Places Visit In Manali

Hadimba Temple

Hidimbi Devi Temple, also known variously as the Hadimba Temple, is located in Manāli, a hill station in the State of Himāchal Pradesh in north India.

The Hidimba Devi Temple has intricately carved wooden doors and a 24 meters tall wooden "shikhar" or tower above the sanctuary. The tower consists of three square roofs covered with timber tiles and a fourth brass cone-shaped roof at the top. The earth goddess Durga forms the theme of the main door carvings.[3] The temple base is made out of whitewashed, mud-covered stonework. An enormous rock occupies the inside of the temple, only a 7.5 cm (3 inch) tall brass image representing goddess Hidimba Devi. A rope hangs down in front of the rock,and according to a legend,in bygone days religious zealots would tie the hands of "sinners" by the rope and then swing them against the rock.About seventy metres away from the temple, there is a shrine dedicated to Goddess Hidimba's son, Ghatotkacha, who was born after she married Bhima.

The most surprising feature of the temple or what believers could call the most reassuring feature of the temple is the fact that inside the temple the imprint of the feet of the Goddess carved on a block of stone are worshipped and, when zooming into the area where the temple is located via Google Satellite, the imprint of a giant foot spanning across the valley in the area near the temple can be seen (citation required for this fact. The forces of erosion are no joke, for God's sakes.)

The Indian epic Mahabharata narrates that the Pāndavas stayed in Himachal during their exile. In Manali, the strongest person there, named Hidimba and brother of Hidimdi, attacked them, and in the ensuing fight Bhima, strongest amongst the Pandavas, killed him. Bhima and Hidimba's sister, Hidimbi, then got married and had a son, Ghatotkacha, (who later proved to be a great warrior in the war against Kauravas). When Bhima and his brothers returned from exile, Hidimbi did not accompany him, but stayed back and did tapasyā (a combination of meditation, prayer, and penance) so as to eventually attain the status of a goddess.

History

Hadimba Devi Temple, also known as the Hadimba Temple, is located in Manali, a hill station in the State of Himachal Pradesh in north India. It is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi, sister of Hidimb, who was a character in the Indian epic, Mahabharata. The temple is surrounded by a cedar forest at the foot of the Himalayas. The sanctuary is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground, which was worshiped as an image of the deity. The structure was built in the year 1553. Hadimba, a ‘Rakshashi’ in the Mahabharata has been deified and is worshipped in this area. According to Mahabharata ‘Hadimba Rakshash’ ruled some of the sub-mountainous tracts of the Himalayas. His sister was Hadimba or Hadimba.manali taxi service, taxi service in manali, attrctions in manali The Hadimba Devi Temple has intricately carved wooden doors and a 24 meters tall wooden “shikhar” or tower above the sanctuary. The tower consists of three square roofs covered with timber tiles and a fourth brass cone-shaped roof at the top. The earth goddess Durga forms the theme of the main door carvings. The temple base is made out of whitewashed, mud-covered stonework. An enormous rock occupies the inside of the temple, only a 7.5 cm (3 inch) tall brass image representing goddess Hadimba Devi.

Construction

Hidimba Devi temple stands in the midst of a sacred cedar forest near the town of Dunghri at the verdant foot of the Himalaya mountains. The sanctuary is built over an enormous rock that juts out of the ground, worshipped as a manefestation of Durga, the "Hill Mother" or goddess of the earth. The temple was constructed in 1553 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, who made a promise to the Hidimba deity of the Mahabharata epic. The temple is rather unusual and is architecturally similar only to the temple of Tripura Sundari in Naggar (also in the Kulu valley). The Hidimba Devi temple is 24 meters tall and consists of three square roofs clad in timber tiles, surmounted by a cone-shaped fourth roof that is covered in brass. The interior of the temple is occupied by the large rock and contains no usuable space except for the ground floor. Curiously, a rope dangles from the ridge that is said to have been used to hang victims by the hand, who were then swung—bleeding and bruised—over the large rock in the presence of the goddess. The base of the temple is made of whitewashed mud-covered stonework. The main doorway includes an elaborately carved wooden entrance that is believed to be over 400 years old. These and other carvings center on the goddess Durgha who is a mainstay of pan-Indian stories. However, the goddess herself is represented only once in a three inch tall brass image.

Museum of Himachal

The Museum not only helped in preserving the culture and art but also brings awareness about the almost extinct traditions. The items exhibited here highlights the traditional way of life of the Himachal people. Under one roof it presents almost all aspects of the daily uses of the ancient Himachali people like clothes, stone mortar, earthen pots, hubble bubble, musical instruments, wooden carvings, weight scale, Kulluvi kitchen, traditional houses, handloom, ornaments etc

Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art is a stone's throw from Hidimba Devi Temple at Manali. It is located 2-3 km from Manali main town. The Museum was established in 1998 to collect and exhibit cultural and folk art antiques articles of Himachal Pradesh. But the initiative to collect articles of traditional values from all over Himachal began long time back in 1990. The Museum is housed at Utopia complex. J.R. Sood who founded the Museum traveled throughout the State to research, and collect ancient antique items. The Museum has an admirable collection of rare and almost extinct articles, which belonged to the forgotten era.

The Museum is a unique and extraordinary collection of unknown and rare antiques of the state. It demonstrates the almost extinct articles that clearly display the forgotten culture, art and handicraft of Himachal Pradesh. In the process of the Maskpreservation of the culture the museum has earned itself fame and place in the field of Art, Culture and Tourism of Himachal Pradesh.

The museum has not only helped in the preservation of the culture, but it has greatly influenced the public and has created awareness in their minds about the importance of their culture and handicraft. The museum is not just simply a collection of ancient antiquities but is the result of J. R. Sood’s (founder of the museum) research, intensive travel in the state, searching for several years for preserving the antiques and their history, use and importance in the olden days.

The Museum displays models of temples, old houses and forts, traditional dresses, utensils, musical and ritual instruments, wood carvings and various other articles. This rare collection helps in knowing more and exploring as well as analyzing the history, tradition, art and culture of our ancestors. It provides a vast knowledge about the old days and is an excellent mirror that reflects the culture and handicraft of the state. The museum has many interesting aspects, which are curious and unexplained, requiring more discussion and research. It offers an unrivalled opportunity for the research scholars in the field.

Tibetan Monasteries

Manali has several colorful monasteries that represent the rich culture and history of the Tibetan people settled in Kullu and Manali. There are two main monasteries in Manali that draw a large number of tourists-the Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and the Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa. These monasteries are surrounded by several small shops selling beautiful handicrafts and carpets, made by Tibetan people living nearby these monasteries. The Tibetan Monasteries also run a Thanks School of Arts and a Carpet-weaving Center to preserve ancient Tibetan art.

