When holidays arrive, many people go traveling, and most tourists choose the state of Himachal. Currently, snowfall is observed in some areas of Himachal, making it an ideal place to visit to enjoy this phenomenon. However, tourists heading to Manali often book accommodation in unsuitable locations, which can ruin the entire trip. To make any journey unforgettable, it is crucial to choose the right place to book a hotel or guesthouse.
Staying in the wrong location forces people to spend most of their travel time walking on mountain roads with heavy luggage or taking taxis. Therefore, the location of the hotel is much more important than its appearance. Instead of booking accommodation based on social media photos, you need to know in which specific area of Manali the chosen property is located. If you are planning a trip to Manali, check out these alternatives besides Mall Road.
Mall Road: The best choice for a first visit
For those visiting Manali for the first time, staying near Mall Road can be a good option. It is easy to find shops, restaurants, and dining establishments here. You won't have to constantly use a taxi for minor daily needs. Furthermore, it is convenient to get to Solang Valley and Atal Tunnel from here. Nevertheless, during the Dasara festival and in high season, it can be very crowded and noisy. Accommodation costs may also increase. If you are traveling by private car, be sure to check for parking availability before booking.
Old Manali: For cafes and tranquility
Old Manali is ideal for couples, solo travelers, and friends. If you enjoy spending time in cafes sipping coffee away from the hustle and bustle and enjoying quiet relaxation, Old Manali will be a suitable place to stop. Here you can find hostels, guesthouses, and small boutique hotels. The atmosphere here might feel more relaxed and peaceful compared to Mall Road.
However, some streets in this area have steep inclines. This can make it difficult to transport heavy luggage to the hotel. If you are traveling with children or elderly people, find out in advance about road accessibility to the hotel and the presence of stairs. It is also important to know the condition of the roads during snowfall seasons.
Vashishtha Village: Mountain views and peace
You can plan your stay not only in Manali itself but also in the hidden villages around it, as these remote places offer peace and solitude. Vashishtha village, located near Manali, is known for its temples, hot springs, and picturesque valley views. If you want to wake up in the morning and admire the mountains while avoiding city hustle, you can stay in a guesthouse or homestay. Staying here will allow you to get closer to the village atmosphere. However, a taxi may be required to visit markets and other tourist attractions. Before booking a hotel, be sure to clarify its exact location and route information to it.
Prini: For family stays
If you are traveling to Manali with family and prefer privacy away from the crowds, consider staying in Prini. Large hotels and resort-style properties are available here, which can offer more space and parking amenities. This can be a convenient choice for family trips. However, it is not easy to walk from here to Mall Road. If you have your own car or access to a taxi service from the hotel, staying here might be preferable. Before booking, be sure to check parking conditions, meal availability, and travel time to the main market.
Naggar: For long and comfortable stays
You can also visit the hill station of Naggar, located in the center of the Kullu Valley, on the banks of the Beas River. Situated at an altitude of 1800 meters, this settlement offers a completely different kind of peace away from the hustle of Manali. This area, adorned with coniferous forests and apple orchards against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas, resembles a paradise corner. The views you see here can be so impressive that you won't want to leave. However, Naggar cannot be considered the closest area to Manali. If your plan involves daily trips to Mall Road, Solang Valley, and Atal Tunnel, the round trip will take a lot of time. This place is better suited for those who want to spend part of their vacation in a quiet setting.
Burwa Village: A mountain living option
If you want to live among the mountains, away from the crowds of Mall Road, you can consider Burwa village. This village is located on the way from Manali to Solang Valley and Atal Tunnel, offering beautiful mountain scenery and the chance to avoid urban rush. In this area, you can find hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. If you plan to visit Solang Valley, stopping in Burwa village might be advantageous. It is an ideal place for those who want to spend time in a tranquil mountain setting, from where the views are so magnificent you won't want to leave your room.