This place was named after the Hindu Lawgiver Manu. Later it got renamed as Manu-alaya. There is a legendary milieu to this hill station. This place is also the town from where the ancient trade route began to Ladakh and other adjourning areas. Tourism in Manali boosted tremendously after the rise of militancy in kashmir. It was just a quiet and historical hill station which was later transformed into a lively tourist place creating many job opportunities for the local people here. The historical importance of this place also makes it an important tourist destination. Manali is actually the perfect holiday destination for everybody. Apart from being a favorite tourist destination this place is also famous for its rich and cultural heritage. The place has many hindu temples, Buddhist monasteries. This place was also said to be the home of the seven sagas.
Hadimba Temple - built in 1533 AD, the architectural beauty of the place leaves the visitor speechless. One can actually spend hours and hours wondering how this beauty was created. Temple located amidst the snow capped mountains of Manali and dedicated to Hadimba, a wife of Bheema, one of the five pandavas.
The Manu temple: - located about 3 km from the Manali Main market in Beas River Valley. Temple is dedicated to Manu, an Indian Sage. It is believed that he was the creator of this world. Unlike other temples it looks like a Pagoda structure.
Vashishta temple : - located in Vashisht village about 3 km away from the Manali across the Beas River. The Village is famous for the Sulphurous hot water springs and it is believed that the water from the spring cures many skin diseases. Vashisht temple is located close to the Hot water springs.There are separate facilities for bathing for men and women.
Solang Valley -: If you are in Manali, you never gonna miss the Rohtang pass and Solang valley. It has the picturesque view of a snow capped mountain. The Solang Valley is famous for the adventure sports activities like Paragliding, Parachuting, skiing, trekking and mountaineering. Every year thousands of tourists visit the Solang Valley.
Rohtang Pass -: If you love Mountain trekking then there is no other better place than the Rohtang pass, it is a perfect place for adventure lovers. Rohtang pass is about 51 km by road from Manali. It is the best place for adventures and snow activities like skiing, sledding, mountain biking, snow scooter and ski ride. Since it is located at high altitude round the year it is covered by snow, however the best time to visit is May to October. At that time the road is accessible.
Nearest Airport to Manali is Bhuntar Airport which is about 52 km from Manali but it's not a good option since there are limited flights. Best way to go by Road. Chandigarh to Manali is about 300 km, Shimla to Manali is about 235 km and from Delhi to Manali is about 545 km. Regular volvo buses are available from Delhi to Manali. Private Taxis and Car can be hired from Delhi which is the best option in terms of sightseeing tour and itinerary.
October to June is the best time to travel to Manali. During this time weather is pleasant with the temperature ranging from 10 to 25 degree celsius. December to February is the best time to experience snowfall and witness the snow capped mountain. During this time the temperature goes below zero sometimes. Although July to August, Manali is open for tourists, due to the Monsoon season, landslides and road blockages may have to be faced.