The climate in Manali is very pleasant all through the year except during the winter when night temperatures may drop below zero degree Celsius. Springtime, beginning in March and lasting through April, brings to the valley blossoms, flowers and butterflies - offering a completely rejuvenating experience.
The summers beginning in the month of May, normally lasts through the month of June. It is a time when every body wishes to be in Manali. The maximum temperature during the summer barely touches 26 degrees centigrade towards the end of June. Manali is lush green and vibrant during the monsoons, beginning in July, and usually continues till the end of August. It is a time when the valley bustles with a variety of global tourists and trekkers.
Monsoons can be romantic with the mist flowing into your rooms. You can enjoy the gentle tapping of rain drops on the roof and get drenched in the rains. Another fine time to be in Manali is during September/October and November with autumn colors in the air. This is the time for the colorful Kullu Dusshera in which 365 gods and goddesses of the valley assemble at Dhalpur.
Getting Around
Manali town can be covered on foot, but for longer excursions and travel out of town, tourist buses and private taxis are available for hire. The Taxi Operators' Union (Ph: 01901 - 52205, 52450) has a counter near the Tourist office. Charges in peak season are about Rs. 1000 for a full day trip around Manali. Motorcycles are available on hire at the Enfield Club (Ph: 01901 - 54090) on Vashisht Road. Himachal Tourism (Ph: 01901 - 53531) runs regular bus tours to destinations around Manali.
What to bring
Days are pleasant in summers, but nights can get cold. It is good to have light woolens packed in. Winters are chilly with heavy snowfall during the peak winter months. Keep enough heavy woolens for good protection. If you are planning to go for hikes or take a shot at one of the adventure sports, keep extra pairs of shoes ready. The organisers provide most other gear.
Tipping
It is customary to tip 10% of the bill at restaurants, but you may tip less if service charges have been included in the bill. At hotels tip 10 bucks to the bellhop, the same to the doorman 'Durban'; if the service is particularly good, substantially more to the concierge and housekeeping.
Cab drivers do not expect to be tipped but the opposite is true if you have a hired a cab for a long period.
You'll find some of the most friendly and colourful service at tiny nondescript roadside stalls called 'dhabas'. A small tip, even if it is only loose change, will be appreciated tremendously.
Coolies (porters) at railway platforms have to be paid; negotiate the payment before you hire one. |