The paintings inside these buildings depict events from Lord Buddha's life and the Kalchakra, i.e., the wheel of life fixed on the wall of the monastery shows the human life cycle. The Buddhists believe that rotating these wheelsgives you salvation.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Manali is the fact that it has several colourful monasteries. These monasteries serve not only as a place of worship but also as guardians of the rich culture and history of the Tibetan people settled in Kullu and Manali.The two most important monasteries that draw a huge number of tourists to Manali from across the globe are the Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and the Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa. You can shop for beautiful handicrafts that are made by Tibetan people at these monasteries.

There are three Tibetan monasteries in Manali which are well visited by tourists visiting Manali. Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa and the Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa are located in the tibetan market in the Manali town and one could visit the monasteries while shopping at the market. The third monastery is located in Aleo near the river Beas.

Manu Temple

This historical Hindu temple in a serene setting backdropped by mountains is accessible by foot.his magnificent temple is dedicated to the sage Manu, who is said to be the creator of the world and the writer of Manusmriti.

T The Manu Temple is located in old Manali, at a distance of three kilometers from the main market. Though this area is quite congested, the presence of the River Beas adds to its attraction. The temple is one of the prime attractions in Manali and is believed to be the same place where sage Manu meditated after stepping on earth. This place has a distinct historical background that appeals to most of the people who visit Manali. The popularity of this majestic temple lies in the fact that it is the only temple dedicated to Manu; so whoever visits Manali makes it a point to visit this temple. The travelers are advised to wear dresses covering the knees and shoulders, while inside the temple.

Manu temple is said to be the only temple of Manu in India, who is believed to be the creator of human race. This Pagoda style of structure offers quite a glimpse into history, spirituality as well as a fascinating style of architecture. Also find here a breathtaking view surrounded by mountains and valleys, only making the simple and modest trek to the temple more enjoyable.

inside view of Manu Temple... Its made up of Wood and stone and marble is used for flooring... It looks amazing and most of the temples in Manali regions are made of Wood with very nice carving.Deodar wood is considered as very good quality wood for any construction work and its rarely available because of strict government rules in Himachal Pradesh.Here is the first of Manu Temple on enetering Old Manali.Most of the times its surrounded by clouds and it has amazing views of hills on other side and Beas River... There is a huge waterfall in front of this temple which can be seen from here but unapproachable because its on very high hills...

Club House

Elevated recreational center featuring a restaurant, indoor games & outdoor activities for all ages.

Ideal for people of kids as well as adults, Club House is an amazing amusement and adventure zone, which is one of the most popular attractions in Manali. Placed on the banks of Manalsu Nallah (branch of Beas River), it has various indoor and outdoor game facilities. The Club house is managed by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). It has British style of architecture. Visitors can enjoy games like carom, skating, go-karting billiards, and table tennis.Adventurous souls can also try their hand at zip-lining where one has to cross a river using ropeway. There is an in-house restaurant at the Club House complex where the guests can enjoy hot and cold beverages, along with some delightful snacks. Other additions are video games centre, an auditorium and a library. There are a few shops also where you can get your hands on some good woolen clothing and other keepsakes.

Kids are in for a wonderful surprise at the Manali Club House. From video games, go carting to river crossing sprees, there's a little something for everyone. After a long day of sightseeing or an equally exciting day of shopping, you could stop here for a relaxing evening tea and some delicious snacks. Run by HPTDC, you can enjoy both indoor and outdoor activities here. Carrom, table tennis and pool are only some of the interesting games, you can always head outside for an exciting go carting expedition. If games are not on your mind, the view of the river, gently flowing by along with the melodious sounds of nature are enough to take you to a different world.

Club House is an entertainment zone, built in British-style and managed by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). It is popular for indoor as well as outdoor activities like carrom, table tennis, pool and skating. For a relaxing day, head towards this place, which is easily reachable by bus or taxi. If sports are not on your mind, you may read some classics in the library or admire the pristine river that flows along the Club House. Do not miss to enjoy a sip of tea or coffee and relish delicious snacks at the in-house restaurant.

A club, an association of two or more people united by a common interest or goal In the United States, a country club In the United Kingdom, a gentlemen's club A Wendy house, or playhouse, a small house for children to play in The locker room of a baseball team, which at the highest professional level also features eating and entertainment facilities A community centre, a public location where community members gather for group activities, social support, public information, and other purposes Clubhouse Model of Psychosocial Rehabilitation, a program of support and opportunities for people with severe and persistent mental illnesses Clubhouse sandwich

Vashisht Hot Water Springs

Located at a distance of 3 kms from Manali, there is a small village called Vashist. It is situated on the left bank of river Beas towards Rohtang pass. This village is known for its natural hot sulphur springs and temples. One of the most prominent temple is the pyramidal stone temple which is dedicated to sage Vashist.

Locals and tourists take a dip in the spring because of its medicinal properties. There are two separate bathing tanks built for men and women, along with a modern bathroom with turkish style showers fitted baths. To avoid tourist rush and enjoy some privacy, one should go early in the morning.

Vashisht village is a green patch of steep hill hanging at the base on a cliff. The village is 6 km from Manali at the banks of the Beas River opposite Old Manali. Vashisht is reachable from Manali by half an hour walk or a short drive up a slanting road by Auto Rickshaw for Rs.50. Most foreign tourists preferred staying here or at the Old Manali than the downtown Manali. Rich traditions and nice cafes are integral for backpackers. Vashisht has all that. Like Old Manali, Vashisht is crowded with tourists during peak seasons.

Streams rise at the base of this mountain. I walked up from the main road near the Beas River through a small steep footpath. The road was idyllic. Clear streams cut through the road and a small bridge suspends over it. The rustic village has a calm soothing effect.The village still retains the traditional house making style. Every gully springs up surprise. At one corner there’s this German bakery and at the next turn we’ve the traditional houses with cows. Foreign tourists who have only seen cows on the road in India looked overwhelmed like they were seeing a deer or a Nilgai.Vashisht was named after Rishi Vashisht one of the seven sages of Hindu. Legend has it that the saddened Rishi Vashisht after learning that his children were killed by Vishwamitra tried to commit suicide. But the river refused to kill him. The river was therefore named as Vipasha which literally means ‘freedom from bondage’. It was later shortened to Beas River.

