Manali, a stunning hill station nestled amidst the majestic Himalayas, is a hub for adventure enthusiasts and peace-seekers alike. Be it the adrenaline-pumping exploits or the serene sojourns, this place has it all. From river rafting to paragliding, from skiing to river crossing, the list of things to do & place to visit in Manali is endless. Let’s delve into the diverse adventure offerings Manali has in store and how you can make the most of your trip to this Himalayan paradise.
1. Embrace the Rush with River Rafting
In the realm of water sports, river rafting stands out as a thrilling endeavor. The ferocious currents of the Beas River in Manali promise a heart-pounding experience for adventure lovers. Whether you are a novice or an experienced rafter, the rapids of Beas, ranging from Grade II to Grade IV, offer exhilarating challenges.
The ideal time for river rafting is between March and July, and again from October to November, when the river is in full spate. A typical rafting session spans around 4 hours, with costs starting from around INR 1250 per couple.
2. Soar High with Paragliding
Ever dreamt of soaring like a bird against the backdrop of majestic Himalayan peaks? Paragliding in Manali is your ticket to living this dream. The clear sunny days between April and December provide ideal conditions for this aerial escapade.
While you can embark on this adventure at various spots in Manali, Solang Valley is the most popular choice. Paragliding costs can range from INR 1000 to INR 4000, depending upon the location, duration, and equipment used.
3. Glide Over Snow with Skiing
One of the most sought-after winter sports in Manali, skiing offers an exhilarating encounter with the snow-draped landscapes. Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, Marhi, Gulaba, and Dhundi are among the top skiing destinations.
December to February is the perfect time to indulge in this snowy pursuit. While the cost can start from INR 1000 onwards, remember to wear sunglasses on sunny days and goggles on cloudy ones for a safe and enjoyable skiing experience.
4. Unwind Amidst Nature with Camping
If you’re looking to connect with nature and escape the city chaos, camping in Manali is your calling. Manali’s picturesque sites like Solang Valley, Bhuntar, and Tirthan Valley provide perfect settings for setting up camps and stargazing. This activity is ideal from May to June, with the camping experience starting from INR 1500-2000 per person.
5. Conquer the Peaks with Trekking
Trekking in Manali opens up a plethora of opportunities to explore the serenity of Himalayan landscapes. Trails like Beas Kund Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, Hampta Pass Trek, and Pin Parvati Trek offer breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush forests, and gushing streams. Trekking can cost anywhere between INR 3000 and INR 25000 per person, depending on the trail’s difficulty level and the trek’s duration.
6. Roll and Bounce with Zorbing
Zorbing is a fun-filled sport where you get to roll down a hill inside a large, transparent inflatable ball. Solang Valley is known for this activity, which costs around INR 500 per person. Whether you opt for a dry ride or a wet one, zorbing is sure to give you a whirlwind of joy.
7. Climb and Conquer with Rock Climbing
Climbing the rugged terrains of Manali is a test of endurance and focus. Be it in Solang Valley, Rohtang, Marhi, or Gulaba, rock climbing is a thrilling way to appreciate Manali’s natural beauty. This activity’s cost starts from INR 750, offering an unforgettable experience of scaling the rocky heights.
8. Slide and Glide with Snowboarding
Manali is a hub for snowboarding enthusiasts, thanks to its snowy slopes. Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley are popular spots for snowboarding, a sport that combines adrenaline rush with the beauty of the Himalayas. The cost can range above INR 500, and the best time to indulge in this activity is from December to February.
9. Pedal Rough Terrains with Mountain Biking
Mountain biking in Manali is an adventure that takes you through the region’s rugged landscapes. The route from Manali to Rohtang Pass and beyond offers a thrilling biking experience. Available all year round, this activity starts from INR 5000, offering a unique way to explore Manali’s beauty.
10. Shop Local Souvenirs
No trip to Manali is complete without shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Markets like Old Manali Market, Himachal Emporium, Tibetan Market, Manu Market, The Mall Road, and Bhuttico offer a variety of items like woolen clothes, Pashmina shawls, handmade slippers, shoes, jewelry, and decorative items at reasonable prices.
Stay in Manali: Experience Luxury at Vivaan Stays
While Manali has an array of resorts and hotels to choose from, Vivaan Stays offers five distinct resorts that not only provide a comfortable stay but also ensure a memorable experience. ‘Vivaan The Sunrise Resort’ offers breathtaking views of the dawn, ‘Katoch Grand’ provides an indulgent stay amidst nature, ‘JJ Resort’ serves gastronomic delights, ‘Rock Manali’ showcases luxury, and ‘May Flower’, a heritage gem, sits cozily in Manali’s heart. These resorts make your stay in Manali an unforgettable experience, enhancing your exploration of this enchanting town.
In conclusion, Manali, with its diverse adventure offerings and serene landscapes, is a dream destination for every traveler. So, pack your bags, put on your adventure gears, and set off for an unforgettable journey to this Himalayan wonderland!