Often referred to as the 'Valley of the Gods', Manali is a resort town tucked in the mountains beside the Kullu valley. In addition to using Manali as an important stop on the Indo-Tibet trading route, the British also converted the fertile lands into apple orchards.
While the sprawling green of the valley is flecked with the bright red of apples during August and September, the winter months transform the landscape into a fluffy white expanse. The river Beas flows through the town, creating a breathtaking sight. Manali offers ample avenues for those seeking an adrenaline rush, with options like trekking, climbing, rafting, skiing and paragliding.
State: Himachal Pradesh
Destination Type: Hill Station
Close to: Shimla 250 km, Chandigarh 300 km, Delhi 540 km
Nearest Sterling Resort: Sterling Dharamshala, Sterling Kufri
Languages: English, Hindi and Punjabi
Railway Station: Chandigarh
Airport: Kullu
Summer: April to June. Temperature ranges between 12°C and 25°C.
Monsoon: July and August. The region experiences heavy rainfall during this time.
Winter: September to March. Temperature can dip to -3°C during December and January.
1. Carry approproiate clothing to manage the heavy snowfall during winter.
2. Manali is one of the very few destinations in India where all four seasons can be experienced distinctly.
Discover a mythological story from the Mahabharata about the mighty Ghatotkachha and his mother Hidimbi at this temple in Manali.
Rohtang Pass, at a high altitude of 13,050 ft, is named after the local word for ‘pile of corpses.’ It offers breathtaking views in summer.
Solang Valley is one of the most famous attractions in Manali. It draws in adventure enthusiasts throughout the year.
A small village off the Manali-Leh highway, Vashisht is named after the great sage. Visit this place for the Vashisht temple and the natural, hot water springs.
Once the power centre of Kullu, Jagatsukh retains its old world charm with some myths and ancient temples of Lord Shiva.
Amateur, as well as experienced trekkers are spoilt for choice in the Kullu Manali region. The paths can be extraordinarily beautiful and challenging all at once.
Manikaran is a beautiful and serene area around Manali. It is sacred to both Sikhs and the Hindus. Apart from the Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, the area also has a natural geyser which is used for cooking.
Roerich, a Russian painter, fell in love with Naggar and made it his home.
Old Manali is said to be the place where Sage Manu stepped out of his boat, after the Great Flood, to re-populate the earth. Exactly like the story of Noah in the Old Testament!
You never really get the flavour of a place, till you get a taste. In Himachal, it’s a truly delectable one.
Discover a Himalayan wonder, the magnificent Morel Mushroom (Gucchi). Sterling curates exquisite dishes with this exotic ingredient, experience it for yourself.
Dramatic views, excellent company and sumptuous food. You’ll never forget a picnic at the gorgeous Hampta Pass.
Imagine an afternoon spent lazing around in picture-perfect apple orchards. Sounds like a dream, isn’t it?