He began mediating and vowed to start his life anew. The Vashisht temple which exists even today is believed to be more than 4000 years. It’s difficult to imagine how a place so old could remain so small. Perhaps the village is protected by its difficult landscapes. Vashisht temple is built in a traditional style with lots of intricate wood carvings. It is also most popular for hot springs which is believed to have medicinal value. There are separate bathing arrangement for men and women. According to another legend Lakshman who paid a visit realized that the sage had to go for long walks to take bath. He shot an arrow into the ground and hot water began to gush out. There’s another temple ancient stone temple known as Rama Temple adjacent to the Vashisht Temple.Vashisht village is considered an important place by the Hindus in India. The place is often associated with pilgrims.Most shops in Vashisht sell woolen clothes. There are beautiful cafes and dining places all along the main street. Vashisht offers by far the best view of the Beas River and the Old Manali. Watching the river valley spread below at sunset leaves a lasting photographic image in my mind.

Maa Sharvari Temple

Sharvari Temple, 5 km from the main market of Manali, is a beautiful temple situated in hassle free and quiet picturesque surroundings above Shaminallah village. Maa Sharvari is represented as ‘Kuldevi’ of the kings of Kullu in early times and is worshipped as a manifestation of goddess Durga throughout the region. Tourists can enjoy a breathtaking view of the Kullu valley from Sharvari temple.

Offering a peek into the culture and history of the twin hill stations of Kullu and Manali, the beautiful Sharvari temple is a must visit. At a distance of 5 km from the main market, the temple is above Shaminallah village. The walk to the temple is hassle free and quiet picturesque. Said to house the idol of the Kullu kings' Kuldevi, the temple witnesses a number of devotees all through the year. The idol is said to be a manifestation of Goddess Durga and is fervently worshipped. Bundled in ancient history, the temple is considered to be a significant place of worship. During the colourful festival of Dusshera which is celebrated with much enthusiasm and vigour in the hill station, the statue is taken to Kullu in a colourful procession to meet Lord Raghunathji.

One of the famous religious temple to visit in Kullu district is Ma Sharvari temple. Deity Sharvari is one of the famous religious goddesses of this region. This is one of the finest and ancient temple in this region. Ma Sharvari is the incarnation of goddess Durga. The architecture of this temple is very marvelous and depicts the good quality of engineering. The calm and peaceful environments all-around of this temple is very helpful for finding spiritual peace. You can find huge crowd of devotees in the temple on the auspicious day of navratri. A fair is also held in the temple premises in the temple premises on the nine days of Chaitra navratri.

Maa Sharvari Temple positioned about 5 kilometers from Manali on the way to the Castle of Naggar at the top of a Himalayan Peak above the Shaminallah Village is dedicated to the patron deity of the Kings of Kullu. Goddess Sharvari, the Kuldevi of Kullu sovereignty is worshipped here as the manifestation of Goddess Durga. An idol of the Goddess Sharvari is enshrined in this temple. The most important festival celebrated at the Maa Sharvari Temple is Dussehra when the Goddess is carried to the temple of Lord Raghunathji in Kullu in a grand procession.

Nehru Kund

The Nehru Kund is a natural spring which was named after the first prime minister of India Late Pundit Jawaharlal Nehru. The prime minister loved visiting the place and drinking the crystal clear water from the spring when he used to stay in Manali.

The graceful clean water spring is said to have its source at the Bhrigu Lake. The sound of the bubbling water amidst the peaceful silence of the place will play like music to your ears. The river Beas flows through it. The serenity of the place and crystal clear water of the Kund attracts the tourists who visit Manali.The best time to visit Nehru Kund is from May to October

Nehru Kund gets its name from the first Prime minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru who is said to have had water from the natural spring, when he used to stay in Manali. One still finds here some cold and pristine water running here and a breath-taking scenery of mountains and valleys all around.

Nehru Kund is a natural spring, which is located on the Leh-Manali highway and is 5 km from Manali city. The kund was named after Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru (first Prime Minister of India) as he used to drink water from this spring when he stayed in Manali. It is believed that the spring originates from the Bhrigu Lake located at an elevation of around 4,300 meters in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu district. The place famous among tourists, photographers and nature lovers. The lush greenery of the valley and the pristine water offer a breath-taking scenery. Nehru Kund is a perfect place to unwind and relax.

Jogini Falls

This picturesque waterfall in a remote, tranquil setting has shrines below it & is sacred to locals.

ogini Falls is a waterfall with a stream running down to join the river Beas in the Kullu Valley below. It is sacred to the village goddess Jogini & is therefore a place of female power, known as a Shakti Peeth. One can enjoy an energizing dip under these cascading falls while admiring the towering snow clad mountains all around.Below the falls there is a small shrine and below that is a Main Shrine (small temple). Villagers go to Jogini Devi to make offerings & to ask for her intercession. As it is such a peaceful, even soporific, sacred place, villagers also go there occasionally to sleep. Special occasions are marked by the cooking of food & the performance of rituals.

A little ahead of Vashisht Hot Springs on the way to Vashist village, the breathtaking Jogini falls is a must visit. The small trek leading upto this clearing is fairly easy and definitely worth the effort. Navigating craggy paths though the ancient village is a memorable experience in itself. If you plan to spend a few hours in the midst of nature, packing in a hearty picnic basket would be a good idea. The first sight of the falls is astonishing to say the least. Abruptly flowing through a cluster of small hills, the falls are the perfect backdrop for an afternoon picnic. Take in the beauty, serenity and quiet surrounding the place and enjoy the warm sun as you dig into some local delicacies. The shops lining the area sell authentic Himachali food including the likes of kadi chawal, brown rice, rajma and aata namkeen. Away from the hustle bustle of tourist spots, you are in amidst natural beauty surrounding only by the melodious sounds of nature. You could choose to go for a long, luxurious walk in the nearby pine forest or simply find your spot and relax under the warm, soothing sun.

Jana Waterfall is located in a small village named Jana, few kilometers away from Naggar in Manali. The stunning beauty of this waterfall makes every traveler enjoy like never before. The water gushes down from a particular height; refreshing all your senses. If you want to get the clear view of the lovely Jana waterfall in Manali, lying a little uphill, you need to indulge in a small trek.The trek is short and fairly easy. From the top you can adore the enchanting views of deodar and pine trees, apple orchards and striking snow covered mountains. The serene ambience of the place makes Jana waterfall a best picnic spot for families. Above all, do not forget to click the pictures near the fall, as it a lifetime opportunity.Also, there is small shop nearby, where you can enjoy some local food. You can plan your visit to Jana fall from September till June. However, there is no harm in planning your visit during monsoons too, when the falls are in full flow and the greenery of the place sprouts entirely.

Solang Valley

Solang Nala derives its name from combination of words Solang and Nullah. It is a side valley at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India 14 km northwest of the resort town Manali.

