Planning a Himachal Pradesh Tour? Don’t miss Old Manali. It is a charming place and the crown of Manali for a reason. Whether you’re into nature, culture, adventure, or just looking to relax, Old Manali has got you covered. The village is only 3 km uphill from the main town of Manali, and it’s located across the Manalsu River. You will love the apple orchards, quaint homestays, and cosy cafes that offer a variety of cuisines and live music.
Best part? The town has managed to retain the old-world charm, and you’ll find a great mix of world travellers and hippie vibes. You’ll also discover the traditions of older civilizations still alive here. Let’s explore the best places and activities, the best time to visit Old Manali, and more!
Old Manali Vs New Manali: Who Wins?
Choosing between Old Manali and New Manali depends on your preferences.
Old Manali is famous for its
- Rustic charm
- Hippie culture
- Vibrant nightlife
- Shopping
- Cafes and
- Budgeted stays
Whereas, New Manali is more developed and modern. It is suitable for travellers looking for
- Luxury
- Shopping and
- Entertainment
Best Things To Do In Old Manali
1. Snow Adventures: Visiting the Old Manali Snow Point and playing in the snow is a must-do thing with your loved ones. Visitors can get stunning views of snow-capped mountains. Adventure seekers can contact local operators for some adventure activities in Manali like skiing and snowboarding.
- Old Manali Snow Point Address: Hadimba Temple Path, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh.
- Old Manali Snow Point Entry Fee: Free
- Old Manali Snow Point Operating Hours: 24 hours
2. Enjoy Shopping: Old Manali is a great place for shopping in Manali. You can buy traditional clothes, jewellery, local handicrafts, souvenirs, and unique woolen shawls.
- Old Manali Market Opening Hours: 10 AM to 8 PM
- Old Manali Market Entry Fee: free
3. Explore Nightlife & Dining Scene: Party lovers can expect a vibrant nightlife in Old Manali. Enjoy some of the best places to eat in Old Manali, with several bars and cafes that offer the best local food of Manali.
Best Time To Visit Old Manali
- January and February
- April to June
Old Manali Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful town that can be visited throughout the year. If you want to enjoy the chilliness of the weather and have a snowy experience then the best time to visit would be between January and February.
During this time you can even indulge in activities like snowboarding, skiing, and trekking. You can also participate in the annual carnival that is held in January to showcase the cultural and artistic diversity of Himachal Pradesh.
Summers from April to June are also pleasant and comfortable, inviting a lot of tourists from all over the world. Activities like trekking and camping can be enjoyed. You can also enjoy the Hadimba Devi Festival which is held in May to commemorate the birthday of Hidimba Devi.
How To Reach Old Manali From New Manali
Wondering how to reach Old Manali? Explore the below options:
By Trekking:
- Experience a scenic 15-20 minute uphill walk from New Manali.
- The 3 km trek offers beautiful views and is perfect for those who enjoy a short hike.
By Auto Rickshaw:
- Auto rickshaws are readily available throughout New Manali and are a convenient way to reach Old Manali.
- It’s the best option for those who prefer not to walk.
By Taxi:
- You can easily find local taxis in New Manali that provide a comfortable ride to Old Manali.
- This is the best option for families or when travelling with luggage.
- Or, take a 6 Days Offbeat Himachal Pradesh Tour Package, for a planned Himachal Pradesh trip, that includes the best accommodation, and transportation.
Best Places To Visit In Old Manali
1. Ancient Temples Of Old Manali
Old Manali has two ancient temples of historical and cultural importance – the Manu Temple and the Hidimba Temple. The Manu Temple is located on the banks of the Beas River and is dedicated to the sage Manu, while the Hidimba Temple is a shrine dedicated to Goddess Hadimba Devi.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM( for both temples)
- Entry Fee: Free(for both temples)
This well-known waterfall is one of the most popular places to visit in Old Manali. You can reach Jogini waterfall in Manali by trekking through a scenic trail that passes through apple orchards and pine forests. The trek takes about an hour. Visitors enjoy taking baths at the small pool under the waterfall.
Naggar Castle, a prominent cultural and architectural landmark in the region, is an offbeat place in Manali, attracting visitors from all around the world. The famous Bollywood movie “Jab We Met” has been shot here.
- Opening Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹30/- per person.
4. Vashisht Temple And Hot Spring
This is a temple dedicated to Sage Vashisht, who was the guru of Lord Rama. It is situated on the banks of the Beas River and has a natural hot spring inside it. You can bathe in this spring and experience the healing powers it has. Visiting this place is one of the best things to do in Manali.
- Opening Hours: 7 AM to 9 PM
- Entry Fee: free
5. Van Vihar National Park
Vihar National Park is a magical place filled with green trees, chirping birds, and fresh air. It’s like a huge playground where you can run, jump, and play all day long.
- Opening Hours: 8 AM to 7 PM
- Entry Fee: ₹5/- per person
Top Accommodations In Old Manali
Some of the best resorts in Old Manali are
- The Orchard Greens Resort
- Snow Valley Resorts and Spa
- Manali Heights
You can also consider staying at some of the best Old Manali Homestays like
- The Mountain Nest
- The Orchards House
- The Heritage Homestay
- The Alpine Lodge
- Old Manali Zostel
