Manali literally means the 'Home of Manu'. Legend has it that Manu stepped off a boat in Manali to recreate human life after floods had devastated the world. Manali offers marvelous walks through  orchards and fairly tale forests of deodar. As one climbs the grassy path the fluid fluting notes of the whistling thrush comes across the forest. 

Manali has many attractions. Some important places are:

Solang Valley

Solang Valley is located at a distance of 14 kms from Manali.  In a picturesque setting this has good ski sloped and picnic spots. The winter skiing festival is organised in Solang Valley. Training in skiing is imparted at this place. 

Hadimba Temple

Also known as Hadimba temple, The Dhoongri temple (1553A.D) is dedicated to goddess Hidimba, the wife of Bhim. Built in typical indigenous style it has a four-tier pagoda shaped roof. Build by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, the 27m high Pagoda temple has fine  wood carvings of animals and plants. There is a legend behind Hidimba. Hidimba, was the sister of the demon Tandi.  Bhima of the Mahabharata fame fell in love with Hidimba. Bhima killed Tandi in battle and married Hidimba, whose spirituality, coupled with her Marriage to Bhima led to her being worshipped as a goddess. Today she is seen as an incarnation of Kali.

Inside the temple is the small back image of the Devi. The imprinted foot prints on a black rock are believed to be the foot prints of the goddess. The temple has intricate carvings of dancers and characters from various Hindu stories.Horns of bulls and other animals decorate the walls. It is a very popular picnic spot for Indian tourists.  Every May, a festival is celebrated in her name.

Temple of Manu

3 kms. from the Main Bazar in Old Manali, lies the Temple of Manu Maharishi. It is believed that this is the only temple of Manu Rishi in India, and it is here Manu meditated after he arrived in the area.