Goindwal, also known as Goindwal Sahib, is located in Taran Taran district in the Majha region of the state of Punjab in India about 23 km from Tarn Taran Sahib. In the 16th century it became an important center for the Sikh religion during the Guruship of the Guru Amar Das. Goindwal is on the banks of the river Beas and is one of the focal points of small scale industries of Tarn Taran district.

Giant slopes of lawn comprise Solang Valley and provide its reputation as a popular ski resort. A few ski agencies offering courses and equipment reside here and operate only during winters.Snow melts during the summer months starting May and skiing is then replaced by zorbing (a giant ball with room for 2 people which is rolled down a 200 metre hill), paragliding, parachuting and horse riding. A ropeway was recently opened.[1] Going to the summit can be possible by ATVs, Ropeway or Climbing (Trekking)

Solang Valley is quiet and is best approached by road. The drive up to Solang is extremely picturesque. Once you are there, try out some Chinese food from the local roadside shacks, and enjoy the views. The road ahead is blocked since a tunnel to Koksar (a village ahead of Rohtag La) is now being built there.Located 16 km from Manali in north India, it lies on the western bank of the Beas River. It is 8500 feet above mean sea level.Solang is not just about adventure activities. Its lush greenery, apple orchards, snowcapped peaks and lakes attracts lakhs of visitors from India and abroad every year.The state-of-the-art ropeway is a favourite with the tourists and a convenient way to view Solang. The advent of summer season transforms Solang into a centre for zorbing. Zorbing is the recreation or sport of rolling downhill in an orb. Though relatively new to India, Solang is one of the places where the sport is practiced on a large-scale.The start of international skiing competition like Alpine Premier League has made the valley popular among foreign tourists. Solang slopes offer challenging skiing run to both beginners and advanced skiers.There are several hotels including budget and resorts to stay in Solang Valley. Tents are also available on rent for camping during summer. Resorts and hotels also offer tents for tourists.

Kothi

Kothi is located at a distance of 16 km from Manali, on the way to Lahaul-Spiti-Leh highway. The village of Kothi forms the bottom of the Rohtang Pass. From the gorge, tourists can avail the views of the deep gorge, and the River Beas rushing through it. The Kothi Gorge lies at a distance of 16 km from Manali, at an elevation of 2,500 metres.

The climb from the village to the gorge takes around an hour. The climbing trail contains several thermals coming off the rocks and is a favourite with the local eagles. This gorge also serves as a base for paragliding.

Kothi is an awe-inspiring destination, which is located at the foothills of Rohtang Pass, approximately 12 kilometers from Manali at an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level. This splendid village offers a magnificent view of snow capped mountains and glaciers and of the Beas River that flows through a very deep and narrow gorge at this point. Kothi is a perfect place for camping if one is planning to climb the Rohtang Pass valley on foot. The majestic locations of Kothi have been featured in many Bollywood movies and a lot of poets, writers, and painters have visited this beautiful sight to soak themselves in the magic of nature.At a distance of 13.5 km from Manali Bus Stand, 8 km from Gulaba Village, The Kothi Village is located along the route to Rohtang Pass from Manali on Leh - Manali Highway.Kothi is situated at the foothills of Rohtang pass and lies at an altitude of 2500 m.

This splendid village offers a magnificent view of snow capped mountains and glaciers and of the Beas River that flows through a very deep and narrow gorge at this point.Kothi village is one of the most scenic places to be visited in Manali. The beautiful valley view is worth watching. A number of movies have been shot at this location. Kothi is an ideal site for nature lovers, poets and painters. Kothi is also known as Koshtampi and has a temple of Goddess Shuwang Chandika, a local deity. Kothi used to be a camping site when Rohtang pass had to be climbed on foot. In recent times, the place can be accessed through jeep, bus and pony rides.Though the village can be visited throughout the year, the most appropriate time to visit the place is from May to October. It also has a comfortable staying option in the beautiful PWD Rest House, which lies in the middle of a picture-perfect surrounding of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

If you are looking for some peace and serenity in this busy hill station, the small village of Kothi is a splendid option. The village is about 16 km from Manali, on the way to Solang Valley. In earlier days, it was considered to be the base camp for difficult treks to Rohtang and other peaks. Reminiscent of an old world charm, the village has been a backdrop for a number of films. Also a favourite haunt for poets, writers and painters, the village is soaked in the magic of nature. From anywhere in the village, the view down below is simply breath taking to say the least. The river here, flows in between a narrow, deep, gorge for a good one kilometre. Sudden thermal springs, picturesque picnic spots and the calm of the village is sure to take you to a different place.

Kothi

Kothi is located at a distance of 16 km from Manali, on the way to Lahaul-Spiti-Leh highway. The village of Kothi forms the bottom of the Rohtang Pass. From the gorge, tourists can avail the views of the deep gorge, and the River Beas rushing through it. The Kothi Gorge lies at a distance of 16 km from Manali, at an elevation of 2,500 metres.

The climb from the village to the gorge takes around an hour. The climbing trail contains several thermals coming off the rocks and is a favourite with the local eagles. This gorge also serves as a base for paragliding.

Kothi is an awe-inspiring destination, which is located at the foothills of Rohtang Pass, approximately 12 kilometers from Manali at an altitude of 2500 meters above sea level. This splendid village offers a magnificent view of snow capped mountains and glaciers and of the Beas River that flows through a very deep and narrow gorge at this point. Kothi is a perfect place for camping if one is planning to climb the Rohtang Pass valley on foot. The majestic locations of Kothi have been featured in many Bollywood movies and a lot of poets, writers, and painters have visited this beautiful sight to soak themselves in the magic of nature.At a distance of 13.5 km from Manali Bus Stand, 8 km from Gulaba Village, The Kothi Village is located along the route to Rohtang Pass from Manali on Leh - Manali Highway.Kothi is situated at the foothills of Rohtang pass and lies at an altitude of 2500 m.

This splendid village offers a magnificent view of snow capped mountains and glaciers and of the Beas River that flows through a very deep and narrow gorge at this point.Kothi village is one of the most scenic places to be visited in Manali. The beautiful valley view is worth watching. A number of movies have been shot at this location. Kothi is an ideal site for nature lovers, poets and painters. Kothi is also known as Koshtampi and has a temple of Goddess Shuwang Chandika, a local deity. Kothi used to be a camping site when Rohtang pass had to be climbed on foot. In recent times, the place can be accessed through jeep, bus and pony rides.Though the village can be visited throughout the year, the most appropriate time to visit the place is from May to October. It also has a comfortable staying option in the beautiful PWD Rest House, which lies in the middle of a picture-perfect surrounding of the snow-capped peaks and glaciers.

