Manali

Introduction And History :Manali is the most important hill station in Himachal Pradesh. Manali has a rich history of cultural heritage. It was the abode of the seven sages or rishis. The place is named after sage Manu Legend shrouds the Hadimba temple located here. The hill station is highly commercialized. Nevertheless, wooded slopes and wild flowers that dance alongside brimming rivers past snow-capped peaks earn the place the name Switzerland of India. Tourism and horticulture form the backbone of its economy. Manali is among the most popular adventure sports destinations in India. Manali offers opportunities for mountaineering, skiing, trekking, paragliding, white water rafting, river crossing and mountain bike. It also offers hot springs, spectacular religious shrines and temples, Buddhist temples for the pilgrims.

What To See :The legendary Hadimba temple and the beautiful and serene Manali Gompa are the famous tourist places. Solang valley and Rohtang pass offer spectacular views. Solang valley offers ideal picnic spots. Kothi village is enthralling and beautiful. Also visit the rapid and gushing Rahalla waterfalls here. Best season is considered to be from May to October. September to November is considered to be ideal for adventure activities. For snow lovers December to January would be an ideal time. Summers are crowded by tourists.

Things to do: Manali is the place for mountaineers and trekkers. Mountaineering institute is at Manali. Skiing and trekking equipments can be hired from here by booking in advance. Enjoy the hot water springs of Vashist. A new sport gaining popularity is yak skiing.

Accomodations :Hotels are in abundance in Manali. Budget hotels cost about 500 rupees to 2000 rupees per day. Tariff rates are a little high during the peak season. Luxury hotels and cottages cost anywhere between 2000 and 10000 rupees per day.

Mode Of Transport : The nearest airport is Bhuntar airport, around 50 Kilometers south of Manali which is well connected with Delhi and Shimla. The nearest important railhead is at Chandigarh which is well connected with Manali via roads. The distance from Delhi is 585 Kilometers, from Chandigarh is 350 Kilometers, from Ambala is 380 Kilometers, and from Shimla is 270 Kilometers. Regular buses ply between Shimla and these places.

Related links: Tourist information: www.visitkullumanali.com

See also (Nearby places): Keylong, Spiti valley, Shimla, Naggar and Old Manali.