3 Days in Manali for an Adventure Trip

Kick off your Manali trip with its most iconic spots, from spiritual vibes at Hadimba Temple to the bustling Mall Road and the serene Vashisht Hot Springs.

Activities

Hadimba Temple & Nature Walk

Start your day at the unique Hadimba Temple, surrounded by cedar forests. The pagoda-style architecture and peaceful vibes make it a must-visit. Afterward, take a short nature walk in the nearby Van Vihar park for stunning views of the mountains.

Hadimba Temple Road, Old Manali8:00 AM - 10:00 AM (best to avoid crowds)Free (donations welcome)

Tips:

• Dress modestly as it's a religious site
• Carry water for the nature walk

Explore Mall Road & Lunch

Head to Mall Road, the heart of Manali, for shopping and people-watching. Pick up local woolens, handicrafts, or try some piping hot momos from street vendors. Stop for lunch at Johnson's Cafe, a cozy spot known for its Tibetan and continental dishes.

The Mall Road, Manali12:00 PM - 2:30 PM₹200-500 for lunch

Tips:

• Bargain politely at shops
• Try the apricot jam at local stalls

Vashisht Hot Springs & Temple

Wrap up your day with a relaxing dip in the natural sulfur springs at Vashisht village. The warm waters are perfect after a day of exploring. Don't miss the ancient Vashisht Temple nearby with its intricate stone carvings.

Vashisht Village, 3km from Manali4:00 PM - 5:30 PM (less crowded)₹20-50 for springs entry

Tips:

• Carry a change of clothes
• Separate timings for men/women

Must Try Foods

A mix of breathtaking mountain views and local market vibes, with some adrenaline-pumping activities thrown in.

Activities

Rohtang Pass or Solang Valley

Head to either Rohtang Pass (if open) for stunning Himalayan views or Solang Valley for adventure sports. Rohtang offers snow-capped peaks and high-altitude lakes, while Solang is perfect for paragliding, zorbing, or just soaking in the valley views. Check road conditions beforehand as Rohtang often closes due to weather.

Rohtang Pass (51km from Manali) or Solang Valley (14km from Manali)Morning (7-8am start) to avoid afternoon crowds and weather changesRohtang: ₹500-1000 for permits and transport | Solang: ₹1000-3000 for activities

Tips:

• Carry warm layers - it's much colder up high
• Book adventure activities through reputable operators

Old Manali Cafe Hopping

After the mountains, unwind in Old Manali's quirky cafe scene. Start at Drifters' Inn for their legendary apple pie, then wander to Cafe 1947 by the river for live music. The narrow lanes here are full of hidden bakeries and Tibetan momo stalls.

Old Manali village, across the Manalsu River bridgeLate afternoon (3-5pm) when the light is perfect for photos₹200-500 per person for snacks/drinks

Tips:

• Try the local siddu (steamed bread) at small eateries
• Cash works better than cards in most cafes

Sunset at Nehru Kund

A peaceful end to the day at this natural spring where Nehru supposedly drank water. The Beas River gushes nearby, and the evening light paints the valley golden. It's quieter than most Manali spots, with locals often picnicking here.

Nehru Kund, 6km from Manali on Leh HighwayEvening (5:30-6:30pm depending on season)Free

Tips:

• Combine with a stop at the nearby Rahala Falls
• Wear sturdy shoes - the rocks near the river can be slippery

Must Try Foods

A relaxed day uncovering lesser-known spots and local flavors, perfect for winding down your Manali trip.

Activities

Morning at Jogini Falls

Skip the crowds and head to this serene waterfall, a short trek from Vashisht village. The path winds through apple orchards and pine forests, offering glimpses of local life. The falls themselves are stunning, especially in the morning light. Pack a picnic or just enjoy the sound of rushing water.

Jogini Falls, near Vashisht Temple7-10 AM (best light, fewer people)Free (small donation optional at waterfall)

Tips:

• Wear sturdy shoes - the trail can be slippery
• Carry water - no shops along the way

Lunch at a Family-Run Dhaba

Forget fancy cafes - today we're eating where the locals do. Try a tiny roadside dhaba (look for ones with trucks parked outside) for authentic Himachali thali. Expect steaming rajma chawal, kadhi, and siddu (local bread) with ghee. The smoky flavors and warm hospitality make this a real highlight.

Any busy roadside between Manali and Kullu (ask locals for current favorites)12:30-2 PM (when locals eat)₹150-300 per person

Tips:

• Point to what others are eating if unsure what to order
• Cash only - most don't accept cards

Evening Walk in Naggar

This quiet village feels worlds away from Manali's bustle. Wander past traditional stone houses with slate roofs, visit the quirky Nicholas Roerich art gallery, and end at Naggar Castle for sunset views over the valley. The castle's cafe serves excellent local apple juice.

Naggar Village (about 1 hour from Manali)3-7 PM (cooler temperatures)₹50-100 (castle entry fee)

Tips:

• Shared taxis run regularly from Manali bus stand
• Try the fresh trout at a riverside cafe if hungry

Must Try Foods