If you are looking for some peace and serenity in this busy hill station, the small village of Kothi is a splendid option. The village is about 16 km from Manali, on the way to Solang Valley. In earlier days, it was considered to be the base camp for difficult treks to Rohtang and other peaks. Reminiscent of an old world charm, the village has been a backdrop for a number of films. Also a favourite haunt for poets, writers and painters, the village is soaked in the magic of nature. From anywhere in the village, the view down below is simply breath taking to say the least. The river here, flows in between a narrow, deep, gorge for a good one kilometre. Sudden thermal springs, picturesque picnic spots and the calm of the village is sure to take you to a different place.

Gulaba

Gulaba is a village in the State of Himachal Pradesh. It is 20 km away from Manali and 6 km from Rohtang pass. The village is designed and manned as per the guidelines of National Green Tribunal Act. Gulaba has all the relevant equipment and computerized system to ensure good tourism management.Gulaba has mobile toilets units and an effective waste disposal system.

The road leading to Rohtang Pass is barred during heavy snowfall season which lasts from November to March. To avoid accidents, Himachal Pradesh Police has setup barriers to guide traffic. This place is considered to be a starting point to Brighu lake trekking. The area is filled with picturesque sceneries and flora.As per the order of National Green Tribunal Act, permits are given to up to only 800 petrol vehicles and 400 diesel vehicles to visit Rohtang Pass.

History

When driving through the narrow, winding roads of this spectacular hill station, stop at Gulaba and treasure some precious moments of peace and serenity. On the way to the famous Rohtang Pass, this small scenic spot is admired for its abundant natural beauty and magical aura. The view of the majestic snow capped mountains, the swirling Beas River and the small grasslands simply add charm to the area. Named after Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir who camped here whilst invading China through this area, Gulaba is slowly gaining popularity. The road to Gulaba opens only during the summer months. During winter, you can hire a mountain bike and give this spot a dekko. Make sure to clad yourself in layers and layers of woollens before setting to brave the chilly winds.

Gulaba is the next best alternative in case you have planed to go to Rohtang pass and Rhotang is closed because of snowfall. Gulaba is also know as the snow line. It is about 2-21/2 hrs drive from Manali. It is visual treat with snow clad mountains all around and beautiful hide and seek of sun and the cloud.Try to enjoy free moments apart from the crowed and you will definitely feel " yeh hasin baadia yeh khula asman, aagay hai hum kaha". You must carry sunglasses and hire full snow dress from manali itself. Also buy stick which will cost only 5-10 rupees but the will come handy, believe me.You need not take any guide.If you are interested in snow games or ski-ing then only hire necessary equipment else you will be wasting lot of money. At gulaba you can participate in different snow games or take ride in snowbikes which may cost you from 100 rupees to 700 rupees per head.

In case you want to take snaps in local dress same can be hired at ease for 200 rupees per couple from local ladies who earn livelihood from these activities and yes they will take your snaps too.Also enjoy hot noodles and coffee in the top of the mountain after you are exhausted while climbing the mountain. But don't go too far from every bodies eye as there are light sheets of snow where you can get stuck and accident can happen if you are not careful.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass (Hindi: रोहतांग दर्रा) (Rohtang , corpse,due to people working in CBRE dying in bad weather trying to cross the pass) (elevation 3,978 m (13,050 ft)), is a high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas around 51 km (32 mi) from Manali. It connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh, India.

Geography

The pass provides a natural divide between the Kullu Valley with a primarily Hindu culture (in the south), and the arid high-altitude Lahaul and Spiti valleys with a Buddhist culture (in the north). The pass lies on the watershed between the Chenab and Beas basins. On the southern side of this pass, the Beas River emerges from underground and flows southward[6] and on its northern side, the Chandra River (flows from the eastern Himalayas), a source stream of the river Chenab, flows westward.

Overview

The pass is open from May to November. It is not particularly high or difficult to cross on foot by Himalayan standards, but it has a well-deserved reputation for being dangerous because of unpredictable snowstorms and blizzards.This pass is an ancient trade route between the people on either side of Pir Panjal. The local name for this pass is a generic name of pass.[citation needed] There are many other passes in Lahaul and Spiti which have specific names (Kunzam La, Baralacha La, etc.).

This is suggestive of the fact that this must have been the oldest and most frequented pass in the region, or the fact that it is the main pass leading from one cultural region to another, quite different one, to the north.National Highway 21 (NH 21), the road through the Kullu Valley, past Manali and over the Rohtang Pass to Keylong, and Lahul and on to Leh in Ladakh, has become very busy during the summer months as an alternate military route, following the Kargil Conflict in 1999 in addition to tensions in Kashmir. Traffic jams are common as military vehicles, trucks, and goods carriers try to navigate the tight roads and rough terrain, compounded by snow and ice at certain points and the large number of tourist vehicles.

A waterfall on the way to RohtangSeveral episodes of the History Channel's Ice Road Truckers series spinoff IRT Deadliest Roads dealt with truckers crossing the Rohtang Pass to deliver supplies.With increase in Traffic at Rohtang Valley, Environmentalists fear its impact on the fragile mountain ecology. A rise in average temperature, and the consequent melting of glaciers, are also issues of severe concern.The pass was featured on the Top Gear: India Special.

Rohtang road tunnel

Due to the military significance of the highway and the need to keep it open the entire year, the Indian government began building the $320 million 8.5 km (5.3 mi) long Rohtang Tunnel in 2010 to bypass Rohtang pass for creating a much safer and faster year-around link to Keylong, Lahaul and Spiti and Leh in Ladakh. The tunnel will also shorten the distance by about 50 km (31 mi) and reduce the travel time between the southern and northern faces of Rohtang pass by five hours. While it now takes 4 to 6 hours to ascend, negotiate and descend the Rohtang pass, it will take only about 30 minutes to travel through the Rohtang tunnel.

Adventure Activities

Manali is the hub of adventure activities in Himachal Pradesh. From white river rafting to trekking opportunities to zorbing to horse-riding to skiing to paragliding, Manali has everything to offer.

Possibility of Stayover

Manali has been one of a major holiday destination in India especially for North-Indians. The place is full of accommodations of all types, from basic and medium range guest houses and hotels to luxurious resorts. There is also an option of camping in the beautiful grounds of Manali.

Medical fitness

Watch your respiratory system. If you have breathing issues and any heart related problem, please do not undertake this activity.

Wear clothes which allow the harness to be wound securely. They should not be too tight or too loose. Also avoid visiting the place during rainy season

Choose schools which are certified and offer good safety gear. Before starting the activity, make sure your safety gear is in place. Notify your instructor in case of any glitches or discomfort.

