26 Things to Do in Manali

1. River Rafting in River Beas:

If you are into adventure activities and experiencing the thrill of riding in swift river waters is on your itinerary, this is your chance! It is one of the favorite activities in Manali among the travelers to experience. Set out with your buddies, and enjoy the thrill of cascading through the scenic mountainous and river view, guided by the best professionals to ensure safety throughout the ride.

The best thing about river rafting in Manali is that there are enough opportunities for tourists who are beginners at rafting and also for those who seek a more adventurous and challenging level. There are river rafting camps along the way for resting and meeting people. Beas River is known to have one of the ideal river stretches in North India. Thus, river rafting here is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Manali.

Best time to visit:

The ideal time to enjoy river rafting is in June and July. It usually remains closed during monsoon season but reopens in late October, and you can plan your activity till the early weeks of February.

2. Paragliding

Manali is already renowned for its stunning natural landscape and beautiful mountains. Now imagine taking in the beauty of Manali from high up in the sky through a bird's eye view-How mesmerizing, right? Paragliding is one of the highest sought adventure activities among the numerous things to do in Manali. Soar up high like a bird and enjoy the thrill of paragliding across the stark blue Himalayan sky. Solang valley is the favourite place for the lovers of paragliding.

Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Dhauladhar mountainous range, and glide in the middle of the snow-capped peaks, green valleys, and Beas River. A sunny day is a perfect opportunity for tourists to seek the ultimate picture-perfect view. Paragliding rides range between 15 minutes to 1 hour- depending on the experience level of visitors. Beginners can opt for tandem rides- wherein an experienced pilot navigates and guides the traveler.

Best time to visit:

The ideal time to seek the thrill of paragliding in Manali is between May and September.

3. Mountain Biking in Manali

Mountain biking in Manali has got to be one of the most amazing things To Do In Manali To make the best of your trip . Get that required adrenaline boost biking across the rugged hilly roads and forested trails and set out on a sightseeing expedition. Manali is well-connected to many local villages and prime destinations. Ride alongside breathtaking mountainsides and apple orchards, get acquainted with local flora and fauna.

The best sites to go mountain biking are Rahala Falls, Rumsu Village, Jana Falls, and Naggar Castle. The local sights of traditional Kullu-styled huts in villages, the blend of traditional and European architecture in Naggar castle, and magnificent waterfalls amidst the splendid hills are destinations worth visiting. Despite biking being among the best adventure things to do in Manali, before setting on a journey across hilly terrains, there are some precautions and safety measures to note.

Best Time to Visit:

The ideal season to experience the best mountain biking is in summer, between mid-June and mid-September.

4. Enjoy Skiing at Solang Nallah

Besides being renowned as one of the prettiest hill stations in India, Manali is also a major tourist destination for skiing enthusiasts who flock to the town for its mesmerizing snow-covered slopes and excellent skiing conditions.

The best region to witness the beauty of snow-covered stretches in Manali is the Solang Valley, locally called the Solang Nallah. Witness the breathtaking view of snowy alpine mountainous ranges as you glide down the snow trails while skiing. They are popular among beginners who want to try their hand at skiing.

Tourists can hire professional instructors to guide them and learn the basics of skiing. Expert skiers can also look forward to heli-skiing facilities during the winter season. The thrill of skiing down the snow in the picturesque landscape is one of the amazing things to do in Manali to make the best of your trip.

Best time to visit:

Winter months, preferably January and February, are the best time to enjoy skiing in Manali.

5. Riverside Camping

Aside from the various thrilling activities in Manali, the picturesque hill town is also the ideal spot for people who want to take a break from all the usual hustle and bustle of city life and seek a quiet and peaceful getaway in the lap of nature. Riverside camping is one of the most exciting things to do in Manali.

