City of Manali

Cradled in the upper Kullu Valley where the Beas River rushes down from the high passes, Manali is among the most loved of all Himalayan resorts, a place where alpine scenery, orchard-clad slopes and a relaxed mountain spirit come together. Pine and deodar forests climb towards snow-streaked peaks, and the air carries the freshness of glacier-fed streams.

The older quarter rewards exploration. Old Manali, with its traditional timber-and-stone houses, leads up to the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple, a beautifully carved wooden shrine set among towering cedars, while the village of Vashisht is known for its old temple and natural hot springs. The valley is dotted with apple orchards, and the Tibetan monasteries in town add a note of quiet devotion amid the bustle.

Manali's real magic, though, lies in the landscapes that surround it. The dramatic Solang Valley offers meadows and panoramic views, while the Rohtang and Atal Tunnel route opens the way to the stark, otherworldly Lahaul and Spiti country beyond. Riverside walks, forest trails and gentle drives through villages make the whole valley feel like an invitation to slow down and breathe.

The flavour of a visit is wonderfully varied, from morning strolls beside the Beas and afternoons among the orchards to evenings in a cosy café watching the light fade on the peaks. It blends adventure and ease in equal measure, with comfort easily found alongside the wilder edges.

For a Himalayan journey, Manali is a natural highlight, a scenic, spirited mountain base that pairs spectacular natural beauty with culture and gentle adventure, and a fine springboard for travellers wishing to reach the remoter high valleys further north.