About Adventure Activities

Base Town : Manal

Costs : Starts at Rs. 600 for short fly and Rs. 1600 onwards for high fly.

Difficulty Level : Easy-Medium

Nearest Airport : Kullu

Nearest hub : Manali

Nearest Railhead : Jogindernagar

Nearest road city : Manali

Recommended for : Groups of friends, College Trips, family

Beas kund

The Beas River also known as the Biás or Bias,(Sanskrit, Vipasa; Greek, Hyphasis),is a river in north India. The river rises in the Himalayas in central Himachal Pradesh, India, and flows for some 470 kilometres (290 mi) to the Sutlej River in the Indian state of Punjab.

History

The Beas River marks the eastern-most border of Alexander the Great's conquests in 326 BC. It was one of the rivers which created problems in Alexander's invasion of India. His troops mutinied here in 326 BCE, refusing to go any further; they had been away from home for eight years. Alexander shut himself in his tent for three days, but when his men did not change their desires he gave in, raising twelve colossal altars to mark the limit and glory of his expedition

According to the Kavyamimansa of Rajasekhara, the kingdom-territories of the Gurjara-Pratihara monarch Mahipala I extended as far as the upper course of the river Beas in the north-west.

In the 20th century, the river was developed under the Beas Project for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation purposes. The second-phase Pong Dam was completed in 1974 followed by the first-phase 140 kilometres (87 mi) upstream, Pandoh Dam in 1977. The Pong Dam served initially to primarily provide irrigation below Talwara but was soon developed as well for power generation; its power station has a 360 MW installed capacity. The Pandoh Dam diverts the river through a system of tunnels and channels to the 990 MW Dehar Power Station on the Sutlej River, connecting both rivers.

The river rises 4,361 metres (14,308 ft) above sea-level on the southern face of Rohtang Pass in Kullu. It traverses the Mandi District and enters the Kangra District at Sandhol, 590 metres (1,940 ft) above sea-level. During its lower course the Beas is crossed by numerous ferries, many of which consist of inflated skins (darais). Near Reh in Kangra District it divides into three channels, which reunite after passing Mirthal, 300 metres (980 ft) above sea-level. On meeting the Sivalik Hills in Hoshiarpur, the river sweeps sharply northward, forming the boundary with Kangra District. Then bending round the base of the Sivalik Hills, it takes the southerly direction, separating the districts of Gurdaspur and Hoshiapur. After touching the Jalandhar district for a short distance, the river forms the boundary between Amritsar and Kapurthala. Finally the Beas joins the river Sutlej at the south-western boundary of Kapurthala district of Punjab after a total course of 470 kilometres (290 mi). The chief tributaries are Bain, Banganga, Luni and Uhal. The Sutlej continues into Pakistani Punjab and joins the Chenab River at Uch near Bahawalpur to form the Panjnad River; the latter in turn joins the Indus River at Mithankot.The water of the Beas river is allocated to India under the terms of the Indus Waters Treaty between India and Pakistan.

Skiing in Manali

Skiing in Manali is one of the best adventure activities, which you can go for in India. Whether alone, with family or friends, it is a great sport to make the most of winters. This way you can relax, blow off some steam and also induce some adventure in your life.

You must have seen skiing on TV as part of events like the Winter Olympics, and if you thought that it was thrilling, then you definitely have to do it. There are numerous skiing destinations in the world, most notably in the Rockies and the Alps. The Himalayas too have such places, which though less known to the world are equally magnificent as others. In India, Manali is among the best places where this amazing activity is hosted.

About skiiking

Skiing means travelling down snow-covered slopes on metal bars known as skis, and controlling your direction with two poles. The skis are flat so that they distribute your weight evenly, and you do not sink in the snow. Poles are made of lightweight but extremely strong materials like carbon fibre and aluminium. Your feet are fastened to buckles in-built on the skis that make sure you do not fall. If you do fall, then the buckles release your feet and minimise the impact of the same.

• Accessories: The two most important items of clothing for skiing in Manali are helmets and tinted goggles that should never be taken off. Goggles protect your eyes from the strong sun while helmets shield your head against injuries.

• When to Go: The foremost thing to know for being safe while taking up the sport is when to go for it. Follow the weather reports closely, and look for the day when the region has received a good amount of snow. The snow should be thick enough to easily cover the slopes, and let you slide on them easily. Also, pick the hour of the day when the sun is overhead and strong. The heat will keep the snow fluffy and minimise the extent of injury.

During the Activity: Always maintain such speeds, at which you can control your direction and stop whenever you want. Warning fellow skiers of your descent will result in less injury not only to you, but to them as well. At high points in the region, you will not be visible to others; hence do not stop there. Follow the path indicated by signboards, and stay off prohibited trails.

Locations for Skiing in Manali

Skiing in Manali is not hosted in the town itself, but in the scenic Solang Valley, which is only 12 km away.
• Terrain: Solang Valley has an approximate altitude of 8400 feet, and it is covered by jungles of pindrow firs.
• Access: The best way to reach here is via the cable-car, which covers a distance of about 1.3 km. It will take you to a height of around 1500 feet from its base station. Each of its 19 cabins can carry up to eight people, and the ride takes about an hour.
• The Experience: With an altitude of around 10500 feet, the peak of Mount Phatru is the highest point in the area. This landform is almost complete devoid of trees, and as you start the roughly 0.5 km descent, coniferous trees start appearing. Your heartbeat will increase in strength and frequency, and you will have unlimited fun. Know more about Skiing in Solang Valley.

Chandratal Baralacha Trek

The Chandratal Baralacha Trek is packed with everything that one would cherish during a journey. The shimmering sunset on the turquoise waters of Chandratal, undulated landscape, mountain passes, several small streams, lush green meadows, wild and colourful orchards and wildlife all together make the journey worth reliving every moment. The Chandratal Lake at an altitude of about 4,300 meters is one of the high altitude lakes in the Indian Himalayan region that is located on Samudra Tapu plateau of Spiti valley. The lake is the source of Chandra River, which is a major tributary of Chenab River.

Occupying the mind of trekkers, photographers and nature lovers, the Chandratal Baralacha Trek is one of the popular alpine treks in Himachal Pradesh that is filled with surprises at every turn. Baralacha La, at an elevation of 4,890 meters and lying on the Leh-Manali Highway, is one of the high altitude motorable mountain passes that connects the Spiti, Ladakh, Zanskar and Lahaul regions. Further, the journey makes it an ideal MINDSCAPER as it moves through the lush green valleys and forests of Kullu valley to the barren lands of Spiti en route several small villages inhabited by various sects of Indo -Tibetans.