There are numerous spots to enjoy riverside camping in Manali, including Solang Valley, Beas River, Village Sarsai, Bhadu Bridge, etc. Spend quality time amidst the beautiful landscapes in cozy, comfortable tents with all the essential facilities. Besides waking up to the gentle lullaby of nature's sounds and scenery of greenery and crystal clear river bed, you can also partake in activities like trekking, rappelling, rock climbing, paragliding, bonfire, etc.

Best Time to visit:

You can enjoy riverside camping throughout the year, exception for monsoons.

6. Zorbing in Solang Valley

Solang Valley, in Manali, already popular among tourists for different adventure sports, including paragliding, skiing, and so on, is recently gaining popularity for another fun sport, called zorbing. Zorbing, also called globe riding, is a recreational activity wherein a person rolls down a gentle slope while inside an orb, generally made of transparent plastic.

The 360-degree movement of the ball while one rolls downhill to the picturesque landscape is an experience of pure thrills for adventure seekers. Zorbing in winter across snow-capped mountains and glaciers is a remarkable experience, one of the most exciting and unique things to do in Manali. Professional instructors are present throughout the activity to assist and ensure your safety.

Best time to visit:

Except for monsoon, the ideal time to enjoy zorbing in Manali is March-October.

7. Trip to Rohtang Pass

Rohtang pass

Located 51 Km from the main town of Manali, this mountain pass is at an elevation of 3978 meters from sea level. It is a part of the majestic Pir Panjal Range and is among one that tops the list of places to visit in Manali. Since this area receives snowfall throughout the year, there is no shortage of winter activities to enjoy.

Among the amazing things to do in Manali to make the best of your trip are skiing, mountain biking, snow scooters, sledge rides, tire drop, etc. Owing to its naturally splendid view of surrounding glaciers and snowy peaks, it is a popular place for photography buffs and film directors.

Best time to visit :

Due to its severe climatic conditions in winter, the Rohtang Pass is closed during winter. For summer sports, tourists can visit between May to June. For snow lovers, the best time to visit is October to November.

8. Visit Gulaba Valley

Gulaba is a beautiful quaint village that lies on the way to Rohtang Pass and is 20 Km from the main Manali town. This place, situated at 4000m from sea level, is known for its enchanting surrounding landscape, the breathtaking snowy peaks, the flowing Beas River, and the lush green oasis. Although it is lesser known than other sites, it definitely worth a visit.

Most tourists find camping as one of the fun activities to do in Manali, Gulaba is the hot camping destination on the way to Bhrigu Lake. You can Indulge in exciting activities like trekking, paragliding, camping, hiking, etc in Gulaba. These include trekking, paragliding, camping, hiking, etc. Nighttimes are a treat for campers at Gulaba who love stargazing. During winter, tourists can enjoy skiing, yak, and horse riding. There are also good eateries to enjoy local dishes of Manali.

Best time to visit:

Tourists can visit Gulaba Valley at any time of the year, although winters give it more appeal during the snowy months.

9. Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple

Hadimba Devi Temple

A peaceful shrine located amidst snow-covered hills and in the dense cedar forests, the Hadimba Devi Temple is a renowned tourist destination in Manali. This uniquely constructed Temple, dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, mother of Ghatothkach, a mythological character from Mahabharata and the wife of Bhima, lies among the Top things to do in Manali.

This historical Temple, located only 1.5 Km from Mall Road, welcomes numerous tourists who seek peace and tranquillity in the holy shrine in the lap of nature. The architecture of the shrine is unique compared to other temples-the wooden doorways, windows, and cone-shaped roof is unique to this shrine. Locally known as Dhungari Temple, every year during May Season, a fair is held here, known as the Bahadur Singh Re Jatar draws in many tourists and devotees.

Best Time to visit:

Many tourists visit this shrine during May, during the fair season.

10. Get blessings at Manikaran Gurudwara

The Manikaran Gurudwara is a highly revered pilgrimage area among Sikhs, built in the uphill area of Himachal. The holy site is believed to have been established by Sri Guru Nanak Devji. It is about 45 Km from the city of Kullu. A large number of devotees pay a visit here every year to pay their respects.

