Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Truly one of the most picturesque hill station of north India. Can’t say NO to this one even though been there two more times earlier. It all started when 6 friends wanted to move away from delhi, really away...550 kms should be good. Himachal tourism Volvo bus from delhi was much more comfortable then we all expected. Board in the evening and sunrise in the valley. Goodoption to take.

Manali is also one of busiest hill stations, during season time its as good or bad as any popular delhi market. Stay away from the mall as much as you can if you havn’t come here for shopping. But the most fascinating neighbourhood is the sleepy little Old Manali. Nothing has changed over the years, its still the spot for backpackers, mostly foreigner, with the some amazing cafes and bakeries. Recommendation from some of the members of this group took us to Drifter’s Inn; and it surely worked. Comfortable place with excellent food and service. Neatly done-up, the cafe has yummy food and deserts to offer; and don’t forget books and board games to never let a dull moment settle-in. Nishant (founder) takes charge of business most efficiently and was a great help.

Exploring the place on bike is definitely a must-do option. Visit the near-by beautiful and quite valley town of nagger, which also has Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. Nicholas Roerich, a popular painter settled down in this hill resort and set a vision to unite the world through his art. The art gallery is more than just a gallery as it boasts wonderful gardens and the surrounding area gives a picture perfect look of Himalayas. The home of N. K. Roerich is now turned into the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. There is a small room where the marvelous piece of work of the painter is on display. You can combine this trip with a visit to the Vashisht Hot Water Spring. But one look inside the temple complex and you don’t think about bathing in the hot spring pool.


Rohtang was apparently covered with 16 feet of snow, so the snow sports stops at Gulaba. On way back don’t miss the solang valley. Solang Valley presents awesome scenery of snow clad mountains and glaciers. Popularly called as the Snow point, Solang Valley is a perfect place for skiing and the 300 meter sky lift is the main fascination of this stunning location. Also offers challenging activities like Paragliding, Skiing and Zorbing.
Lots more to explore – manikaran hot springs, rohla waterfalls, malana village.

But its a wonderful feeling being in the middle of snow-clad peaks, manali is always a ‘old love’ of mine...