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Places to Visit in Manali in December

Cradled by lush greenery and snow-capped Himalayan peaks, Hadimba Temple is one of the best places to visit in Manali in December. Resting atop a huge rock, the temple is distinctly different than the others with regards to the architecture.

Dedicated to Goddess Hidimba, the mother of Ghatothkack, and wife to Bhima, the temple is said to have been built at the place where she indulged in long meditation. Dating back to the 16th century, the temple spans four wooden storeys with exquisite interiors that are a glimpse back in simpler times.

The walls are lined with stone, mud impressions and idols of various deities. Carrying fine, intricate carvings on its wooden doors, the temple is of great religious importance to Hindus.

Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Activities: Worship, religious purposes, exploration

Location: Hadimba Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 4 km

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Your Manali trip is essentially incomplete without a visit to the iconic Rohtang La Pass. One of the most frequently visited tourist places in Manali in December, Rohtang Pass has also been featured in various movies like ‘Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani’ and ‘Jab We Met’.

Reigning at an astounding altitude of 3,978 meters, the pass is accessible only by road. Doorway to the desert of Lahaul and Spiti valleys, Rohtang Pass falls en route the Manali-Keylong highway. It is also the go-to place for adventure junkies, and various activities like ice-skating, paragliding, skiing and many more.

It is also a great spot to practice rock-climbing, and the undulating trails of the valleys make for a great trekking experience. Offering a glimpse of the panoramic mountain ranges, Rohtang Pass also leads to Beas Kund, which is the source of the Beas River, and also a famous trekking trail.

Activities: Trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing, rappelling, skiing, ice-skating, winter sports

Entry fee: INR 550 per vehicle

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 53 km

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One of the most popular places to visit in Manali in December is the Solang Valley.  Located about 14 km away from the town, Solang Valley sits en route Manali to Rohtang Pass. Every winter, the valley sits under a thick veil of powdery snow, ideal for winter sports and hiking. From paragliding and zorbing to open jeep rides, Solang is the ultimate natural wonderland in Manali for adventure enthusiasts.

Every year, countless travelers from around the country flock here for skiing. In fact, there are a handful of training schools and expert instructors stationed in the valley for the safety of visitors. A part of the Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports is also housed here. If you’re seeking some blissful memories in the snow, amongst the mountains, Solang is the place to be. 

Timings: 10:00 AM to 06:00 PM everyday

Activities: Trekking, skiing, paragliding, zorbing, parachuting and other adventure sports.

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 15 km

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Vashisht is a rustic village at a distance of about 3 km, and home to the temple of Vashisht and the iconic, sulfurous hot water springs. Dedicated to the legendary saint Vashisht, the village is amongst the most ideal tourist places in Manali in December. Surrounded by towering mountains, dense valleys, and thick forests, Vashisht has a pleasing, refreshing vibe throughout the year.

It attracts several devotees and nature lovers every year and has still managed to remain aesthetically pleasing. The water in the springs is believed to have some divine healing powers and is a holy place to visit. There are several Turkish bathhouses carrying water from the hot springs for you to bathe in.

Activities: Bathing, worship, exploration, hiking

Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 5 km

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The Manu Temple in Manali is dedicated to the legendary Manu, and it is the only temple dedicated to him in India. Sitting about 3 km away from the main market of Old Manali, the temple is said to have been home to Manu, the creator of the human race and the author of Manusmriti.

The temple is quite close to the gurgling river Beas, while the surrounding beauty of the mountains takes your breath away. While being rooted in mythology and religion, there are several local tales and folklore that revolve around the temple. If you’re keen on mythology, a visit to Manu Temple is sure to fuel your curiosity and fascination. It is also one of the most frequently visited tourist places in Manali in December.

Timings: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM every day

Activities: Worship, religious purposes, exploration

Entry fee: Free entry

Location: Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 4.3 km

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One of the most iconic places to visit in Manali in December is the Hampta Pass. It is also a famous trekking trail in Himachal Pradesh and offers a memorable adventure if you’re up for it. Overlooking the stunning valleys of Kullu and the deserts of Lahaul, Hampta Pass climbs upto a height of 14,035 ft. above sea level.

The Pir Panjal range and other various mountain peaks are visible in a panoramic sweep from the Hampta Pass. Although the heavy accumulation of snow does not allow you to trek to the pass, it is still accessible via road. If you’re heading up there in December, crossing over to Spiti won’t be possible.

