Manali is a hill destination in Himachal Pradesh, India, set in the Kullu Valley. Travellers come for its Hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries, cedar forests, mountain passes, lakes, waterfalls and high peaks. Hadimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple offer visits to important shrines, while Solang Valley is known for activities such as paragliding, skating and zorbing. Rohtang La, Gulaba and nearby mountain landscapes appeal to those interested in high-altitude views and snowy terrain. Bhrigu Lake and the surrounding peaks suit travellers who enjoy trekking and mountain scenery. The area also includes cultural places such as Naggar Castle and the Himalayan Nyinmapa Buddhist Monastery. Manali suits travellers looking for a mix of outdoor activities, religious sites, mountain viewpoints, lakes and local culture.
Known for: Hindu temples, Mountain lakes, Winter sports, Mountain passes, Buddhist monasteries
Top things to do in Manali
Hadimba Devi Temple: An ancient Hindu cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, surrounded by cedar forest and known for its wooden structure and carvings.
Solang Valley: A side valley known for summer and winter sports, including paragliding, skating, parachuting and zorbing.
Rohtang La: A high mountain pass where green hills lead towards snow-clad peaks and rugged alpine terrain.
Bhrigu Lake: A high-altitude lake reached by trekking from Vashisht Temple or Gulaba, and named after Maharshi Bhrigu.
Manu Temple: A temple in Old Manali dedicated to the sage Manu, with peaceful surroundings and notable architecture.
Himalayan Nyinmapa Buddhist Monastery: A Buddhist monastery with historic and cultural exhibits connected with Buddhism in the region.
Rehala Falls: A forest-surrounded waterfall near Manali, with birch and deodar trees and nearby hiking and climbing trails.
Naggar Castle: A medieval castle in Kullu, built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu and later run as a heritage hotel.
When is the best time to visit Manali?
Best months: March to June, September to December
The suggested months are March to June and September to December. October and November are relatively dry, while June to August are among the hottest months and July and August receive the most rain; January, February and December are among the coolest months.
January: 59 mm of rain, dry, among the coolest months
February: 52 mm of rain, dry, among the coolest months
March: 75 mm of rain, some rain (good time to go)
April: 65 mm of rain, some rain (good time to go)
May: 52 mm of rain, dry (good time to go)
June: 73 mm of rain, some rain, among the hottest months (good time to go)
July: 210 mm of rain, rainy, among the hottest months
August: 190 mm of rain, rainy, among the hottest months
September: 91 mm of rain, some rain (good time to go)
October: 15 mm of rain, dry (good time to go)
November: 21 mm of rain, dry (good time to go)
December: 20 mm of rain, dry, among the coolest months (good time to go)
How to reach Manali
By air: Kullu Manali Airport (KUU), about 41 km from Manali in a straight line
Also see the Manali destination guide for local food, getting around and the best time to visit.