The place is also highly renowned for its sulfur water hot springs, which devotees believe have miraculous healing properties. Many tourists consider taking a dip in the hot spring sacred. Visiting the Gurudwara is one of the most awesome things to do in Manali for pilgrim seekers.

Best Time to visit:

The ideal season to visit Manikaran Gurudwara is winter when you can pay your respects and enjoy a soothing bath in the holy waters of the hot spring.

11. Pay a visit to Manali Gompa

The Manali Gompa, primarily known as the Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, is a sacred place of worship for Buddhists. Since its establishment in the 1960s, the shrine has been a refuge site for many who migrated from Tibet.

The architecture sports a pagoda style, and the monastery is famous for its beautiful murals that show the life of Lord Buddha. Some shops in the complex sell different Tibetan handicrafts. Followers of Buddhism, and tourists, regardless of their faith, visit the monastery to pay their respects and seek peace and solace on the holy premises. Like many other religious sites, visiting the Manali Gompa is included under amazing things to do in Manali to make the best of your trip.

Best Time to visit:

Tourists can visit the Gompa at any time of the year.

12. Enjoy shopping at Manu Market

When out on a trip, traveling and shopping go hand in hand. While in Manali, don't miss out on this quaint market area while touring Mall Road. Surrounded by beautiful forested hills and woodlands, the Manu market is a charming bazaar in New Manali. It depicts an Indian marketplace with small, vibrant little pathways lined with various shops selling handloom products, books, clothes, electrical appliances, crockery, etc.

The place has ample eateries serving authentically prepared cuisines, economical lodging, etc. Tibetan jewelry is one of the main attractions of the market. The beautiful forested landscape, the lively streets, the exquisite artifacts on display, and the local inhabitants in their traditional attire set the perfect mood to incite the inner photographer in you to capture the local beauty of Himachal. Local shopping is one of the most fun things to do in Manali.

Best Time to visit:

You can visit the marketplace any time throughout the year.

13. Beas Kund Trek

Beas Kund Trek

For travelers who love to trek, Manali is the perfect place to embark on a thrilling trek expedition in the lap of nature. Trek to Beas Kund is the ideal opportunity to enjoy the trek through the lush greenery and mountainous regions of Manali and to be able to witness the beauty of the Pir Panjal Range over the Beas River.

It offers the perfect getaway from the busyness of life and replenishes your soul. The trek leads you to the origin of the Beas River, welcomes you to an astonishing view of the glacial lake passing through scenic meadows, and the summit view of Friendship Peak, Ladakhi, Shitidhar, and Hanuman Tibba, the great mountains of Manali.

Besides, throughout the trekking journey, the nighttime camping sessions under the stunning star-studded sky further add to the essence of the adventure, which contributes to trekking being one of the most fun things to do in Manali.

Best Time to visit:

Except for monsoons, you can plan your trek at Beas Kund at any time of the year.

14. Bhrigu Lake Trek

Bhrigu Lake Trek

Besides the stunning mountainous, crystal blue skies and lush greenery, the hilly terrain of Himachal offers many hiking trails and a breathtaking panoramic view of the majestic Himalayas, which makes it the perfect place for trekking.

One of the popular places to enjoy trekking amidst nature is the Bhrigu Lake, a high altitude lake located around 40 Kms away from Manali. As you walk through the extensive grasslands surrounded by snow-capped peaks, you'll feel like you are walking through the alpine meadows in Switzerland itself!

One unique thing about lake Bhrigu is that it never completely freezes, even during winter. Trekkers can even set up camps near the lake and spend a gala time with friends and family. Nighttime camping at this lake is one of the offbeat things to do in Manali.

Best Time to visit:

Except for June to August, which is monsoon season in Manali, and prone to landslides, tourists can visit any time of the year. We recommend you visit between October and May to enjoy the valley's beauty in full glory!

15. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

There are so many interesting things to do in Manali, and one of those activities is to visit the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary. Whether visiting with your loved one, family, or friends, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the places you shouldn't miss out on your trip.

For nature and animal lovers, the sanctuary is the ideal place to learn about the rich flora and fauna of the region. Here you will come across various species of trees, like oak, fir, deodar, horse chestnut, Robinia, Rhododendrons, etc.

The sanctuary is also home to prominent fauna species like The Himalayan Black Bear, Yellow-throated Marten, barking deer, snow leopard, Western Tragopan, Kolkass pheasant, different species of snakes, and reptiles. Besides the rich biodiversity, you will also find various adventure activities, such as trekking, camping, bird watching, nature trails, etc.

Best Time to visit:

Visit between October and February to witness the best of nature amidst lovely snowy mountains. To enjoy trekking activities, you should opt for the summer months, preferably May and June.

16. Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art

While you are visiting Manali, it only makes sense that we also dive into the culture and traditions of the state, in addition to admiring the city for its scenic beauty. The Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art is a great place to start learning about the unique culture of the people of the state.

Located near the Hadimba Temple, the museum displays a treasure collection of traditional heritage from different parts of Himachal Pradesh, dating to the 1990s. The museum boasts a unique collection of handicrafts, apparel, utensils, house decor, musical instruments, models of temples, old houses and forts, excavated tools, etc.

If you are a history buff, this is undoubtedly one of the top places to add to your itinerary. It is one of the best things to do in Manali, and tourists love visiting the place to admire the show of rich culture and take home fond memories from the town.

Best Time to visit:

The museum is open and welcomes tourists and localities throughout the year.

17. Rahalla and Jogini waterfalls

Manali is undoubtedly the traveler's paradise when it comes to exploring the mountainous wonders. Among popular tourist things to do in Manali, visiting the waterfalls is on the itinerary for the majority of tourists. Let’s talk about the two most eminent falls of Manali: the Rahalla Falls and Jogini Falls.

The Rahalla waterfall is the highest in Manali, falling from 9000 feet above sea level. Tourists can visit the falls on the way to Rohtang Pass. It is the best place to view the brilliant scene of the snow-capped Himalayas. Very popular among adventure seekers, you can enjoy a fulfilling trek through the deodar forests and mountain streams to reach the spot.

Jogini Falls is another scenic fall in Manali, located only 3 Km from the Manali main. What makes it popular is the trek from the nearby Vashisht Temple, the enchanting view of the pine trees and orchards, guided by the dazzling view of Beas River and the snowy Rohtang peak. The Jogini Falls, cascading from a height of 160 feet, is a sight to witness. It is an ideal tourist destination for nature lovers and honeymoon couples for its mesmerizing scenery.

Best Time to visit:

May to October is the ideal season to visit the falls.

18. Visit Manu Temple

Manu Temple

Situated in the Beas River Valley, in the Kullu District of Old Manali, the Manu Temple is a must-visit place for tourists on a tour of this quaint hill town. This magnificent shrine, built in the pagoda style of architecture, is dedicated to Sage Manu. Sage Manu is an important deity in Hindu mythology, worshipped as the creator of the Human Race on Earth. Interestingly, the town name, "Manali," is also named after Sage Manu.

Based in old Manali, the Manu Temple enjoys great topographical features around its location and attracts many tourists and trekkers from across the world who travel to the holy temple to seek spirituality and admire the splendid sight of the Beas river and the surrounding hills from above the temple. It is emerging as one of the favorite things to do in Manali in recent years. The tranquility of the place attracts tourists most about Manu Temple, so make sure to visit while you visit Manali!

Best Time to visit:

You can visit the temple at any time of the year.

