- How to Get There
- Hadimba Temple
- Rohtang Pass
- Solang Valley
- Manu Temple
- The Mountaineering Institute
- Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temples
- Keylong
- Jagat Sukh
Manali : Adventurous Hills
Manali
Manali : Adventurous Hills
Manali beckons from afar with the possibility of a scenic adventure in the midst of the glorious mountains. Manali commands some breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal and the Dhauladhar ranges. Mountains will call you from all directions while in the town.Manali is an incredible place with something to offer for everybody. While backpackers love the quaint villages surrounding the main city, adventure enthusiasts can partake of the numerous exciting activities. The romantic setting of the mountain city makes it a heaven for couples on their honeymoon. Vistas abound in Manali and you can take your pick from the many beautiful and enjoyable places here.
How to Get There
By Air :
The nearest airport is Bhuntar, which is 50 km away from Manali. Next closest air port is Chandigarh which is about 300 km from Manali.
By Rail :
Joginder Nagar is the nearest railway station to Manali, which is nearly 50 km away.
By Road :
Manali is well connected to other tourist destinations nearby in Himachal by private deluxe bus services. State owned services are also available connecting Manali to other cities. Distance from other cities; Shimla: 280 km, Chandigarh: 350 km, Delhi: 585 km
Hadimba Temple
The ancient Hadimba Temple also goes by the name Dhungri Temple. Constructed from wood and stone, the temple is an incredible feat of architecture. Its incredibility lies in the simplicity of its structure which makes it charming at the same time. The walls are decorated with intricate carvings depicting dancers along with adornments of the horns of ibexes and bulls.The quaint temple attracts thousands of pilgrims from all over India. The temple itself is a shrine to Hadimba who was the wife of Bhima and the mother of the giant, Gatotkacha. Gatotkacha himself is worshipped as a sacred tree located just outside the temple.
Rohtang Pass
When located at a height of 4112m, you will be expecting the Rohtang Pass to offer some breathtaking vistas. The Pass does not disappoint. The panoramic views of the surrounding mountains are not only breathtaking, they are stunning as well. While travelling across the mountainous tract, you may have gotten used to seeing pinnacled hills and deep valleys but nothing will prepare you forthe beauty that lies in Rohtang Pass. You will be greeted with a sight of precipitous cliffs and deep ravines. The magnificently huge glaciers lined with moraine will welcome you to Rohtang Pass. Opposite from the Rohtang Pass lays the Sonepani glacier, distinctly awe-inspiring from the rest of the landscape. The twin peaks of Geypang strike out from the landscape as jagged outcrops of rock crowned with a layer of snow.
Solang Valley
If you are bored with just enjoying the views in Manali, you can head over to Solang Valley to enjoy some exciting activities. The spot is perfect for sporting in the midst of the serene surroundings. Parachuting, skating, paragliding and zorbing are some of the main adrenaline pumping activities offered by this great place.
Manu Temple
Located in the heart of old Manali, the Manu Temple is famous for being the only temple devoted to the worship of the sage, Manu. According to Hindu mythology, Manu is considered to be the creator of the world and the author of Manusmriti. The River Beas enhances the simple beauty of the ancient temple.
The Mountaineering Institute
Even if you are not interested in mountaineering, this institute is a must visit. The place provides a fascinating insight into the world of mountaineering and its challenges. You can understand the troubles and pains that these fearless adventurers experience in their chosen sport. Training is provided for them who wish to indulge in this incredible activity.
Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temples
After a long day in visiting the multitudinous sights of Manali, the need for a relaxing hot water bath will become rather apparent. In that case, a visit to Vashist is in order. Mordern bathhouses are available alongside Turkish style ones. These places pump the hot water directly from the springs to the baths for the convenience. There is a beautiful pair of ancient temples crafted from stone. These temples are dedicated to Vaishist, the patron saints of the locals. The adornments inside the temple are elaborate.
Keylong
The fair village is nestled between fields of buckwheat and barley. Stay a while in this peaceful setting and you will be rewarded with a great experience. The laid back lifestyle followed in this village is a fitting complement to the grand mountains in the backdrop. Walk around the village and you will enjoy some picturesque scenes. You can even plan longer hikes and you will never regret the experience. You may even visit the quaint museum here or the Shashur Monastery.
Jagat Sukh
Jagat Sukh was once the capital of the Manali region. The charm of the place lies in the simple things that the place offers. You can enjoy the fascinating Shikhara architecture of the few temples.
