The tall Mountains and luscious greenery all around captivated my heart in Manali. It was breathtaking. Famously called the “The Goa of North”, Manali has something for everyone. What caught my attention in the evergreen heaven is its serene environment, pristine air, pleasant climate, adventure activities, & lots more. Apart from the scenery, Manali is a well-developed town with all the facilities from excellent stay places to mouth-watering cuisine.

One fine evening, I booked Myles Self-drive Car and decided to venture on a road trip to Manali with a few of my friends. The early excitement of the trip was hard to describe but when we reached Manali from Delhi, I had my first snowfall experience. The whole town blanketed with white snow made it look like heaven on earth. This Manali trip was inspired by my favorite bollywood movie “Yeh Jawani hai Deewani”. And what better way to explore the beauty of Manali than on a road trip with friends, just like the characters in the movie did! We made sure to stop at scenic viewpoints along the way to soak in the breathtaking landscapes and capture some memorable photographs.

No trip to Manali would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. From piping hot momos and thukpa to savoring traditional Himachali dishes like siddu and babru, our taste buds were treated to a gastronomic delight. We also made sure to visit the vibrant markets, where we picked up souvenirs and handicrafts to commemorate our trip.

Manali has two sides-Old Manali & New Manali. 

Old Manali: Where Time Stands Still

Our first stop was Old Manali, a place steeped in history and charm. Driving through its narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, I felt like I had stepped back in time. The pace of life here was unhurried, and every corner seemed to whisper tales of bygone eras.

One of the highlights of Old Manali was the iconic Hadimba Devi Temple, a centuries-old wooden shrine dedicated to the goddess Hadimba. Surrounded by towering deodar trees and set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, the temple exuded a serene aura that was simply mesmerizing.

After offering our prayers at the temple, we wandered further into the heart of Old Manali, discovering hidden gems at every turn. Charming cafes with psychedelic artwork, quirky shops selling handmade jewelry and clothing, and laid-back guesthouses offering a glimpse into the local way of life – Old Manali had it all.

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves drawn to the banks of the gurgling Beas River. Sitting on a boulder, with the sound of the river as my soundtrack, I watched the sky paint itself in hues of orange and pink, casting a magical spell over the tranquil surroundings. It was a moment of pure bliss, one that I would treasure forever.

New Manali: Where Adventure Meets Modernity

The next day, we ventured into the bustling streets of New Manali, a stark contrast to the serene vibes of its older counterpart. Here, the energy was palpable, with throngs of tourists bustling about, and a plethora of adventure activities waiting to be explored.

Our first stop was Solang Valley, a haven for adrenaline junkies. From paragliding high above the valley to ziplining through the lush greenery, there was no shortage of heart-pounding adventures to embark on. We couldn’t resist the temptation and found myself soaring through the skies, the wind in the hair and the mountains at our feet.

After our dose of adventure, we explored the vibrant markets of New Manali, where bustling bazaars offered everything from local handicrafts to trendy fashion finds. I indulged in some souvenir shopping, picking up trinkets and treasures to remind me of my time in this vibrant town.

As evening descended, we made our way to the bustling Mall Road, the heartbeat of New Manali. Lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops selling everything from delicious street food to high-end fashion, it was the perfect place to soak in the buzzing atmosphere and indulge in some people-watching.

Rohtang-Pass: A picturesque haven covered with snow

Journeying from Manali to Rohtang Pass through our car was an adventure of its own. The perfect time to explore its beauty is from May to October, when the weather is at its best. Setting off from Manali by car, the journey itself is an adventure, with winding roads offering breathtaking views at every turn.

Hiring a local driver is a wise choice for navigating the tricky terrain. Along the way, we stopped at charming dhabas, where we savored the flavors of Himachali cuisine, from hearty rajma chawal to comforting aloo paratha. Upon reaching the pass, the panorama of towering peaks and glistening glaciers unfolded before me, while the air resonated with the sounds of nature’s majesty. Wrapped in warm clothes, we soaked in the tranquility of the surroundings, feeling humbled by the awe-inspiring beauty of the Himalayas.

Overall the trip to Manali was filled with breathtaking views, adventures at every turn and soul-satisfying food. As we bid farewell to Manali, we carried with us not just memories of breathtaking landscapes and thrilling experiences, but also the gratitude for the seamless and unforgettable journey made possible by Myles self-drive. Until our next adventure, Manali will remain etched in our hearts as a testament to the joys of exploration and the bond of friendship forged on the open road. 

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