18 Best Things To Do In Manali, India - Updated 2024

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Heena 
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A high-altitude Himalayan resort town, Manali is situated in India’s northern Himachal Pradesh state. Book one of the best hotels or top Oyo rooms in Manali and visit this one-of-a-kind town. If you’re wondering what to do in Manali, well, it is generally known as a honeymoon destination and it is a great place for adventure lovers who love to ski, paraglide, go river rafting, and much more.

These are some of the best things to do in Manali, that shouldn’t be missed for your next trip.

1. Paragliding in Kullu Manali (from USD 24.0)

Adventure seekers can experience stunning mountain and valley views from a unique perspective, flying through the air on a paragliding adventure. The Manali region is renowned for its excellent paragliding opportunities, as it boasts breathtaking views and optimal thermal air currents. Flights typically last around 15 minutes, depending on weather conditions.

All necessary safety gear will be provided for your peace of mind. You will take off from a high point and embark on a magical journey, hearing your own breath as you float through the air like a bird. The experience is life-changing, with an out-of-this-world panoramic view of the entire town and the snow-covered peaks.

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15-Minute Paragliding Flight with Mountain Views from Manali

Duration: 15 minutes

5 reviews

2. Rani Sui Lake Trek, Manali (from USD 88.0)

Looking for an adventurous trek that will give you breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains and famous peaks? Look no further than Rani Sui Lake! This beautiful high altitude trek, located in the Manali Himalayas, takes you to the stunning Rani Sui Lake, which sits at an impressive 12,420 feet (128.02 meters).

You will enjoy hiking through beautiful terrain, camping under the stars, and delicious meals along the way. Plus, you’ll have the benefit of a knowledgeable trekking guide and comfortable accommodations. The trek begins in Manali and finishes at Kanyal Road, ensuring you get the most out of your Himalayan adventure.

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Rani Sui Lake Trek Manali

Duration: 3 days

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3. Vashist Hot Water Springs

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

Nestled in the picturesque Vashist village, you willl find the Vashist Hot Water Springs, a perfect oasis for relaxation. Immerse yourself in the warm waters and take in the breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountains. Known for their Sulphur-infused waters, these natural hot springs are believed to have healing properties, attracting many visitors seeking a therapeutic experience. It’s worth noting that separate bathing rooms are available for men and women.

In addition to the hot springs themselves, you’ll find a variety of shops and restaurants in the nearby town of Vashist, making it a great spot to spend the day.

Vashist Hot Water Springs

Address: Vashist village near Manali

Opening hours: 7am - 1pm, 2pm - 9pm (daily)

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4. A hot water bath at Manikaran

manikaran hot water springs
Source: Photo by Flickr user balu used under CC BY 2.0

If you are going to Manali, you shouldn’t miss this stop, because nothing is better than a lavish hot water bath at Manikaran. This place is situated in Parvati Valley, 45 km (28 miles) from Kullu, and is one of the most relaxing things to do around Manali. The gripping thing about this place is that the spring comes to the surface with some pressure. It is a pilgrimage site, especially for Sikhs and Hindus and people believe that the springs of Manikaran have healing powers. Muscle pain and rheumatism are said to be cured quickly, by taking a hot water bath, here.

Hot water bath at Manikaran

Address: Manali, Kullu, India.

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5. Visit Hidimba Devi Temple (from USD 19.0)

One of the top activities in Manali is visiting Hidimba Devi Temple. It is also known as the Dhungiri Temple, is one of the most famous and religious temples in Manali. This four story, wooden temple is situated in the middle of the Dhungiri Van Vihar forest and is dedicated to Devi Hidimba, a character from the Mahabharata. A large number of people come here, not just for prayers but also to witness the beauty manifested in the construction of this temple.

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Private 6 Hrs Shimla City Tour

Duration: 5 to 6 hours

6. Go on an outdoor adventure at Solang Valley

Solang Valley ,Manali, Himachal Pardes, India
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Harvinder Chandigarh used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Solang Valley is an ideal place for adventure sports, such as zorbing, parachuting, skating and paragliding. It is also loved by skiers, because of its fantastic slopes. The snow on the slopes evaporates during the summer, resulting in the ideal ground for zorbing, where visitors can be tossed down the hill, inside an unbreakable, bouncy ball. The Solang Valley is perfect for adventure lovers and for those who want to lose themselves in an assortment of exciting activities.

