The Kullu valley has an ancient town in its lap called
Manali. Surrounded by towering peaks at an arm length, Manali's major asset
is its proximity to the snowline. It is a flourishing orchard industry,
a popular honeymoon destination and trailhead for numerous treks as well
as a great countryside ideal for adventure sport lovers.
Manali literally means the 'Home of Manu'. Manu is the mythological
character who is supposed to have survived when the world was drowned in
Flood. He then came to Manali and recreated human life. Thus, the area
of Manali is sacred and Hindus treat the temples over here as pilgrimage.
Manali, with its mountaineering institute, is a popular base for trekking
and mountaineering in summer and skiing in winter. Hadimba or Dhungiri
temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region. This
four story wooden temple is located in the middle of a forest called the
Dhungiri Van Vihar. Manali possesses a prospering orchard industry that
has grown in leaps and bounds.
How to Get There:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar, which is 52-kms from Manali.
From Bhuntar one can take a taxi or a bus to Manali.
By Train:
The nearest railhead is the narrow gauze railway station, which
is 95 kms from Kullu. It is better to take a taxi, by which one can stop
and enjoy the nature.
By Road:
The road to Manali passes through the picturesque valley of Kullu. The
motorable roads to Manali connect the town with other major tourist places
in Himachal as well as in the nearby states. Both private and state government
buses are in service over here.
Where to Stay:
There are many places to stay in Manali, including Hotel Tourist,
Jhon Banon'n Guesthouse, Sunshine Guest House, Sunshine Guest House, Hotel
Highlands, Pinewood Hotel, Hotel Chetna, Beas Hotel and Hotel Rohtang Manalsu.
HPTDC runs several buses and bookings can be made at the HTPDC Marketing
Office.
Places to Visit:
Hadimba or Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important
temples in the region. Jagatsukh, is famous for Shiva temple. Rohtang
Pass 13-kms, situated about 50 kms from Manali town, at an altitude of
4,111m on the highway to Keylong. There is a beautiful Dasohar Lake left
of the Pass. Manu temple, 3 kms from the main bazar in
old Manali lies the temple of MANU RISHI.
