Manali

Popular among international tourists as Switzerland of India, Manali is set amidst picturesque apple orchards, packed with the pahari-speaking kullus, Lahaulis, Nepali labourers and enterprising Tibetan refugees who have opened guest houses, restaurants and craft shops. It is also a major tourist destination for Indian holiday makers along with adventure seeking foreigners who are attracted both to the culture and the adventures opportunities offered by the mountains in Manali. It is also the recommended start to the route to Leh in the summer months. Manali can be made the headquarters of a mountain holiday, with hikes, climbs & picnics punctuated with sun bathing and fishing etc

SIGHTS

The Tibetan Monasteries

These are built by Tibetan refugees, are not old but are attractive and are the center of a small carpet making industry. Rugs and other handicrafts are for sale .The colorful bazaar sells kullu shawls, caps and Tibetan souvenirs.

Temple of Hadimba Devi (The Supreme Sacrifice)

The temple of Hadimba devi is a lovely temple which stands as a mute tribute to the supreme artist who sacrificed the very hand with which he carved this poem in wood dedicated to the goddess of the Dhoongri temple- Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhim- one of the Pandavas. Every year in the month of May, there is a major festival here.

Vashisht Hot Sulphur Spring

About 3.2 km away from Manali bus stand across the Beas river situated at an altitude of 1982 m (6200 ft), just down below the temple are hot Sulphur Springs named as Vashisht. Nearby is a pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashistha.

The Mountaineering Institute

This institute is situated in Manali and provides training facilities for basic and advance climbing. It also conducts adventure sport activities.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang pass is a gateway to Lahaul Valley. It is situated about 51 km from Manali at an altitude of 3978 m (13400 ft), on the highway of Keylong. Regular bus services are available. There is a beautiful Dashohar lake, left of the pass. The pass is open from June to September each year.

Beas Kund

The famous Beas Kund is a place where great Vyas Rishi performed "Tapa" during Mahabharata Kal. It is the source of the river Beas

When to go: April - June, September-October

How to reach:

By Air: Bhuntar is the nearest airport at a distance of about 50 km from Manali and       10 km beyond Kullu.

By Rail: The convenient rail head is at Pathankot at a distance of 326 km. Regular trains commence from Delhi, Chandigarh and Amritsar.