19. A trip to Old Manali

Old Manali

Partitioned by the Beas river, Manali has two main areas, Old Manali and New Manali. Old Manali is a quaint little hamlet town, 3 Km uphill from new Manali, known for its naturally rustic but soothing getaway tucked away in the lap of nature. Unlike New Manali, this region is less crowded and peaceful and offers the kind of serenity that is perfect for a getaway from the chaos of city life.

The gently swaying mountainous roads, the apple orchards, and the sound of the gushing water of the Kullu riverside give off the ambiance of an enchanting and serene little hilltown where you can explore the town by traveling around hiring a bike or a scooter.

Visit the old Manali market to enjoy delicious local and international cuisines, considered one of the most desired activity in the area. Tourists can also shop at local markets for local jewelry, costumes, music CDs, and so on to bring home as souvenirs at affordable prices. The renowned Hadimba Temple also lies in old Manali.

Best Time to visit:

You can visit Old Manali any time of the year. However, the best season to visit old Manali is in winter.

20. Arjun Gufa

A visit to Arjun Gufa, which literally translates to Arjun Cave, comes under the list of exciting and unique activities in Manali. A legendary natural formation located on the left side of the Beas River, the cave is well renowned among tourists owing to its grandeur and the legend associated with the place.

The Arjun Gufa, linked to the epic Hindu mythology of Mahabharata, is believed to have been the meditation spot of the great Pandava warrior, Arjuna. The trek to the cave is an adventure in itself. With no light entering the cave at some parts, one has to find their way using flashlights to explore the place from within, which is very thrilling to the adventure seekers.

The entire climb to the location is an exciting experience, coupled with stunning views of the surrounding natural landscape. It takes around an hour to complete the excursion at Arjun Gufa. Besides, it is also a popular picnic spot among tourists.

Best Time to visit:

The Arjuna Guha is most visited during the months of April to June and between September and October. Except for monsoons, tourists can travel here at any time of the year.

21. Visit the Vashisht Temple and water springs

This ancient temple, which dates back more than 4,000 years and is located in the Vashist village of Manali, is revered by Hindus. The temple, which is devoted to Sage Vashist, is well-known for serving as Lord Rama's Kala Guru across the Beas River.

Bathing in the temple's hot springs, which are thought to have amazing therapeutic and healing capabilities, is one of the Best Activities In Manali. As a result, this sacred spot is frequently visited by visitors in Manali all year round. The spring is surrounded by beautiful sandstone temples, where tourists can pay their respect in peace and spend some time wandering the premises.

There are arrangements for separate bathing areas for men and women. Outside the premises, there are several small shops for buying souvenirs and other such religious merchandise.

Best time to visit:

The temple is open every day of the year, however visitation hours are from 7 am to 9 pm. Bathing in the hot spring is permitted from 7 in the morning until 1 in the afternoon and from 2 in the afternoon until 9 in the evening.

22. Van Vihar Park

Van Vihar Park

If you are looking for a place to spend some time unwinding in the middle of nature while not driving too far from the city center, you should definitely pay a visit to Van Vihar Park that counts as one of the amazing things to do in Manali to make the best of your trip. Located near the Mall Road, this garden-cum park is a beautiful spot, adorned with sky-touching Deodar trees and wooden benches where you can enjoy a relaxing time, visit for an afternoon stroll, and watch the diverse species of birds that frequent the area.

The park is maintained by the municipal corporation and is one of the places that is visited frequently by adults and children alike. Furthermore, the picturesque tall pines, coupled with the chirping of birds and the humming of the neighboring River Beas, create a great ambience to bring peace and calm to the mind. The prime attraction of the park is the man-made lake, which also offers boating facilities.

Best time to visit:

The Van Vihar park is open to visitors at all times of the year. During the summer, you can enjoy boating and relaxing strolls.During the winter, you can enjoy the enchanting sight of the park draped in layers of snow, which is an enthralling sight to see.