The Chandratal Baralacha Trek commences from Batal, which is a few kilometers away from Keylong. Keylong is approximately 115 kilometers of drive from Manali. The trek from Batal leads to Chandratal, which is about 6 - 7 hours of trail, covering approximately 18 kilometers. Throughout the journey one can enjoy the panoramic view of the Lahaul range and peaks like Minar at 6,172 meters, Talagiri at 6,279 meters, Tara Pahar at 6,227 meters and Mulkila at 6,517 meters. The vicinity encircling Chandratal offers a great opportunity to camp overnight. From Chandratal the trail further leads to Tokpo Gongma at 4,420 meters and thereafter winds to Tokpo Yongma at 4,650 meters. From Tokpo Yongma the trek leads off at Baralacha Pass and wheels to Manali. To make your tour more exciting you can also visit the colourful vicinity of Suraj Tal, which is a short and easy trek from Baralacha Pass. Suraj Tal is another high altitude lake in the Indian Himalayan region that is also considered as one of the sacred lakes.

Trekking in Kullu Valley and enetering into Spiti by spending a day at one of the most beautiful high altitude Himalayan Lakes, Chandratal- The Lake of Moon is the award of this trek. After Spiti, it moves deep under the Chandra Bhaga ranges and opnes at Baralacha La. Baralacha La is the origin of Bhaga River, it is the last mountain pass of Himachal towards Ladakh, it is the gateway to eneter in zanskar by trekking and it used to be the stoppage of royal weddings when Buddhism was florishing in Tibet, Ladakh & Spiti.

The trek takes one from the lush green valleys and forests of Kullu valley to barren land of Spiti and then suddenly to the most beautiful lake of moon at Chandra Tal where one gets naturally rejuvenated. A night at our luxury camp may relax you at the maximum level at Sarchu and a journey to Ladakh will make your trek perfect. This is one of the most popular treks in western Himalayas because of several reasons. It remains open for maximum period of the time, one can end it after Chandratal and go to Spiti valley and one is free to come back to Manali or go to Leh or trek further into Zanskar valley. Secondly, it is the combination of green area of Kullu Valley, challenging passes like Hamta and high altitudes of Topko Gogma with facing mountain peaks of CV ranges, beautiful Chandratal Lake and lot more.

During the Activity: Always maintain such speeds, at which you can control your direction and stop whenever you want. Warning fellow skiers of your descent will result in less injury not only to you, but to them as well. At high points in the region, you will not be visible to others; hence do not stop there. Follow the path indicated by signboards, and stay off prohibited trails.

The Great Himalayan National Park

The Great Himalayan National Park, is one of India's national parks, is located in Kullu region in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The park was established in 1984 and is spread over an area of 1,171 km² at an altitude of between 1500 and 6000 m.

The Great Himalayan National Park is a habitat to numerous flora and more than 375 fauna species, including approximately 31 mammals, 181 birds, 3 reptiles, 9 amphibians, 11 annelids, 17 mollusks and 127 insects. They are protected under the strict guidelines of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972; hence any sort of hunting is not permitted.In June 2014, the Great Himalayan National Park was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites. The Unesco World Heritage Site Committee granted the status to the park under the criteria of "outstanding significance for biodiversity conservation".

Biogeography

The GHNP is at the junction of world's two major faunal regions: the oriental to the south and palaearctic to the north. The temperate forest flora-fauna of GHNP represents the westernmost extension of the Sino-Japanese Region. The high altitude ecosystem of the Northwest Himalaya has common plant elements with the adjacent Western and Central Asiatic region. As a result of its 4,100 m elevation range the park has a diversity of zones with their representative flora and fauna, such as alpine, glacial, temperate, and sub tropical forests.

These biogeographic elements are result of geological evolution of Himalaya which continues today from the action of plate tectonics and continental drift. Over 100 million years ago, the Indian sub-continent broke off from the large, southern landmass, Gondwanaland and moved north. It eventually slammed into the northern land mass, Laurasia, and formed the gigantic folded mountains of the Himalaya. Due to this union of Gondwanaland and Asiatic landmasses, exchange of flora and fauna was possible and this ultimately led to the unique biogeographical features in the region

he Great Himalayan National Park is home to more than 375 faunal species. So far species of 31 mammals, 181 birds, 3 reptiles, 9 amphibians, 11 annelids, 17 mollusks and 127 insects belonging to six orders have been identified and documented. Most of the Himalayan fauna has been given protection under the high priority protection category of Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The state government of Himachal Pradesh has banned hunting in the state for more than ten years. A trek of 35 to 45 km in any of the park's valleys brings one into the high altitude habitat (3,500 m and above) of animals such as blue sheep, snow leopard, Himalayan brown bear, Himalayan tahr, and musk deer. Best sightings can be made in autumn (September–November) as animals start their seasonal migration to lower altitudes.

The GHNP also supports a great diversity of plant life thanks to its wide altitude range and relatively undisturbed habitats. From the lofty pinesand spruces and the great, spreading horse chestnuts of the lower valleys, to the dense cushions and prostrate branches of the alpine herbs and junipers, the park presents an endless variety of vegetation. Although some areas have been modified by grazing, this is one of the few areas of the Western Himalayas where the forests and alpine meadows can be seen in something approaching their original state. The subalpine zone is richest in species, followed by the alpine and upper temperate zones.

Hampta Pass

Hamta Pass lies at an altitude of 4270 m on the Pir Panjal range in the Himalayas. It is a small corridor between Lahaul and Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh, India.Hampta Village is located below Sethan village and from there it got its name Hamta Pass. This pass is frequently used by shepherds of lower Himalayan region, seeking for high altitude grassland in the dry cold desert of Lahaul during summer time. Numbers of wild flowers and herbs grow at the altitude between 3000 to 3800 m.

Vertical rock walls, water falls, hanging glaciers, tiny lakes, peaks rising above 6000 m are main characteristics of this trek. People need a proper guide to cross certain glaciers. From Hamta pass one can extend their journey towards the beautiful Chandrataal.

Overview

Himachal Pradesh is one of the most toured states in India. The state has beautiful pristine snow clad mountains which are a major source of tourist attraction. Tourists from all over the world come to this glorious, unpolluted and serene place to nurture their mind and soul and cherish an unfathomable nature's beauty. The word 'Hima' means snow in Sanskrit and hence the name Himachal Pradesh which means 'In the lap of Himalayas'. The mountains of the state are used for many adventure sports. One among them that is considerably being carried out here is trekking.

With more than 200 defined trekking trails some of the famous trekking spots of Himachal Mountains are; Hampta Pass trek, Dhaulandhar (Triund Glacier)trek, Parvati valley trek, Bhabha pass trek, Sari Pass trek, Beas Kund trek, trek to Chamba and Pin Parvati, Kakeri lake trek etc.

