Things to do in and around Manali for travellers in June

Picture credit: Pixabay

Manali is one of the most sought after destinations in India by both travellers and tourists alike. Over the years, budget travellers, hippies, tourists, international travellers have all made a beeline to this prominent destination in the Himalayas. With snow clad mountains, gurgling streams,  hot springs, temples, view points, apple orchards, multi cuisine cafes, adventure sports and breathtaking landscapes, Manali offers the feel of a global village which the other nearby hill stations have failed to achieve. With the summer setting in and the season gearing up for more visitors, Manali is readying herself for the month of June when hordes of travellers head there.

Here is a list of best things todo in Manali in the month of June for all kinds of travellers.

Experience adventure at Solang Valley

A few kilometers away from Manali is the gorgeous valley of Solang, which is known for its adventure activities. Paragliding, zorbing and horse riding are some of the activities that are offered to the visitors here. It’s also a great place for a hike or a stroll with its sprawling greenery.  People head here for a day’s picnic and for camping overnight too. The adventure activities are pretty popular and it is recommended to book in advance during peak season.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

Enjoy the vistas at Rohtang Pass

While in Manali never miss the vistas from Rohtang Pass, which lies enroute Ladakh and connects Kullu valley with Lahaul. It’s a nice drive from Manali to Rohtang, which also make it one of the popular tourist places near Manali. This pass is open only during peak season from May end onwards when the roads are cleared of snow and ice. A winding road makes its way from Manali to Rohtang, which is usually crowded and one might also face continuous traffic movement. However, the panoramic views of the snow clad peaks and the Lahaul valley are an absolute visual treat. The views of Rahalla falls, Chandra river and Beas river are stunning enroute Rohtang. On the way to Rohtang lies Snow point, a popular place for visitors to play in snow and make their snowman. The drive too is an exciting one with muddy roads, stream crossings and hair pin bends.

Pay obeisance at Vashishta temple

Manali is known for its temples and Vashishta temple is dedicated to sage Vashishta. The attractive wooden architecture of the temple is a major attraction. Behind the temple, a trail leads to the popular Jogini waterfalls. The natural hot springs here are quite popular. The temple surrounding is also known for its Reiki centres.

Enjoy the serenity at Hadimba temple

Located in Dhungri forest, the Hadimba temple is dedicated to Hadimba, a demon who was married to Bhima, one of the Pandava princes from Mahabharatha. Built in mid 16^th century, the temple is four tiered like a pagoda and has wooden carvings. The tall Deodar trees that engulf the temple form a lovely frame. The percolating sunlight and the serene surroundings further accentuate the charm of this place.

Picture credit: Wikipedia

Visit Old Manali

Probably the most charming part of Manali is the older town, often referred as Old Manali. Away from the chaos, Old Manali is peppered with traditional homes, cafes, guesthouses and shops selling myriad items. The laid back vibe that the pace gives makes it a favourite with travellers. A stroll through its alleys or a visit to Manu temple, dedicated to the first man on earth is an ideal way to explore Old Manali.

Picture credit: Wikimedia

Explore Naggar Village

Situated along the Beas river, the lovely village of Naggar is an absolute charmer. The lovely views of the river and the surrounding areas make a wonderful frame for photographers. Naggar castle is a medieval castle which was the home of the Kullu kings and is a popular attraction. The 15^th century castle has beautiful wood works and architecture.  Nicholas Roerich Art gallery here has a wonderful collection of paintings of Himalayas. The village is also known for its temples such as Gauri Shankar and Tripura Sundari.

Trek the wonderful trails

Manali is a favourite with trekkers and people who love trails. There are numerous treks that are often conducted from Manali and one can approach their hotel or any adventure company in Manali to join a trek. The popular ones are to Chandrakhani pass, Beas kund etc.

Visit the Tibetan monasteries

There is a strong Tibetan Buddhist settlement in Manali and the monasteries are quite popular. Gadhan Thekchokling and Nyingmapa Gompa are the most popular ones. The art work and displays at these monasteries are gorgeous.

Stroll through the alleys and Mall road to shop

Though the mall road is the most popular road in Manali for shopping, there are numerous alleys with little shops selling the local produce and Tibetan items across this mountain region.  One can pick up some interesting curios or woolens to take back home, and enjoy an evening stroll with a cone of ice cream.

Picture credit: Wikimedia

Relish delicious world cuisines at the numerous cafes

As Manali is frequented by travellerrs from world over, the place is laced with cafes that have wonderful ambience, nice vibe, soulful music and serving cuisines from various parts of the world. Tibetan Kitchen, German Bakery, Chopsticks, Johnson’s café etc. are pretty popular and well recommended.


Location and Accommodation:

Located in the Kullu region in Himachal Pradesh and spread over a couple of mountains in the Himalayas, Manali is a twelve hour drive from New Delhi. Being a popular destination, there are numerous accommodation options with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, resorts and hotels in Manali.


P.S.: This post is in collaboration with OYO Rooms.