Travel Notes .....: Manali

About the Destination
Manali is a typical touristy place. It lies between the mountains on the banks of the River Beas and on a good clear day you can see a very good panorama. However as expected of a tourist place - it is crowded and jam packed with vehicles.

We went there hoping for some kind of snow activities for our baby who was keen to play with snow. We could have chosen Auli but we did not. We were not keen on the journey to Auli which would be longer.

Sightseeing

- Solang Valley - for snow activities
We were not much impressed with this valley having expected better views and more snow. But there are snow activities. One can use a mule to get there too.

- Rohtang Pass - for snow activities and view
One cannot cross Rohtang during this season. The vehicles takes one up to the highest point possible and from there one can again take mules to the desired location to play in the snow.

Ski suits / shoes are easily available here and it saves having to carry them all the way from the shops en-route this place. Sometimes there are gypsy vehicles taking passengers to a place slightly more closer to the snow line beyond which no vehicle can pass.

Skiing, Tobogganing, sliding on a rubber tube, just making snow men ... are all things that can be done here.

- Vashist Hot Springs - We would recommend Manikaran instead of this spring. Here the water is just lukewarm and the bathing area is not covered either. There is a temple and the road is lined with people trying to sell you "Chingu". Exorbitant rates in my opinion.

- Naggar Valley Drive - This is a very scenic drive among rows of apple orchards on either side of the road. Even in winter with the trees denuded of leaves - the drive is beautiful. A lazy day's tour ! :)

- Jallna falls - This small waterfall is not very impressive although the drive to this place ( very narrow roads ) is very scenic. At some points a 270 degree view of the mountains can be obtained and it is beautiful. Even though slightly expensive - do eat the authentic Himachal food at this point. There is a small local joint. Very yummy !! :)

Other things to do

- Manikaran - The drive to Manikaran was simply lovely. Many places to stop and take snaps. At Manikaran there is a temple to Shiva and a gurudwara. It is a long drive and I would think it is better to keep aside a day for this. The hot spring is wonderful and there are facilities for women to bathe separately. It is wonderfully invigorating. Spend lots of time here !!!!

We went near the river to to show our child the hot and cold water streams. The water is boiling hot ! :)

- Helicopter ride in Manali- We enjoyed an aerial view of the Rohtang pass. This is not a must do but definitely something that is enjoyable although expensive.

- ClubHouse for kids - With an energetic 5 yr old - we loved this place. Lots of games, a train ride, Columbus, Go-karting ; our child had lots of fun !!!!

Observations, Travel Tips

- We drove from Chandigarh to Manali. On the return journey due to the fog - the flight from Chandigarh to Delhi was cancelled. We had to drive from Chandigarh to Delhi. Many flights were delayed. This is something to consider when travelling to this area in the winter months.

- Can use HRTC to get to Manali from Delhi and use consider using local taxis to see the sights. There are many tour operators in the mall area.

- We stayed at HPTDC in Manali. We enjoyed our stay there. Found the people very considerate.

- It is very very cold in these months. Thermal clothing and many layers to put on are absolutely required !!!!

- There are lots of Himachal ladies going around holding rabbits who ask if you want to take a snap - so children can get to hold the soft furry animal.

- Can buy the rabbit fur blanket ( not sure if it is a fake ofcourse !! ) but it is warm, soft and very very nice. Comes in bright colors perfect for children. 'Chingu' - supposedly made from deer fur did not seem that warm in comparison.