If you are looking for some natural beauty, adventure, peace and tranquility, all in one place, then head straight to Manali. This small pretty town in the Himalayas beside the Beas River is like an escape to heaven. Manali is one such hill station that has a mix of all. The endless things to do in Manali has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to the list of activities to indulge in throughout the year, this will help you pick the right ones.
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Things To Do In Manali During Summer
Summer in Manali is quite refreshing because of the pleasant weather. It is the perfect time to indulge in outdoor activities that are ideal for both nature lovers and adventure seekers. Here’s a list of the top things to add to your Manali tour package.
1. Paragliding To Fly Like A Bird
Manali is home to some of the most breathtaking paragliding experiences in India. It is sure you’ve thought of this at least once in your life. Now is the time to realize your goal, though. Paragliding in Manali is a well-liked adventure sport that involves flying like a bird through mountains and valleys. A few kilometers from Manali, the Solang Valley is a well-liked hangout for paragliding aficionados. Gorgeous vistas of glistening streams, verdant meadows, and snow-capped mountains from above can be seen throughout the flight. The comfortable weather of Manali in summer is sure to make you feel the rush of taking to the skies like a bird.
Where: Solang Valley, Mahri, Kangra Valley, Fatru
2. River Rafting To Race Over The Rapids
An inflatable raft and a swift-moving river is all that one needs for this exhilarating experience which is a must do in Manali. For those who enjoy river rafting, the Beas River near Manali offers some of the best rapids. Both seasoned and inexperienced rafters can be rapid in the Beas Range. Summer is the best time to raft in Manali as no ice forms on the rivers to obstruct the activity. The breathtaking Himalayan scenery and the thrill of racing over the rapids make river rafting in Manali an unforgettable experience.
Where: Beas River, Babeli, Raison, Jhiri
3. Zorbing To Go Down The Hills
In Manali, zorbing is a fun and entertaining adventure activity that has participants rolling downhill in a big, clear inflatable ball. One of the rare locations in India where you may go zorbing in Manali. Manali’s Solang Valley is a well-liked location for zorbing, where guests can select between a dry and wet trip. Rolling down a hill on a flat surface is called a “dry ride,” whereas rolling down a hill on water is called a “wet ride.” People of all ages enjoy going zorbing, which is a great way to take in the stunning scenery. If you’re looking for one of the top summertime activities in Manali, do not miss Zorbing.
Where: Solang Valley, Marhi, Fatru, Kothi Village, Gulaba
4. Rock Climbing For Some Chills & Thrills
With a variety of granite and limestone cliffs, Manali is a rock climber’s dream come true. These cliffs provide a variety of climbs ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert. Adventure in Manali puts one’s endurance and mental toughness to the test in addition to physical strength. It’s a challenging activity but with the help of trained guides, your experience can be exciting and adventurous. The ascent is made much more worthwhile by the breathtaking views from the summit of the cliffs. Do try out this activity in summer as it is that time of the year when the snow melts making the climb comfortable.
Where: Aleo, Solang Valley, Vashisht, Dhundi, Kothi
5. A Stroll Through Mall Road
Mall Road is one of the well-liked Manali tourist places. For some of the liveliest and most enjoyable times, head over to Manali Mall Road. It is well-known for having hundreds of stores, inns, cafes, independent restaurants, and handcrafted woolen goods. You can unwind on one of the numerous benches and take in the sights, sounds, and mountain backdrop after a long day of shopping. Explore the Dragon Shopping Complex, Snow Line Underground Market, and Hong Kong Market, among other attractions on Mall Road.
Must Buy: Woolen clothes, Handicrafts, souvenirs, wooden carvings, Spices and herbal teas
6. Mountain Biking Through Difficult Terrains
You can experience the excitement of riding on difficult terrains while taking in the stunning scenery of the area in Manali. Manali’s rough terrain is ideal for mountain riding, it introduces one to the real meaning of thrills. Summer months from April through June is the ideal time of year to go mountain riding in Manali. If you are looking to do something different and unique, then just go ahead and add mountain biking to your itinerary as this thrilling activity won’t disappoint you.
Where: Rohtang Pass, Baralacha La Pass, Lachungla Pass, Tanglang La, Khardung La
7. Try Rappelling For That Adrenaline Rush
For thrill-seekers who want to engage in adventurous activities and are eager to try something new, Manali is the ideal destination. Rappelling is one among the many things to do in Manali that will satisfy your need for an adrenaline rush. Manali’s breathtaking natural rock formations make it a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts. You will learn how to balance and abseil down with the aid of a rope and harness. Rappelling in Manali ranges in difficulty from moderate to hard. For people who are scared to try this activity, one option is to ascend the rock and then descend using an abseil.
Where: Solang Valley, Shuru, Kothi, Nehru Kund, Aleo
8. Shop Until You Drop
The ideal way for couples to end their Manali trip is to go shopping for handicrafts and souvenirs made locally that they can bring back to their homes as mementos. There are lots of sites to visit in Manali local sightseeing, and there are also lots of marketplaces to check out for fantastic deals. Trendy wool clothing, Pashmina shawls, handcrafted jewelry, handmade shoes and slippers, decorative objects, etc. can be purchased at the Manali markets at incredibly low costs.
