Popular Manali is a small town in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, at 6,730 feet (2,050 meters) within the Indian Himalaya. It's a pretty town in its own right, as it's set beside the tumbling Beas River, surrounded by mountains, and has walkways and hidden temples within pine forests. Manali is also a handy base for adventures in the Kullu and Solang valleys and the Pir Panjal range of the Himalaya. Hiking, rafting, paragliding, and skiing are some of the things to do in and around Manali.
Manali is a popular destination year-round. Being at a relatively high altitude (6,730 feet or 2,050 meters), Manali has a mild climate between March and September and provides an ideal escape from the scorching heat of the north Indian plain—domestic Indian travelers flock to Manali in these months. Some attractions and accommodation shut down for winter around November, but the heavy snowfall and cold temperatures, which can dip below freezing, attract domestic tourists, too. International tourists tend to prefer visiting in warmer months.
The small town of Manali is easily navigable on foot. In fact, in peak times (especially mid-summer), walking around is preferred as the main road north to Old Manali gets gridlocked. Local HRTC buses are a reliable way of visiting nearby attractions, such as other parts of the Kullu Valley. Bring small notes to buy tickets on board. Hire a car and driver to make a day trip up to the 13,058 foot (3,980 meter) Rohtang Pass.
Accommodations in Manali and Old Manali can reach capacity, especially in mid-summer when the roads become heavily congested (expect lots of honking). One peaceful alternative is the small village of Vashisht, on the east bank of the Beas River. It’s a short walk (1.8 miles or 3 kilometers) or take an auto rickshaw ride from Manali on the west bank. Natural hot springs attached to the temple in the village's center are the main attraction.
