Manali offers numerous monasteries that provide spiritual sanctuary. Experienced here is its peaceful silence and captivating mysticism that adds further allure.
Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, which has quickly become one of the most acclaimed monasteries among Buddhists, boasts beautiful murals depicting Buddha’s ideas and values.
1. Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art
The Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art boasts an extensive collection of antique artifacts. On display here are items such as religious relics, household objects, instruments, weapons and scale models of temples and forts from traditional Himalayan heritage.
The museum can be easily reached via local bus or taxi and offers the chance to witness live snowfall! Once you’ve explored this gem of local sightseeing, head towards Manali Nature Park or Mall Road for more fun-filled days of exploration!
2. Hadimba Temple
Hadimba Temple, also known locally as Dhungri Temple, is an important visit in Manali due to its unique architectural style and spiritual significance. It is said that Hadimba Devi meditated here to attain spirituality and supernatural powers.
Annually, an amazing Dungri Mela takes place here to celebrate and pay homage to Goddess Dungri. Her temple stands as an emblematic cultural landmark in Kullu Valley and showcases its heritage.
Ghatothkach was the warrior of the Pandavas who was born here. This beautiful temple surrounded by cedar forests is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba.
3. Manu Temple
This magnificent temple, dedicated to Sage Manu, is thought to have been where he meditated after coming down to Earth. Set against a magnificent backdrop featuring rugged Himalayan Mountains and bubbling Beas River, its beauty will take your breath away.
Relive a piece of the life of a sage through this temple’s many stories and explore rappelling skills here! For an adrenaline boost, practice rappelling here too!
As part of your family trip to Manali, another relaxing activity may include visiting Manikaran Hot Spring which is said to have healing powers for musculoskeletal ailments.
4. Mall Road
Manali is a mesmerising destination that welcomes all types of travellers – families, couples and lone explorers alike. Offering breathtaking views of snow-capped Himalayan peaks and picturesque valleys.
Start off your day right by visiting the Hadimba temple surrounded by giant deodar trees. Its name honors Goddess Hadimba who lived alongside Hidimba but vowed that whoever defeated Hidimba would marry her instead.
Head next to Mall Road for some street shopping and delicious cuisine. Here, you can find everything from trinkets to expensive pashmina shawls at this lively street market – bargaining is a skill worth mastering in order to secure great bargains!
5. Vashisht Temple
This wooden pagoda-style temple honors a revered sage named in its honor. Within, no idols or images exist within; instead carvings of animals and folk deities adorn its walls.
This picturesque village on the other side of the River Beas is famous for its sulfurous hot water springs that boast bathhouses around them; these springs are thought to possess therapeutic properties and offer therapeutic solutions.
Manali offers the ideal blend of spirituality, adventure, and natural beauty. Here, challenging trekking trails await, or for peace-seekers the monasteries provide restful solace – it has it all.
6. Rahala Falls
Manali’s captivating waterfalls provide a wonderful way to escape into an oasis of peace. Knoii and Rahala Falls are among the finest examples, where visitors can sample freshwater while taking in breathtaking scenic vistas surrounding Manali.
Visit the waterfalls during March-October when water levels are at their highest; this makes for an ideal picnic destination as the falls are surrounded by Deodar and Birch trees for added shade.
Manali’s spiritual side can be explored by visiting Hadimba Devi Temple, a unique wooden shrine surrounded by cedar forests. Additionally, Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa and Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple offer additional religious attractions in Manali.
7. Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple
Manali is an idyllic hill station straight out of a fairy tale. Home to snow-capped peaks and lush forests, the town features numerous captivating attractions – visit Jana Village with its natural waterfall and deodar trees or spend your day adventuring sports or even zorbing!
Cultural enthusiasts will also want to visit the Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art or Nehru Kund, an outdoor spring named after Jawaharlal Nehru who served as one of India’s first Prime Ministers.