23. Gauri Shankar Temple

Situated in the village of Naggar, the Gauri Shankar Temple is a famous heritage site in Manali, close to the famous Naggar Castle. The monument is of immense religious significance to the devotees of Lord Shiva and Devi Parvati.

This stone-carved shrine, built in the Shikhara style of architecture, is a point of interest for all the history and archaeology buffs who frequent this site. The tranquil atmosphere of the divine shrine puts one at ease the moment they step into the temple. Visiting the Gauri Shankar Temple is one of the most amazing things to do in Manali to make the best of your trip and draws in tourists from around the country as well as locals who reside in Manali.

Best time to visit:

The temple is accessible to guests from 5 A.M. to 12 P.M. and once more from 4 P.M. to 9 P.M.

24. Parvati Valley

The Parvati Valley, with all its beauty, draws tourists from both India and overseas to experience the scenic beauty of Kullu Valley and the various hill cultures of Himachal. The beautiful valley with gushing waters flowing from the River Parvati, steep high mountains, beautiful villages, temples, and hot water springs is a visual treat for those who have a zeal for exploring nature.

The journey through Kasol, Manikaran, and Malana is an appealing journey for the ones who seek adventure with mountains and valleys, and due to this reason, it is among the most mesmerizing things to do in Manali.

Best time to visit:

The ideal time to visit Parvati Valley is during the summer months of March to June and the post-monsoon months of October to February.

25. Naggar Castle

One of the top things to do in Manali when you travel is to visit the Naggar Castle in Kullu. A magnificent historical castle from the 1460s, now a heritage hotel, is a popular tourist destination set among breathtaking forested hills. The brilliant fusion of European and Himalayan architecture, eye-catching art pieces, and the essence of comfort in a heritage castle is a dream come true for every art lover.

A trip to Manali is incomplete if you do not visit this prime attraction. You can also buy souvenirs and gifts to take home, including items such as artifacts, wall hangings, painting imprints, etc.

Best time to visit:

The castle is open on all days from 7 in the morning to 10 at night, so guests can visit at their convenience.

26. Nehru Kund

Nehru Kund in Manali is a freshwater spring on the Manali-Rohtang Pass highway. The spring is named after the first Prime Minister of India, Shri Jawaharlal Nehru, who used to frequent this spot during his stay in Manali. The spring is famous among tourists for its graceful, crystal-clear water and spectacular valley and high hills.

The sound of the bubblish gush of water is very calming to the ears. The spring is said to have its origin at the famous Bhrigu Lake. The site is almost always thronged by photographers for its scenic background. Hence, visiting the Nehru Kund is definitely one of the favorite things to do in Manali.

Best time to visit:

The ideal time to visit is between the months of May and October.

FAQs.

Q. What are some popular adventure sports to try in Manali?

A. Manali offers an array of adventure sports like Paragliding, zorbing, mountain biking, river rafting, etc.

Q. What are the best short treks available in Manali?

A. There are numerous options for short treks across Manali, ideal for a weekend outing. Some popular ones include the Bijli Mahadev trek, Lamadugh Trek, Beas Kund Trek, Bhrigu Trek, Deo Tibba Base Camp trek, etc.

Q. What are the best tourist attractions in Manali to visit with children?

A.The most popular things to do in Manali with children include visiting the Beas River, Jogini waterfall, Solang Valley, Manali Sanctuary, Planet Way Round, Hidimba Devi Temple, etc.

Q. What are the popular things to shop in Manali?

A.Some popular items to shop in Manali include woolen clothes, Tibetan handicrafts, Kinnauri shawls, Thangkas, prayer wheels, etc.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are several activities to partake in Manali for every type of traveler, be it a nature lover, adventure seeker, or serenity seeker. So, what are you waiting for now? Get ready to plan the vacation of your dreams, pack your bags, and carry the list of amazing things to do in Manali to make the best of your trip.

For those of you who have already been to Manali, how was your experience? Have you experienced any other additional exciting things to do in Manali? Let us know your experience with Manali in the comments!