Manu Temple Manali – History, Nearby Places & All Travel Guide

The iconic Bollywood movies – Jab We Met and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani – were picturized in the cupid’s paradise, Manali. Manali is India’s top vacation destination, known for its inherent beauty and adventure sports. You can enjoy skiing, snowfall, river rafting, trekking, forest camping, and many more adrenaline-pumping activities. However, this quaint town situated in the lap of the great Himalayas also has its share of temples. Take, for instance, Manu Temple, one of the ancient temples in Old Manali.

Manu Temple, located 3 km from the main market of Manali, has a pure vibrational frequency with a holy essence. When you visit it, you will notice unparalleled tranquillity and serenity encompassing the entire area. Grasp the calmness in the pure ambiance and experience the bright greenery around the temple. It’s simply an amazing experience that will be cherished forever.

This temple has been a famous tourist spot for travelers seeking peace and divine blessings for years. It’s located on a hilltop, and you have to walk to reach it. Nevertheless, it’s a wonderful journey.

So, let us explore the history, architecture, location, best time to visit, and things to do at the Manu Temple.

Manu Temple At a Glance

Manu Temple Manali – History, Nearby Places & All Travel Guide

History of Manu Temple

The temple is devoted to King Vaivasvata Manu, also known as Sanatan Hindu Lawgiver, who is believed to be the creator of human beings. We can find the mention of the Sage Manu Alya in the ancient scripts, which refers to the dwelling of Manu.

History shows Sage Manu found a carp fish in a river while washing his hands. The carp fish was believed to be Lord Vishnu asking Sage Manu to rescue him. So, Sage Manu put the fish in a bowl. Apparently, the fish started taking a larger size, and Sage Manu moved it to another bigger bowl.

However, the fish kept growing its size; hence, sage moved it to the river. Even the river could not accommodate the fish. Eventually, sage moved it to the ocean.

Later, Lord Vishnu appeared in his real form and told Sage Manu about the flood that would devastate the entire planet. When Sage got the idea of this flood, he built a boat for his family members and nine kinds of animals, birds, and seeds. Once the flood was over, all of them landed on the earth.

Thereafter, Sage Manu started meditating, and the place he meditated today houses Manu Temple.

Sage Manu is credited with scripting the Manusmriti, which established the foundation of Hinduism. By that token, he is the Sanatan Lawgiver. He was spiritually enlightened and exuded positivity.

Today, even after many centuries, his positivity can be felt in this place. Being a holy place, wearing clean, light, and fully covered clothes should be worn while entering the temple.

The Architecture of the Manu Temple

The architectural designs of the temples of Himachal Pradesh feature different spiritual beliefs, varying from one place to the other. There are four major styles-

• The Pagoda Style
• The Pyramid Style
• The Pent Roof
• The Fusion of Pagoda and the Pent Roof

The Pagoda style is the architectural style of Manu Temple. This style originated in Nepal and later spread to other parts of the subcontinent.

The temple’s structure is made of wood and concrete, forming the shape of a triangle, resembling a pagoda evolved from Stupas.

Location of Manu Temple

Manu Temple is located in Old Manali, approximately 3 km from the main market. You can take a walk, public bus, or private vehicle to reach the temple.

• Address – Manu Temple Rd, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh (175131)
• Coordinates – 32°15’25″N 77°10’33” E
• Timings – 6 AM to 5 PM
• Entry Fee – No

How to Reach?

The nearest airport is the Kullu Manali Airport, located at a distance of 53.5 km from Manu temple. You can rent a cab from there to reach the destination via the NH3 highway. Reaching the temple may take around 1 hour 40 minutes to 2 hours.

Alternatively, you can find public transport buses that travel continuously from the Kullu Manali Airport to Manu Temple. In this case, you will travel through the Kullu-Naggar-Manali Road.

Best time to visit the Manu Temple

Summers – March to June is the ideal time to visit Manu Temple. During this season, you can explore the temple and the surroundings to the fullest. The weather is comfortable, with temperatures at 10 to 24 degrees Celsius.

Monsoons – July to September is the region’s medium to heavy rainfall time. Nature is at its vibrant best, but it is quite risky to travel. The path to the temple is narrow and prone to accidents. The temperature ranges between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius.

Winters – From October to February, the region experiences a cold wave. You may enjoy snowfall while trekking to The Manu Devi Temple. So, if you wanna chill out in the snowfall and explore the temple, winter is the best time for you. However, extra layers have to be added to keep you warm as the temperature falls to -1 degrees Celsius.

