For a lavish display of natural scenery, it is one of the principal show places of the Kullu region. To its north, south and west are an ostentation of pinnacles and ridges which, in fine weather, stand out in bold relief against the skyline. Deep purplish crevices, overhung by scarped cliffs, reach down towards the valley. Silver streaks of water, glistening in clear sunlight, cascade over perpendicular heights. Lofty spurs, from which the snow has melted, from vivid green patches of grassland, their clarity enhanced by darker surroundings. At a lower elevation and in every direction the eye may wander, serried battalions of ever green pine flank the sides of sheltered ravines and ascend in irregular formations, towards rock-crowned crests.

According to Sir GeneAlexander Cunnigham, the first Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India in his, 'Journal of trip through Kooloo' the spur on the left bank of the Beas, at some distant period, extended right across the valley, pent up the river and created a large lake, the bottom of which now forms the alluvial flats of Manali.

This is quite conceivable. Pine clad mountains gradually close in on both sides of the Beas until these almost meet; and nestling in their shade, as though carved out of primeval forest, is the scattered hamlet which comprises this picturesque summer resort. The pine wood behind the circuit house is a veritable show piece with its unspoilt, undulating terrain and tiny meandering trails. The Manalsu torrent, on the north, adds to its beauty.

Manali is the real starting point of an ancient trade route. The original name of this particular area was Dana. Later it became Duff-Dunbar named, presumably, after one of the original European residents of Manali. This part of Manali is entirely separate from the original village of that name which is located beyond the Manalsu river, higher up the valley, and the inhabitants of which prefer to retain their secluded identity.

There is an interesting story about Manali which goes to say that Manu, the great Hindu law-giver, after the great deluge, first stepped on to earth from the celestial boat at a place in this land. The particular spot where he established his abode was the present Manali which is regarded as the changed name of 'Manu-Alaya', the home of Manu. It was from here that the human race came into being after the deluge. A small temple dedicated to Manu still exists in Manali village.

Places to see

Kothi
12 km. A quiet but picturesque spot. The Rest House overlooks the narrow valley and commands views of the mountains. Below Kothi, for more than a kilometre the river Beas flows through a deep gorge, almost a subterranean passage, 30 metres or more in depth, and the cliffs which flank both sides of the canyon are a favourite haunt for rock pigeons. The site of the bridge provides an interesting historical episode in the early annals of Kullu.

Solang Valley
13 km. A splendid valley between Manali and Kothi which offers views of the glaciers and snow-capped mountain peaks. The plateau is frequently used for holding camps by the trekking parties. Good skiing slopes of the Mountaineering Institute. Venue of annual winter carnival from February 10-14. Bus service upto Palchan village (10 km) and then by jeep or on foot.

Rahla Falls
2 km from Kothi. Here the river Beas hurtles down from a height of about 50 metres. Charming spot for picnics.

Manali Sanctuary
A bridle path from the Manali log huts goes past the Dhoongri Temple and wanders into the dense deodar, kail, horse chestnut, walnut and maple forest which is a part of this sanctuary. Camping overnight in tents at Lambadug or Galiani Thatch is possible.

Lush green alpine pastures and glaciers lie beyond Galiani Thatch. Musk deer, monal and brown bear are often spotted. For those who venture still further into the glacier zone in summer, there are herds of ibex.

Around Manali

Rohtang Pass
51 km. At an altitude of 4,112 metres on the highway to Keylong, the pass affords a wide-spread panorama of mountain scenery. In place of the pinnacled hills, sheltered valleys and cultivated tracts, the eye meets a range of precipitous cliffs, huge glaciers and piled Moraine, and deep ravines. Almost directly opposite is the well defined Sonepani glacier, slightly to the left are the twin peaks of the Geypang, jagged pyramids of rock, snow streaked and snow crowned.

The Beas river rises near the crest of Rohtang from a block of Mica-Schist. The pass normally opens for traffic after mid-June and officially closes in November. To its left, 200 metres higher, is the little lake of Sarkund (Dashair) visited by a number of people, the general belief being that a bath in these waters effects a cure of all bodily ailments-real or imaginary. 10 km before Rohtang is the barren-landscape of Marhi which hums with activity during summer and autumn months because almost everyone stops here for refreshments.

Keylong
117 km. A fair sized village amidst green fields of barley and buckwheat, Keylong is the headquarters of the Lahaul and Spiti district, surrounded with brown hills and snowy heights. Karding Monastery overlooks Keylong and is 3.5 km across the Chandra river while Shashur Monastery is about 1 km. HPTDC Tourist Bungalow.

Triloknath and Udeypur
These are two important places of pilgrimage in Pattan Valley. At Triloknath is a six armed image in white marble of Avalokiteshvara, Bodhisattava. Visitors will enjoy crossing the Chandra-Bhaga river and the trek of 3 km to reach the destination. The temple of Marikula at Udeypur is highly remarkable for its wood carvings. Udeypur is 166 km from Manali.