Things to do in Manali is an exhaustive list which needs an exhaustive planning period but all of it can be tackled when you find the right source to start from. Manali is in Himachal Pradesh and has been the oldest favourite summer destination of India. It is the perfect destination for people who want to enjoy snow. In winters, snow can be found in the town and Solang valley. Rohtang pass is the most attractive snow destination in summers for the ones who want to beat the heat in the cities. Rohtang pass is the only place in India where you have access to snow by road in the summers.

Most Trending Things to do in Manali and Attractions:

The most popular destinations to visit in Manali are the Hadimba Temple, Vashishth temple and hot springs, Rohtang pass, Solang valley for paragliding and Manu Temple and cafes in old Manali. The town of Manali remains quite crowded most of the times. For the ones who seek offbeat things to do in Manali, you can move a little away from the town for unique experiences.

1.Visit Naggar Castle

Naggar Castle belonged to the king of Kullu in the medieval age. This castle is now converted into a heritage hotel, which is open for visit to outsiders too. Naggar is a small settlement in Kullu district, 20 kms before Manali. The castle is built in traditional Himachali architecture from wood, mud and stones and showcases beautiful wood carvings from the olden days. The courtyard of the castle is converted into a cafe overlooking beautiful mountains.

2. Visit Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery in Naggar

In the early 19th century, a Russian artist Nicholas Roerich lived in Naggar and now his house is converted into an art gallery which is a major attraction near Naggar castle. This gallery houses rare paintings of Nicholas Roerich. The gallery gives enriching experience to all art lovers and the location of the art gallery gives a placid experience to all nature lovers.

3. Drive to Jana Waterfall

Jana falls is a beautiful natural waterfall in the village named Jana. It is around 32km drive from Manali and 12 km drive from Naggar. The road to Jana falls takes you through beautiful pine forests and gives breathtaking views of the Kullu valley. In winters, the road to Jana falls gives a spectacular views of snow covered mountains. The fall forms a natural pool swimming for a refreshing dip. There are few dhabas near the fall that serve local Himachali dishes, which is definitely not to be missed.

4. Drive to Rumsu Village

Rumsu is a small hamlet, 2 km away from Naggar. Rumsu falls in the route to Chanderkhani pass trek. It is a scenic drive up to this village and you can observe the simple lifestyle of the Himachali people. In winters, the snow covered village looks alluring.

5.Traditional Himachali houses in the villages near Naggar

There are beautiful villages between Kullu and Manali on the Kullu-Naggar-Manali road like Karjan, Sajla, Soil, Siyal, etc. which depict the traditional Himachali lifestyle. The villages here are still decorated with the vibrant traditional Himachali houses. Walk around the villages to meet people, talk to them about their lifestyle and take beautiful pictures.

6. Ancient Tripura Sundari Temple in Naggar

Tripura Sundari Temple in Naggar is a unique temple built completely with Deodhar wood in the ancient times. The temple built in traditional Himachali style looks pretty in tranquility.

7. Hike in the Pine Forests

Areas around Manali are densely covered with tall pine and cedar trees. Hiking in these forests to get a birds-eye view of the valley is unique experience. The hiking trails take you some natural wonders like likes, villages, rivers or to villages. Spend half a day hiking with some packed food on the way to spend time with nature and yourself.  

8. Pluck Apples with Locals

Kullu valley is famous for the apple orchards. If you go in the right season for apples, it will be a fun experience to visit some apple orchards and go apple plucking with the people working in the orchard. You get to bite delicious apples in the process and this should definitely be in your list of things to do in Manali other than usual touristy things!

9. Trek to Bhrigu Lake

For the more adventurous ones, Bhrigu Lake trek (14100 ft) is an excellent trekking experience around Manali. The 2/3 day trek starts from a village called Gulaba. Bhrigu lake is a glacial lake which is surrounded by snow or grass, depending on the season. There are various trekking companies in Manali that organise this trek.

10. Live in a Boutique Himachali Resort

There are countless other thThere are quite a few boutique properties in Naggar. You can live in Naggar Castle, or few other properties in the villages around in a serene ambiance. Experience Himachali culture through  Himachali food, cottages, art and architecture while living in these properties. In order to plan a trip to suit your travel needs, check out Scout My Trip.