Manali, at 1,926 metres on the northern edge of the Kullu valley, is the most popular tourist resort in this area. Though it does not have the colonial characteristics of Shimla, over the last few years Manali has developed into a major hill resort, chock-a-block with modern hotels and tourist lodges. Situated along the Beas River with a superb view of the perennial snow cover of the Solang Nala, Manali transports travel-weary tourists into the exalted heights of the Himalayas. Originally known as Manu-alaya or abode of Manu, the name was later simplified to Manali. The ancient village is said to be the original home of Manu, the 2nd century BC lawmaker of the Hindus. |
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| Manali in Himachal Pradesh, India derived its name from Manavalaya i.e. the abode of Manu. According to myth, Manu the divine law-giver, was the only survivor of the Mahajal Pralay - the great flood - and is said to have fathered the human race. He certainly chose enchanting environs. Manali still maintains its charm and beauty....... |
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| Manali's `history' is really more myth than history. According to Hindu mythology, Manali was the home of the lawgiver Manu (after whom the town is named). Legend has it that when a flood deluged the earth, Manu and the gods were towed to dry ground by a giant fish, which was the seventh `avatar' of the god Vishnu. The area where Manu eventually found refuge was Manali....... |
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| Manali is connected by air to some of the important cities in the region through regular flights from its nearest airport at Bhuntar, 52 km south of the town. There are flights to Delhi via Shimla. Manali is well connected by trains to most of the important places in the region....... |
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| Situated in the central parts of the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is at the head of the Kullu valley. In Manali, one can find high mountains shrouded by silent snows and deep boulder strewn gorges. There are thick forests, filled with cool breezes and bird song. There are fields of wild flowers, small picturesque hamlets and fruit-laden orchards, especially apples....... |
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| 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....... |
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| For a discerning shopper, it is impossible to return from a tour without shopping in Manali. The region has a rich tradition of handicrafts and handlooms, which make for pleasant shopping in Manali. Like all hill regions in India, Manali too has a vast forestland, which produces huge timber....... |
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| Though almost all the festivals are celebrated with zest and devotion, Dussehra gets special attention all over the valley. The festival is celebrated in the month of October during the autumn season when the rest of the country celebrates Durga Puja and Vijaya Dashami. The celebration goes on for a few days when all the people of the Kullu valley take part enthusiastically....... |
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| The north-eastern part of Himachal Pradesh shares its border with Tibet, and foreign travellers need an Inner Line Permit besides the Indian visa requirements, for travel to the area between Sumdo in Spiti and Morang in Kinnaur. The permit is valid for seven days, and is available free of charge from the District Magistrates of Shimla, Manali, Kullu, Rampur, Kaza and Rekong Peo....... |
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| The area around Old Manali is famous for trekking and its breathtaking scenery. There are many places to do day walks in the locality; such as the winter ski resort of Solang Valley, the high waterfall on the cliffs above Vashsist or up to the hills above old Manali....... |
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| The landscape here is breath taking. One can see well-defined snow capped peaks, the beas river with its clear water, on the other side are the pine trees, tiny fields and fruit orchid. A favourite place for trekkers to spiti, lahaul, kirmaur, leh and zanskar region in Kashmir valley....... |
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