Solang Valley

Address: Manali, India

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7. Take in the nature views at Rohtang Pass

Rohtang pass snowy valley01
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Miya.m used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Rohtang Pass is also known as the Snow Point of Manali and a large number of people come to visit this place. In the winter, the mountains of the Rohtang Pass are completely covered in snow and it is closed from October until May. After the winter, the pass becomes the best place for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. This is a must-visit place if you want to enjoy nature and spend quality time, together.

Rohtang Pass

Address: Manali, Himachal Pradesh

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8. Check out Manali Wildlife Sanctuary

Cedrus deodara Manali 3
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Paul Evans used under CC BY 2.0

The Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is located only 2 km (1.2 miles) away from Manali and is a natural paradise. Spread over a huge area of 3,000 hectares (7,413.2 acres), it is full of lush green forests and snow-capped mountains. Here, you will experience the sights and sounds of beautiful, colorful birds and exotic flora and fauna. This place is heaven for birdwatchers and shutterbugs and a plenitude of treecreepers, kingfishers and kokla, are the most commonly found species.

Manali Wildlife Santuary

Website: Manali Wildlife Santuary

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9. Visit Tibetan monasteries

Tibetan temple at Manali
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Miya.m used under CC BY-SA 3.0

In Kullu, Manali, you will find a large Tibetan population and their monasteries, which are a testimony to their spiritual beliefs and traditions. These monasteries are a sign of the development and history of the Tibetan people, in Manali. The Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa and Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa are very well-known monasteries, here and there is also the Tibetan Handicraft Center, where visitors can find many traditional gifts.

Tibetan Monasteries

Address: Gompa Rd, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

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10. Get a tattoo in Old Manali

Get inked
Source: Pixabay

One should definitely leave Manali with lifelong memories and some fun loving and trendy people make sure this is guaranteed by choosing to get inked here. Old Manali is full of tattoo parlors and quaint cafes. Go to the cafe, spend some time alone with yourself and get the tattoo of your choice!

Old Manali

Address: Manali, Himachal Pradesh

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11. Go zorbing and paragliding in Khajjiar

Khajjiar
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user SriniG used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Khajjiar is known as the ‘Mini Switzerland” of India and the feeling you get when visiting is more than just being in paradise. The fresh air, in the lap of nature, is beyond amazing and it’s also an area known for its adventure activities. Zorbing is one of the most popular activities in Khajjiar, where you can experience rolling down the hill, in a huge unbreakable and transparent plastic ball - it will make anybody’s world go round and the green slopes of Khajjiar are the perfect place to perform this activity. Don’t worry if you are a bit scared, the guides will take care of you and you can even zorb with a friend or loved one!

You can also paraglide in Khajjiar, a perfect place due to its open space and high altitude.

Zorbing and Paragliding in Khajjar

Address: Khajjar, Manali

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12. Rafting in Kullu (10 USD)

Himachal Pradesh
Source: Photo by Flickr user B Balaji used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Kullu is a broad, open valley, formed by the River Beas, the river between Manali and Largi. Rafting in Manali, in the icy cold water, is totally a heart racing experience. The River Beas is at its strongest here and the valley is famous for its 14 km (8.7 mile) stretch of white water, perfect for rafting! The rafting activity is done with a trained guide for safety purposes and you’re guaranteed a thrilling experience. The best time for white water rafting in Kullu is in June.

Rafting in Kullu

Address: Kullu, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

White Water River Rafting in Kullu Manali

Price: 10 USD

Duration: 45 minutes

Website:

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13. Ride a yak in the Solang Valley

Yak
Source: Needpix

Riding a yak is a top rated activity in the Solang Valley and a great way to explore the area and take some photos. The route through the Solang Valley is full of great places to stop and so many people enjoy taking this journey, by yak.

Ride a yak in the Solang Valley

Address: Solang Valley, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

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14. Ski & snowboarding day trips at the Rohtang Pass and Patalsu

Rohtang pass - Manali - 80,000+ views.
Source: Photo by Flickr user B Balaji used under CC BY 2.0

Get ready for an exhilarating day of skiing and snowboarding on the mountains of the Rohtang Pass and Patalsu. One should definitely work up the guts to take in some skiing or snowboarding from these superior locations. Food, like the all time favorite Maggi, is available at the to, so you can enjoy a hot, soupy, vegetable-filled bowl, after your adventure. Make sure to ask your partner or friends to take some amazing photographs of you, doing these activities.

