If you're feeling mentally and emotionally exhausted, a trip to Kullu Manali would do you good. Though they both benefit from nature's bountiful gifts, the kinds of adventures each offers are distinct. The name "country of the gods" is well-deserved for Kullu. The beautiful landscape of forests, valleys, streams, rivers, and orchards that surrounds this area, which stretches out along the banks of the River Beas, is a source of pride for the people who live here. Manali is a picturesque hamlet in the valley of the Beas river, and it has become increasingly popular. Peace, history, nature, spirituality, and shopping are all rolled into one wonderful experience here. Thus, vacationing in Kullu Manali is not just about sightseeing, but also about adventure, spirituality, and being open to constant surprises.
Places to visit in Kullu Manali
For the trekking enthusiast:
1. Malana Village
Malana, a picturesque village close to Kasol, offers a revitalising weekend walk. Since there is no motorable road connecting Kasol and Malana, the hike begins in Kasol. The beautiful trek boasts picture-perfect scenery, with conifer forests, uphill village roads, the snow-capped Dhauladhar ranges, and the Parvati river all in view.
How to reach: Approximate 37 kilometres separate Kasol and Kullu.
2. Kheer Ganga
Kheer Ganga trekking is one of the most beautiful sights in Kullu for those who are willing to go the extra mile for a beautiful breathtaking view. The beautiful terrain of the Parvati valley makes it an ideal area to go hiking.
Those who have made this long and exciting trek can reward themselves with a soak in the soothing hot springs here.
3. Chandrakhani Pass
Chandrakhani Pass, at an altitude of 3,660 metres, is the most beautiful and peaceful spot in all of Kullu. It gives a breathtaking panorama of the Deo Tibba ridge, the Pir Panjal, and the Parbati Mountains.
This hike introduces people to Himachal Pradesh's distinctive culture.
4. Chandratal Lake
Located in the middle of Spiti valley on the Samudra Plateau, this lake has a crescent shape. The name "Lake of Moon" (or "Chandratal Lake") has become synonymous with the region surrounding this popular hiking destination.
Even though it can be difficult, this trek can be a paradise for a beginner.
5. Prashar Lake
The Prashar Lake Trek is one of the most scenic and exciting hikes in all of Himachal. The Dhauladhar range of hills is home to the bowl-shaped valley, which offers trekkers views of dense forests and snow-capped peaks. The hike is short enough to fit into a weekend itinerary.
How to reach: Get to Baggi, Himachal Pradesh
6. Chandrakhani Pass
This hike takes you through the beautiful Kullu valley and extensive jungles, where you can see more wildlife than anywhere else in the area. Among adventurers, this low-altitude expedition is held in the same high regard as any other.
This path, which you may travel over the course of two days, features camping options along the way.
7. Jogini Waterfall
The Vashisht Jogini Waterfall trek is one of the shortest treks to savour trekking. This trek poises the essence of nature and hiking trip.
This is an enjoyable trek, which can be done in 2 to 3 hours from Vashisht Temple. It is perfect to enjoy the panoramic beauty and village life.
How to reach Vashisht village, 7.5 from Manali
For the party animal:
8. Psy-trance Parties at Kasol
PSY parties, also known as psychedelic trance or psy-trance, feature musical arrangements of rhythms and melodies crafted from fast-paced riffs. The PSY parties in Kasol are a time for carefree revelry, with dancing, drinking, and music. Each year, thousands of psy-trance enthusiasts go to the mountains for one reason: to experience the best trance in the world.
9. Parvati Peaking Festival
The Parvati Peaking Festival, India's own psy-trance music festival, has had multiple years of resounding success. The festival boasts a stellar roster of DJs and musicians, making it one of the largest gatherings of its kind.
For those who just want to chill:
10. Naggar Castle
Naggar, a historic town in Kullu that has been left in its original, unspoiled state, is a popular tourist destination. Naggar Castle has been renovated into a historic hotel. You'll be able to arrange your stay in the castle itself!
11. Meditate at Arjun Gufa
Visiting the Arjun Gufa, which is situated at the river's back, is one of the most tranquil things to do in Manali. You can either stroll or trek to the location of the cave, which is near to the Naggar Castle and surrounded by an abundance of beauty.
For honeymooners:
12. Ride a yak
Yak riding is one of the many activities available in Manali, and it's at its peak from November to February. Where else but in a snowy mountain range that you might find these furry pals? The Solang Valley, Kullu, and Kufri are some of the few other locations where yak riding is common.
13. Stroll on Mall Road
Local specialities can be found for sale on the mall road in Manali. There are numerous cafes in Manali to eat at, places to stay, and shop, as well as a wide range of services and goods from which to choose. Shawls, tweed coats, fake jewellery, Tibetan arts and crafts, and wooden name boards are just some of the popular goods to purchase.
For the adventure seekers:
14. River rafting in Kullu
Kullu's whitewater rafting deals are out of this world. Have fun navigating a 14-kilometer section of the Beas river. From Piri, you'll travel to Jhiri. Feel free to get in the boat, and experience this exciting adventure.
15. Paragliding in Kullu
Paragliding, a thrilling extreme sport, is a top attraction in the beautiful mountain town of Kullu.
Many thrill-seekers flock to Kullu because it is a centre for air sports. You may be certain that safety is not a concern because you will be put through a rigorous training programme that is closely supervised by experts. There are also spots to paraglide over Manali.
16. Skiing in Manali
The magnificent Solang Valley or Solang Nallah is one the most beautiful places to witness the impact of snow on Manali. Paragliding and zorbing enthusiasts flock to the valley in the summer, and skiers and snowboarders flock there in the winter to try their hand at Manali skiing.
How to reach It is located at about 14 km from Mall Road, Manali.