Introduction
MANALI
Located approximately 544 kilometres northeast of the national capital New Delhi at the northern end of the Kullu Valley, Manali is a town in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. A very popular tourist destination it has an elevation of almost 2,050 m. It also serves as the gateway to the Lahaul and Spiti districts as well as the city of Leh in Ladakh. Growing from a trading village to a small town Manali has come a long way major thanks to the ever-growing and flourishing tourism industry.
HISTORY
According to Hindu cosmology, Manu is the derivative of Manu-Alaya which translates to ‘the abode of Manu’. It is believed that the Sanatani lawgiver Manu the one who created Manusmriti stepped out of his ark in Manali to recreate human life after a great flood had deluged the world. An old village also has an ancient temple dedicated to the sage Manu. Also, the Kullu Valley, where Mnali is located, is often termed the “ Valley Of Gods”.
WEATHER
Manali has a subtropical highland climate. This means it has warm summers with relatively cold winters. The temperature variation is also quite high. For example, the temperature range throughout the year can vary from -7 degrees to 30 degrees Celsius. In summer the average temperature is 10 degrees to 30 degrees celsius while in winter the average temperature is -7 degrees to 15 degrees Celsius.
The place witnesses predominant snowfall between December to March.
TRANSPORT
The three modes ( Air, Road and Railway) are available.
Nearest Airport: Kullu-Manali Airport
Nearest Railhead: Una (250 km)
Bus Services: HRTC
Himachal Tourism Development Corporation( HPTDC)
Helicopter Taxi Services: Pawan Hans ( government charter agency)
WHAT IS MANALI FAMOUS FOR
Cool Climate
The climate in Manali is pleasant. Since there is a constant chill in the air so when sun rays hit the skin it’s a relief for many.
Winters in Manali means snowfall. Summer means pleasant weather during the day and cools at night. Just being there is a sort of relief.
Snow Capped Mountains
Majestic mountains and snow-capped peaks are the main attraction for travellers throughout the year. Whether it’s about witnessing the first snowfall in Gulaba or trying your hands on skiing, snowboarding, Heli-Skiing, sliding and ice sliding the frozen world in Manali is all about snow-laden peaks. Spending some time among snow-capped mountains and getting relaxed with the scenic views is what everyone looks forward to during a vacation in Manali.
Glacier water of River Beas
According to Rig Veda, this is river Vipas which means unfettered, in Sanskrit, it is Vipasa while Greeks call it Hyphas.
It has played a significant role in the security of the nation. Said to be one of the rivers which created problems in Alexander’s invasion of India the river is one of the five rivers from which Punjab derive its name.
Enhancing the enchanting nature of Kullu Manali with its clear blue water the magnificence of this river makes it a popular tourist destination.
Slopes of Rohtang Pass
At an elevation of 13,054 ft Rohtang Pass is on the Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas and is famous for its scenic beauties. Remaining open from June to October is a thrilling adventure to trekking here. Nearly 51 km away from the hill station of Manali it is all about enchanting sights of glaciers, snow-covered peaks glaciers and rivers.
BEST TREKS IN MANALI
Although we have already mentioned the factors contributing to the popularity of Manali which includes a few treks as well it doesn’t means we can’t talk about other very beautiful treks you need to cover to experience the real Manali trekking. So here is a list of the best treks in Manali you should do once in your lifetime.
JOGINI WATERFALL TREK
Located in the beautiful valley of Manali about 2 kilometres away from the famous vashisht temple, these mesmerising waterfall cascade from a height of 160 feet.
Taking about 3 hours to climb it is considered one of the most romantic attractions in Manali and is also a favourite picnic spot among tourists. The trek is almost 2 kilometres long and passes through pine trees plantations and beautiful apple orchards. Walking through the alley gives you a beautiful view of River Beas and Rohtang.
LAMA DUGH TREK
With pure air, pretty wildflowers and dense forests of Cedar, Pine, Deodar and Maple trees this is a popular as well as a relatively easy trek and is appropriate for beginners too. Starting from the Manu temple the tour offers views of the hypnotic hill station of Manali and a fantastic view of nature.
HAMYA HERBAL TREK
Just like its name the Hamya Herbal Trek showcases the exotic medicinal herbs in Kullu valley which can leave one spellbound. At a height of 14000ft, this trek requires a total of 8 days to be properly visited. Also, it starts and ends at the same location Pandu Ropa. if you love nature nothing can be better that the Hamya Herbal Trek.
SAR PASS TREK
At a height of 13850 ft, this trek hosts a beautiful trail along the changing scenes of the turbulent Parvati River, gushing waterfalls and endless forests, crisp green meadows and so much more. While trekking you come across a small frozen lake which translates to “Sar” in the local language thus the name Sar Pass. This trek is almost 48 km long and takes 5 days to complete meanwhile taking you to a winter wonderland.
RANI SUI LAKE TREK
At an elevation of 11,154 ft. A lesser-known trek few people climb to this location. It is also a part of the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary and is graced with a lush green environment and a highly diverse ecosystem. From musk deer, Monal, Brown bear, Leopard and Snow Leopard this is also home to many birds and is the perfect location for bird watching as well. There are some difficult sections but the hike has a gradual ascent and if one can handle altitude sickness then one should go for it.
