At the northern end of Kullu Valley and the River
Beas is situated a modern town of Manali. A town with lovely forests and
orchards offers good facilities to visitors. Legend has it that Manu stepped
off a boat in Manali to recreate human life after floods had devastated the
whole world - Manali means "home of Manu".
Rohtang Pass (51 km from Manali) : At an altitude of 4,112 metres on the
highway to Keylong, the pass affords a wide-spread panorama of mountain
scenery. In place of the pinnacled hills, sheltered valleys and cultivated
tracts, the eye meets a range of precipitous cliffs, huge glaciers and piled
Moraine, and deep ravines. Almost directly opposite is the well defined
Sonepani glacier, slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypang,
jagged pyramids of rock, snow streaked and snow crowned.
- Rohtang Pass : Enroute to Rohtang Pass, one can see the Nehru
Kund which is clear water spring and scenic spot named after the late
Prime Minister Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru. Kothi (12 km) is a picturesque
village and has a thrilling view of the deep gorge through which the
Beas swiftly races. The beautiful Rahalla Falls (16 km) are at an
altitude of 2500 m
- Hadimaba Devi Temple : Built in 1550 AD, Hadimba is the most
powerful deity of the valley. The temple is fouriered with Pagoda shaped
roof and front doorway covered with figures and symbols. There is a
beautiful forest around it, which is a good picnic spot.
- Club House : Has a beautiful view of deodar forest, with
river flowing beside the Club House. It has indoor/ outdoor games. There
are some picnic spots near it.
- Manu Temple : 1 kms. from the Club House in old Manali lies
the temple of MANU RISHI. It is believed that this is the only temple of
Manu in India, who was the creator of human race on the earth.
- Vashist Bath (3 km from Manali at an altitude of 6200 ft.) : A
village with a beautiful view on the left bank of the Beas is renowned
for its Hot Sulphur Water Spring and temple of Vashist and Lord Ram.
- Manikaran (45 km from Kullu at a height of 5700 ft) : Famous
for its Hot Springs which is believed to be good for rheumatism, gout,
muscular pain etc. The water is so hot that the Dals, Rice etc. can be
boiled in it. It is well known Pilgrimage place on account of Ancient
Hindu Temple of Lord Ram and a Gurudwara.
- Solang Valley (13 kms from Manali) : A beautiful picnic spot.
Nice meadows surrounded by Silver Oaks and spurs, offers views of
Glaciers and snow-capped mountains. It is International Skiing slope
with a small ropeway. You can also enjoy Paragliding and Horse riding.
- Naggar (28 km.) : On the left bank of the Beas and about
three hundred metres above the river, Naggar is delightfully situated on
a wooded slope and commands an extensive view, especially of the north
west of the valley. Naggar was the capital of the Kullu Rajas for about
1,400 years. Artist Nicholas Roerich's art gallery is worth a visit.
Cars and jeeps can easily go up to the Naggar Castle which is now
Himachal Tourism's well-furnished Hotel Castle.
White Water Rafting : River rafting is an exciting
adventure sport. There is an unmatched thrill of shooting down the rapids.
Knowledge of swimming is not necessary but you have to be reasonably fit.
The rafting is done on a 9-16 km stretch between Mohal and Jidi. Its a full
day trip from Manali. Cost is between Rs. 500 to 650 per pax (inclusive of
lunch & transport). One change, towel and bath slippers are required.
- Para Gliding : You can sail high above the ground and see the
mountains as never before. Experience the rush of cold air on your face
and have a thrill of your life. Guided para gliding can be done from
Solang Valley. The cost ranges from Rs. 250/- to 500/- per pax for a 5
to 15 minute flight.
- Trekking : There are countless trekking routes in Kullu
Valley. Most treks are of 2-10 days duration. However you could initiate
yourself in the joys of trekking with a one-day trek to Lamadugh. This
is a light trek of approximately 6 km which even occasional walkers can
enjoy. The cost is approximately Rs. 500/- per pax inclusive of lunch &
transport. You must have proper walking shoes, jacket for rain
protection and carry water & camera.
- Shopping : Shawls, local tweeds, caps rugs ('namdas'),
footwear, fresh fruit, natural oils (olive and almond), silver
jewellery, pullovers, metal craft, woolen jackets and bamboo products.
