The
first sight in the Hills cradling this picturesque town seems so inviting
that the foot on the accelerator gets quiet firm if you are driving. Drive
upto the centre of Manali and into the market place. Manali is the first
choice of many people who want to see and touch snow for the first time. But
there is far more than this happening Himanchal Town than just snow and ice.
Manali has everything you need to know to enjoy your stay along with your
family. It offer so much to see and do that your family will be spoilt with
wide choices. It has a magnificent setting for a host of activities, from a
leisurely stroll, to rock climbing with the experts. It is an excellent
place for a holiday, a favorite resort for trekkers to Lahaul, Spiti,
Kinnaur, Leh and Zanskar regions in Kashmir valley.In the land of snow balls and skiing...
Road to the Rohtang pass
The formidable 51 kms climb up to the pass 13, 060 ft above the sea level, along rough bridle pass used to send the adrenaline level shooting level. But once on the top, the stunning panoramas of the snow peaks and glaciers, and the desolate Lahaul Valley below would banish all fears. As you get in your four wheel drive and join the crowds heading for the windswept strip of land, 10 kms from this place you will pass Palchan, the turn-off point for Solang Nallah. Prepare yourself for a steep trek and you don't have to bend in for the hair pin curves. The drive here is dizzying, especially for children. But if the road is clear of the snow, you will be rewarded with a spell binding view. 40 kms. away from Kulu to the north, Manali is situated near the end of the valley on the National Highway leading to Leh. One sees well-defined snow capped peaks, the Beas river with its clear water meanders through the town. On the other side are deodar and pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchards.
The
excellent combination of wooded forests, snow covered slopes, green open
valleys and the fast flowing Beas make Manali an ideal destination for
mountain adventure sports. Heavy spells of snowfall open the season of
ultimate mountain sports, skiing, which can begin as early as November
and last till as late as June. At Solang Nallah you can start on 100 kms
of snow. Make a trip to these hotspots by bus or taxi from Manali. For
adventure here there is heliskiig from January 15-March 31. This is a
week package run by Government around the Hamta Pass such as Johri and
Bhrigu Lakes and Rohtang Pass. If you are a first timer you can take
paragliding just one minute. The Beas is wild river and rafting here
needs a strong nerve.
Mountaineering
Institute
