A Journey from Gujarat’s Heritage to the Majestic Himalayas
We have a train to Pathankot next morning!! Aur wo kehte hai na, pahado pe jaane se pehle ki raat kuch aur hi hoti hai—wo excitement, wo feeling!!
The journey began from the rich heritage of Gujarat, winding its way to the tranquil trails of Manali. From the bustling streets to serene mountain paths, it was an adventure filled with excitement and awe.
Setting the Stage
The night before heading to the mountains is always magical—a mix of anticipation and thrill. We packed our bags, hearts brimming with excitement, ready for the adventure ahead. The next morning, we boarded our train to Pathankot, ready to embrace the 30-hour journey from Ahmedabad.
Train Tales
The train ride was long yet joyous. From playing cards and action games to watching movies, every moment was filled with laughter and fun. By evening the next day, we reached Pathankot railway station. We had a few hours to explore the local market, where we discovered Billa Di Lassi, a must-try for anyone visiting Pathankot.
Into the Himalayas
As night fell, we boarded a tempo traveler arranged by our tour company. The journey to Manali began with Punjabi songs and endless chatter. By early morning, we entered Himachal Pradesh. The sun rising over the snow-covered peaks painted a heavenly picture, as if crafted by the gods themselves.
Arrival in Solang Valley
We reached our campsite in Solang Valley around 10 a.m. The valley, with its lush meadows, crystal-clear rivers, and snow-capped mountains, felt like a dream. Setting up camp amidst the crisp mountain air and the soothing sound of flowing water was an experience in itself.
Adventure Activities
Solang Valley is synonymous with adventure. From paragliding and ziplining to trekking and skiing, it’s a hub for thrill-seekers. After indulging in snow activities, we embarked on a small trek to Anjani Mahadev. This serene temple, dedicated to Anjani, mother of Lord Hanuman, offered spiritual solace amidst stunning natural beauty.
A Quiet Escape
Near our campsite, along the banks of the Beas River, we found an unnamed spot that became our little haven. Dipping our feet into the icy waters, surrounded by majestic mountains, we experienced a peace that words can hardly capture.
The Beas Kund Trek
Day 1: Solang Valley to Dhungri Village
The trek to Beas Kund began with a trail through lush pine forests, meadows, and bubbling streams. The scenery was breathtaking. At one point, we couldn’t resist channeling our inner Bollywood, drinking glacial water straight from the streams—a moment of pure joy.
As night fell, we gathered around our first campfire of the trek, sharing stories under a starlit sky.
Day 2: Dhungri to Beas Kund
Altitude: 12,000 feet
Distance: 8-10 km
Time: 5-6 hours
The trail became more rugged as we approached Beas Kund. By afternoon, we reached the glacial lake, surrounded by the towering peaks of Hanuman Tibba and Indrasan. The pristine beauty of the lake, nestled amidst alpine meadows like Bakar Thach, was mesmerizing.
Day 3: Return to Solang Valley
On the third day, we retraced our steps back to Solang Valley, hearts full of memories and a sense of accomplishment.
Exploring Manali
Old Manali and Hidimba Devi Temple
The next day, we explored Old Manali, starting with the Hidimba Devi Temple, nestled amidst a forest of deodar trees. The carved wooden structure and tranquil surroundings made the visit truly special.
Manali Mall Road
In the evening, we strolled along Manali’s Mall Road, famous for its woolen clothes, handicrafts, and souvenirs like Kullu shawls and Himachali caps. We also savored local delicacies such as:
- Siddu
- Momos
- Chana Chaat
- Apple Cider
Local brownies and wood-fired pizzas were the perfect end to our culinary exploration.
Atal Tunnel and Rohtang Pass
The following day, we visited the Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest highway tunnel at over 10,000 feet, connecting Solang Valley to Sissu. From there, we headed to Rohtang Pass, situated at 13,000 feet. The breathtaking views and challenging terrain made this an unforgettable part of our journey.
A Change of Plans
On our last day, we planned to visit Kasol, but a landslide forced us to change course. Our driver suggested visiting the Dechen Choekhor Buddhist Monastery in Bhuntar instead. The monastery’s peaceful atmosphere and the sight of young monks exuded serenity. Here, we enjoyed delicious Tibetan noodle soup (Thukpa) and Nepali chow mein.
Activities in Manali
- Paragliding: Experience a bird’s-eye view of snow-capped mountains.
- White Water Rafting: Navigate the thrilling rapids of the Beas River.
- Skiing and Snowboarding: Perfect for adventure enthusiasts in Solang Valley.
- Mountain Biking: Explore rugged trails on two wheels.
Bidding Farewell
As we began our return journey, the snow-capped peaks slowly faded into the distance. The mountains left us with memories to cherish forever. As the poet Naina once said, “Takleef hui, par iss baat ki khushi bhi thi ki main apne saath yaadon ka ek bada sa suitcase leke jaa raha tha.”https://www.instagram.com/divysaksena?igsh=NTB6eDdpdXJndWR4
A piece of my heart remains in the mountains, until next time. 🤍🪶
FAQs About Manali
1. Where is Manali located?
Manali is a beautiful hill station situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, India. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush greenery, it’s a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
2. What is the best time to visit Manali?
- Summer (March to June): Ideal for trekking, paragliding, and sightseeing.
- Winter (October to February): Perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying snowfall.
3. What are the top tourist attractions in Manali?
- Rohtang Pass: Snow adventures and breathtaking views.
- Solang Valley: Adventure sports like paragliding and skiing.
- Hidimba Devi Temple: A unique architectural gem amidst cedar forests.
- Old Manali: Known for its bohemian vibes, cafes, and local shops.
4. Is Manali a good honeymoon destination?
Yes! Manali is one of the most romantic destinations in India, offering serene landscapes, luxurious resorts, and beautiful spots like Jogini Falls and Vashisht Hot Springs.
5. What adventure activities can you do in Manali?
Manali is a paradise for adventure lovers. You can enjoy:
- Paragliding
- River rafting
- Trekking to Beas Kund or Hampta Pass
- Skiing and snowboarding in winter
Why Choose Rapture Holiday for Your Manali Trip?
Local Expertise and 24/7 Support
Our team ensures you get the best experiences, including offbeat trails and hidden gems.
Affordable Manali Tour Packages
We provide budget-friendly packages that include accommodations, activities, and transport.
Customizable Travel Plans
Our tailor-made itineraries cater to solo travelers, families, and honeymooners alike.
Hassle-Free Travel Experience
We take care of everything—from transport to guided tours—so you can relax and enjoy.
Plan your Manali trip today and let the mountains weave their magic on your soul!