Hey there, fellow adventurers! I’m Princy, and I’m excited to share my amazing 3-day trip to Manali, a stunning hill station. Come along with me as I share the incredible scenery, peaceful temples, and delicious street food I experienced on this unforgettable adventure!
Accommodation in Manali
We decided to stay at the Hotel Ishaan Resort in Manali, where we got cosy rooms for only Rs. 1200 per night. The friendly staff and beautiful surroundings made our stay just perfect for our adventure.
Places to visit in Manali
- Day 1: Welcoming Manali’s Heritage
Our adventure in Manali started at the magical Hadimba Temple, a special place dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, famous for its beautiful wooden design. As I admired the detailed carvings, I felt the spiritual vibe that filled the air around this sacred spot.
Just a quick rickshaw ride away from Hadimba Temple is the renowned Manu Temple, dedicated to Sage Manu, the ancestor of humanity. The temple’s peaceful ambience was an ideal way to begin our journey, and the distance between the two temples was about 2 km.
Our next destination was Old Manali, a place filled with quaint streets and lively vibes. We wandered through its narrow lanes, picked up some souvenirs, and savoured a cup of fragrant local tea. It was about a 3 km ride from Manu Temple to Old Manali, and we opted for an auto rickshaw for a smooth ride.
In the evening, we indulged in Manali’s famous street food. From piping hot momos to spicy thukpa, every bite was a burst of flavour.
- Day 2: Thrills in the Mountains
Our second day was all about adventure and the majestic Himalayan landscape. We began at the Solang Valley, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. Paragliding over the valley and enjoying the snowy slopes in winter are popular activities here.
After that, an exciting cab ride took us to the world-famous Rohtang Pass, which was about 51 km from Solang Valley. We had a blast playing in the snow and soaking in the majestic scenery. Once we were done with our high-altitude adventure, we explored the local markets to treat ourselves to even more of Manali’s delicious street food.
- Day 3: Discovering Manali’s Rich Culture
Our final day was a cultural and historical exploration of Manali. We began at the enchanting Naggar Castle, a historic gem offering panoramic views of the Kullu Valley. The on-site art gallery was a treasure trove of local artistry. Then we took a short cab ride, which led us to the busy Mall Road, where we shopped for handicrafts, woollens, and souvenirs. The distance from Naggar Castle to Mall Road was approximately 20 km.
Next, we visited the serene Tibetan Monastery, where we learned about Tibetan culture and browsed through a colourful collection of handicrafts.
Best Time to Visit Manali
The perfect time to visit Manali depends on what you like. If you enjoy outdoor activities, go in the summer (March to June). If you love snow, winter (December to February) is the best. For pleasant weather and fewer people around, try September to November.
Tips for travellers
- Dress in layers, as Manali’s weather can change quickly.
- Stay hydrated, especially at high altitudes.
- Be respectful when visiting temples and monasteries.
- Bargain politely when shopping in local markets.
- Pack sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.
With hearts full of thanks and backpacks filled with memories, we say goodbye to Manali, a place where natural beauty, spirituality, and adventure come together in perfect harmony. Until next time, happy travels!
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