If you’re visiting Manali with family, this beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh promises breathtaking landscapes, exciting activities, and unforgettable moments together. Explore this travel guide to discover the best things to do in Manali, Himachal, and plan a truly memorable family vacation in Manali.
Manali, the very name evokes romance, scenic beauty, and unforgettable mountain holidays in the hearts of Indian travellers. Long celebrated as one of India’s most popular honeymoon destinations, this charming hill station in Himachal Pradesh also makes an excellent destination for a family vacation in Manali. Blessed with lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, picturesque villages, ancient temples, and thrilling adventure activities, Manali offers something for every age group.
Whether you are planning a relaxing family trip in Manali, an adventure-filled getaway, or peaceful holidays in Manali, the destination perfectly blends nature, culture, and entertainment. Well-developed tourist facilities, comfortable accommodation, and excellent connectivity further make visiting Manali with family a hassle-free experience.
To help you make the most of your holiday, here is a list of the best things to do in Manali, Himachal, that promise memorable experiences for the entire family.
Also Explore: Popular Himachal Tour Packages
01. Explore the Buddhist Monasteries
The connection between the Indian Himalayas and Buddhism is deeply rooted, and exploring the beautiful monasteries of Manali is a rewarding experience for every traveller. Among the most popular are Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa and Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa, both known for their peaceful ambience, colourful architecture, and intricate artwork.
If you’re visiting Manali with family, these monasteries offer the perfect opportunity to enjoy a quiet evening amidst spirituality and scenic surroundings while learning about the region’s rich Buddhist heritage.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Dharamashala
02. Pay Your Homage at Hadimba Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Hadimba (Hirimba), this centuries-old wooden temple is one of Manali’s most iconic landmarks. Although the Mahabharata describes Hirimba as a demoness, the people of Himachal worship her as a revered deity.
Nestled amidst towering cedar forests, the temple is admired for its unique wooden architecture, beautifully carved doors, and tranquil surroundings. It is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Manali, Himachal, especially for families interested in history, culture, and spirituality.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Shimla
03. Enjoy Zorbing in Solang Valley
One of the reasons Manali remains an all-season destination is its diverse range of activities. While winter welcomes snow lovers, summer is perfect for outdoor adventures like zorbing.
Rolling downhill inside a giant inflatable ball in the lush meadows of Solang Valley is an experience filled with laughter, excitement, and unforgettable family moments. It’s one of the most entertaining activities during a family vacation in Manali, especially if you’re travelling with teenagers.
Also Read: Top Snow Tourist Places in Himachal
04. Experience Paragliding in Solang Valley
Adventure-loving families should not miss paragliding in Solang Valley. Soaring high above the breathtaking Himalayan landscape offers spectacular views of snow-covered peaks, pine forests, and lush valleys.
Since both zorbing and paragliding are available at Solang Valley, you can conveniently enjoy two of the best things to do in Manali, Himachal, during the same visit.
Also Read: Best Places to Visit in Dalhousie
05. Go River Rafting at Pirdi (Beas River)
If your family enjoys adventure, white-water rafting on the Beas River is an experience worth trying. The rafting stretches from Pirdi to Jhiri, covering nearly 14 km, features exciting rapids suitable for adventure enthusiasts.
Conducted by experienced operators with proper safety measures, rafting is one of the most thrilling highlights of a family trip in Manali for adults and older children.
Also Read: Atal Tunnel Sightseeing in Himachal
06. Trek to Beas Kund
Don’t let the word “trek” discourage you. The trek to Beas Kund is considered one of the easiest Himalayan treks and is suitable for beginners with a reasonable level of fitness.
Starting from Solang Valley, the trek covers approximately 14 km and usually takes two to three days. Standing at an altitude of around 3,690 metres, it rewards trekkers with spectacular mountain scenery, alpine meadows, and the sacred source of the Beas River. For adventurous families, this can be one of the most memorable experiences while visiting Manali with family.
Also Read: Top Winter Treks in Himachal
07. Visit the Ancient Temples at Jagatsukh
Located about 6 km south of Manali, the peaceful village of Jagatsukh is known for its ancient temples and serene surroundings. The historic Shiva Temple, believed to date back to the 8th century, showcases remarkable Himachali architecture and spiritual significance.
If time permits, also visit the nearby Gaurishankar Temple in Dashal Village. The short drive from Manali makes Jagatsukh a perfect family excursion during your holidays in Manali.
Also Read: Top Summer Hill Stations in Himachal
08. Taste the Local Fruit Wine
For adults, sampling Manali’s locally produced fruit wines can be a unique cultural experience. Made from apples, grapes, plums, apricots, and rhododendron flowers, these wines are widely available in the local markets.
A visit to Manu Market is highly recommended, where you can find government-produced fruit wines, including the popular Rhododendron wine. While this activity is meant only for adults, it adds a distinctive local flavour to your family vacation in Manali.
Also Read: Interesting Facts About Himachal
09. Go Skiing in Solang Valley (Winter Activity)
If you’re planning your family trip in Manali during winter, skiing in Solang Valley should definitely be on your itinerary.
Blanketed in thick snow, the valley transforms into one of Himachal Pradesh’s most popular skiing destinations. Beginners can also opt for short training sessions with professional instructors, making it an enjoyable experience even for first-time skiers.
Also Read: Chitul- Most Scenic Places in Himachal
10. Shop at Manu Market
No holiday is complete without exploring the local markets, and Manu Market is among the best places to shop in Manali.
From woollen shawls, sweaters, handmade souvenirs, and traditional handicrafts to local food products, the market offers plenty of shopping opportunities. Art lovers can also visit Painter’s Den Art Works to browse beautiful handcrafted items and paintings.
Shopping here is a wonderful way to end your holidays in Manali while taking home memorable souvenirs for your loved ones.
Other Interesting Blogs to Read
About the author
From the Lake District, Nainital, Nidhi Singh is a travel writer whose love for mountains can be seen in her write ups. Talk about solo travelling, indulging in adventure activities, binging on good food, planning budget trips or the Aurora Borealis and you will get all her attention. It is the wanderlust that keeps her going and if at all she could get one wish granted she would love to live a life less ordinary. Follow her on Twitter, Facebook & Instagram.
+91-9212777225
Plan Your trip
