarun Kumar

History 

Just like any other place, Manali isn’t untouched by religious stories. Legend has it that sage Manu once used to reside in this valley. Manali lies in the north of the Kullu valley which is also known as “Valley of the Gods”. But for travelers, the commercialized Manali isn’t as much magnetic as Old Manali which rests at a 3k.m walk from the main Manali market. Once known as Dana Bazaar, this place housed regular travelers for food supplies on their way to Lahual & Spiti district. Old Manali village has an ancient temple dedicated to sage Manu. 

Places to Visit near Manali: 

Rohtang Pass: Skies bow down to kiss the Patalsu peak. One should not miss one of the highest pass in Himalayan range, Rohtang Pass. It is covered in snow all year. Quite popular through bollywood movies, the place is a natural wonder as it experiences dangerous weather patterns and locally known as “Valley of Death”. Local taxis are always for hire from mall road in Manali.