The gorgeous town of Manali, in Himachal Pradesh, North India is always a favourite of travellers and locals alike. The town is named after the Hindu law-giver Manu and is often referred to as the ‘Valley of the Gods’. Manali is also a top Indian skiing destination, which comes as no surprise as the town is surrounded by many picturesque snow-capped mountains. The town of Manali is split in to two sections: Old Manali and New Manali.
Old Manali is a beautiful town overlooking a rushing river that provides the perfect background melody. This high part of the town is basically one long winding street with interesting old houses of wood and stone, quaint shops, and cute cafes. If you’re looking for good coffee you’ve found the place to satisfy your craving.
You can get from Old Manali to New Manali by rickshaw, or, our preferred route, a quiet walk through the woods that comes out right on to the main street of new Manali.New Manali is a bustling hive of activity. Walking up and down Mall Road you’ll be provided with a feast for your eyes and ears. From here you can also catch a local bus to any of the surrounding towns or destinations. There are plenty of little backstreets in this part of town, which are great for shopping, especially if you’re in the market for a new book, and lots of cafes with delicious Indian and Tibetan food.And of course it wouldn’t be an Indian town if there weren’t a few temples dotted around the area. The Hadimba Temple is of principal interest to travellers. This temple, erected in 1553 and dedicated to the Goddess Hadimba, is found in the woods and is a pleasant few kilometres walk from the main town. Also the Manu Temple, located in Old Manali, has its fair share of visitors too. This temple is dedicated to the sage Manu who is said to be the creator of the universe. It is said he meditated here at this temple after he first stepped on to the earth.
There is also a small Tibetan community just south of the town centre with a market and a Buddhist monastery. You can rotate the prayer wheels as you roam around the tranquil gompa. Nearby Vashisht has hotsprings, temples and breathtaking views. And Naggar, south of Manali has the peculiar old castle and the fascinating Roerich art gallery.
If you’d like to come and see why Manali is such a popular destination come and join us on any one of these tours to the beautiful North of India : North Indian Healing Tour, Living the Ayurvedic Way North or Northern Exposure.
Please Note: Bookings for our North Indian Healing Tour close April 4th 2014.
Click here for our full list of tours.
Talk to us today 1300722932 or email info@touchofspirittours.com.au
See you next week.
