Manali is the most prime tourist destination of Himachal and reveals the valley at its best. According to legend its name is derived from Manu and Alaya, the abode of Manu, who came here for the renweal of life after the great deluge. Manali is synonymous with streams & birdsong, forests and orchards and the grandeur of snow capped mountains.

Its other attraction is the 450 years old Dhoongri Temple dedicated to the goddess Hadimba. It is believed that here Bhima, the great Pandava of the Mahabharta, slew the demon Hadimba & married his sister Hadimba who was elevated to the status of a goddess. The outstanding features of this temple are a four-tiered pagoda-shaped roof and a beautifully carved door.

Around Manali are several places of interest located in picturesque settings. Vashist is 3.2 Km away perched on a steep hillside across the Beas. Below its temple are hot sulphur springs, the water of which has been piped to showerfitted bathrooms. Jagatsukh, 6 Km, south of Manali is the ancient capital of Kullu and known also for its temples. A fine, two days excursion from Manali is the trek to Brighu lake below Brighu Peak. The lake can be approached from Vashist and Gulaba, the latter being the easier route.

Kothi is the picturesque village 12 KM. from Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass. It offers views of glaciers and the deep gorge through which the Beas flows. Further up are the Rahalla Falls. Between Manali and Kothi lies and Solang Valley which has excellent ski-slopes. At the end of the Kullu Valley, 32 Km. from Manali is the famous Rohtang pass (3978 mts) which offers some of the most spectacular views of the Himalayas