Ski & Snowboard Day Trips at Rohtang Pass and Patalsu

Address: Rohtang, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

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15. Shop around Manu Market

Old Manali Market
Source: Photo by Flickr user Kiran Jonnalagadda used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The thriving yet small market known as Manu Market is popular for both tourists and locals alike. Its vibrant colors and charming goods give the market a very welcoming ambiance. The place is generally a one-stop-shop, offering a variety of items like books, clothing, shoes, accessories, and even electrical appliances and household decor, as well as kitchen items. It’s best to check out their goods as you can mostly get things at a bargain price. If you do feel hungry while shopping, you’ll also find that the area has a number of shops and restaurants selling local delicacies and snacks. When shopping in Manu Market it’s best that you bring cash since cards are not accepted here.

Manu Market

Address: The Mall, Manali, Manali Tehsil India

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16. Visit the monastery of Manali Gompa

Buddhist temple
Source: Photo by Flickr user Ryan used under CC BY 2.0

Known as “Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa,” Manali Gompa is a celebrated Buddhist monastery and is among the top must-visit attractions in Manali. This temple has been standing for more than 60 years now and was originally built by Tibetan refugees. Famed for its rich and overflowing spiritual energy, the place may be small but many people from all over the world seek to be blessed in this holy site. Manali Gompa is also beautifully designed with pagoda-style architecture. Gorgeously painted, its exterior is stunning while its interior houses a giant Buddha image and murals of Buddha’s teachings and philosophy. Within the monastery area, you’ll also find a small shop that sells some Tibetan goods and handicrafts as souvenirs.

Manali Gompa

Address: Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, Manali

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17. Learn more about Manali by visiting Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art

Museum Of Himachal Culture & Folk Art, Manali, Kullu, HP India
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user [Unknown] used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Learn more about India in this unique museum that houses an impressive collection of some of the most historical and traditional artifacts of the country. Its rich exhibit showcases ancient items like traditional clothing, accessories, furniture, and even wood carvings. They also have some religious items, musical instruments, and intricate masks that represent the deities. The place is known to have a display of several sale-sized architectural feats of the country. Know more about the country’s rich culture and appreciate their traditions - Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art does not only aim to preserve India’s culture but also to share it among locals and tourists alike.

Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art

Address: Utopia Comlex, Hadimba Temple Rd, near Hadimba Temple, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131, India

Website: Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

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18. Relax and unwind with Shri Hari Yoga Ashram

2016_01_17_KenyaLive_Day_#11_Yoga_Treehouse_JPEG_RESIZED_0038
Source: Photo by Flickr user Make it Kenya used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Shri Hari Yoga Ashram is truly a revelatory experience. Located in the village of Vashisht, near Manali, India, this facility is a great way to experience authentic Indian yoga. Even traveling to the village from Manali is a spiritual journey, requiring a rickshaw to take you there through picturesque surroundings. Once there, the facility expertly teaches an assortment of classes and exercises, including traditional Hatha Yoga, meditation, and breathing techniques. Visitors even participate as a form of physical therapy, giving this place a clinical side as well. One thing is for sure, you will certainly leave Shri Hari Yoga Ashram in a better physical, mental, and spiritual place than when you arrived.

Shri Hari Yoga Ashram

Address: Vashist, Himachal Pradesh 175103, India

Website: Shri Hari Yoga Ashram

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Have an exciting journey in Manali...

Mountains, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Shameer Thajudeen used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Now that you know about the best things to do in Manali, what are you waiting for? This is the perfect time to go on a trip to Manali and take in all of these activities. Now you know what to see in Manali, so appreciate it and head back home after your trip with some amazing memories for your travel diary!

Don’t forget to check out some backpacker hostels and homestays for more accommodation options.

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Frequently asked questions about the best things to do in Manali, India


  • What are the best attractions to visit in Manali?

    Some of the best attractions to visit in Manali are Manikaran hot springs, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass and Patalsu, and Manali Gompa. Make sure you don’t miss any of these places when in the area.

  • What are the best outdoor activities in Manali?

    Go zorbing, parachuting, skating, paragliding, and even riding a yak in Solang Valley. Other outdoor activities you can enjoy include rafting in Kullu and taking day trips from Rohtang Pass and Patalsu.

  • What are the most popular things to do in Manali with kids and family?

    Have an amazing family day in Manali and visit some of its most popular attractions for kids and the family. Take a dip in Manikaran hot springs, enjoy a day of adventure, sports, and yak-riding in Solang Valley, or simply visit Museum of Himachal Culture & Folk Art for a more educational day out.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Hailing from India, Heena explores the world through information and people's preferences. She sees beauty in every place and excels as a storyteller and expressive writer. Moreover she is an...Read more

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