Manali the Swiss Alphs of India

written by: unknown; article published: year 2010, month 02;

In: Root » Travel and leisure » Worldwide

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Manali, the earthly paradise on the land of India and it is situated at the northern point of the Kullu Valley; Manali has spectacular views of snowcapped peaks and wooded slopes. Manali literally means the 'Home of Manu'. Manu is the mythological character who is supposed to have survived when the world was drowned in Flood. He then came to Manali and recreated human life. Thus, the area of Manali is sacred and Hindus treat the temples over here as pilgrimage.

Manali is awe-inspiring with spectacular views of snow coated peaks and wooded gorges. With the Beas gushing across the rocky alleys amid grasslands wrapped in layers of wild flowers and bushes. The rich and healthy environment offers marvelous walks too fruit orchards and mesmerizing forest of pines and deodars. Manali is a superb spot for a spending leisure hours, a most preferable resort for trekkers to Lahaul, Spiti, Kinnaur, Leh and Zanskar regions in Kashmir valley.

Manali sure is your heavenly get away from the much hectic and busy city life style. It will lead you to places that you thought only existed in fairytales. Manali has ample opportunities for adventurous tourists. If you are really interested in adventure tours, be it normal or extreme, Manali is the right place to be. Amidst the snow loaded mountains and lush green surroundings, it is very fascinating to enjoy the adventure sports.

Main attractions in Manali

Hadimba temple

Hadimba or Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region. This four-story wooden temple is located in the middle of a forest called the Dhungiri Van Vihar. Winding paths through forests and glades of whispering Deodars form the setting for the majestic wooden temple of Hidimba Devi in Manali. The motor able road is shaded by Chestnuts, Chinas' and tall deciduous Deodars. This forested backdrop enthralls one's spirit and refreshes one's mind all along the uphill path.

Manu Temple
Manu Temple, dedicated to Manu Rishi, is set some 3 kms, from the main bazaar in old Manali. It is believed to be the only temple of Manu in India, the creator of human race on the earth.

Vashist Hot Water Springs and Temple
Situated 3 km from Manali is Vashist, a small village situated on the left bank of the river Beas, onwards Rohtang pass. The place is worth a visit for its renowned hot springs and temples. Close to this, is a stone temple in pyramidal shape, dedicated to Vashist Muni. There is another temple dedicated to Lord Ram, based at this place. Natural hot sulphur springs (said to have curative value) with two separate bathing tanks for gents and ladies are always crowded with tourists. Here, in a bath complex with a restaurant and a beautiful view, couples can soak in the privacy of their own sunken bath, warming all kinds of ailments out of their systems.
Jagatsukh (6-kms):
It is one of the biggest villages in Kullu district. About 6-km from Manali, Jagatsukh is famous for its Shiva temple that is built in "shikhara" style and nearby is the old and interesting Devi Sharvati temple.

Arjun Gufa (5-kms):
On the left bank of the Beas, 5-km from Manali near the village of Prini, is the 'Arjun Gufa' or the cave of Arjuna. In here Arjuna practised austerities to get Pashupata Ashtra or weapon from Lord Indra.

Beas Kund:
Further ahead is the Beas Kund. The tiny roundish igloo like stone hut shelters the Beas Kund, the very source of the holy river Beas. Water flows at the source of the river like a spring, so clear and icy cold that it almost numbs the fingers. All around is the rocky terrain with very little vegetation. A few mules graze around while all and sundry try to brave the wind on a clear sunny day.

Rohtang Pass (13-kms):

Situated about 50-km from Manali town, at an altitude of 4,111m on the highway to Keylong, is the Rohtang Pass. There is a beautiful Dasohar Lake left of the Pass. The Pass, which provides the only access to the Lahaul Valley, is open from June to November each year. Snowfall is, however, unpredictable and blizzards can close the Pass even during this period. Here one sees the majesty of the mountains at its height and splendor. A few km away from the pass is the Sonapani glacier and, slightly to the left are the twin peaks of Gaypan-jagged pyramid of rock, snow streaked and snow crowned.

Mountaineering Institute
it is located some 3 kms, on the left river bank of Beas onwards Kulu. The Institute organizes basic & advance training courses, in trekking, mountaineering, skiing and water sports. All those who are interested in skiing and trekking, can hire the required equipments from here by booking in advance

Adventurous Manali

Manali has ample opportunities for adventurous tourists. If you are really interested in adventure tours, be it normal or extreme, Manali is the right place to be. Amidst the snow loaded mountains and lush green surroundings, it is very fascinating to enjoy the adventure sports.

Mountaineering
The large number of virgin peaks, easy access to base camps and the affordability of local expeditions have made Manali a good value for many mountain climbers.

White water rafting
White water rafting in valleys of Manali is done on river Beas from Pirdi (4 kms ahead of Kullu town) down to Jhiri, a stretch of approximately 14 kms. (Period Apr 15th-Jun end). The journey takes nearly one & half hour consisting of rapids from grade II & III.

Paragliding
Paragliding is organized in Kullu valley throughout the year at Solang Valley, located 14 kms from Manali and other locations like Marhi, Fatru, Bijli Mahadev etc

SKIING
Near Manali there are some slopes, which have been rated the best for skiing in the world. The Solang Nullah, Patalsu, Kothi, Marhi and Rohtang slopes are very good for skiing in the winters as well as in summers. In fact Patalsu and Rohtang slopes are the only places where one can do summer skiing. The slopes are being further developed to accommodate more trainees and tourists.

No one would resist this serenity and the sheer beauty of pure nature. Therefore, why not take a break and visit this wonder of nature? You don't have to worry about the Visa to India as Our friendly and co-operative team at India visa 24 is ready to make the tour of yours a reality... There will be no more issues in obtaining a Visa to India. All you have to do is apply for a Visa through http://www.indiavisa24.co.uk and let the Indian Visa experts do the rest for you.

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