Best Things to do in Manali with Family

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Discover the best things to do in Manali—from adventure sports and scenic spots to cafés, temples, and nature trails. Explore the top things to do in Manali including Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, temples, treks, cafés, and adventure activities. Your complete travel guide

Best Things to do in Manali for family

A trip to Manali remains as exciting and fresh as ever. Whether it’s the warm months or the chilly winter season, Manali provides an ideal escape from urban stress. Are you considering visiting Manali this summer to cool off or to revel in the winter wonderland? Check out my list of five delightful activities to experience in Manali, along with fantastic sites to explore in and near the town before organizing your journey.

Manali, located in India, boasts vibrant green forests, breathtaking sights of the Beas River, spiritual experiences at temples such as Hadimba Temple and Manikaran Gurudwara, and adventurous treks at Rohtang Pass.

Therefore, I am excited to share my comprehensive travel guide for Manali featuring the top attractions to enjoy with your loved ones.

Things to do in Manali with family

Experience the charm of Manali with must-do activities, sightseeing, adventure sports, and nearby excursions for your family.

Places to visit in Manali

Soak your feet in the Beas River

Upon arriving in Manali and settling into our hotel, it was nearly the afternoon hours. We enjoyed lunch at an eatery located on Mall Road before heading to the Beas River. This river serves as the town's prominent feature, offering stunning scenery that photographers love to capture.

To access the riverbank, we had to pass through a park that was already bustling with visitors. It was serene to rest on large boulders while dipping our feet into the refreshing water of the flowing river. After spending some time there savoring Maggi along with tea, we returned to the hotel as the temperatures began to drop in the late evening.

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Hadimba temple

Understand the Background of the Hadimba Temple and delve into spirituality on the initial day of our journey, we began by discovering the spiritual aspect of Manali through a visit to the renowned Hadimba temple. This historic cave temple is devoted to the Indian Goddess, Hidimi Devi, who is a character in the Indian epic, Mahabharata, and is encircled by thick cedar woods within the Himalayan Mountains. A well-known temple from Manali undoubtedly ranks high among the must-see pilgrimage sites in Manali.

Stroll through the snow and build a snowman at Rohtang Pass

The latter part of our journey focused exclusively on Rohtang Pass, which serves as a natural boundary separating Manali from Spiti Valley and is also the gateway to Leh. The journey from Manali to Rohtang Pass spans nearly 51 kilometers and takes about two hours of a bumpy yet thrilling ride from Manali's old town center. Due to its colder climate compared to Manali, even in summer, we borrowed warm attire from a nearby shop before embarking on our trip.

Upon our arrival at Rohtang Pass, we were captivated by the sight of a valley encircled by mountains cloaked in snow. We trekked into the snowy hills, delighting in the soft snow underfoot as clouds drifted around us. However, the weather shifted rapidly, quickly becoming overcast, prompting us to leave to prevent getting stranded. It is wise to exercise caution as the weather in Manali can change abruptly, and traffic delays can lead to significant confusion. Visiting this location is essential, and it truly ranks among the top experiences in Manali.

Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara

Visit the Natural Hot Springs and feel the spiritual essence of Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara in Kullu. The Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara holds immense significance for both Hindus and Sikhs alike. It is well-known for its natural thermal springs, which the Gurudwara staff utilize to cook the Langar meals, primarily consisting of rice, for the worshippers. Although it is not situated in Manali, it can be found in Kullu, a village located on the route back to Delhi, and we decided to visit it on the final day of our journey. This Gurudwara is located in Parvati Valley along the banks of the Parvati River, recognized for its strong current that has led to numerous incidents in the past.

Given its importance to both Hindu and Sikh communities, a visit to this Gurudwara is essential for those seeking a divine experience rooted in a rich history. In Hindu tradition, this site is associated with Manu, regarded as the first human in Hindu belief, who is said to have restored human life after a great flood. Similarly, Sikhs hold the view that Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism, raised a stone to form the well-known hot springs to provide nourishment for the community that had difficulty securing food during that time.

Traverse a wobbly bridge in the Kasol Valley

Not far from the Manikaran Gurudwara in Kullu, a bridge spans the Parvati River in the Kasol Valley – it caught our eye. Eager to satisfy our adventurous spirit, we set out to quickly check out what lay beyond the bridge. This bridge has an undeniable thrill about it.

As we arrived in the middle of the bridge, it seemed to sway quite a bit, or at least that's how it felt, making it quite challenging to take another step. However, fueled by our excitement, we pressed on. At the far end of the bridge, we were greeted by another breathtaking view of the Karol Valley's towering mountains. We also came across some locals who traverse this precarious bridge daily, balancing their goods on their heads… No joke! Look at the image below; the individual here is managing large cargo on his head while navigating the bridge cautiously. What bravery.

So, whenever you find yourself in Manali or nearby Kullu, remember to seek out this bridge. It will undoubtedly be a standout memory and likely become one of your favorite activities in Manali, just as it has for me.

Manali sees a rise in visitors during the spring and summer months, but exploring the region in winter, with snow blanketing everything, is an entirely different adventure that I still look forward to experiencing on my next journey.

Did you know that Manali is an excellent location for camping? Experiencing camping in Manali is distinctive and something not everyone has the chance to enjoy. The vibrant forests in Manali provide a fantastic setting for a campsite, so consider trying this adventure during your next visit to Manali.

