Manali, Himachal Pradesh

October 2006 / October 2009

Manali, Himachal Pradesh, is a tourist’s delight offering an ambiance not found in other hill stations. Once a small village situated on the west bank of the River Beas, the city is now an overbuilt hub of activity.

Considered the premier hill station in the Kullu Valley, Manali is nestled among orchards, dense forests, a river and two large peaks of the Himalayas. Foreign and Indian tourists alike flock here…Indians in the summer to escape the heat of Delhi and foreigners in the winter to escape the heat of, well, Delhi.

Indian trekkers, tourists and honeymooners bypassed this area for Jammu/Kashmir until recent years when terrorism crept into that landscape. Western tourists come here to sip espresso and smoke pot. Because of the influx in traffic buildings have built up nearly everywhere you look.

Fortunately local government is working to curb the overgrowth. The main Mall was recently closed to all traffic allowing for free walking through the sidewalks and streets. On busy nights before the closure, pedestrians spilled out onto the street or were forced to shove their way through customers ordering from food stalls and shoppers checking out storefronts. A small step in enhancing this city.

About a mile north of the Mall sits the 16th century Hadimba Temple. Built in 1553, the four-tiered wooden temple, complete with pagoda style roof, stands around a small natural cave housing the footsteps of Hadimba. Hadimba, a demoness, was the wife of Bhima, a Pandava brother (Part of two epic poems of Indian history).

History aside, the temple is a worthwhile visit when in town. You’ll find several street hawkers peddling the chance to pet local animals…no thanks.

About 2 miles East of the Mall lies the village of Vashisht. Locals come here to use the Turkish-style baths filled with hot sulphur spring water. There isn’t much to see other than the baths unless you aren’t shopped out from Manali. Local merchants have a large choice of items for you to look over.

Plan to spend a minimum of 2 days here. Get your laundry done at Snow White and stock up on supplies from the various merchants. ATM’s are easily found around town. Adventurists have several options for trekking, paragliding and skiing. If you’re like me, you’ll enjoy walking the Mall, people watching, eating and relaxing in this unique city.

Airlines: Bhuntar, 52 Km

Taxi to Manali Rs 1000

Bus Service: Yes

Rail Service: Joginder Nagar, 50 Km

Taxi to Manali Rs 1000

Eat: Chopsticks / Mount View Restaurant

Stay: Hotel Kanishka