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India » Manali
 City Guide
 
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Manali, with snow-capped peaks providing the perfect backdrop to its fruit orchards and hillsides covered with dark green pine trees, is a must-see for all those who love nature. Named after the great sage Manu, Manali is a bustling town along the Beas river.You will never get bored in Manali. If you are an adventure sport enthusiast, this is one of the few places in India where you can do river rafting to your heart s content in the Beas. The Western Himalayas Mountaineering Institute in Manali provides rock-climbing courses for beginners, and the winter snow allows for lots of skiing. Don t miss the Roerich Gallery of Art in Naggar, a half-hour drive out of Manali.
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AIR
Jagson Airlines and Archana Airways fly from Delhi.
Airport
The nearest airport is at Bhuntar, 77 km from Manali.
ROAD
Take a taxi from Kullu (Rs 450-Rs 500) to cover the 67 km stretch.
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CLIMATE
The summers, with lots of sunshine, are pleasant in Manali. But if you love snowfall, this is the place to be in to enjoy. Although it is bitterly cold during winters, it is still one of the most beautiful places in the country.
STD CODE
01902
Population
4,200
Languages
Hindi, Himachali, English
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Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa
Little Tibetan monasteries, called Gompas, are a major tourist attraction in Manali. The Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa is full of life and colour.You can buy some carpets and durries from here.
Manu Temple
A picturesque half-hour walk up the hills in Old Manali takes you to the Manu Temple. Legend has it that Manu, the first Man, came to earth and landed on this spot after a great flood.
Vashisht Baths
Vashisht, a village along the banks of the river Beas, is famous for its hot springs and the temple of Lord Rama.
Hadimba Devi Temple
1.5 km from main Manali, Hadimba Devi Temple has a 4-tier pagoda-shaped roof with an intricately carved doorway and sculptures depicting Indian mythology. The surrounding woods are very scenic, and you?ll find plenty of locals ready to let you photograph them in their local attire. You can even hop onto a yak and get your photograph taken.
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Raison
Raison is located on the national highway, 16 km away from Kullu. There is trout angling with camping sites and apple orchards. It is the base camp for the Chandrakhani and Malana treks.
Katrain
Katrain is about 20 km from Kullu on the main highway and is famous for its apple orchards and trout hatchery.
Naggar
Naggar (28 km) is known for the Naggar Castle, which is now being run as a hotel by the tourism department. A must see is the art gallery of the famous Russian painter, Nicholas Roerich.
Bajaura
15 km before Kullu on the National Highway, Bajaura has a 8th century temple dedicated to Lord Basheshwar Mahadev.
Malana
Malana is a picturesque village on a trekking route from Jari after crossing the Parvati river. The villagers, believed to be the descendants of the Greek army of Alexander, have a democratic assembly, which takes care of the village?s administrative matters.
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You can shop around for handicrafts typical of the hills like heavily embroidered shawls, wooden crafts, pillbox woollen caps. Tibetan curios can be found in all the markets in Manali. Pick up some firans and inlaid silver jewellery in turquoise and coral from shops along the Mall. Most of these things, barring the pashmina, can be bought at affordable prices under one roof, at the New Shopping Centre at the Mall, Manali.
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