IN PICS! Things to know before visiting Manali hill station

If you are planning to visit a hill station in India, the city of Manali at the foot of the Himalayas will be the most perfect for you. Manali is located in Himachal Pradesh, India, on the banks of the Beas River at an altitude of 6725 feet above sea level.

Going to Manali is like a dream come true for many nature lover. If you are also planning a trip to Manali, you need to know a few things beforehand.

Bhuntar airport is the best means of transport to reach Manali other than a tiring but scenic bus ride from Delhi. From Delhi, it takes about 14 hours via Volvo overnight bus to reach Manali. Alternatively, nightly Volvo tourist buses are also available from Mcleod Ganj and Dharamsala; it takes 9 hours or so to reach Manali.

Central Manali is more crowded than Old Manali. Many budget hotels are also easily available in Manali. When it comes to food, the hotel serves mostly Indian, Tibetan and Mexican food. Sushi is also available in many places.

On the other hand, tourists on a shoestring budget can stay at cool accommodations in Vashisht located along the hill across the River Beas and highway next to Old Manali. Old Manali has better internet access. Many cafes also offer free Wi-Fi. There are many ATMs on Mall Road in Central Manali

अॅManali is a mecca for adventure sports lovers. Tourists can enjoy rock climbing, treks, paragliding and zorbing.Contact one of the agencies in Old Manali to book the activities for you.

Note that white water rafting can be done during the dry season; the river tends to turn too forceful during the monsoon. Skiing can be done during the winter in Solanf Valley near Manali.

Also, if you want to go beyond Manali, you can go to Kullu. It is three hours away from Manali.

Kullu is famous for its temples, cedar and pine trees. If you have more time, you can go to Kasol after Manali.