Manali in Himachal Pradesh
Among the exquisite tourist attractions in India is Manali, a charming town and hill station situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It attracts both citizens of India and the tourists with an Indian e-Visa that come to visit the country.
Once only a trade village situated between two prominent ranges of the Himalayas, it was the British that resorted to it, particularly during the summers.
And with time, it has become a heavenly destination for bikers, adventure lovers, as well as those that simply visit it to enjoy the scenic beauty and the weather.
If waterfalls, snow-capped mountains, forests and fantastic weather are what delight you, then you must visit the place.
History of Manali
Manali has both proven historical facts and legends around it, both of which tourists with an Indian e-Tourist Visa find interesting.
The name Manali comes from the lawgiver Manu, whose teachings constitute the first ancient legal text, Manusmriti. It was earlier known as Manu-Alaya or the abode of Manu.
Legend says that Manu recreated human life here when it was destroyed by a great flood. Several temples dedicated to Manu are still found in Manali, alongside those dedicated to other Hindu gods.
Historically, it is the originating place of an ancient trade route that goes up to Kashmir.
Where is Manali Located and How To Reach It?
Manali is located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, on the northern end of the Kullu valley formed by the Beas river. It stands at a height of 1926 m (6319 ft) above sea level.
Since it is one of the most popular tourist destinations, travellers have different options through which they can reach it after they enter India using their Indian e-Visa.
To begin with, there is the Kullu-Manali airport that is just 50 KMs away from Manali. It is connected by flights from Delhi, Chandigarh and other major cities of India.
Then there is the option to reach Manali via road, through buses or hired taxis as plenty of options for both are available. You can choose to travel in these either from the neighbouring districts of Himachal Pradesh, or the nearby states.
There is also rail connectivity, although it is less preferred given the fact that the nearest rail station Jogindernagar is 160 KM away. There are other railway stations too, for example, Kiratpur is the one on the Kullu-Chandigarh highway.
Now once you reach any of these rail stations, cabs and other modes of transportation should be available to take you to Manali.
Major Attractions of Manali
The true grace of Manali is in its weather and sceneries, although that is not all. For those seeking adventure, there are tons of activities such as:
- Paragliding
- Rock climbing
- Heli-Skiing
- Water sports
- River Rafting
- Hiking
- Trekking
The list doesn’t end here as there is more stuff as well that you must try in Manali.
Now there are various popular tourist spots too that one must cover when visiting it. We have summed up a chosen few, that should make your visit to India through your Indian e-Visa the most memorable.
Rohtang Pass
The Rohtang pass in Manali gives access to Lahaul and Spiti and naturally is a dream destination for motorbikers. And it’s not just motorbikers but all kinds of tourists that adore the tour to Rohtang Pass.
However it is blocked by heavy snow during and after November, and it is only after May that tourists are allowed, and that too in small numbers and only with permits.
Hidimba Devi Temple
This temple is dedicated to Hidimba, wife of Bhima, the legendary hero of the Hindu Epic Mahabharata. It is in proximity to the town centre, or Mall road and hence is easily accessible by tourists travelling on Indian e-tourist Visa.
The temple itself is extremely elegant and has a dense cedar forest in the background. And while you may be trying to picture it, it comes nowhere close to the real experience.
Naggar
Naggar is an ancient town that lies 22 KM away from Manali and once was its capital city. This is another famous spot where tourists visit to witness the ancient monuments, the Naggar palace, museums and so on.
Vashisht Village
The Vashisht village lies 3 KM from Manali and is known especially for its hot water springs and the three temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, Lord Vashisht and Lord Rama.
The springs are known to have healing powers and the entire aura of holiness and peace attracts numerous tourists each year.
Get Your Indian e-Visa And Answer The Call of the Mountains
If you are visiting India on an Indian e-Visa for tourism purposes, then you may want to plan for a trip to Manali.
It only takes 7 days for the average trip here, but trust us when we say that these would be some of the best times you spend in India.