Where: Mall Road, Old Manali Market, Tibetan Market, Manu Market, Himachal Emporium
9. Trekking The Diverse Terrains
Because of its breathtaking mountain beauty and diverse terrain, Manali is a well-liked trekking and hiking destination. Trekking trails abound that suit all skill levels, ranging from leisurely strolls to strenuous mountain ascents. Trekking through lush forests and beautiful streams to see snow-capped summits is an amazing experience. When discussing adventure activities in Manali, it’s important to remember that they offer more than just a chance to work up a sweat; they also give people a chance to fully appreciate the Himalayas’ breathtaking scenery.
Where: Beas Kund, Hampta Pass, Chandrakhani Pass, Rohtang Pass
10. Camping To Get Close To Nature
An increasingly popular pastime for adventure seekers and environment lovers in Manali during summer is camping. With its tranquil environs and stunning scenery, Manali provides travelers with a number of camping possibilities (riverside camping, jungle camping, night camping). Riverside camping is quite famous here, imagine sleeping next to a river while gazing at the starlit sky. It’s a great way to get back in touch with nature and escape the rush of daily life. Camping is considered one of the must things to do in Manali, make sure you don’t miss this experience.
Where: Solang Valley, Kothi, Raison
Book Now: Camping in Manali
11. Bike Ride Across The Highest Motorable Passes
A dream journey for many people is to ride a bike from Manali to Ladakh. When on holiday in Manali, you must take this thrilling ride from Manali to Ladakh. Visiting Pangong Lake, the highest saltwater lake in the world, is one of the highlights of this bike ride. This trip would be thrilling and unforgettable if it included passing across the highest motorable passes in the world or driving to Ladakh. The bright clear summer weather makes the ride even more memorable.
Where: Khardung la, Lachung la, Rohtang la, Baralacha la
Things To Do In Manali During Monsoon
Many avoid traveling to Manali during the monsoons due to the fear of heavy rains dampening all travel plans. But in reality, the valley is at its best during this time of the year. For those looking to enjoy the tranquility and natural splendor, here’s a list of top things to do.
12. Book A Jeep Safari Ride
In Manali, a Jeep safari is an exciting must-do activity during the rainy season. You can go exploring in isolated places, tranquil valleys, and mountain passes. Views of expansive landscapes, verdant valleys, and tumbling waterfalls are simply breathtaking during the monsoons. Engage in conversation with the locals to discover more about their customs and culture, and savor the delicacies of the regional cuisine. Make sure the guide you pick has the necessary experience to handle the difficult terrain.
Where: Spiti Valley, Chandratal Lake, Hampta Pass, Rohtang Pass, Lahaul Valley
13. Spend A Day Bird Watching
Among India’s most unusual birdlife are those seen in the Manali Sanctuary. During the rainy season, a large number of migrating birds converge here to breed. The sanctuary is home to a wide variety of bird species, including Koklass Pheasant, Snow Pigeon, Chakor, Western Tragopan, and TreeCreepers. Finding these unusual birds can take visitors hours as they stroll through the wilderness. It is an amazing experience to spend a day watching Manali’s birds and animals. For nature lovers, bird watchers and the ones who enjoy photography, this activity feels like heaven.
Where: Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, Great Himalayan National Park, Katrain, Naggar, Solang Valley
14. Take A Dip In The Beautiful Waterfalls
When on Manali tour during the rainy season, you can witness a few exciting waterfalls. The Jogini Falls are the most well-known. These falls are situated near the religiously significant village of Vashisht, which was supposedly founded by Lord Rama’s tutor, Guru Vashisht. You may go to the base of the falls with just an hour’s walk via apple orchards and wooded areas. This is the point at which the 160-foot-tall waterfall begins to cascade down. If you have enough energy, hike up to the top of the falls for an additional hour. If not, this is a lovely place to relax and watch the water drops land on your face.
Where: Jogini Waterfall, Rahala Waterfall, Jana Waterfall, Rozy Waterfall, Knoi Waterfall
15. Visit The Wildlife Sanctuary
There should be an asterix caution on every trip to Manali in August because the rain is unpredictable and may cause plans to be canceled. But thank goodness, a rainy day outside is perfect for exploring the breathtaking Manali Wildlife Sanctuary. The nice thing is that it’s easily accessible and is just 2 km or 15 minutes’ drive from Manali’s center. Numerous creatures can be found in the refuge, including flying foxes, musk deer, Himalayan black bears, and the elusive snow leopard. Additionally, pay attention to the numerous birds that fly among its trees. Apart from the wildlife sanctuaries, one can also visit the below mentioned National Parks.
