Manali is a famous hill station in India that gets millions of tourists every year. This lovely mountain town sits 2,050 metres high in Himachal Pradesh state. The best part of your trip starts when you visit the amazing places to visit near Manali that most people never see. These secret spots and well-known attractions have everything from old temples to exciting adventure activities.
The region around Manali has over 30 amazing destinations within a few hours drive. You can find 400-year-old wooden temples, Asia's highest cable car ride, and villages where people still live in traditional stone houses. Many travellers who book Manali tour packages discover that Manali's surrounding areas are even more beautiful than the main town itself. From hot springs that stay warm all year to lakes frozen solid in winter, each place tells a different story.
30 Best Places to Visit Near Manali
There are so many great places within a short drive of Manali that most people have not heard about. There are old temples, small villages, adventure sports, and beautiful scenery around this well-known hill station. Here are the places to visit near Manali that will make your trip much more exciting than just staying in the main town. Every spot has something different to offer, whether you want to see history, try adventure sports or just relax in peaceful mountain areas away from crowds.
1. Old Manali
Old Manali sits just 3 kilometres away from the crowded main town and feels like a different world. This area is famous for its traditional wooden houses, cosy cafes, and green apple orchards that bloom beautifully in spring. You can walk through narrow stone lanes and buy handmade woollen clothes, jewellery, and local crafts from small shops. The place has a relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of snow-covered peaks and many backpackers stay here for weeks. Most travellers consider it among the best places around Manali for peaceful holidays.
Activities to do: Walk around the village lanes, visit local cafes, shop for woollens and jewellery, explore orchards, enjoy live music in the evenings.
Distance from Manali: Approximately 2 kilometres from Mall Road, takes about 10 minutes by car or 20 minutes walking.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open all day, best enjoyed in daylight hours.
2. Hadimba Temple
The Hadimba Temple is one of Himachal's oldest temples and was built in 1553 using only wood and stone. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba and sits surrounded by tall cedar trees that are over 400 years old. The wooden carvings on the temple walls show detailed patterns of gods, animals, and flowers that local craftsmen made by hand. The temple has no idol inside but only a footprint carved in stone which makes it unique. Visitors often include this sacred site when looking for places to visit near Manali because of its special architecture and peaceful forest setting.
Activities to do: Pray inside the temple, see the wooden architecture, click photos in the cedar forest, take pictures with traditional Himachali dress.
Distance from Manali: About 2 kilometres from Mall Road, 10 minutes by car or auto.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
3. Vashisht Hot Springs
Vashisht village lies within 3 kilometres of Manali and is famous for its natural hot water springs that stay warm all year. The spring water contains sulphur and other minerals that locals believe can help heal skin problems and joint pain. Men and women have separate bathing areas with proper changing rooms and the water temperature stays around 40 degrees Celsius. Next to the springs stands an ancient temple of Sage Vashisht that is over 4,000 years old according to local stories. Many people visit here to take a healing bath and pray at the temple on the same trip.
Activities to do: Take a dip in the hot water pools, visit Vashisht Temple, shop in the small local market, eat at rooftop cafes.
Distance from Manali: Approximately 5 kilometres from Mall Road, about 15–20 minutes by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
4. Manu Temple
Manu Temple is devoted to Sage Manu, who is considered to be the founder of human race. It is in Old Manali, and it takes a short uphill walk to get there. The temple has a very simple but beautiful stone and wood architecture. Most people visit here to relax and take in the serene environment that is distant to the hectic market.
Activities to do: Visit the temple, see the peaceful surroundings, enjoy views of Old Manali, walk around the narrow streets leading to the temple.
Distance from Manali: Around 3 kilometres from Mall Road, 15 minutes by car and then a short walk uphill.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
5. Jogini Falls
Jogini Falls is a stunning waterfall located about 3 km from Vashisht village. The short trek to the Jogini falls takes you through apple orchards and small villages. The view of water falling from a high cliff with mountains in the background is very scenic. It is one of the most refreshing tourist places to visit near Manali for nature lovers and trekkers.
Activities to do: Trek through pine trees, see the waterfalls, picnic near the stream, take photos of the valley views.
Distance from Manali: Around 4 kilometres from Mall Road, includes a 1.5-kilometre trek from Vashisht village.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open all day, best visited before evening.
6. Van Vihar National Park
Van Vihar is a quiet park located in the centre of Manali town. It is full of lofty deodar trees that provide cool shade and fresh air. It has a small lake where you can paddle boat with family or friends. The walking trails are easy and lots of people visit this place in order to rest, sit and have their kids playing.
Activities to do: Boating on the small lake, walk under deodar trees, sit on benches, watch birds.
Distance from Manali: Around 1 kilometre from Mall Road, 5 minutes walking.
Entry Fee: ₹5 per person. Boating costs around ₹30 for 15 minutes.
Timing: Summer 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, winter 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
7. Arjun Gufa
Arjun Gufa is a natural cave which is associated with the legend of Arjun of the Mahabharata. It is situated approximately 5 km east of Manali and is enclosed by a row of apple orchards and small houses. The cave is small, and very quiet, and here visitors usually sit and have quiet moments. It is also worth the effort to make a short walk to reach it, which is very scenic.
Activities to do: Explore the cave, walk around the meadows, click pictures of the Beas river, enjoy short treks nearby.
Distance from Manali: About 21 kilometres by road, takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open during daylight hours only.
8. Gulaba
Gulaba is a small village that comes on the way to Rohtang Pass. In winter, the slopes are covered with snow and many people come here for skiing or snow play. During summer, it can be a camping and picnic destination because of the green meadows and the fresh mountain air. It is also a major tourist attraction during the times when Rohtang Pass is closed to enjoy snow activities.
Activities to do: Snow activities in winter, short treks, walk to viewpoints, enjoy mountain and river views.
Distance from Manali: Approximately 20 kilometres by road, around 45 minutes to 1 hour drive.
Entry Fee: No entry fee for entry. Some activities may cost extra.
Timing: Open all day, best to visit in daylight.
9. Solang Valley
Solang Valley is one of the most famous tourist places near Manali, Himachal Pradesh. It is about 13 km away from Manali and is known for adventure sports throughout the year. In summer you can try paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding. During winter, the valley turns into a skiing ground with slopes full of snow. The ropeway here gives a wide view of the snowy mountains.
Activities to do: Paragliding, zorbing, cable car ride, skiing in winter, ATV rides.
Distance from Manali: Around 14 kilometres, takes about 30–45 minutes by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee to visit. Adventure activities have separate charges.
Timing: Open all day, adventure sports usually run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
10. Kothi
Kothi is a quiet village nearly 15 km from Manali on the route to Rohtang Pass. The Beas River flows here through a deep gorge, which looks very striking against the mountains. Travellers often stop here to enjoy the fresh air and take photographs of the scenery. It is also one of the calm places to visit near Manali to visit if you want to escape the busy town.
Activities to do: Enjoy mountain views, see the gorge of Beas river, take pictures of snow peaks, walk around the small village.
Distance from Manali: About 16 kilometres on the road to Rohtang, takes 40–45 minutes by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open all day. Best in the morning for clear views.
11. Naggar
Naggar is a quiet village known for its old castle and stunning views of the Beas Valley. The Naggar Castle is built of stone and wood and now serves as a heritage hotel. The village is also famous for the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery which displays the Russian painter’s works. It is a good spot for travellers who want history, art, and calm surroundings in one place.
Activities to do: Visit Naggar Castle, explore Roerich Art Gallery, walk in apple orchards, see old wooden temples.
Distance from Manali: Around 21 kilometres, about 45 minutes by car.
Entry Fee: Naggar Castle ₹30 per person, Roerich Gallery ₹20 per person.
Timing: Naggar Castle 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Roerich Gallery 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed on Mondays.
12. Jagatsukh
Jagatsukh is a tiny village which used to be the ancient capital of Kullu. It is characterised by ancient Shiva and Shikhara style temples. It is a quiet place with apple trees and green hills that surround the village. It is also the starting point of many trekkers who visit Deo Tibba. It offers the visitors a taste of the Himachali culture in a serene environment.
Activities to do: Visit ancient Shiva Temple, see the Gayatri Temple, walk through the quiet village, enjoy views of snow peaks.
Distance from Manali: Around 12 kilometres, 25–30 minutes by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open all day.
13. Kasol
Kasol is a tourist destination in Parvati Valley, commonly known as the Mini Israel due to the high Israeli influence in food and culture. It is a backpacker centre and has numerous cafes, bakeries, and small stores. The village is located along the Parvati River and also a base of treks to Kheerganga and Malana. Kasol is one of the most loved tourist places near Manali for individuals who like easy hikes and vibrant atmosphere.
Activities to do: Walk by Parvati river, enjoy cafes, shop for handicrafts, explore nearby treks like Chalal.
Distance from Manali: Around 75 kilometres, 2 to 3 hours by car.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kasol is from March to June and again from September to November when the weather is pleasant, the skies are clear, and trekking routes are open.
14. Nehru Kund
Nehru Kund is a natural spring located on the Manali–Leh highway. It is said that former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru used to drink water from this spring whenever he visited Manali. The water is crystal clear and comes from Bhrigu Lake. Many travellers stop here to enjoy the clean water and scenic views. It is a simple but refreshing place to visit.
Activities to do: Drink fresh water from the spring, click photos of the stream and mountain views, stop for short breaks on the way to Rohtang.
Distance from Manali: About 6 kilometres, 15 minutes by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open all day.
15. Marhi
Marhi is a small settlement on the way to Rohtang Pass. It is famous for its roadside dhabas where travellers stop for hot tea and snacks. The place is surrounded by snow during most months of the year, and people often stop here for short breaks. For many, Marhi becomes one of the best places near Manali to rest before moving ahead to higher altitudes.
Activities to do: Stop for snow activities, eat at roadside dhabas, enjoy views of Rohtang mountains.
Distance from Manali: Around 34 kilometres on the Rohtang road, about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open all day, but best before evening.
16. Manikaran
Manikaran is a holy site to both Sikhs and Hindus and it is situated in Parvati Valley. It is known to have hot springs where individuals prepare meals in the boiling water as a custom. The Gurudwara here provides free meals to visitors daily. Manikaran is one of the most spiritual places to visit around Manali, which is surrounded by hills and rivers.
Activities to do: Take a dip in hot springs, visit Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara, see temples of Lord Rama and Shiva, walk by Parvati river.
Distance from Manali: About 80 kilometres, 3 to 4 hours by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee.
Timing: Open all day, Gurudwara open from early morning to late evening.
17. Kullu
Kullu is also referred to as the Valley of Gods due to its numerous temples and festivals. It is also famous because of the grand Dussehra celebrations that are attended by people all around India. River rafting on the Beas River and shopping of woollen shawls are also common activities in the town. Kullu is a lively stop for travellers exploring the many places to visit near Manali.
Activities to do: Visit Bijli Mahadev Temple, enjoy rafting in Beas river, shop for woollens, walk in apple orchards.
Distance from Manali: Around 40 kilometres, about 1 to 1.5 hours by car.
Entry Fee: No entry fee to visit town. Bijli Mahadev Temple has no entry fee.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Kullu is from March to June when the valley is green and pleasant, and from September to October during the famous Dussehra festival. These months are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
18. Bhuntar
Bhuntar is the entry point for travellers going towards Kullu, Manali, and Kasol. It has the only airport in the Kullu district which makes it an important travel hub. The village also has some old temples and is surrounded by apple orchards. Many visitors pass through Bhuntar before heading to bigger tourist places to visit near Manali Himachal Pradesh.
Activities to do: Visit Shiva Temple, see confluence of Parvati and Beas rivers, shop in the small market, use it as a stopover for Kasol or Manikaran.
Distance from Manali: About 50 kilometres, 1.5 to 2 hours by car.
19. Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass sits at 3,978 metres high and stays covered in thick snow for most months of the year. This mountain pass connects the green Kullu Valley with the desert regions of Lahaul and Spiti valleys. People who love adventure activities come here to try skiing, snowboarding, and sledging on the natural snow slopes. The pass gives you stunning views of massive glaciers and towering mountain peaks that make it one of the most exciting places to visit near Manali.
Activities to do: Play in the snow, skiing, snow scooter rides, take photos of high peaks and glaciers, trekking in summer.
Distance from Manali: Around 51 kilometres, 2 to 3 hours by car depending on traffic.
Entry Fee: No entry fee for visitors. Permits required for vehicles cost around ₹500.
Timing: Open from May to November, closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
20. Tosh Village
Tosh is a scenic village at the far end of Parvati Valley. It is surrounded by snow peaks and waterfalls which make it a favourite among trekkers and backpackers. The village has small cafés serving local and international food. Things to do in Tosh include trekking to nearby peaks, exploring local cafés, photography, and enjoying the serene mountain views. Tosh is peaceful and offers an escape from the crowds, making it one of the charming tourist places near Manali.
Activities to do: Trek through apple orchards, enjoy cafes with views, see Parvati valley mountains, short hikes around the village.
Distance from Manali: About 95 kilometres, takes 3.5 to 4 hours by car and short hike.
21. Malana Village
Malana is one of the oldest villages in Himachal Pradesh and has very unique customs that locals follow strictly. The villagers have their own rules and prefer that visitors do not touch their houses or personal things. This ancient village sits surrounded by tall mountains and gives you access to some brilliant trekking routes through forests and valleys. Many people consider Malana one of the most interesting places near Manali because of its different culture and mountain setting.
Activities to do: Walk through the old village, see traditional wooden houses, learn about Malana’s unique customs, enjoy views of Parvati valley.
Distance from Manali: Around 50 kilometres, about 2.5 to 3 hours by car and trek from Jari.
Timing: Open all day, but visits are best during daylight.
22. Kheerganga
Kheerganga is a popular trekking spot that sits in Parvati Valley. The best part about this place is the natural hot water spring you find at the top after your long walk. You need to trek about 12 kilometres to reach there and the path goes through green forests, beautiful waterfalls, and wooden bridges. Lots of trekkers put Kheerganga on their list of calm places to visit near Manali because you can relax in the hot springs and enjoy great mountain views.
Activities to do: Trek from Barshaini to the hot water spring, camp under the stars, visit small temples, enjoy forest and waterfall views on the way.
Distance from Manali: About 75 kilometres to Barshaini by road, then 12-kilometre trek.
Timing: Open all day, trek usually takes 4–6 hours one way.
23. Chalal
Chalal is a small village near Kasol, often called the “Little Amsterdam of India.” It is popular among backpackers for its riverside cafés and relaxed vibe. A short trek along the Parvati River takes you to the village. Chalal is one of those places around Manali where you can just sit by the river and enjoy the view.
Activities to do: Trek from Kasol to the village, relax by Parvati river, visit small cafes, enjoy peaceful mountain views.
Distance from Manali: About 75 kilometres to Kasol by road, then 30–45 minute walk.
24. Keylong
Keylong is the main town of Lahaul Valley and is surrounded by high mountains and monasteries. It is less crowded and gives a real taste of local Himachali life. The Kardang Monastery here is an important religious site. Keylong is also one of the quieter places to visit near Manali for people who enjoy long drives and raw landscapes.
Activities to do: Visit Kardang Monastery, explore Shashur and Tayul monasteries, see local markets, enjoy views of Bhaga river.
Distance from Manali: Around 115 kilometres, about 4 to 5 hours by car via Atal Tunnel.
Timing: Open all day, monasteries usually open from morning to evening.
25. Grahan Village
Grahan Village is a secret spot hidden near Kasol that you can only reach by walking through thick pine forests. This small village has tiny wooden houses and very quiet surroundings that make you feel peaceful. The village is quite simple and has no roads going to it which keeps it special and untouched. Many people think Grahan is one of the most relaxing places to visit near Manali when you want to see how mountain village life really looks.
Activities to do: Trek from Kasol to the village, walk through pine forests, explore traditional Himachali houses, enjoy homestays.
Distance from Manali: About 75 kilometres to Kasol by road, then 8–10 kilometre trek.
Timing: Open all day, but trekking is safer during daytime.
26. Jibhi
Jibhi is a peaceful village that sits in Tirthan Valley, roughly 100 kilometres away from Manali. This place is well-known for its traditional wooden houses, calm flowing streams, and untouched natural beauty all around. The nearby Jalori Pass links Jibhi to other mountain valleys and gives you great options for easy treks. You can also visit the old Chaini Kothi, which is a tall stone tower that people built many centuries ago. For travellers seeking a comprehensive mountain experience, the Jibhi Tirthan with Shangarh tour package offers an excellent way to explore this entire region, combining the serenity of Jibhi with the scenic beauty of nearby Shangarh village. Jibhi ranks among those secret hidden places to visit near Manali to visit when you love quiet landscapes and complete peace.
Activities to do: Visit Jibhi Waterfall, see Chehni Kothi fort, enjoy riverside walks, explore nearby Jalori Pass.
Distance from Manali: Around 100 kilometres, about 3 to 4 hours by car.
27. Mandi
Mandi gets called the "Varanasi of the Hills" because it has over 80 temples scattered along the Beas River banks. This historic town is also famous for its deep cultural roots and the big annual Shivratri festival that brings thousands of visitors. Mandi's local markets are packed with regional food, warm woollen clothes, and beautiful handicrafts made by local craftspeople. Green hills surround this town from all sides, making it one of the most culturally rich tourist places near Manali Himachal Pradesh.
Activities to do: Visit Prashar Lake, see over 80 old temples in town, enjoy boating in Beas river, and walk in local markets.
Distance from Manali: About 110 kilometres, 3 to 4 hours by car.
28. Great Himalayan National Park
The Great Himalayan National Park holds UNESCO World Heritage Site status and sits in Kullu district. This protected area is home to rare animals like snow leopards, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer that you rarely see elsewhere. The park has thick forests, alpine meadows, and tall mountain peaks which make it perfect for trekking and taking nature photos. Park authorities control entry strictly to keep the ecosystem safe, so everything feels completely untouched. Wildlife enthusiasts consider this among the most special places to visit near Manali.
Activities to do: Trekking in forest trails, camping, birdwatching, spot rare animals like Himalayan tahr and musk deer.
Distance from Manali: Around 115 kilometres, about 4 to 5 hours by car to the park gates in Kullu district.
Entry Fee: Approximately ₹100 per person for Indians, ₹400 for foreigners.
Timing: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, closed during heavy snowfall.
29. Dharamshala
Dharamshala sits about 240 kilometres from Manali and is famous worldwide as the Dalai Lama's home base. Cedar forests surround this mountain town and it gives you beautiful views of the massive Dhauladhar mountain range. Tourists come here to see Tibetan monasteries, browse local markets, and visit the cricket stadium which is one of the world's highest cricket grounds. Dharamshala is one of those tourist places to visit near Manali Himachal Pradesh that mixes culture, spiritual experiences, and stunning mountain scenery.
Activities to do: Visit Dalai Lama Temple, explore Bhagsunag Falls, see Kangra Art Museum, walk in McLeodganj market.
Distance from Manali: Around 215 kilometres, about 7 to 8 hours by car.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Dharamshala is from March to June when the weather is cool and pleasant for sightseeing. September to November is also good, as the skies are clear and views of the mountains are beautiful.
30. Spiti Valley
Spiti Valley is located far away from Manali and looks like you are on another planet. This place is a cold desert with tall mountain passes, ancient monasteries like Key Monastery, and small villages like Kibber and Langza. You can see thousands of stars clearly at night and the landscape is barren but very beautiful. Getting to Spiti Valley is hard work but amazing if you like adventure trips. Many people think Spiti is one of the toughest places to visit near Manali when you want to see raw nature and escape from city crowds.
Activities to do: Visit Key Monastery, explore Kaza town, see highest villages like Kibber and Langza, enjoy long drives through barren mountains.
Distance from Manali: About 200 kilometres, travel time 8 to 10 hours by car depending on road conditions.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Spiti Valley is from June to October when the roads are open and the weather is suitable for travel. Winters are extremely harsh here, with heavy snowfall that blocks most routes.
Conclusion
The mountains around Manali have so many amazing secrets that most people never find. From quiet villages with wooden houses to high lakes and old temples, every place has its own special story. These 30 places to visit near Manali prove that the real magic of Himachal Pradesh sits away from busy tourist crowds. Some spots need long walks to reach while others are just quick car rides away. You might love adventure sports, peaceful temple visits, or simple nature walks and this area has something perfect for everyone. Lots of people tell us their favourite memories come from these hidden spots instead of the main famous places. Get your bags ready and start visiting these wonderful mountain places that will give you amazing stories to share forever.