Activities: Trekking, exploration

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 15.6 km

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Decidedly the busiest street in Manali, Mall Road is always buzzing with people. The acclaimed heart of Manali is dotted with various hotels, restaurants, bookstores, clothing shops, and much more. Ranging from warm, woolen clothes to local, handcrafted items,  is the most iconic shopping and photography spot in the entire town.

The most famous markets to haunt are the Dragon Shopping Complex, Shangri La Shopping Complex, Lama Underground, and Hong Kong Market. Several shops selling Tibetan and Thai items also occupy some parts of the famous shopping destination. A large number of food joints will replenish your spirits and keep your hunger pangs at bay with the variety of cuisines they offer.

Timings: 09:00 AM to 09:00 PM

Activities: Shopping and dining

Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 1.2 km

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Beas Kund is a glacial lake and the beautiful source of the river Beas - one of the most sacred rivers in Himachal Pradesh. The trek to Beas Kund weaves through beautiful, dense forests that climb upto astounding views of the Pir Panjal ranges along with other prominent peaks.

The trek to Beas Kund begins from Dhundi via Solang Valley and can be covered within 4 days. Beas Kund is perched at an altitude of 12,772 ft., and makes for a great option for beginners. A beautiful lake lapped in lush greenery, the lake is believed to be the bathing spot of Rishi Vyas, who authored the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Activities: Trekking, exploration

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 21.8 km

The beautiful bridge that runs over the gurgling Manalsu River is the doorway to the paradise known as the Old Manali. A quiet, sleepy little hamlet, Old Manali is unlike most other places. The journey from Manali to Old Manali is like experiencing time travel. Though both are equally beautiful in their ways, Old Manali is literally a walk back in time.

It is also a favorite destination for adventurers, backpackers and hippies alike. Home to many cafes, hostels, and restaurants, Old Manali is considerably less crowded than its faster-emerging counterpart, making it ideal for those seeking solitude, beauty and undisturbed exploration. The most important attraction in Old Manali is the Hidimba Temple located amidst lush greenery. It is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Manali in December.

Activities: Exploring, trekking, mountaineering, rock climbing.

Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 4.5 km

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Bhrigu Lake is a beautiful lake nestled in the laps of the Himalayas. While the lake itself is a marvel, the trek to Bhrigu Lake is equally beautiful owing to the sunning high alpine meadows that the trail meanders through. Surrounded by thick forests and lofty mountains, and has a moderate type of trail.

The trek begins from the dreamy village of Gulaba, and climbs up to an altitude of 14,009 ft. over the duration of 4 days. The alpine meadows leading to Bhrigu Lake are stunning, albeit quite underrated. It is one of the most beautiful treks in India, and is perfect for trekking enthusiasts who are just starting out.

Activities: Trekking, exploration

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 20 km

Shaded in the Kullu region of Himachal, Chandrakhani  Pass is a beautiful trekking trail and sits at an altitude of 3,660 meters. Affording stunning views of the Himalayan neighbours like Deo Tibba and the Pir Panjal range, Chandrakhani remains veiled from the other parts of Himachal.

It is the perfect place to experience the rich, local culture, along with the untouched nooks of nature. A great pick for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, backpackers and trekkers, Chandrakhani is also quite close to Malana, another sleepy village forgotten by the sands of time. It is also one of the more remote places to visit in Manali in December.

Activities: Trekking, exploration

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 82 km

No trip to Manali is complete without visiting this sanctuary to see the native mountain wildlife and hundreds of varieties of plants & trees.

An important part of the protected northwest Himalayan biogeographic zone, you can spot animals & birds like Barking Deer, Flying Fox, Kashmir Flying Squirrel, Himalayan Black Bear, Snow Pigeons, Chakor, Treecreepers, etc.

See dense thickets of trees like poplar, willows, horse chestnut, deodars, and thickets of blazing red rhododendrons. The sanctuary, amongst the landmark places to visit in Manali, edges on the scenic banks of the Manalsu Nullah with high peaks in the background. 