Things to do at the Manu Temple

The temple has much to offer to anyone visiting it.

1. Sightseeing

The Manu temple’s ambiance and engineering will leave you spellbound. Pine trees that add to its overall appeal surround the temple. Explore the calmness of the place or meditate for a while. It will calm your senses. Of course, you can also perform poojas under the priests available at the temple.

2. Food and Local Drinks

There are plenty of pocket-friendly, yummy food items that you will find here. Some mouth-watering options include Sidu, Babru, Patande, Bhey, Tukdiya Bhat, Chana Madra, Momos, Aktori, and more. After leaving the temple zone, you can also try the famous local drink, Lugdi. It is traditional alcohol prepared from fermented rice.

3. Photography and Videography

If you are one of the photoholics or Youtubers or love-making Instagram reels, grab your gadgets and be ready to capture this place. You will get loads of panoramic views to capture for a great collection for your Manali Diaries. But submit your device at the security bar before entering the temple. Photography inside the premises is prohibited.

4. Trekking Those Narrow Ways

Trekking is so common in Himachal Pradesh. And, to reach the Manu temple, you must go through narrow paths, which will be no less than an exciting experience. So, avoid going there if you have some chronic disease or height sickness.

Nearby Attractions

Many more attractions near the temple are worth exploring, such as the following:

1. Hidimba Devi temple

Hadimba Temple is dedicated to Bhim’s wife, Demoness Hidimbi. The temple has a Pagoda-style architectural design with a wooden “Shikhar” above the temple. The entrance door is crafted with an engraving of Goddess Durga. The temple’s interior is simple and sober, giving a clear view of the Hidimbi idol.

Navratri is the most significant time to worship Hidmbi Mata, and many devotees come to this temple to offer their prayers. Provincially the temple is recognized as Dhungri Temple.

• Timings – 8 AM to 6 PM
• Location – Hadimba Temple Rd, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh
• Distance from The Manu Temple – 1.1 km

2. Vashisht temple

It is an ancient temple situated in Vashisht village. This temple in Manali is dedicated to Vashisht Rishi, one of the “Sapt-Rishis”. It is famous for its sulfurous hot water springs with curative properties. The Vashisht valley is very calm and soothing.

Nearby the temple, you can experience the two waterfalls that are worth exploring. The 4000-year-old Vashisht temple is a must-visit place for history freaks.

• Timings – 8 AM to 9 PM
• Location – Vashisht Temple, Near Manali, Vashist, Himachal Pradesh
• Distance from The Manu Temple – 4.9 km

3. Hampta pass

One of the most sought-after treks in Manali is the Hampta Pass. However, you require permission from the SDM office to embark on it. Hampta Pass’s altitude is 4270 meters. You will enjoy waterfalls, wildflowers, pine woods, and the path to the top. The view from the top is just mesmerizing.

• The best time to visit – Mid-June to Mid-October
• Location – Hamta Village, Below Sethan village, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
• Distance from The Manu Temple – 16 km

4. Kothi Village

Kothi is Manali’s last village. It is still raw and untouched, with a beautiful valley in Rohtang Pass. After this village, the uninhabitable zone starts. In this era of modernization, this village has retained its natural beauty and culture. It’s an ideal camping stop.

• The best time to visit – Starting from May to October end
• Location – Kothi Village
• Distance from The Manu Temple – 14.7 km

5. Deo Tibba

Deo Tibba is one of the highest mountains in Manali, with an elevation of 6001 meters. It is located in the Pir Panjal Range of mountains, above Jagatsukh village to the southwest of Manali.

The exceptional thing about Deo Tibba is its summit. It is not a pointed ridge but a flat summit plateau with a snow dome. According to Hindu mythology, the summit of the peak is the place where gods live. Hence, it has the name Deo Tibba, where ‘Deo’ means ‘God’ and ‘Tibba’ means ‘Hill’.

If you love trekking or camping, this place is a perfect option, offering a pleasant and panoramic view of snow-capped mountains.

• The best time to visit – May, June, September, and October
• Location –
• Distance from The Manu Temple – 12.7 km

6. Bhrigu Lake

Bhrigu Lake, also known as Brighu Lake, is located in the Kullu district at an elevation of 4,300 meters above sea level. It is 6 km from the Gulaba village and situated east of the Rohtang Pass. You can trek to the lake from the Vashisht Temple or the Gulaba village.

