Manali Travel Guide

Manali, in Himachal's Kullu Valley on the banks of the Beas, is one of India's top destinations for mountain adventure and honeymoons. It is a base for Solang Valley, the seasonal Rohtang Pass, and for skiing, paragliding, rafting and trekking.

December to February for snow and snow sports; March to June for pleasant weather and adventure activities. Rohtang Pass is generally open only in the warmer months.

By air: Bhuntar airport near Kullu (~50 km) has limited flights; Chandigarh (~310 km) is the nearest major airport for most travellers. By train: Chandigarh and Kalka are the practical railheads, with road onward. By road: very well served by overnight Volvo and state buses from Delhi (~530 km) and Chandigarh.

Local taxis and auto-rickshaws cover the town and nearby sights; shared cabs and tour operators run trips to Solang Valley and (with a permit) Rohtang Pass. Old Manali is walkable from the main town.

Himachali and Tibetan food both feature strongly — try local trout, thukpa, momos and siddu. Old Manali and Mall Road have a wide range of cafes and restaurants.

Day 1: Hadimba Temple, Old Manali and Mall Road; riverside cafes in the evening. Day 2: Solang Valley for adventure activities or snow play. Day 3 (seasonal): Rohtang Pass with a permit, or the Naggar/Kullu side and local sightseeing.

Heavy warm layers and snow-appropriate footwear in winter; lighter layers plus a rain jacket in the warmer months; sturdy shoes for any trekking or adventure activity.

Rohtang Pass access is seasonal and permit-controlled with daily vehicle limits — arrange permits in advance and check the current opening status. Adventure activities are weather-dependent.