Manali Tour – Paradise for Honeymooners

When the scorching heat becomes irrestible on the plain lands in summer then it makes people think of to escape somewhere where it is cold and cozy . In my experience I have seen people choossing Manali or to Shimla 8 out of 10 times. One of the best place among honeymooners and those looking for cooler climes – Manali is an ideal destination in Himachal Pradesh. But it is not only in the peak summer that people go to Manali, I have seen a lot of my friends going to Manali with their personal cars or rented ones in the months of December and January too to experience the snowfalls.

The scenic beauty of Manali and an irresistible appeal that attracts tourists to this small town located 274 kilometers north of Shimla. Its close proximity to the snow-line in the lap of the Kullu valley makes it a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh. Manali stands at an altitude of 2,050 meters above sea level. The Beas River that flows through the town accentuates its scenic beauty.

Manali is also called ‘Valley of the Gods,’ Manali literally means the ‘abode of Manu,’ a mythological character who believed to have survived when the whole world had submerged under the flood. He then came to Manali and recreated human life. This has made Manali a pilgrimage spot for Hindus. It also has a number of Buddhist monasteries as well.

Manali is just not a two dimensional tourist destination; it has other facts as well. Apart from the beautiful views of the snow covered peaks, Manali also offers good options for adventure tourism. One can try skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, trekking and mountain biking in and around Manali. It also has amazing snowfields and some flourishing apple orchards. Manali is a refreshing getaway and first choice for those who want to see and touch snow for the first time.

There are plenty of other exciting things to do in Manali. It is a typical tourist destination, where you get to do all sort of activities. Shopping, dress & photo in traditional Himachali costume, sit on a Yak & get yourself clicked, hold a rabbit in your lap and get yourself clicked again, learn skiing and stumble, try ice skating, go paragliding, visit ancient temples, and go for a trek. The multitude of options available in Manali makes it popular tourist spot among people of all age groups.

Other Places of Interest:
Naggar Fort, south of Manali is a reminder from the Pala Empire. The fort is made from rocks, stones, and elaborate wood carvings, which resembles the rich and elegant art works of Himachal. The castle was later converted to a hotel and is currently under himachal tourism.

Hidimba Devi Temple, erected in 1553, is dedicated to the local deity Hadimba, wife of the Pandava prince, Bhim. The temple is noticed for its four-store pagoda and exquisite wooden carvings.

Rahla waterfalls lie some 27 km (17 mi) from Manali at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass, are the beautiful Rahla Falls at an altitude of 2,501 m (8,205 ft).

Solang valley, popularly known as Snow Point, is 13 km northwest of Manali.

Manikaran, located about 45 km. from kullu on the way to Manali is known for its hot spring near the river Parvati.

Rohtang, located about 40 km from manali is one of the most famous snow point, but its closed during winters due to snow.

Climate:
The climate in Manali is very cold during winters, and moderately cool during summers. The temperatures range from 4 °C (39 °F) to 30 °C (86 °F) over the year. The average temperature during summer is between 14 °C (57 °F) and 20 °C (68 °F), and between −7 °C (19.4 °F) and 10 °C (50 °F) in the winter.

Time to visit:
The best time to visit Manali is May and October but one can visit this place during winters too.

How to reach?
By Air: The nearest airport is Bhuntar in Kullu about one and a half hour’s drive from Manali. Not all airlines fly to Bhuntar, only a few do. Please find out before you decide to fly to Manali.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Chandigarh at 310 kilometers and Jogindarnagar at 180 kilometers, which has a narrow gauge track.

By Bus: Manali is 570 from Delhi, from Shimla the distance is 280 km. From Delhi, there is a regular HPTDC Luxury and Volvo Coach to Manali from Janpath. There is one that leaves Janpath at 7 pm and reaches Manali at 10 am. On the way you'll cross Bilaspur, Mandi, Kullu before reaching Manali.

One can always make Delhi, India to be the centre point to visit Manali.