The quaint backdrop of Manali, the Himachal Pradesh town, is flourished by hills, deodar forests, and rivers. Just like its varied terrain, there are countless things here to engross you, to replenish the energy and zest of life. The following list contains some ideas for all, encompassing adventurous thrills to a religious repose.
Skiing in Rohtang Pass
Being the highest point of the Manali Keylong Road, this pass enroute Shimla, belongs to the Pir Panjal range. Located at an elevation of 13,051 ft, and around 50 km away from the city of Manali, the snow-covered slopes are suitable for both beginners and advanced ski lovers. You may also enjoy heli-skiing, organized by the HHS or Himachal Heli-Skiing.
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Paying a Visit to the Hidimba Devi Temple
Dedicated to the wife of Bhima from Mahabharata, this wooden temple, flanked by deodar forests is nestled at the foothills of Himalaya in old Manali. Around 3 km away from the town, this temple has a colossal rock worshipped as the deity holding mythological importance. Inside the temple, some stones are believed to bear her footprints.
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Zorbing at Solang Valley
Solang valley, a hub for adventure sports, is located at a distance of 13 km from Manali. It is famous for crazy zorbing which allows you to roll down from gentle slopes in a huge transparent ball. However, this exciting experience is only possible when the hills are not covered in snow.
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Taking a Bath in the Hot Springs of Manikaran
The hot spring of Manikaran, covering around 1.3 km, steeped in Hindu and Sikh mythological interpretations, is believed to have healing properties for muscular and bone pain. Devotees seek salvation by taking a dip in the springs, streaming near the banks of Parvati River. One of the offbeat areas to explore, this geothermal spot is good for just taking a dip for a few minutes. Otherwise, the excess sulfur content may harm your skin. The food served at the langar of the local Gurdwara is cooked by immersing the raw ingredients in the hot water.
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Exploring Wildlife at the Manali Sanctuary
Providing an opportunity for an up-close and personal rendezvous with snow-pigeons, chakors, kingfishers, as well as brown bears, snow leopards, musk deers, and leopards, the sanctuary is an ideal place for a day-long tour, especially if you are on your honeymoon. Camping amidst the forest is only allowed during the summer months. You can camp either at Lambadug or Gallant thatch. As the forest is blessed with vivid natural trails, both advanced and beginner trekkers may indulge their passion for adventure.
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Rafting in Beas River
For beginners, grade two rafting (2.5-3.5 km long) is organized at babeli and raison. Experienced rafters may enjoy the grade three and four rafting (7-14 km) at Pirdi. There is also an opportunity of white water rafting that has a low difficulty level. While the grade two rafting is the easiest one, the grade three and four are characterized by harsh waves, sudden drops, and rocky obstacles, giving you a scope to master your rafting skill along with your friends.
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Packages: Short rafting packages are for 7km, while the long packages allow you to raft 14km.
Paragliding in Gulaba
Situated 6km away from Rohtang Pass and 20km away from Manali, Gulaba is a picturesque village at an elevation of 13,123 ft, covered with greenery. To see the entire landscape at one go, you can opt for paragliding under the special guidance of a licensed pilot.
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Just like paradise, crowned with snow-capped mountains and adorned with lush green valleys, Manali is the place to go to get away from your monotonous daily life. Visit anytime of the year and you will find some activity or the other for yourself.