State: Himachal Pradesh

District- Kullu District

Main languages- Hindi and Pahari

 

History:

 

The town of Manali is located in the Beas River valley and is an important hill station in the Himalayan Mountains of Himachal Pradesh. Manali was also the town, which marked the beginning of an ancient trade route to Ladakh, from there, over the Karakoram Pass, on to Yarkand and Khotan in the Tarim Basin area. The town and its surrounding areas are of great significance to the Indian culture and heritage because it was the home and abode of the Saptarshi or seven sages. There is also an ancient cave temple, Hidimba Devi Temple located very near to the town. The town of Manali is named after the Brahmin lawgiver Manu and it literally means "the abode of Manu". The legends say that the sage Manu stepped off his ark in Manali to recreate human life after a great flood had deluged the world. The town is also known as the "Valley of the Gods" and there is an ancient temple dedicated to sage Manu. This town was sparsely populated in ancient times and nomadic hunters lived here. Later the shepherds arrived from the Kangra valley and settled to take up agriculture. Early inhabitants of the region are the 'naur' or 'nar', The British played a vital role in introducing apples and trout here along with plums and pears.

 

Geography:

 

The town of Manali is located at 32°10′N 77°06′E/ 32.16, 77.1 and has an average elevation of 2625 meters. It is located on the banks of the Beas river valley and the town is rich in vegetation and flora. 

 

Climate:

 

The climate in the area is very cool during the summer months also because of the high altitude location of the town. The winters here are freezing and temperatures below freezing level are very common here. The town receives heavy snowfall during the winter months and often the roads are shut due to the heavy snow. July is the month of rainfall although short showers are a regular affair in this part of the country.

 

Demographics:

 

As per the 2001 India census, Manali had a population of 6265 and had an average literacy rate of 74%.

 

Economy:

 

The economy in the area is mainly based on tourism, especially after the restrictions in the Kashmir area of the country. The other forms of income in the area are production of fruits like apples, pears and plums. Local handicrafts and trades are also predominant here.

 

Tourism:

 

Manali is a popular Himalayan tourist destination and is responsible for almost one quarter of the tourist count in the area. The town is visited by many trekkers who follow the hashish trail and Manali's charas is considered to be the best in India. The valleys provide a beautiful view of the natural beauty and forest areas and this is an ideal place for those who love adventures and also for those who enjoy peace and beauty. Some of the popular sports here include skiing, hiking, mountaineering, , rafting, trekking, para-gliding, kayaking, and mountain biking. There are many hot springs, religious shrines and temples, Tibetan Buddhist temples in the area. The Naggar Fort south of Manali is a reminder of the ancient Pal dynasty. One can also see the ancient rock stone and wood carvings, popular works of Himachal art. The Dhungri or Hadimba Temple made in 1533 is a popular tourist spot. The town is also known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. The museum of traditional culture is also a popular tourist spot.

 

Some of the popular spots in the nearby areas include the Rohtang Pass, which is located at an altitude of 13,050 feet above sea level, and has some popular adventure sports. The Rahala waterfalls, Rani lala, Vashist hot spring and many monasteries are some of the popular places here. The popular institute for Mountaineering Institute and Allied Sports is about 3 km from the Mall and offers mountaineering and kayaking courses. Popular sports here include skiing, kayaking, trekking, snow sledging and many more.

 

Transportation:

 

The city is well connected through the NH-21 that goes up to Leh. The nearest airport is the Bhuntar airport, which is about 50 km from Manali. There are no rail gauges in Manali and the nearest stations are Pathankot and Chandigarh.

 

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