Whenever someone says, “let’s go to the mountains,” you can bet Manali is going to be tossed around like sugar on a doughnut. It’s been one of the most popular, most visited hill stations for decades, and despite the complaints about it becoming too commercialised, it’s not slipping off that list anytime soon. Why? Because even if the crowds mess with your peace-seeking plans, nature still shows up, always calling you back. Plus, there are still plenty of places in and around Manali that offer pure, quiet bliss in the hills. This list gives you the ultimate mix of both!

Places To Visit

Mall Road

Starting with the most expected recommendation: Mall Road. Like every mountain town, Manali too has a famous Mall Road lined with shops that sell everything it is famous for and more. Buy shawls, cute hats, eat softy ice-cream, and just see the hustle of this crowded, vibrant town in one place. There are many local stores too, behind the mall road, that you should not skip checking out. 

Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM

Manu Market

Located next to the ‘mall’ road is Manu Market. With a similar feel but narrower lanes, this market is good for Tibetan jewellery and clothes. It also has stalls to eat local food; a definite go-to if you’re on a shoestring budget!

Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM

Old Manali

The other side of town, this is where you can walk and not get tired. Predominantly known for its cafes and bakeries, this part of Manali has a lot more to offer. With cafes on both sides of the road and quaint little shops inviting you in to buy products made out of hemp, you really will never get bored here. This is also the hippie part of town where most travellers like to chill at. You can find most of the budget-friendly hostels and cutesy homestays here.

Timings: 24/7 open (of course!)

Van Vihaar

Van Vihaar National Park is a stone’s throw away from Mall Road and is a haven for all nature lovers. In an attempt to preserve the lush deodar forest, this park serves its purpose well amidst the many markets. One can spend hours sitting inside with a book or just aimlessly strolling to admire the sky-high trees for a minimal entry fee of INR 5. Boating in the man-made lake would cost you INR 30. 

Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM in summer and 8 AM – 5 PM in winter

Vashisht

A village close to downtown Manali, this place still has a serene pahadi charm. The temple here is where devotees and travellers come to pay their respects. There’s an auspicious hot springs near the temple that has healing medicinal properties that are believed to cure skin-related allergies. Fancy a dip, anyone? A hot spring shower sure sounds exciting, but don’t forget to take a tour of the temple from inside to see the intricate wooden carvings and antique paintings. 

Timings: Temple timings are 7 AM – 9 PM

Hidimba Temple

Built in Himachali style, this temple in Manali is dedicated to the wife of Bhima, Hidimba Devi. Surrounded by dense forest, you might want to spend some time absorbing the view and learning about the temple’s rich history. Wooden structure with a pointy roof, it’s unlike any other temple in the community. It looks its best during winter when it’s dressed in white with snow. Also, just spending 15-20 minutes in the thick Cedar forest near the temple is going to refresh you from within.

Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM

Rohtang Pass

Closed for about half a year, Rohtang Pass is a sight to behold with the breathtaking views that it offers. It is a two-hour drive away from Manali and is surrounded by the mountains thoughout. Although, the traffic on the way might annoy you a little sometimes. From June to October, you can go to Ladakh, Lahaul, and Spiti via this pass. Eating options are limited as only small dhabas and stalls serve Maggi, rajma chawal and a few other options. A hub for all the adventure sports, this is the right place for skiing and snow scooter riding. 

Timings: Vehicular traffic is typically allowed between 6 AM and 6 PM

Naggar Castle

Another unexplored part of Himachal near Manali is Naggar, which is famous for the castle there. The Himachali feel and architecture are still retained inside this heritage hotel. Naggar is also a good spot for those who want a slice of luxury amidst the mountains. The castle holds a quaint in-house cafe that overlooks the valley. Make sure you check out the Naggar Delight Cafe for scrumptious cheesecakes and pastries. The castle displays the artwork of a famous Russian painter, Nicholas Roerich, which is worth checking out.

Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM

Fat Plate

Located 15 minutes away from the main town, this isolated restaurant is located inside the beautiful Gurung Cottages, where one can book their stay too. The cuisine served here is fresh, organic, and home-cooked. Their breads, vegetables, herbs – everything is grown and made at the property itself. Sit in the garden with the views around you and eat a hearty meal here.

Timings: 12 PM – 10 PM

Zomato Rating: 3.6

The Lazy Dog

The is one of the best restaurants in Old Manali; no trip is complete without a meal here coupled up with the local apple cider beer. Order the hummus platter, pasta, and the pan-fried trout for the perfect meal. The outside stair area is perfect for groups, especially during dinner time. Oh, it’s absolutely gorgeous.

Timings: 12 PM – 11 PM

Zomato Rating: 4.5

The Johnson’s Cafe

This is another property that tops the list for the best venues to stay at in Manali. Their in-house restaurant is remarkable with huge indoor and outdoor seating with vibrant furniture to lighten anyone’s mood. Pour your favourite poison here, enjoy the fabulous ambience, live music, and a great evening.

Timings: Opens at 1 PM

Zomato Rating: 4.4

Situated bang in the middle of the busy mall road, it is your best bet for a satisfying meal after a tiring day of shopping. Good ol’ yummy Chinese with Tibetan cuisine, momo, and noodles here are an absolute must-have.

Timings: 10 AM – 11 PM

Zomato Rating: 3.9

Il Forno

If you take the road towards Hidimba Temple from the Mall Road, you will find a cute cottage-like café in the middle, get down there to have delicious wood-fired pizza and pastas while sitting in their garden gazebo. Also, makes for a pretty spot to click hundreds of pictures at.

Timings: 11 AM – 10:30 PM

Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted Coffee House

Old Manali has a plethora of cafes as we mentioned before, but sometimes all you want to do is sit by the roadside, observing the happy shoppers with a cup of coffee, and for that Dylan’s is there for you. The Depth Charger and Irish Coffee here sound like heaven to us. 

Timings: 9 AM – 9 PM, closed on Tuesdays

Café 1947

As soon as you enter the old side of Manali, you’ll see boards with the words Café 1947 written that’ll tempt you to go visit this eatery. And you won’t be disappointed. Always brimming with people, the trout here is a major hit. They also have another branch in Bahang right next to the Beas River, which makes for a stunning view.

Timings: 1 PM – 11 PM

Drifter’s Café

At the other end of the festive Old Manali road is this popular café where everything on the menu is delectable and meant for super long conversations. Great for a warm, romantic date too!

Timings: 10 AM – 11 PM

Google Rating: 4.4

Things To Do

Rafting

Not as popular as Rishikesh, but Manali is also one of the best places for rafting. The current of Beas River keeps the conditions suitable for a day out in the river. There are multiple operators which conduct this adventure sport for INR 1,200-2,000 for 9-12 km.

Timings: Anytime between 8:30 AM and 5 PM

Recommended Provider: Arctic Adventure

Trekking

Manali is the base camp for treks like Bhirgu Lake, Hampta Pass, Beas Kund, Chandratal, Pin Parvati and so on. If trekking is what you fancy, Manali is the place to start them. There are plenty of backpacking operators that offer curated treks that include camping, food and other facilities. The price depends upon the trek you opt for. Mostly it ranges between INR 2,500 and INR 15,000.

Timings: Varies from one trek to another.

Recommended Provider: Thrillophilia

Paragliding

After Bir, Manali is the place for paragliding. Though the activity is more popular in Solang Valley, Dhobi is the less crowded spot to be at for the same. Starting from INR 1,500 or so, you could paraglide for a good 15 minutes in tandem. Get your cameras ready, but stay safe. Prices can range from INR 1,500 to INR 4,500, depending on the location, duration, and any add-ons.

Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM (approx.)

Recommended Provider: Shivu Paragliding

Ziplining

If you’re not quite up for a full-blown adventure but still want a shot of adrenaline, try ziplining in Manali. The place has one of the longest ziplines, where you’ll be suspended mid-air, gliding over stunning landscapes and soaking in those breathtaking views!

Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM (approx.) 

Recommended Provider: Broza Adventures