Manali, also known as the “Valley of Gods” is a stunning destination for all types of travelers. The picturesque town is divided into two (New Manali and Old Manali) by the Manalsu river. Most of the tourists visit New Manali because of its scenic beauty and adventure activities. On the other hand, old Manali is the complete opposite of New Manali, it’s like a breath of fresh air. It is a more peaceful and organic town with a smaller crowd. So the next time you are in Manali, do cross over to experience the perfect mix of culture, nature, adventure and relaxation.
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Old Manali vs New Manali
Both old and new Manali have their unique charm, choosing between them mainly depends on what experience you’re looking for.
Old Manali gives an authentic mountain village feel which is great for travelers looking for some peace and tranquility. The overall pace of the place is rather slow in comparison with New Manali. Its rustic charm, peaceful atmosphere, hippie culture, vibrant nightlife, cozy cafés and scenic views are the highlights of this place. You will see a lot of solo travelers, nature lovers and backpackers in Old Manali as the laid back vibe of the place allows them to explore at their own pace.
New Manali is more of a developed and modern place which is perfect for travelers who are looking for entertainment, shopping and scenic views, all in one place. The place is more developed and modern, hence it is an easy access to all the top tourist attractions. Since New Manali has a wide range of attractions and activities, it attracts a lot of crowd. It’s a perfect place for people coming with family and friends.
How To Reach Old Manali From Manali
Situated 6590 feet above sea level and just 2 km uphill from Manali center is Old Manali, a place that looks just out of a retro movie. A small narrow bridge connects Old Manali from New Manali and this bridge can be crossed by foot. It is highly recommended to walk as the 30 minutes’ walk over the bridge promises some breathtaking views.
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Best Time To Visit
Best time to visit depends on the kind of activity one is looking for. If you are looking to travel with family, then Summer months from April to June are great as the weather during this time is ideal for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.
Avoid monsoon months between July to September as heavy rain can make visiting places difficult and dangerous. However if you love nature and looking to spend some time enjoying the beauty of the place, then monsoon is a good time as everything around is lush and green at this time of the year.
For winter sports activities, carnivals and festivals the winter months between November to February is the ideal time.
What To Do When In Old Manali
There are many places to visit here that will keep you occupied throughout your stay. Here is a list of them so that you don’t miss out on any while on your trip.
Visit Hidimba And Manu Temple
You cannot leave the town without a visit to the two ancient temples that have a lot of historical and cultural importance. The Hidimba Temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba Devi is a cave temple built in 1553 CE by Maharaja Bahadur Singh. The unique pagoda-style architecture used to build the temple is worth seeing. The Manu temple built of stone and wood is another temple that needs a special mention. This temple is dedicated to Manu Rishi, a revered sage and also the author of the religious text Manusmriti.
Trek To Jogini Waterfalls
A trek to Jogini waterfalls is one of the best things to do in Old Manali for backpackers and adventure enthusiasts. About an hour of trekking through a scenic trail brings one to this beautiful waterfall. The stunning waterfall cascading down from a height of about 150 feet is a beautiful sight. It is considered sacred among the locals, hence many people come here to take a dip.
Suggested Reads: Out in the Himalayas: A trekking experience I cannot forget
Stroll Through The Naggar Castle
Many tourists flock to see this castle as this is where few of the scenes from the famous Bollywood movie “Jab We Met” was shot. It was built in 1460 A.D. using a blend of Western and Himalayan style of architecture. Naggar Castlehas anart gallery, museum and a heritage hotel housed inside it. One can get inside the castle between 7:00 am to 10:00 pm by paying an entry fee of INR 15/-.
Shop At Old Manali Market
No vacation is complete without shopping from the local market, Manali is no different. Shopping in the local market is an experience in itself. From handicrafts to souvenirs, clothes to jewelry, you can find them all here. Look out for some great souvenirs, woolen shawls, wooden handicrafts and music albums to take back home for loved ones.
Get Adventitious While Skiing
The snowy slopes of this place are great for people looking for some thrills and excitement. Winter months provide wide options for skiing in the cool mountains with amazing views. Be it beginners or experts, the slopes of Manali provide a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Serene Escape With Nature Walks
There are many peaceful trails for all skill levels to enjoy the serene beauty of the Himalayas. As you walk past beautiful streams and valleys you will encounter some vibrant wildflowers, stunning views of the valley and chirping sounds of birds. This immersive experience is the perfect way to have a deeper connection with nature.
Savor Local Cuisine And Culture
Old Manali has some amazing Indian and international foods to try. Since backpackers and solo travelers from all over the world visit here frequently, the locals have learnt many international recipes to suit every palate. Popular international dishes from Italian, Mexican, Israeli, Tibetan and Chinese are available in the many cafes and restaurants. Don’t forget to try local delicacies such as sidhu, thukpa, momos and trout fish while here.
Things To Keep In Mind While Visiting Old Manali
- – The weather is very unpredictable here, hence pack accordingly. Carry sweaters, jackets and gloves to protect from the chilly nights.
- – The place is best explored on foot. A good pair of comfortable shoes is a must to navigate hilly terrain and sloppy roads.
- – Old Manali roads are generally narrow, hence be cautious while using cycles and bikes.
- – Dehydration in high altitude places can happen quickly so stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
- – Carry some cash or keep your UPI accounts loaded as most of the cafes and shops do not accept cards.
- – Respect the place and its people by traveling mindfully. Littering and spoiling the pristine environment is a big NO.
- – Wi-Fi connectivity may not be that great, so ditch your gadgets and enjoy nature.
Also Read: 22 Amazing Things To Do In Manali Throughout The Year
Conclusion
Now that you are ready to embark on a journey to uncover this beautiful winter paradise, make sure you make the most of your trip to Old Manali. Do let us know of your experience in the comments below.
FAQ’s
Both the old and new Manali are totally different from each other. While the old one is known for its bohemian vibe and laid-back scenes, the new one is the more commercialized one. So if you are looking for relaxation, the old side is the one for you and if you are looking for a modern lively environment, New Manali is the one.
Since the place has a very laid-back vibe, many cafes are started for people to spend time sipping on coffee and enjoying the scenic views. Some of the must visit cafes are Café 1947, The Lazy Dog, Drifters’ Café, Shesh Besh, Johnson’s Café, Rendezvous Café, The Oven in the Garden and People Café.
There are different types of homestays to cater to all types of travelers. Do check out our list of some of the best. La Riqueza, Orchards House, The Dog on the hill, Shobla Pine Royale, Ram Cottage, Forest Way Cottage, Rock Top Inn and The Deephill Vivid are must stay places in Manali.
Glacier Cottages, Himalayan Log Cottages, Hadimba Cottages, Snow Peak Cottages, Mountain Face Cottage, Daffodil Cottages are few of the many top cottages to check out during your vacation.
