How to reach Manali?
An overnight bus tour from Chandigarh or Delhi is the best way to reach Manali. The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar is 50kms away, and the route to Manali is narrow-gauge, which makes it incredibly slow to reach Manali. Chandigarh and Ambala are the nearest broad-gauge railways stations, from where buses are available at quite cheap rates. Also 50 km away, is the nearest airport and that is in Bhuntar. Manali can also be reached from the Leh-Manali route, but it is open only in summer for 4-5 months.
What can you do in Manali?
Taking a walk through the streets of Old Manali, soaking yourself in the serene landscape, and shopping the local souvenirs there can be the best thing to do for an introvert like me. But, Manali offers activities to do for everyone- from nature lovers to adventure seekers. River-rafting, paragliding, skiing are available for those who crave the adrenaline rush. You can also heal spiritually by visiting the peaceful Hidimba Temple. Jogini waterfalls can heal any fatigued soul and mind, with their pristine waters. You can go mountain-biking, sled-riding, skiing on the vast snow dessert of the Rohtang Pass. Soak yourself in the holy water, to get away from the stress of daily life in the Vashist Baths.
What is the best time to visit Manali?
With the pleasant climate, bright flowers in their full bloom, and nature at its finest, October to June is the best time to visit Manali. If you want to experience snowfall in Manali, you should visit from December to February. With the temperature dipping to below zero, Manali becomes a snow-laden paradise on earth during this time of the year. Monsoons should be avoided while you prepare your Manali tour package, since the landslides and road blockages, cause hindrances.
What is the cuisine found in Manali?
Manali has countless restaurants, cafes, and bars with a rich variety and delicious food on their menu, which will leave your taste buds satisfied. Italian, Chinese, Korean, Continental, Indian, Japanese, Thai, Vietnamese, and Popular Tibetan momos- you name them and you get them in Manali. The cafes serving Pizzas, burgers, banana pancakes, momos, and many others cater to the younger crowds as well. You can also indulge in delicious street foods like samosas, aloo tikkis, bread pakodas, pav bhaaji, gulab jamun, and other street foods that fill the streets with its exotic aromas.
What are the fairs and festivals celebrated in Manali?
Winter Carnival in Manali is celebrated here with immense zeal and enthusiasm. Celebrated in the first week of January, the carnival displays the folk culture by the local artists enticing everyone. The Dhungri Fair is another important fair celebrated in Manali in the Hidimba Devi Temple, showing glimpses of the rich culture of the region. Other than these, Holi, Diwali, Navratri, and other festivals that are celebrated in other parts kf the country, are also celebrated here in Manali with great enthusiasm.
What to pack while visiting Manali?
Since Manali is situated at a higher altitude, the temperature is always on the lower side, thus making it compulsory to carry with you comfortable and warm woolen clothes. Good rubber-soled shoes will help you to walk in the snow, so it is advised to carry them with you. Id proofs are also required to visit some areas of the town. The Covid-19 situation has also made it compulsory to carry with your masks, sanitizers, and personal hygiene kits with you always. You should also carry a Vaccine completion certificate with you to prove you have completed all your covid vaccines. Other than these, carrying sunscreens, power banks, and personal medications are also advised.
What is the median Manali accommodation package?
Manali offers a wide range of hotels for accommodation, from luxury hotels to cheap guesthouses, from OYOs to Airbnbs. The average accommodation cost can range from INR1000 to INR4000 per person per night. Normally, hotels add food costs in their hotel rate charts, but if you want to dine at restaurants, many types of restaurants with good food at cheap rates are also available. The food budget ranges from INR300 to INR1500 per person.