Things to do in Manali
Things to do in Manali
Manali, situated at 2,050 meters in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is India's adventure capital and a year-round magnet for travelers seeking snow, thrills, and Himalayan beauty. In winter, the slopes of Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass transform into a snowy playground for skiing and snowboarding, while summer brings trekkers, paragliders, and mountaineers. The ancient Hadimba Devi Temple, the hippie haven of Old Manali, and the dramatic Rohtang Pass make this high-altitude town an unparalleled destination in the Indian Himalayas.
Adventure / Snow SportsView full guideHalf to full day
Skiing
Carve through the pristine snow slopes of Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass — Manali's premier skiing destinations. Beginners can take lessons on Solang's gentler slopes while advanced skiers can test their skills on steeper Rohtang runs. Equipment rental and instructors are readily available.
Trekking / AdventureView full guide3 hours to 5 days depending on route
Trekking
Explore Manali's incredible trekking routes — from the beginner-friendly Jogini Waterfall trail to the moderate Bhrigu Lake (4,300 m) and Deo Tibba Base Camp treks, or the challenging Hampta Pass crossing connecting Kullu Valley to Lahaul over a dramatic high-altitude pass.
Adventure / Snow SportsView full guideHalf day to full day
Snow Activities
Enjoy a range of snow-based activities at Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass — snowmobiling, snow tubing, tobogganing, snow zorbing, and snowball fights. Rohtang Pass (accessible May–November via permit) offers a stunning high-altitude snow landscape at 3,980 m.
AdventureView full guide30–60 minutes
River Crossing
Cross the roaring Beas River on rope bridges and via ferrata-style river crossing setups near Solang Valley and Kullu. This vertical adventure combines the thrill of crossing a rushing mountain river with stunning gorge scenery.
AdventureView full guide15–30 minutes of flight
Paragliding
Launch from Solang Valley's takeoff point and glide above the Beas River valley with panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and pine forests below. Tandem flights with certified instructors make this accessible to complete beginners.
Nature / AdventureView full guide1–3 nights
Camping
Camp by the Beas River at sites near Solang Valley, Sethan village, or the remote Hampta Pass base. Himalayan camping experiences include bonfire evenings, stargazing at high altitude, and waking up to dew-covered meadows and mountain panoramas.
Spiritual / CulturalView full guide2–4 hours
Monastery Visit
Explore ancient Buddhist monasteries including Hidimba Devi Temple (1553 AD pagoda temple in a cedar forest), Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Temple's hot springs, and Old Manali's narrow lanes — each offering a window into the region's layered spiritual history.