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Where to Stay in Manali

If you're planning a trip to Manali, I strongly suggest choosing accommodation near Mall Road. Being in the heart of Manali has its perks, offering easy access to the highway, dining options just a short walk away, and close proximity to fellow tourists.

As one of the popular travel destinations in India, Manali boasts a significant number of hotels. Spring attracts a large influx of visitors, so it’s wise to reserve accommodations ahead of time.

There isn’t a single best season to explore Manali, but winter will transport you to a winter wonderland. However, accommodations near Mall Road tend to be pricier compared to those in old Manali, so select wisely. I recommend considering options like House of Amigos, Johnson’s Hotel, Victory Resorts, and The Crazy Indian Pad which offers both dorms and private rooms, and finally The Madpackers Hostel for those looking to save money.

Where to Eat in Manali

As a well-known destination for travelers in India, Manali boasts a range of eateries offering diverse cuisines including Indian, Italian, Japanese, Tibetan, and many more. Some of the top dining establishments can be found in Manali’s historic area. For instance, Mount View Restaurant is recognized as the oldest upscale dining venue in Manali, renowned for its exceptional dishes. Adarsh Restaurant is famous for serving delightful Indian specialties. "Dylans Toasted and Roasted Coffee House" ranks among the most favored coffee shops in Manali. If you’re in the mood for exquisite Asian cuisine, Chopsticks Restaurant is the place to go for its beloved Chinese, Japanese, and Tibetan offerings. Please note that not all establishments accept credit cards, so it's advisable to carry some cash with you.

How to reach Manali

Manali's tourism has seen an increase thanks to excellent roadways, accessible by private vehicles, taxis, buses, and well-established air travel. The closest airport to Manali is situated in Kullu, which is just about an hour away. For those traveling by road, you can either use your car or hire a taxi. If you choose to drive yourself, it's advisable to have a second driver available to take turns during the long 12-hour journey. For bus travel, I recommend an overnight Volvo coach, which has non-opening windows, or a semi-Deluxe option that provides air conditioning and allows windows to be opened.

The Journey from Delhi to Manali

Although I am thrilled about the place I am going to, the travel itself is equally thrilling for me. When we chose to travel to Manali, it felt like a dream realized. In my youth, I listened to wonderful tales about that region. It was a family vacation that included uncles, aunts, and several cousins.

The journey from Delhi to Manali covers 550 kilometers, making it roughly a twelve-hour drive from Delhi, though it's not particularly tiring. The route from Delhi to Manali was a delightful experience, and this road trip can also be considered one of the top activities to enjoy in Manali.

Tea on the highway en route to Manali

We cherished our journey on the road in every way, with eateries along the way, scenic green fields, and the stunning scenery of Himachal Pradesh. We arrived in the Himalayan region at dawn and were greeted by the vibrant green hills, where we savored our morning tea in the valley. The whole upper Himachal is stunning, and there are plenty of activities to experience in Manali.

How to travel in Manali town| Visiting Rohtang Pass

Though walking is the ideal way to experience the old-town atmosphere of Manali, auto rickshaws can sometimes be hired for longer distances. Reaching Rohtang Pass takes nearly two to three hours from Manali, and only 4X4 vehicles are permitted for most of the time of the year, so securing a local taxi from the stand is advisable. Even if you have rented your own vehicle for exploring Manali, it is suggested to book a private ride from Manali to visit Rohtang La.

A blissfull trip to Manali can provide relaxation, spiritual growth, and unforgettable experiences to your family.

Have you been to Manali? Please share your experience with us!

What is famous to eat in Manali?

Manali's famous foods include in Siddu, a steamed, stuffed bread; Chana Madra, chickpeas in a creamy yogurt-based gravy; and Tudkiya Bhath, a local Pulao. Other popular dishes are Babru, a deep-fried puri stuffed with a black gram paste, and freshly caught trout fish from the Beas River.

Is 2 days enough for Manali?

Yes, two days is sufficient to cover up the main attraction in Manali, but a longer tour of three to four days is improved for an extra relaxed experience. With two days, you can visit spots like the Hadimba Temple, Mall Road, Solang Valley, and Vashisht Hot Springs, and still have some time for actions.

Which drink is famous in Manali?

The popular local area drink in Manali is Lugdi, a local rice beer that is also made with another cereal like millets. It's a strong, warming drink, particularly famous in the cold climate, and is said to have a taste similar to buttermilk. Other traditional drinks from Himachal Pradesh, like Chhang and daru, are also famous in the area.

What is the best way to travel from Delhi to Manali?

Manali is approximately 500+ kms from Delhi. The fastest way to reach Manali from Delhi is by Flight, Bus via Kullu. It takes approximately 4 hours. The cheapest way to reach Manali from Delhi is by Train, Bus via Chandigarh which would take approximately 16 hours.

Which month is best to visit Manali?

The Perfect month to visit Manali depends on your preference: March to June is perfect for enjoyable climate and outdoor tricks, as October to February is perfect for snow and winter sports. The monsoon season, from July to September, should be avoided unpaid to serious precipitation and potential landslide.

Which month does ice fall in Manali?

Snowfall in Manali typically occurs from December to February, with heavy snowfall most likely in January. While some early snowfall can occur in late October or November, the winter months are the prime time to experience snow, transforming the landscape into a winter wonderland.