Introduction to Manali: Once called the "end of the habitable world," Manali is an important hill station of northern India and is the destination of thousands of tourists every year. Its cool atmosphere provides a perfect haven for the ones afflicted by the hot Indian summers. Besides offering quite a few places for sightseeing, Manali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking. In Manali, one can find high mountains shrouded by silent snows and deep boulder strewn gorges. There are thick forests, filled with cool breezes and bird song. There are fields of wild flowers, small picturesque hamlets and fruit-laden orchards, especially apples.

Situated in the central parts of the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is at the head of the Kullu valley, 280 km north of the state capital Shimla and 108 km from Mandi. Manali is perched at an altitude of 2050 meters above sea level and is spread along the banks of the river Beas. In winters, the temperature can drop below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. Summer temperatures are mild and light woolens/cottons are recommended.

Sightseeing:  Manali has a number of thrilling and picture perfect sites to visit. Some of the important attractions are the natural hot-water fountain and temple in the Vashishtha Baths, the legendary Hadimba Devi Temple and the picturesque Tibetan Monastery. Go a little bit away from the town, and you come across the legendary Arjun Gufa, the historical Jagatsukh, the Nehru Kund, Kothi, and the Solang Valley, besides the Rehalla Falls.

Excursions: Manali offers sites nearby that you can visit on a daylong trip. These places provide you a view of the magnificent Himalayas and the scintillating feeling of being one with the Mother Nature. The region around Manali also has some of the major passes of the country. The Rohtang Pass, Keylong, Naggar, Manikaran, Udaipur, Bhutta Weavers Colony, Kullu and the Bhuntar are some of the places that are worth a visit.