It is believed that a great saint of Indian history, Maharishi Bhrigu, would mediate near the lake

• The best time to visit – June to the last week of September
• Location – Kullu, Himachal Pradesh
• Distance from The Manu Temple -19.9 km

Hotels near the Manu Temple

Being a busy tourist place, the area has plenty of good accommodations.

1. The Orchard Green Resort and Spa

The Orchard Green Resort and Spa is one of the perfect resorts in Manali. Their spacious family rooms and suites offer a hill view from the balcony. This resort will provide fine accommodations, a spa, amazing chefs, and great hospitality.

• Location – Log Huts Area, Manali, Manali Tehsil
• Distance from Manu Temple – 0.8 km
• Price – Rs 4,660.

2. Hotel Crystal

Hotel Crystal is a nice and affordable hotel with a prime location in Manali. They have spacious, clean, and mountain-view rooms. With all the basic amenities readily available at budget-friendly prices, this hotel is your best bet in Manali.

• Location – Circuit House Road Near Mall Road, Manali
• Distance from Manu Temple – 0.2 km
• Price Range – Rs 900 to Rs 1,500

3. Glacier Resorts

Glacier Resorts is an excellent choice for a stay. The resort provides deluxe and family rooms and suites. There’s a small bridge at the entrance of this resort, which adds extra charm to the exteriors. They also have multi-cuisine delicacies, along with a complimentary breakfast. You would love to stay at such a beautiful place.

• Location – Hadimba Devi Road, Manali, Manali Tehsil
• Distance from Manu Temple – 0.5 km
• Price Range – Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000

4. Snow Valley Resorts

Do you like huts or wood-roof houses? If yes, then Snow Valley Resorts should be on your bucket list! They have multiple types of rooms, and every category comes with different perks. Mountains and pine trees surround the whole resort that will give you a heavenly feeling. This resort serves superfoods to calm your appetite.

• Location – Log Hut Area, Manali, Manali Tehsil
• Distance from Manu Temple – 0.8 km
• Price Range – Rs 2,400 to Rs 3,000

5. Whispering Inn

Whispering Inn by Vivaan is a 4-star hotel. The hotel has friendly staff eager to provide top-notch service and great food. In short, they have everything to make your stay as comfortable as possible. Choosing Whispering Inn will be one of the best decisions.

• Location – Club House Road, Manali, Manali Tehsil
• Distance from Manu Temple – 0.5 km

Price Range – Rs 4,100 to Rs 7,000

Restaurants near The Manu Temple

Multiple cafes and meal restaurants near this Kullu Manali temple will calm your hunger. Here are the seven best ones for you:

Tips for Visiting Manu Temple!

1. Keep extra-warm clothes– Keep extra layers while packing in winter because the temperature can be really cold.
2. Check your shoe’s sole– As the route is not easy, you must have some good quality shoes and soles.
3. Medicines– Some medical stores and hospitals are nearby, but carry some fever, cold, and hydration tablets.
4. Be energetic– You are going to a highly divine place. You should be energetic and enthusiastic throughout the journey to the temple. And enjoy the holiness of the Manu Temple!

Some other essential tips:

• You cannot click photographs inside the temple premises.
• As old customs and traditions acknowledge the temple, it is advisable to dress decently, covering your shoulders and knees completely.
• There is no parking area at the temple. So, you need to park your vehicle at a distance from the temple premises. The narrow road leads to the temple. Hence, you will have to walk to reach the temple.
• Ensure not to litter in and outside the temple premises. Keep it clean and unpolluted as a responsible tourist.

Conclusion

Manu Temple is a must-visit destination on a trip to Manali. Many Manali packages do not include this place because of the narrow and steep path leading to the temple. In such a case, you can visit yourself or hire a local tourist guide.

The temple’s architectural style, holy vibes, and tranquility offer immense peace to your soul, making it a worth-visiting attraction. The calmness in the temple is something you can’t experience in bustling cities. So, if you want to treat your soul with peace and spiritual vibes, you should not miss this place.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Manu Temple famous for?

Manu Temple is devoted to King Vaivasvata Manu, also known as Sage Manu, who is believed to be the creator of the earth.

2. How far is Rohtang Pass from Manu Temple?

Rohtang Pass is 37.2 km from Manu Temple. It takes 1 and ½ hours to reach the Rohtang Pass.

3. How old is Manu Temple?

Manu Temple is around 400 years old.

4. Can I take photographs inside the temple?

No, photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple premises. However, you can capture pictures outside the temple.

5. What are other famous temples in Manali?

Other famous temples in Manali are Hadimba Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, Jamula Temple, Siyali Temple, Ghatotkatch Temple, and many others.