Manali is known for valleys and natural beauties, but there are many temples to explore, too. So why not start your one day in the city with a visit to one?
Visit Vashisht Temple & Hot Water Springs
What could be better to start your one day in Manali than a temple? Visit the Vashisht Temple because it is said that Vashist was Kula Guru (teacher) of Lord Rama. It is one of the must-visit places in Manali. The village where this beautiful and important religious site is located is also called Vashisht and lies across the River Beas.
The hot water spring is one of the most famous attractions around here apart from the temple. People believed that hot springs have medicinal value and cure many skin diseases. To take a dip and rid themselves of skin infections and diseases, many people go to the Vashisht baths. There are also separate baths for men and women here.
Maximum Time Spent: 1-2 Hours
Best Time: Temple: 7 AM to 9 PM, Baths: 7 AM to 1 PM, and 2 PM to 9 PM
Entry Fee: FREE
Take a tour of Solang Valley
Solang Valley is about 12 km from the Manali Bus Station. Solang Village and a place called Burwa are also there, both amazing places to see. The valley is known for paragliding, which gives you a birds-eye view of the whole city. That’s why it is considered to be one of the most famous tourist places in Manali. Apart from paragliding, you can come here for skiing, mountaineering and trekking activities.
Maximum Time Spent: 2-3 Hours
Best Time: 10 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Activities’ cost varies
Pray at Manu Temple
Manu Temple is located in Old Manali and dedicated to the Indian sage Manu who was the creator of the human race on Earth according to mythology. As mentioned, the city of Manali is named after him. It is believed that he meditated here. The only temple of Manu in India is here in Manali. It is a beautiful place with incredible natural beauty, so if you are in Manali, don’t forget to pay your respects here.
Maximum Time Spent: 1 Hour
Best Time: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: FREE
Visit Hidimba Devi Temple for peace of mind
Hidimba Devi Temple, also known as the Dhungri Temple, is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi located in the middle of a dense forest Called Dhungri Van Vihar. Hidimba Devi Temple was built in 1553 by Raja Bahadur Singh and is one of the top places to visit in Manali.
Maximum Time Spent: 1 Hour
Best Time: Any time from 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fee: FREE
Enjoy a memorable evening
After spending the whole day roaming in the city, it would be best to have some rest in the evening. I would suggest spending a few minutes on the bank of the Beas River – the sound of the water hitting the stones will give you an amazing feeling of serenity and take you to another world.
If you want to go shopping for some local delights, you can just take a stroll along the Mall Road. Tibetan artifacts, artificial jewelry, woolen items and many other things (loads of winter stuff) can be bought. You will also find some drummers and guitarists singing folks songs. The crowd gathering here enjoys dancing. Apart from this market, you can also visit the Manu Market near Manu Temple.
