One of the most popular backpacking and honeymoon destinations, the Himalayan resort town of Manali is set on the Baes River in Kullu valley in Himachal Pradesh. The hill-station is situated between Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges and is aptly nicknames the Valley of Gods. From blue streams and dense forests to quaint villages, kitschy markets to commercial streets and museums, monasteries to temple- Manali is a tourist magnet throughout the year. Major attractions being the skiing destination- Solang valley, Rohtang pass, Baes Kund Trek and stunning historical edifice of naggar Castle of Raja Sidh Sing of Kullu.
Old Manali with the roaring Kullu river is a tranquil place with its extraordinary scenic beauty. The tour includes a comfortable campsite on the banks of gushing river with evening bonfire. Westart off with a trek through the Dhungri Forest with its dense pine trees to Hadimba Temple dedicated to Goddess Hidimba who was also the wife of Bhima.The distinctive architecture and pagoda shaped centre also houses footprint of Goddess Durga, a stone idol of Hidimba and a 70m wooden temple of her son Ghatotkacha. You will then trek through Vashisht village and 3 hours later reach the cascading Jogini Falls which joins river Baes in the Kullu valley below. You can explore Old Manali and its quaint cafes, markets, scenic views and enjoy the bonfire on the campsite before retiring for the day.
The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar(50km) but it is not well-connected to major cities. Hence the nearest broad gauge railway station is at Chandigarh (310km) and Ambala Cantt (300km). Buntur Airport (50km) is only 10km from Kullu and the nearest airport to Manali but the prices tend to be steep. It is recommended to travel by road as there are frequent buses from Delhi, Shimla, Dharamshala, Chandigarh, etc.
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