Manali, located at the northern end of the Kullu Valley in the Western Himalaya at an altitude of 1910 meters is also called Queen of Valleys'. It's a travelers paradise with lofty snow peaks, deep gorges, lush green valleys, fast flowing river, enchanting fountains, flower ornamented meadows, beautiful temples and monasteries etc. The valley of gods is perhaps the most delightful region in the western Himalayas surrounded by massive snow clad mountains and thick pinewood forests. Manali has the twisty Beas River as its magnificent centerpiece. Running north to south, the main river valley is only 80 km long and 2 km at its broadest, yet a fairly wide area is open to the visitors to enjoy the spectacle of multicolored mountain scenery.
Hidimba Devi Temple
Manali has many attractions but the main centre of interest, historically and archeologically, is undoubtedly the Hadimba Temple. This temple dedicated to goddess Hadimba or Hadimba Devi with a finely formed four - tiered pagoda roof, dating back to 1553 AD, is built around a natural cave, which enshrines the footprints of the goddess Hadimba. Hadimba or Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region. The temple has some intricate wooden carvings which depicts mythological characters and motifs of animals & cosmic dancers. Every year in May a major festival is organized here. This place is a popular picnic spot among the tourists.
Monasteries
Manali also houses three Tibetan monasteries, which have been built recently. There are three recently built Tibetan monasteries at Manali. The Tibetans living around these Monasteries in Manali offer a wide range of Tibetan Handicrafts and Carpets to the visitors to buy. Two of these Monasteries are located in the main down-town of Manali and one Monastery in Aleo. Aleo is located on the Left Bank of River Beas in Manali.
Vashisht Village
Vashist, a small village 3 km from Manali located on the Left Bank of River Beas in Manali towards Rohtang pass is worth a visit, which is renowned for its Hot Water Springs and Temple. The village is also the site of some old temples, dedicated to the great sage Vashisht, and to Lord Rama. Natural Hot Sulphur Water Springs with two separate bathing tanks for Gents and Ladies are just beyond these shrines which are always full of tourists.
Solang Valley
Solang Valley in Manali is located at a distance of 13 km in a side valley at the top of the Kullu valley is a splendid valley between Solang village and Beas Kund. Solang valley offers the view of glaciers and snow capped mountains and peaks. Solang Valley has fine ski slopes. The winter skiing festival is organized in Solang Valley. Sking and Paragliding are two main activities organized here. Apart from this many other adventure sports are available like Zorbing, Horse Riding & Snow Motor Bikes Riding etc.
Naggar Castle
Naggar Castle offers Picturesque and delightful view of Whole Naggar City which is worth to watch. It was once the residence of Raja of kullu which is now converted in Hotel run by HPTDC. Most of Bollywood Movies are shot over here just due to its overwhelming sceneries. Here is also a Art Gallery on the name of Reorich Art Gallery. It perfectly displays the art of famous Russian Painter Nikolai Konstantinovich Reorikh. This place promises to enchant the visitors with their majestic beauty, enthralling view and serenit
Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is 52 km from Manali & at a height of 3980 Meters, on highway to Keylong/Leh. The Pass offers a panorama and spectacular Mountain View. Once served as a crucial trade route and still remains the gateway to the districts of Lahaul and Spiti. The Pass is open from mid April to November each year, and provides wonderful views of the entire surroundings.
Manu Temple
This is dedicated to the sage Manu. Just near the Hadimba temple flows the Manalsu River that culminates in the main Beas River. Across the Manalsu river is the original village of Manali (Old Manali) that houses the ancient temple of the sage Manu. Manali itself is named after Manu, who is said to have dwelt here.
Kothi
Kothi situated at the foothill of Rohtang pass and is just 12 kilometers from Manali at an altitude of 2500 meters. It offers a magnificent view of snow capped mountains and glaciers, the Beas river flow through a very deep and narrow gorge at this point. Kothi used to be a camping site when Rohtang pass had to be climbed on foot.
Manikaran
Manikaran, located at an altitude of 1737 m, is a famous pilgrimage centre for both Sikhs and Hindus, situated 80 km from Manali. Here also is a Natural Sulfur Hot Spring, Sri Guru Nanak Devji Gurudwara & Lord Ramchandra Temple.