A pocket guide on the ever blissful Manali
Manali has always been the honeymooner’s first choice in India. In fact, Manali doesn’t’ excite just the couples, it magnetises every human eye. Artists, adventure seekers, families, backpackers, all fall in love with it. Located at a height of 2100 m above sea level, Manali is a part of the Kullu District in Himachal Pradesh.
There are numerous attractions and adventure activities which can keep you entertained and busy for days in Manali, let it be Paragliding between the sky high mountains, motor riding on one of the toughest yet awesome roadways in the world, skiing or simply strolling through the countryside, a visit to Manali must be in your travel bucket. So look no further, pack your essentials and head out to one of the blissful holiday destinations on the whole planet.
Attractions
• Solang Valley
Situated on the way to the famous Rohtang Pass, the Solang Valley is popular among the adventure seekers. Surrounded by snow-capped cloud kissing mountains and glaciers, the place looks like absolute heaven on Earth. It is famous for both Summer and Winter sports like parachuting, paragliding, skating and many more. Therefore it is visited all year round regardless of the climate. It is also one of the best skiing destinations in the whole world. There are many beginner skiing lessons conducted here too.
• Rohtang Pass
This is the famous mountain pass which is referred as the trekker’s paradise by tourists worldwide. The high altitude trek here is a blood rush activity and at the same time an awesome adventure. The snow covered hills and the chilly surroundings will definitely make you feel like you have landed on some other planet. Due to high snowfall entry is restricted most of the time in a year. Likely until the first week of October when the Winter starts, the valley is open for tourists. Other than trekking, visitors can indulge themselves in adventure and fun activities like paragliding or skiing here.
• Nehru Kund
A serene and tranquil spot in Manali, Nehru Kund is named after the first Prime Minister of India Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru. He used to drink water from this natural spring whenever he visited Manali. The place is ideal for trekking which exposes you to some lovely sights of the countryside. Also, the natural music of the flowing water of the Nehru Kund will soothe your ears and refresh your mind.
• Arjun Gufa
Arjun Gufa or Arjuna Caves is one of the major attractions in Manali. It is named after the popular Mahabharata character Arjuna, one among the five Pandavas. It is said that here in these caves Arjuna performed Tapas [deep meditation] to please Lord Indra to acquire the divine weapon Pashupata Astra. Apart from the legend, the caves are naturally appealing and one can enjoy the view of the mighty Himalayas from here.
• Vashist Hot water Spring
Vashisht is located over the River Beas just 6 km away from the Manali Town. It is now famous all over the world for its easily found hot springs which emerge from the huge granite deposits deep inside the ground. People from all around the planet visit Manali and take a dip in the hot water of Vashist Hot water spring. There is a tank reserved for women too. The surrounding greenery adds more pleasure while you enjoy a hot bath.
• Hadimba Devi Temple
A beautiful religious structure dedicated to Goddess Hadimba. She was the wife of great Bhima, one among the Pandavas of the Mahabharata. Located in the middle of the Dungri Van Vihar forest, it offers a serene ambience. It is best suited for families and couples. The exquisite carvings on the temple structure are brilliant pieces of art. Figures of animals and cosmic dancers are carved out with perfection which reflects the love for the art of the artisans behind this work.
Manali welcomes all throughout the year. If you love chilly temperatures, snowfall and Winter sports like skiing you may visit Manali during the months December- June. If you love to enjoy the greenery, the best time is post-monsoon [October- November] when the temperature is cool [10c-20c] but not as chilly as the Winter.
For more information visit www.indianpanorama.in