HOW TO ENJOY A TRIP OF 3 DAYS IN MANALI – A BLISSFUL ESCAPE TO NATURE’S EMBRACE

Manali, situated at an elevation of 2050 meters, is an enchanting hill station that offers captivating views, charming villages, thrilling adventure sports, refreshing weather, meandering streams, mesmerizing waterfalls, and picturesque cottages. It is a must-visit destination for any hill station lover. To ensure you have an unforgettable experience in Manali, we have put together a well-crafted 3-day itinerary that includes the top attractions and recommendations for accommodations. Get ready to create cherished memories during your trip to Manali.
How Many Days Would be Enough for a Manali Trip
To truly appreciate the beauty of Manali, it is recommended to allocate a minimum of 3 days. However, if you have the luxury of 4 or 5 days, it would be even better, as there are numerous stunning attractions near Manali that are worth exploring. In fact, a week-long trip to Manali would be the ideal duration to fully immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty of this hill station. This allows ample time to visit the hidden gems and experience the true essence of Manali’s picturesque landscapes.
Suggested Itinerary
If you’re planning a trip to Manali and have three days to explore this beautiful hill station in India, here’s an ultimate itinerary to help you make the most of your time. Manali is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh and is known for its stunning landscapes, adventure activities, and rich cultural heritage.
Day 1: Morning:
- Start your day by visiting Hadimba Temple, an ancient wooden temple dedicated to the goddess Hadimba. Explore the temple premises and admire its unique architecture.
- Take a short walk to the nearby Van Vihar National Park, a peaceful park with tall deodar trees and a beautiful lake. Enjoy a boat ride or simply relax amidst nature.
- Head to the Manali Mall Road, a vibrant street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Indulge in some local shopping and try out local delicacies.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Manali Club House, located near the Mall Road. Engage in various activities like indoor games, go-karting, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
- Drive to the Solang Valley, which offers breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains. You can try adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and ropeway rides here.
- If time permits, visit the Tibetan Monastery in Manali and explore its tranquil ambiance.
Evening:
- Head back to Mall Road and enjoy a leisurely stroll. The street comes alive in the evening with street vendors, live music performances, and a lively atmosphere.
- Treat yourself to some delicious local cuisine at one of the restaurants on Mall Road.
Day 2: Morning:
- Embark on an early morning excursion to Rohtang Pass (subject to weather conditions and permit availability). Rohtang Pass is located at an altitude of 3,978 meters and offers panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Enjoy the snow-capped landscapes and indulge in activities like skiing and snowboarding (available during winters).
- On your way back, stop at the scenic Rahalla Falls and capture some memorable photographs.
Afternoon:
- Visit the Naggar Castle, located about 20 kilometers from Manali. This historic castle offers stunning views of the Kullu Valley and houses an art gallery showcasing traditional and contemporary art.
- Explore the Naggar village, known for its traditional Himachali architecture. Visit the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, dedicated to the famous Russian painter.
Evening:
- Return to Manali and spend the evening at your leisure. You can visit the Old Manali area and explore its charming cafes, or simply relax and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Day 3: Morning:
- Start your day with a visit to the Vashisht Temple and Vashisht Hot Water Springs. Take a dip in the natural hot springs known for their therapeutic properties.
- Explore the nearby village of Vashisht, known for its traditional houses, cafes, and shops. You can also visit the Vashisht Waterfall, located a short hike away.
Afternoon:
- Take a drive to the picturesque village of Kullu, located about an hour away from Manali. Explore the local markets, visit the Kullu Shawl Factory, and admire the scenic beauty of the Kullu Valley.
- Enjoy a river rafting experience on the Beas River. This thrilling activity will add an adventurous touch to your trip.
Evening:
- Return to Manali and spend your evening exploring the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, savoring the flavors of Himachali cuisine.
This itinerary provides a balanced mix of sightseeing, adventure,
Best Time to Visit
Manali offers pleasant weather year-round, making it a destination that can be visited at any time. However, the period between November and April is considered the best time to plan a trip to Manali. From December to February, you have the opportunity to engage in various snow activities and relish the winter wonderland. On the other hand, during March and April, you can witness the enchanting beauty of Manali as the surroundings transform into lush green landscapes.
How to Reach
Manali can be reached through various modes of transportation. Here are the common ways to reach Manali:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport, located approximately 50 kilometers away. Several domestic airlines operate regular flights to Bhuntar Airport from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chandigarh. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali.
- By Road: Manali is well-connected by road, and you can reach there by bus, car, or motorcycle. The most common route is via NH3 and NH154 from Delhi. It is an overnight journey, and buses run by state transport as well as private operators operate regularly. You can also hire a taxi or self-drive to Manali if you prefer a more flexible and independent mode of transport.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station to Manali is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, located approximately 166 kilometers away. However, it is a narrow-gauge railway station, and the connectivity is limited. The major railway station near Manali is Chandigarh Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities across India. From Chandigarh, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali.