MANALI

Once upon a time Manali was a backpacking capital of India. A dirt track from Manali to Kullu was part of the popular hippie trail. Today it is tough to imagine Manali as a backpacker's paradise. It has easily become one of the most popular hill stations in India with tourists thronging to Manali in the height of summer as well as winter. Manali suits the needs of every kind of travel mindset. A family looking for some bonding time, a couple looking for some romantic and peaceful time, solo travelers for some solitude and or a group of friends seeking an adventure.

Manali is a resort town nestled in the mountains of the Indian state  of Himachal Pradesh near the Northern end of Kullu Valley in the Beas River valley.

 Food in Manali

Manali food largely owes itself to the crops that are widely grown in the surrounding valley. The main crops are paddy, maize, kodra, and salyara that make up the main dishes of the Manali people. An abundance of milk and milk based recipes dominate the food of Manali people. Hot milk, curd, butter, ghee, lassi and tea with lots of milk are popular drinks among the common folks.
Here are some list of local dishes of Manali:

Dham

Dham

On the trip to Manali, do not miss the traditional elaborate fare Dham, which is usually cooked during wedding ceremonies in Himachal Pradesh. It usually includes Rice, curry, curd and sweetened rice among other things. Often served as special lunch and is easily available at many local food joints.

Red Rice

Red Rice

Grown locally, the red rice available at restaurants and dhabas in Manali has a unique nutty flavour. Generally served with a local variety of Kidney beans, and saag (a green leafy vegetable dish), it makes for a simple and hearty meal. 

River Trout

River Trout

There is no way you can visit Manali and not feast on the local favourite- River Trout preparations made with local flavours. Generally served with Rice, the flavour is both tangy and spicy. You can try out a tandoori take on this dish at the Khyber Restaurant. 

Kadhi Chawal

Famous for its mouthwatering Kadhi Chawal (a spicy gram flour curry and rice dish), no matter where you have this in Himachal, one will always come back for more. While on the way to Manali don't forget to stop over at the Manikaran Gurudwara. Around this gurudwara many stalls sell this delicacy.

Kadhi Rice

Places to go around in Manali

Solang Valley

Solang Valley

Solang Valley is located about 30 minutes minutes from Manali and attracts travelers for its snow in winter and adventure sports in Summer. From January to March it is possible to ski. Also people visit the Shiva Temple above the village. You can walk up to there or ride a pony.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang pass is a popular day trip from Manali, although  heavy traffic might be an issue. It takes around 2-3 hours to reach there. The main attraction at Rohtang pass is snow, particularly when it has already cleared from other places. Unfortunately, waste management is poor and facilities for travelers is limited. Snow sports are available when there is snow.

Rohtang Pass

Beas river

River rafting In Beas river

It is simply very refreshing to walk beside the Beas river. If you'd prefer to be more active, zip-lining across it and rafting down it are popular options. The rafting season is best from mid-April to June, and mid- September to October.

Hadimba Temple

The temple, a four tiered pagoda, was built in 1553 and has a facade of wood cravings. It's dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, the wife of Bima from the Hindu epic The Mahabharata. Yak rides, and huge fluffy angora rabbits ready to pose for are added to the attractions there. 

Hadimba Temple

Jogini Waterfall

Jogini Waterfalls

A picturesque and enjoyable short hike through the hills. The waterfall itself is not particularly impressive but a dip in its chilly water is invigorating and the surroundings are enchanting.