Location: Circuit House Marg, Manali

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 2 Kms

Best time: March till June and October to February

Entry Fee: You need to pay INR 10 per person to see this tourist attraction in Manali

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One of the most popular monasteries in India, the Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara is a beautiful temple with pure, divine vibes. The temple’s architecture is unique and mesmerizing. It is essentially a blend of the Indo-Tibetan styles, standing as a symbol of the cultural conglomeration that Kullu is home to.

It also houses a beautiful statue of Lord Buddha, and several Buddhists and devotees from around the country travel here to pay homage. The monastery also affords outstanding views of the Beas Valley, while the Bijli Mahadev temple also makes a faint appearance in the distance.

Besides being an architectural marvel, it is also one of the most beautiful places to visit in Manali in December, when a coat of white covers everything.  

Timings: 10:00 AM to 05:00 PM

Activities: Worship, religious purposes

Location: Dechen Choekhor Mahavihara, Gompa Road, Sarabai, Himachal Pradesh 175126

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 51.3 km

The beautiful Nehru Kund is located along the Manali-Keylong road and is named after Dr. Jawaharlal Nehru. The prime minister used to drink the clear water from the kind every time he visited Manali.

The water in the lake is fed by the alpine Bhrigu Lake and is safe for drinking. Surrounded by a crown of Himalayan mountains, the lake exudes peaceful and tranquil vibes. The river Beas also snakes through here. If you’re seeking a peaceful respite from the fast world, Nehru Kund is one of the best places to visit in Manali in December.

Timings: 07:00 AM to 07:00 PM everyday

Activities: Picnic, hike, exploration

Location: Vashisht, Himachal Pradesh

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 5 km

Gauri Shankar temple is located in Dashal village on the Naggar-Manali road. Carrying intricate stone carvings that reflect the style of the late Gupta period, the temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important religious destination. The temple sits on a raised foundation, while the outer surface is enhanced by the exotic carvings that resemble those in Khajuraho.

This 11th-century temple is home to a magnificent Shiva Lingam, and the divine energy of the place is almost palpable. Around 50 meters away lies the Naggar Castle, yet another tourist spot worth a visit. The Shikhara style of architecture that the temple carries is a throwback to the Gupta era.

Timings: 08:00 AM to 07:00 PM

Activities: Worship, religious purposes

Location: Naggar Castle Road, Naggar, Himachal Pradesh 175130

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 15.5 km

Constructed as a tribute to Lord Shiva, the Siyali Mahadev Temple is one of the oldest temples in Manali. A frequent haunt for devotees of Lord Shiva, the temple is hailed for its exquisite architectural style. Sitting atop a base of stone and cement, the wooden temple is graced by chalets, pagodas, and the ceiling edges carry carved, hanging, wooden pieces that look like tassels.

There is also a smaller temple near the main temple, and legend also has it built on the same spot where Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati appeared out of a tree trunk. The resident Shiva Lingam is believed to be centuries old and several devotees visit every year to pay their respects.

The positive and pure vibes of the temple cannot be put in words. Fenced by undulating hills and valleys, the temple is a treat for the eyes as well, with the brown of the wooden building standing out beautifully against the greenery.

Timings: 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM

Activities: Worship, religious purposes, exploration

Location: Hadimba Temple Road, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 3.5 km

This museum was established in 1998 to exhibit the cultural and folk art and antiques of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at a short distance from the famous Hidimba Devi Temple of Manali.

The museum houses a very interesting and impressive collection of antique articles and other items reflecting the culture and heritage of Himachal Pradesh. From Himachali traditional dresses and Himachali kitchenware to traditional ornaments, there is so much to look at and absorb here.

If Himachali culture interests you, start your research here because this museum will give you an overview of this culture and is among the best places to visit in Manali.

Location: Utopia Comlex, Near Hadimba Temple, Hadimba Temple Rd, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131

Distance from Manali Bus Stand: 2 km from Manali.

Entry Fee: INR 10

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These 160 feet tall waterfall is one of the landmark attractions in Manali. The beauty of the falls accentuates with the surrounding lush greenery and the tranquillity of nature.

Travellers love to spend time here listening to the sounds of water and sipping cups of tea and enjoying bowls of Maggi from the nearby restaurants.

The trek to the waterfall is as popular as the destination itself. It takes one through beautiful views of orchards, streams, meadows, and peaks of Rohtang. 

Location: Vashisht Village. 

Best time: After the monsoons (mid-September) or the pleasant summer months of March-June.

Entry Fee: There is no entry fee.

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