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.
Also
popular as a hill resort destination, Manali presents some excellent and
well-equipped accommodation choices for the tourists. In the past
decade Manali has turned out to be one of the best hill resort destination
of India, particularly in those resorts, which cater Indian domestic
tourists and honeymoon couples. But the ideal places to stay are the small
guesthouses, providing a tranquil atmosphere of the Himalayas for those who
are looking for solitute.
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.
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Major Attractions of Manali |
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Hadimba Temple : 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.
Tibetan Temple : Tibetans have a base in Manali
too. There is a large modern Tibetan temple to the South of the bus stand
and also a small handicrafts centre.
Arjun Gufa :
On the left bank of the Beas, 5-km from Manali near the village of
Prini, is the 'Arjun Gufa' or the cave of Arjuna. In here Arjuna practised
austerities to get Pashupata Ashtra or weapon from Lord Indra.
Rohtang
Pass : Rohtang Pass is the highest point, 4,112m, on the Manali-Keylong
road, 51-km from Manali town. It provides a wide panoramic view of mountains
rising far above clouds, which is a sight truly breath-taking.
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How to Get there |
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Air : The nearest airport to Manali is
that of Bhuntar, which is 52-km from Manali. From Bhuntar one can take a
taxi or a bus to Manali.
Rail : The nearest
railhead is that of and this narrow gauze railway station is 95-km from
Kullu. The scenic beauty of Kullu while going to Manali can best be enjoyed
on a bus or a taxi. It is better to take a taxi, which one can stop and
enjoy the nature at will.
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. At the Manali bus stand there are two booths,
which do computerised reservation for buses. The reservations can be made
one month in advance. Both private and state government buses are in service
over here.