Atal Tunnel is a 9.02-kilometre-long road tunnel connecting Manali and Keylong. It helps in bypassing the Rohtang Pass, Himachal Pradesh in the eastern Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. It carries two lanes of National Highway 3. It is the longest highway single-tube tunnel above 10,000 feet in the world.
Its the lifeline of Manali as the whole city revolves around this attraction. Tourists can enjoy a quiet stroll across the Mall and pick up the enchanting bric-a-bracs that are sold in the various shops lined across the street. Some of the most popular buys here includes fresh fruits , shawls, kullu caps, gift items and many other woolen items. Manali Mall is full of shops but don’t forget to bargain !! Various restaurants and eating joints are also available to keep the tourists entertained.
Manali means ‘home of Manu’ and legend has it that Manu stepped off a boat in Manali to recreate human life after floods devastated the whole world. A must see attraction that still exists today is the Manu Rishi temple situated in the old Manali village , believed to the only temple of Manu in India.
Situated at the edge of the Beas River, the Club House offers beautiful views of the deodar forest and is a short resting stop to take a picnic break and take part in some indoor and outdoor activities. You can enjoy adventure activity on the riverside like River Crossing and ‘Burma Bridge’. One can touch the cold waters with the feet while on the ‘River Crossing’ ride. Elders can enjoy the shopping and good fast food along with a stroll in the compound .There is boating within a small pond and Go Carting which maybe interesting for kids.
Manali has many attractions but the chief centre of interest, historically and archeologically, is undoubtedly the Hidimba Devi Temple .This is the ancient temple of Hidimba, the most powerful deity of the valley. Built in 1550 AD the temple is a sanctuary built over a huge rock surrounded by cedar forests and boasts a pagoda shaped roof and intricately carved wooden door. The grounds provide a pleasant shady area to picnic. It is a pleasant experience to stroll in the deodar forest adjoining Hidimba Devi temple complex.
Solang Valley: This beautiful picnic spot is surrounded by meadows and trees of silver oak and spruce, famous for its international skiing slopes. Visitors can also enjoy paragliding and horse riding activities.
Jamdagni Rishi Temple: An ancient temple set amidst Deodar trees dedicated to the Saptarishi, Jamdagni Rishi.
Hadimba Temple: Built in 1553, this temple is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhima the Pandava. It is situated amidst lush green Deodars of Dhungri and is a protected monument.