Hampta pass trek is considered the easiest and convenient of all treks in H.P. It might not be the most adrenalin rush giving or the most sought after trek, but definitely it is a trek that will leave you in awe of this beautiful place. The variation in the trails is enormous; scenic landscapes, open green pastures and meadows, glacial valleys, easy access and an exceptional, adventurous and hair raising crossing of the pass makes this trekking expedition to Hampta pass an exciting one.

Generally, it takes 4 days to complete the Hampta pass trek, but one more day is further added to the itinerary so as to visit the well-known and striking Chandrataal, a high altitude alpine lake few hours from Chatru. The best months to trek are May and June and August through October. The reason why Hampta pass is famous trekking zone is snow; the pass has lump sum snow which draws more tourists. The nearest station is Manali. Therefore, the trip starts from Manali to Chika via Jobra. From Jobra the trek is undertaken by walk. This route comprises the first day. Balu ka Ghera is reached on the second day. You would cross amazing boulders, Gendrame and Rani Nallah on this day. The third day destination is Shea Goru from Balu ka Ghera via Hampta Pass. You will come across mind boggling and stupendous glaciers, cornice formation and snows all the way along. The maximum altitude will be reached on this day i.e. 14, 100 ft. Day four will start from Shea Goru and end up in Chatru.

Bara Bhangal Kalihani Trek

Bara Bangal Kaliyahni trek, also known as the Shepherds trail trek, takes you from the lush green Kullu valley to the stark landscapes of Bara Bhangal range.A trekker will cross the Kalihani Pass and move northwest before reaching Bara Bhangal. From here there is a turn southwards to Thamsar Pass and reach Billing in Kangra valley to finish the trek. In the end, one may paraglide to Bir if the trek didn?t offer them a high.

One of the most challenging treks in Himachal Pradesh, the Bara Bhangal trek stretches from an elevation of 2,050 meters to about 5,000 meters and negotiates through narrow, tricky and rocky paths which include dangerous moraines and thick glaciers. The journey takes you through different altitude levels at every hour and crosses several high altitude mountain passes. The steep and strenuous climb becomes worthy when one captures the magnificent view of peaks like Indrasan, Deo Tibba and Hanuman Tibba. Further, the evergreen valley is dotted with several alpine trees and shelters varied species of Himalayan birds and animals, lush green meadows that is crisscrossed by numerous small gushing streams. Also, the snow clad crest at the horizon that is parallel to the spotless blue sky enriches the journey and is a treat to the eyes of travellers. The Bara Bhangal Trek cuts through several hot water springs having medicinal value and further the rich alpine bed produces many medicinal plants and it simply attracts nature lovers from all over the world. The trek offers you to explore the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges also allow you to get acquainted with the quaint and remote culture of the inhabitants dwelling in these mountains.

The Bara Bhangal trek, which is an alpine trek in Himachal Pradesh, originates from Lama Dugh at 3,380 meters, which is about a 4 -5 hours of drive from Manali. The trek uphill from Lama Dugh leads to Rani Sui at 4,268 meters and hence one can expect a gradual and steep climb, which turns out to be one of the most difficult parts of the journey. From Rani Sui the journey turns to Taintagiri Glacier at 4,917 meters and the tracks thence follow the tricky glaciated tracks making it slippery and dangerous. The trail continues over the Manali Pass at 5,070 meters to reach the glacier. From Taintagiri the trail leads down to Phulan Got at 4,064 meters and thereafter winds to Koari. From Koari, further trek downhill snaking through narrow ridges takes you to Bara Bhangal village at 2,582meters. Then again the journey sees a steep ascend to Balu Got at 3,917 meters and crosses the Taintu Pass. You will often encounter the local Gaddi people and small shelters. Thereafter the trek continues towards Beas Kund at 4,207 meters and thence heads down to Solang. The Bara Bhangal trekking tour from Solang ends at Manali.

Being one of the longest trekking tours, which is approximately of 17 days, the Bara Bhangal trek is recommended for experienced trekkers having prior high altitude trekking experiences. The best time to hit the trekking tracks is during the months of May to September.

Malana

Malana is an ancient Indian village in the state of Himachal Pradesh. This solitary village in the Malana Nala, a side valley of the Parvati Valley to the north-east of Kullu Valley, is isolated from the rest of the world.

The peaks of Chandrakhani and Deotibba shadow the village. It is situated on a remote plateau by the side of the torrential Malana river, at a height of 2,652 metres (8,701 ft) above sea level. Malana has its own lifestyle and social structure and people are strict in following their customs. Malana has been the subject of various documentaries, including Malana: Globalization of a Himalayan Village,and Malana, A Lost Identity.The existing speakers of the autochthonous language Kanashi, the traditional language of the inhabitants of Malana, number approximately 1700. According to the 1961 census, the language speakers were then 563, but today the population of Malana is at least three times as large as 40 years ago

History

According to the local legends, Jamlu rishi (sage) inhabited this place and made rules and regulations. The locals claim it to be one of the oldest democracies of the world with a well-organized parliamentary system, guided by their devta (deity) Jamlu rishi. Although Jamlu is currently identified with a sage from the Puranas, this is a relatively recent development. Jamlu is believed to have been worshipped in pre-Aryan times. Penelope Chetwood recounts a tale about an orthodox Brahmin priest, who visited Malana, and tried to educate the locals about the pedigree of their god, and what subsequently befell the hapless priest.A dam project, the Malana Hydro Power Station, has brought Malana much closer to the rest of the world and provides revenue for the region. A new road has shortened the walking time from several days to just 4 hours. The Hydro Malana Project has also ruined the beauty of the valley. In 2004, Malana was adopted by Aryan Sharma, a businessman based in Delhi. On 5 January 2008, a raging fire in the village, which burnt for more than 5 hours, destroyed cultural structures and parts of ancient temples located in the village. In 2017, the village ordered the closure of approximately a dozen guest houses and restaurants, ostensibly on the orders of the deity Jamlu

The residents of Malana speak Kanashi/Raksh (supposedly the dialect of devils residing there long ago),which is understood only by the villagers. "Kanashi, the language of Malana, does not resemble any of the dialects spoken in its neighbourhood but seems to be a mixture of Sanskrit and several Tibetan dialects."Ethnologue, citing a reference from 2002, classifies Malana as a Tibetan-Burmese language, rather than as a member of the Indo-European languages,and notes that Kanashi has "no intelligibility with any Tibeto-Burman languages of Lahul-Spiti and Kinnaur" and that Malana is surrounded by Indo-Aryan language speaking populations.