Hadimba Temple : One of Manali’s prime attractions, Hadimba Temple or Dhungri Temple has historic as well as archaeological significance. Undertake a walk from the Manali Tourist office to 2 km north-west of Dhungri hill where Hadimba Temple stands under cover of Deodar forests. You can also reach this temple by cars or taxis that ply along the Bipasha and bring you at the temple gate.
Built by Maharaja Bahadur Singh in 1553, the temple is dedicated to goddess Hadimba, the wife of Bhim of Mahabharat fame. The 27 metre high temple is made of wood and has four-tiered pagoda type roof and the well-decorated front gate which comprises the images of animals, gods and goddesses, legendary figures and symbols. Every year, in the month of May a large festival is organized here.
Tibetan Monastery : At Model Town, the Tibetan Monastery is another major attraction hoisting the prayer flag. The Tibetan Monastery has a good collection of Tibetan paintings as well as Tibetian handicrafts ready for sale. In addition to this, there are two more monasteries in Manali one in the town and one at Aleo on the left bank of river Beas.
Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa : Close to Tibetan Monastery, Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa is another tourist spot which was constructed in 1969. The Lakhang or the shrine hall of the monastery was built by the contributions of local people. The Gadhan Takechokling Gumfa has the idol of Shakyamuni.
Manali Mountaineering Institute : Manali Mountaineering Institute is located close to the Tibetan Monastery on the left bank of river Beas towards Kullu. The institute offers basic and advance training courses for adventure sports like mountaineering, trekking, skiing and plenty of water sports. You can hire skiing and trekking equipments from here by advance booking. You can also visit a fantastic showroom here.
Manali Club House : Manali Club House is located at a distance of 2 kms from the main town on the left bank of Manalsu Nallah. Cross the Bipasha river by car to reach Manali Club House which is under the shade of Deodar trees and offers many indoor games facilities. Cultural events are also organized in the auditorium of Club House. Around the Club House there are some fine picnic spots, where you can pass a good time.
Manu Temple : Just 3 kms from the main market in Old Manali, there is a temple dedicated to Manu Rishi, the creator of human race on the earth. People believe that this is the only Manu Temple in India.
Vashisth Hot Water Springs, Ashram and Temple : A small village situated on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang Pass, Vashisth is known for its hot springs and magnificent temples. Here, you will see a pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashisth Muni. In addition to this, there is a temple dedicated to Lord Rama. Hot Water Springs containing Sulphur, is another major attraction here. Turkish style HPTDC’s Hamam (Bathroom) has arrangements of modern bath with the supply of water from Kund (Spring) and having separate bathing tanks for men and women, always remain full of tourists. |