Check out the list of places you must see when you are in Old Manali.
When you head to Manali, either with your friends and family or as a solo traveller, there’s a world to explore. While the new part of the hill town is fascinating, you can experience the old-world charm of Old Manali. It is an amalgamation of the old and new—from new establishments to ancient structures, narrow alleys and some of the most popular restaurants and cafes.
While it’s natural to observe the contemporary elements, the traditional way of life stands out—whether in architecture or food. The best way to explore this part of Manali is by foot–so get set to put on your sneakers and march around the streets, admiring the Himachali culture and more. On the way, you may likely come across family-run orchards. If you can, stop by and soak in all the beauty.
Since you know how Old Manali is, here are a few sights you must make a part of your bucket list.
- Hadimba Devi temple
If you are in Manali, you can leave the town with a visit to the Hadimba temple. Why is this cave temple so significant? That’s because Hadimba Devi, the wife of Bhima who finds a mention in the Mahabharata, is the central deity here. The ancient structure was built in 1553 CE by Maharaja Bahadur Singh at a spot where Hadimba and her brother lived and meditated.
The pagoda-style temple made from wood is ensconced by cedar forests called Dhungiru Van Vihar in the Himalayas. The temple commands your attention because of its architecture, history, and mythology. Devotees come here from all parts of India since the goddess is believed to fulfil prayers.
- Manu Temple
The Manu temple is also another sight that deserves a mention. As the name suggests, this temple is dedicated to Manu Rishi, a revered sage known for humankind’s creation and is also the author of the religious text Manusmriti. Constructed from natural materials like stone and wood, this temple is the stop for most religious and spiritual tourists. After all, the sage protected the region’s locals from The Great Flood.
- Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art
A must-visit in Old Manali, this museum is in the neighbourhood of the Hadimba temple. Constructed as recently as 1998, this structure was established as a repository of Himachal Pradesh folk art and cultural objects. Step inside the complex, and you will be enamoured by the collection on display–everything from traditional attire to wood carvings, ancient musical instruments, to some distinct objects characteristic of Himachali culture. Overall, the museum serves as a great way to acquaint tourists with the Himachali way of life.
- Old Manali market
Of course, when you set out on a holiday, shopping is an integral part of the experience. Head here to indulge in some retail therapy without emptying your pockets. You can find everything from traditional souvenirs to music albums and tribal jewellery to fruit jams and jellies. Only a few know, but several locals supply pickles to these shops. Make sure you buy either the galangal, maroon or plum varieties. Its sweet-sour taste will impress you from the first bite.
- Jogini waterfalls
The last stop in Old Manali must be the Jogini waterfalls, located not too far from the ancient Vashisht temple. A tributary of the Beas river forms these massive waterfalls with a height of 150 feet. At the base, a pool is popular among the young and the old alike. It’s common to see people spending hours there, having a good time while splashing water at each other. While these waterfalls are incredible to visit most of the year, avoiding them during the monsoons is advisable due to heavy downpours.
If you enjoy a good trek, you can also reach the waterfalls through that. Only a few know that the trek route is in the lane adjacent to the Vashist temple.
Once you are back after a long day of sightseeing, there’s nothing more comforting than a soulful meal and a turned-down bed. You get all this and more at the best luxury resort in Manali, Bookmark Resort Manali. Come here to get embraced by the luxury offerings that the property has to offer. Moreover, it is set amid the snow-capped peaks of Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal mountain ranges, so there are plenty of vantage points.
Head to this five-star resort in Manali for a few days and explore OId Manali and other parts of town. Please spend a few days at Bookmark Resort Manali to enjoy a taste and culture of the Himachali hill resort through its food, cultural activities and more.
