Yes, You definitely can and this is the best time to visit Manali. Why? Because there would be no rush in the area, you can even get to see snowfalls, the weather is pleasant, no overpriced hotels. Here is what you need to know to visit Manali now.
If you are wondering if you can go to Manali now or not, then the answer is yes. You can go to Manali even in winter and it is no less fun to explore this beautiful city of cafes, temples, and viewpoints.
How is the weather in Manali now?
Currently, the temperature of the town is around 9° Celsius and the weather is cold but fun. The city is quite open for tourism and if you are lucky, you may even see snowfall in the town.
Is it safe to go to Manali now?
Yes, it is completely safe to visit Manali now. Monsoons are the time when one should avoid travelling in hilly areas because the chances of landslides and heavy rainfalls increase drastically. Rest seasons are ok to visit this beautiful city of mountains and cafes with live concerts.
Can you experience snowfall in Manali now?
It depends on the weather. But, as you move upwards, there are high chances that you will get to see snowfall. It is winter when even the town of Manali experiences snowfall and you do not need to go anywhere to witness that.
Top 10 places to visit in Manali now
1. The Mall Road
The Mall Road is a very engaging and lively market in Manali. It has many famous cafes and restaurants, big shops as well as the street side ones. There are many places to sit and enjoy the vibe. You can also find a few points which provide bikes/scooty on rent.
2. Hadimba Temple
Hadimba temple is famous for the temple itself. The activities outside the temple. There is also a very beautiful park in the backside of the temple which is very beautiful and best for spending daytime or evenings.
3. Ghatotakach Temple
There is no such temple-like structure at this place, instead, a tree is there. It is believed to be the birthplace of Ghatotakach. Ghatotakach was the son of Bheema and Devi Hidimba. This is very near the Hidimba Temple.
4. Himachal Art Museum
Himachal Art Museum is located on the opposite side of Ghatotakach Temple. It is one of the best places to start your day. You will get to know the art and culture of the Himachali people. Their traditions, customs, history and more which you won’t be able to find otherwise.
5. Manu Temple
Manu Temple is one of the most visited places in the city. As we already know that even the name of the city has been derived from the Rishi Manu whose place of residence Manualaya became Manali. Manu Temple is in the old part of the city. The temple’s architecture is a traditional one. Very close to this temple is the Taposthali of Manu.
6. Vashishtha Hot Water Springs and Temple, Manali
Vashishtha Temple is around 3kms from the town of Manali. You may walk there but as the road is not on plains you will have to walk up and down. So, it’s better to hire a cab/auto. You can also rent a bike for sightseeing in the city. If you are new here, see how to explore the Himachal guide prior to your visit.
7. Jogini Waterfalls
Jogini Waterfalls is not more than 8 km from the vibrant city of Manali. It is less than 4 km from the Vashishtha Temple. It is near the Vashishtha village at a trekkable distance from the Vashishtha Temple. You should include this beauty in your Manali tour. After emerging, this waterfall falls into the Beas River.
8. The Manali Gompa
This is basically a Monastery and one of the best attractions in Manali. Tibetan refugees built this Monastery in 1960 and named it the “Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa”. This Monastery is not very big in size but its vibe is boundless. Tourists from all corners of the world come here to find calmness and peace.
9. Gulaba Village
This village is the point of adventure activities in Manali in Winters. When tourists cannot go to the Rohtang pass and they miss skiing and other activities. Gulaba village comes to their rescue and becomes the centre of adventure in winter.
10. Nehru Kund, Manali
It is a beautiful place with great scenic beauty on the Manali-Leh Highway. The water flowing here is so pure that one can’t avoid spending some time near it. It is easily accessible from the highway and an amazing place to visit in the city in winter.
Conclusion:
Although a hill station is a place to visit in summer there is no doubt you can visit Manali in winter as well. We have already seen enough reasons above to do that. Although you cannot go to the Rohtang valley it comes to you in the name of Gulaba Village with almost the same features.
Let us know how was your experience of your Manali trip in winter. Share your thoughts about this article in the comments.