Where: Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, Great Himalayan National Park, Khirganga National Park
16. Chill At The River Side Cafés
Imagine yourself enjoying a nice cup of coffee and some delicious nibbles while admiring the magnificent monsoon landscape while seated in a cozy little cafe near the roaring Beas River. Lazy Dog Lounge and Drifters’ Inn Cafe are popular choices that offer outside sitting with views of the River Beas. Even on wet rainy days, you stay dry and warm, thanks to their heaters and bonfires. These cafés are the ideal places to unwind after a day of sightseeing because they provide lovely Manali views and mouth watering food.
Where: Café 1947, River Music Garden Café, The Lazy Dog, Drifters’ Café, Johnson’s Café
17. Get A Spa Therapy
Rejuvenating spa services are the perfect approach to treat oneself during a monsoon vacation. Ayurvedic massages and treatments provide the ultimate in relaxation at Old Manali’s numerous renowned spas. Their wide range of menu items includes body cleanses, aromatherapy, hot stone massage, and other treatments made with natural oils and herbs. You’ll feel revitalized and renewed after receiving ayurvedic treatment. This element should be a must to do in your Manali itinerary.
Where: Ayura Spa, Sparsh Resort & Spa, Ziva Boutique Spa, ManuAllaya Resort Spa, The Himalayan Spa
Things To Do In Manali During Winter
Winter transforms the town of Manali into a snowy wonderland. Snowfall brings about a great deal of adventure activities to try out. Here’s a list of some of the best things to do on a thick layer of snow.
18. Skiing Down The Snow Covered Slopes
In Manali, skiing is a well-liked winter sport that entails sliding down snow-covered hills on skis. Manali is a top-rated skiing resort in India, drawing skiers from all over the world to its snow-covered slopes. The most well-liked area in Manali for skiing is the Solang Valley, which is around 14 km from Manali town. The valley has a variety of slopes for skiers of all skill levels to select from. It’s an amazing experience because of the valley’s breathtaking scenery and the rush of skiing down the slopes.
Where: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Gulaba, Dhundi, Marhi, Patalsu Peak
19. Go Snowboarding For Some Adrenaline Rush
With a variety of slopes to suit all skill levels, Manali is a well-liked location for snowboarders. Excellent snowboarding facilities are provided by the Manali ski resorts, they also provide beginner-friendly equipment rentals and instructors. With a variety of runs to suit all skill levels, the Solang Valley ski resort is a well-liked location for snowboarding activities in Manali. The adrenaline rush of snowboarding is combined with the breathtaking Himalayan scenery to create an exhilarating experience.
Where: Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Gulaba, Sethan, Hampta Valley
20. Soothing Dip In The Hot Springs
A swim in the natural hot springs of Manali is a great way to cap off your winter vacation. The springs of Vashisht hamlet, close to Old Manali, provide sulfur-rich geothermal waters that are renowned for their healing mineral qualities. The hot springs natural minerals are believed to have medicinal value that help cure infections and many skin diseases. Your body and mind are rejuvenated by soaking in the warm spring waters.
Where: Vashisht Hot Springs, Kalath Hot Water Springs, Manikaran Hot Springs, Kasol Hot Water Springs, Kheerganga Hot Springs
21. Get Cozy In An Igloo Stay
Offering the true excitement of a winter wonderland in Manali, this is the first of its type in India. Igloos are constructed entirely of pure white, new snow during the winter months. Guests can stay overnight or visit during the day to enjoy the food and snowy surroundings. The igloos are situated in the Hamta Valley, 12 km from Manali. The comfort of the igloo itself is another highlight of the visit. These igloo hotels are surprisingly warm and cozy considering they are built of snow, and they have a wood-burning stove or fireplace to add to the cozy ambiance.
Where: Sethan Village, Hamta Valley, Prini Village, Solang Valley
22. Attend Winter Carnivals & Festivals
To get an insight into the local culture and traditions of Manali, attending a carnival or festival will be apt. Most of Manali’s Winter Carnival and festivals take place during January when everything around is covered in snow. The colorful rituals performed with ancient traditions showcase the local culture of the place. One can get to see a lot of local performances, traditional dances and numerous adventure sports, all at the same time. Attending some of these festivals is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Manali.
Festivals & Carnivals: Manali Winter Carnival, Losar Festival, Himachal Winter Sports and Tourism Carnival, Doongri Festival, Phagli Festival, Halda Festival
Also Read: Thrilling Activities At Solang Valley
Final Thoughts
Be it summer, monsoon or winter, the endless things to do in Manali never disappoints its visitors. From serene experiences to thrilling adventure activities, this piece of heaven has it all. This blog here is an attempt to list out all the top activities to help you decide what to add to your Manali itinerary.
FAQs
Just like any other hill station, Manali too is famous for its stunning natural beauty, snow-capped peaks, lush valleys and its rich cultural attractions. But what really pulls the crowd is its many adventure sports activities.
Paragliding, River Rafting, Skiing, Snowboarding, Trekking, Mountain Biking, Zorbing, Rock Climbing, Camping and ATV Biking are the best adventure sports to try out while in Manali.
Summer months between March to June and winter months between October to February are great times to visit Manali.
