Things To Do In New Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali is one of the few locations in India that provides a variety of adventure activities that novice and expert explorers can do. If you enjoy hiking, Manali offers a variety of alternatives, including hikes to Bhrigu Lake, Vashisht Jogini Waterfall, Baroad-Parsha Waterfall, Hampta Pass, Deo Tibba, and others. Rock climbing, rappelling, paragliding, trekking, rafting etc. are other activities that allow you to experience the rush of heights. Other thrilling sports available here include zorbing, skiing, trekking, cycling, and camping, all of which will undoubtedly test your mettle. 

Discover its Natural Beauty 

Unquestionably one of India’s most beautiful hill towns, Manali will astound you with its incredible natural beauty. Beautiful waterfalls in and around Manali, along with alpine meadows, soaring deodar trees, and evergreen thickets, are absolutely picture perfect. Whether it’s Rahala Falls or Jogini Falls, these cascades are well-known destinations for picnics. Among other places, the high altitude Bhrigu Lake, Nehru Kund, and Beas River are great for nature enthusiasts to explore. You can explore the abundant flora and animals of the area at Manali Sanctuary, Van Vihar, and Great Himalayan National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These places offer an unmatched nature experience.

Take a Look at Its Culture 

Explore a place’s cultural and historical riches to learn more about it. The Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art’s incredible collection and the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery and Museum’s collection of works by well known Russian artists are just two of the attractions in Manali that provide visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich legacy. The Naggar Castle, built in the fifteenth century, has now been transformed into a heritage hotel. Attending local festivals like the Manali Winter Carnival and Lossar Festival is also a simple way to learn about the culture of this hill town. 

Look at its religious places 

There are numerous temples and other sacred buildings across Manali that should not be missed. The well-known Hidimba Devi Temple, also known as Hadimba Temple and Dhungari Temple, is at the top of the list of attractions to see in Manali. Visit the Manu Maharishi Temple, Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, and the surrounding village of Manikaran, which is a well-known pilgrimage site, in addition to this 16^th century shrine with distinctive wooden architecture. Other well-known religious landmarks include Nehru Kund, a revered natural spring, and Arjun Gufa, a cave connected to the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Taste the Local Foods Items 

You will be enthralled by this resort town’s gastronomic culture if you are a foodie. There are countless cafés and restaurants in Manali that serve mouthwatering regional and international cuisine. Yolo Café, Johnson’s Café, Casa Bella Vista, and Café 1947 stand out among the many choices that are offered. Vibes is the place to go for delicious, authentic native Himachali food, whereas Tibet Kitchen is the place to go for mouthwatering Tibetan and Chinese cuisine. Drifters’ Inn & Café, Darjeeling Steamers, Chopsticks, La Plage, and Yolo Café are a few additional well-liked restaurants in Manali. 

Shop to Your Heart’s choices  

Shopping in the Manali markets’ tiny lanes is one of the most fun activities to undertake in this hill town. Mall Road, the lifeblood of this hill town, is one of the first commercial areas that tourists and locals discover. Mall Road is home to a multitude of shops that sell Tibetan goods, souvenirs, woollen clothing, accessories, and other items. These shops are constantly bustling with shoppers browsing the merchandise or haggling for lower rates. Another well-liked shopping destination in Manali is Bhuttico, a cooperative that was founded in 1944 by a group of local women. Bhuttico has three locations. Numerous shopaholics are drawn to the crowded Manu Market, the rustic Old Manali Market, the colourful Tibetan Market, and the stand-alone Himachal Handicrafts Emporium. 

Go out and enjoy the vibrant nightlife 

Many people have the misconception that there isn’t much to do in hill towns after sundown,  but Manali will pleasantly surprise you. There are numerous pubs and discos in this resort town  where you can stay out and have a good time long after the sun sets. Two of the hippest spots in  Manali are Yolo Café Resort & Manali Camps and Johnson’s Bar & Restaurant on Circuit House  Road. Among night owls, Zing Zing Bar & Restaurant, Soma Café, and Khopcha are all equally  well-liked. The Buzz and Chelsea Club are two well-known nightclubs in Manali where people  may dance the night away.

Embrace Monastic Spiritual Upliftment 

Enjoy the distinctive spiritual atmosphere of the  Manali monasteries as they introduce you to  various facets of Buddhism. Every year, a sizable  number of people travel to these monasteries  because of their outstanding architecture,  enthralling history, and religious significance. You  really must try to see the Himalayan Nyingmapa  Buddhist Temple and Gadhan Thekchhokling  Gompa, also known as Manali Gompa, while you  are here. Additionally, you can buy wonderful  gifts from the numerous stores that are located  in and around these monasteries that sell  Tibetan handicrafts.

Text by Ashutosh Kumar