The road to Manali is dotted with small dhabas that serves good Punjabi food. The road is spacious and peaceful and the on both side of the road are endless stretch of wheat field, giving off a faint scent of ripe grain. The road changes course and climbs up a spiraling trail till each reach Manali at an altitude of 1,950 meters. The town is located 40 Km north of Kullu valley at the Beas river valley. Also Called ‘Valley of gods,’ it is a perfect place to invoke blessing while enjoying the splendor of nature.
The name Manila is more of a myth than history. It is named after the Hindu lawgiver Manu and it literally means ‘Home of Manu’. Manu is a mythological character that descended at Manali to create human life after the World was drowned in flood.
The first inhabitant of Manali was the nomadic hunters known as 'Rakshas'. A caste from the Kullu valley called ‘Naur’ was one of the original settlers but their numbers have dwindled. Now Manali is populated by people from different parts of the country.
After the British introduced Apple farming it has become the main source of income along with tourism. Tourism industry in Manali was boosted by the increased militancy activities in Kashmir. The little known town, hidden amidst the pine canopies and clouds has now found its own place among the best hill stations in India. Serene and dreamy, Manali is the perfect place for honeymoon travelers. New crop of urban hotels have sprouted up and they are going extra mile to guarantee a memorable stay. Apart from many picturesque places, Manali offers lots of activities like Skiing, kayaking, snow-bike riding, yak-riding and Paragliding.
Honeymoon Attractions in Kullu
Shoja
The mountain peak, at 2700 m, above the town, Shoja provides a panoramic view of the entire town and its daily hustle bustle. You can trek your way uphill or even take a pony ride, nice way of enjoying with your partner, and absorb the pleasant beauty of the entire area, with forests, streams, trees, snow peaks and rivers in the view.
Raison
This is a lively and active spot with camping facilities. Situated on the Kullu Manali Highway, along the banks of Beas River, this fun filled and beautiful camp site, will provide the element of adventure in your honeymoon.
Kasol
This breathtaking clearing along the banks of the river Parvati, is a heaven for honeymoon couples. The white, soft sand, and the lush green grass, all can be enjoyed on the river banks. You can also find a tourist hut here, and spend some quiet romantic time with your spouse, while trying your hands in angling.
Raghunath Temple
This 17th century temple, dedicated to Lord Ram, is one of the favourite places for tourists, and even newly wed couples pay a visit to the sacred place for the blessings. It is renowned for the beautiful statue of Lord Rama, especially brought from Ayodhya.
Shringi Rishi Temple
In Banjar valley, 60 kms away from Kullu, this temple is dedicated to the Shringi Rishi, the local deity of Kullu district. Pay a visit to this old place and have a traditional and cultural experience of the old legends of Kullu, with your partner.
Honeymoon Attractions in Manali
Jagatsukh
6 kms away from Manali, this place is the abode of various local temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and to Sandhya Gayatri. You can also go to the adjoining Arjuna Caves, and try to scare your partner in the darkness, for some little fun.
Monasteries
It is always a pleasure to trace the local culture of a place , while on tour, so take your partner in the tow and go to visit the Tibetan Monasteries in Manali and discover how the culture is influenced by the Buddhist sect.
Rohtang Pass
A gateway to the valley of Leh, this place is a pure delight for honeymoon couples, with its snow covered mountains. Watch the Chanderi river flowing down from the mountains to the Lahaul valley. Enjoy the fun of para gliding and skiing in the mountains and watch a romantic sunset with your partner.
Hadimba Temple
Just one km from the main town of Manali, this 16th century temple is a beautifully constructed architectural site, with its four tiered pagoda roof and exquisite carving on the doorway. Have a taste of the local flavour with this temple.
Solang Valley
A popular picnic spot , with its beautiful ski slopes and picturesque beauty, this valley provides fun element to its tourists and have provisions for trolley rides also. A popular and busy tourist place, Solang Valley offers local delicacies at reasonable price as well, so get a taste of it with your partner.
Vishist Hot Water Springs and Temple:
Vishist is a small village located on the bank of river Beas. The place is known for hot springs and temples. Natural hot sulphur springs has bath tanks separately for both ladies and gents.
Shopping in Kullu Manali
Every place has its charm and along with that its specialities. So while on a travel, one must buy some tokens for memory; this becomes even more important for the honeymoon couples as keeping memories in the form of souvenirs, of the best time of their life is a special and romantic thing to do. There are many things one can shop for while on a trip to Kullu Manali. Take a look:
Woolen items, like shawls, caps from the Tibetan market
Exclusive Tibetan souvenirs like silver and turquoise jewelery and Thangkas, the cloth paintings with Buddhist themes
Beautiful and quality rugs, carpets and handicrafts, in the Gadan Thekchokling Gompa
Exclusive Pashmina shawls from the Kullu/ Kashmir Shawl Emporium
The natural and herbal shampoos, and local jams, pickles are some other articles you can pick from the local market
What to Do:
Rafting and Kayaking on the Beas river
Hiking the Temples on the hills.
Going for mountain bike ride.
Skiing at Rohtang.
Visiting Apple orchards.
Where to Stay:
There are number of Hotels that provide excellent accommodation, food and service. Hotels are available both in town and on the outskirts of town, if you wish for more privacy. Here are some hotels for your honeymoon visit.
Ambassador Resort
Apple Valley Resorts
Banon Resorts
Club Mahindra Timber Trail
Highland Park Resort
Holiday Inn
Hotel Pinewood
Hotel Negis Mayflower
In the beautiful valleys of Kullu Manali, no matter whether you are staying in a luxury resort or a cottage house, the charm of the exquisite place is surely going to get hold, of the honeymoon couples. So make your plans and and have a nice time in Kullu Manali.