Quite possibly the most popular hill station of India, Manali lies in the wonderful vicinity of the Himalayas, complete with snow-capped hills and at the altitude of 2050m. You’ve seen the scenic abundance of Manali in films and television, and when seen in reality, it does not disappoint at all. Manali is every bit as picturesque as the postcard worthy photographs and films show it to be. With the many sights to see and the hours of lounging amidst the icy wind, there are also a bunch of things one can do when in the town. Check out the following fun things to do in Manali.
1. Trekking
Perhaps the most loved and famous activity in Manali is trekking. Trips are organized by many travellers where they only visit Manali for the thrilling treks along the adrenaline pumping rigorous hills and mountains. Camping and trekking in Manali is an absolutely enjoyable experience that one should surely not miss. April to October is the perfect, and most widely accepted time for trekking at this hill station, and the many trekking trails are namely Malana Village Trek, Hamya Herbal Trek, Hampta Pass Trek, Jogini Waterfalls Trek, Deo Tibba Base Camp Trek etc.
2. Rafting
Although Rishikesh is the most popular river rafting location, it is hardly match enough to the icy, dangerous river trails of Manali. The rapid, gushing waves and chilly water will not only leave your heart thumping but also leave you with an experience that you’re likely to never forget. Rafting in River Beas is a very popular activity amongst adventurers and rafting enthusiasts who explore all of the difficult waters in and around Manali.
3. Hot Spring Baths
The cold, chilling atmosphere of Manali is enough to make one want a nice hot bath that leaves one feeling rejuvenated and fresh. Hot springs exist at various places near Manali where you can retreat to for a nice warm day, ditching the chilled surrounding of the hill station.
Vashisht and Manikaran Village are the most popular spots for hot sulphur baths in Manali, and the best part is that after a nice long bath in the hot springs, you’ll have more resistance to the chilly hill station of Manali! This indulgent activity is most calming and fun at the same time.
4. Paragliding and Zorbing
Solang Valley is where most of the paragliding of Manali takes place. The high altitude location is an unavoidable adventurous activity that just can’t be given up. You must have the heart to glide through the zooming wind of Manali amidst the thrilling mountain valleys that will leave your heart racing even after you’ve touched the land. Paragliding is a popular and sought after activity in Manali.
Aside from which, Zorbing is also quite fun, and it can be done at Soland Valley itself. Glide through the hill slopes inside a giant transparent ball and watch the beauty of Manali unfold before your eyes like never before. If you don’t want to go alone, you can have one other person accompany you, for two people can make use of one ball at a time, which makes it all the more interesting and fun a thing to do!
5. Dine at Drifter’s Inn
After a long day of fun activities, you’ll want to relax and unwind, and possible get some food in your system. Drifter’s Inn is one such relaxing cafe where you can sit back and enjoy some delicious multi-cuisine food with some soothing beverages as well. It is located at the Old Temple Road in Old Manali Village.
The rooms here are quite cosy and quaint, giving you a chance to relax in the warm atmosphere of the Inn. Many tourists and travellers find home at Drifter’s Inn due to its sheer picturesque and charming nature along with an interesting view of the looming, snowy Himalayan peaks.
There are endless things one can indulge in while at Manali, and it is not a famous tourist destination for nothing. If you’re an adventurous person, most of the above activities would surely interest you greatly!
