Manali is situated at an altitude of 1,926 metres and spreads in 12.5 square km. Manali is a place definitely worth visiting on a tour to Himachal Pradesh. Not only does it have numerous places to see within its confines, but also stands surrounded by many beautiful and attractive tourist attractions. It is one of the principal show places of the Kullu region. Solang valley, Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple are some major tourist places near Manali.
Hadimba Temple
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Manali is the Hadimba Temple. This temple, with a finely wrought four - tiered pagoda roof, dating back to 1553, is built around a natural cave, which enshrines the footprints of the goddess Hadimba. Although carving is simple yet beautiful. This temple was built by Raja Bahadur Singh of Kullu. Every year in May a major festival is organized here. This place is a popular picnic spot among the tourists.
Rahalla Falls
16 km from Manali town at the start of the climb to the Rohtang Pass. If one goes to Marhi on foot from Kothi from the old road, the sight of the falls is fascinating. It is a good picnic spot as well.
Solang Valley
A beautiful picnic spot 14 kms from the Manali. Those who are really interested in skiing and trekking will finds Solang Valley a heaven. Nice meadows surrounded by Silver Oaks and spurs, offers views of Glaciers and snow capped mountains. The valley offers excellent landscape to skiers. The winter skiing festival is organised here as well as training in skiing is imparted at this place.
Vashisht Springs
3 kms from the Manali. Vashisht Springs is the name given to the hot sulfur springs that can be seen gushing from the mountains at Vashist. This place is famous for its hot water springs and temples of Vashisht Rishi and Lord Rama. The place is among the popular tourist destination near the town, one for beauty and another for the religious and spiritual values.
Rohtang Pass
51 kms from the Manali, At an altitude of 4,112 metres on the highway to Keylong. Pass is open from June to November each year, and provides wonderful views of the entire surroundings. Visited by a large number of people every year. It is the gateway to Lahaul-Spiti, Pangi and Leh valley. Sports activities like skiing are also organized here.
Kothi
12 kms from the Manali, Kothi is a place that offers excellent surroundings.Kothi is a quiet but picturesque spot. The slopes above Kothi are a steep one-hour walk up from the road, but there are excellent thermals coming off the rocks and it is a favourite of the local eagles. This place is famous for movie picturisation and resting resort for poets, writers and lovers of peaceful environments.