The 14 best things to do with kids in Manali

The Hidimba Devi Temple in Manali is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, a character from the Indian epic, the Mahabharata. Set among beautiful cedar forests, the temple has a unique pagoda-style architecture made of wood and stone. It was built in 1553 and is locally known as the Dhungri Temple.

Hadimba Devi Temple in Manali is one of the most peaceful and iconic spots in Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by tall cedar (deodar) forests, this 16th-century wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba — wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata — beautifully blends spirituality with nature. The temple’s unique architecture, with its four-tiered pagoda-style roof and intricately carved wooden doorway, stands out from anything else in the region. The atmosphere is serene and filled with a sense of divine calm, especially in the early morning or evening hours. However, the area can get quite crowded during peak tourist seasons, and the nearby stalls make it feel a bit commercialized — but the charm of the temple and its forest setting easily outshine that. 📍 Location: Old Manali, Himachal Pradesh 🕒 Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM (Open daily) 💡 Tip: Visit early in the morning for quiet surroundings and great photos among the pine woods. A must-visit heritage and spiritual site that captures the essence of old Manali’s beauty and devotion. 🌲🙏

Hidimba Devi Temple, also called Dhungri Temple, was built in 1553 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh and is dedicated to Hidimba Devi, wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. The temple is made of wood and stone in traditional Himachali architecture, surrounded by cedar forests. It has a unique pagoda-style roof with intricate carvings and no idol of Hidimba—only a footprint on a rock believed to be hers. It’s both a religious site and a major tourist attraction.

Hadimba Devi Temple is a 5-star pocket of peace, tucked away in a beautiful grove of towering trees. There's a palpable sense of serenity here, making it a perfect escape. Of course, its fame skyrocketed thanks to a certain blockbuster movie ("Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani"), so you'll be sharing that peaceful vibe with plenty of fellow film fans. Now, for the mandatory public service announcement: you will be swarmed by an astonishing number of annoying hawkers aggressively selling saffron and shilajit. My advice? Just don't fall for it. Politely (or firmly) ignore them and move on. Once you've navigated that gauntlet, the area around the temple is lovely. There are plenty of shops where you can browse for actual souvenirs or grab a bite to eat. Whether you're here to kill a few hours in a beautiful, shaded setting or to genuinely pay your devotion at this ancient, unique temple, it's a fantastic stop. Just keep your wallet closed until you hit the actual souvenir shops!

So old and so beautiful. Built of wood and stone in a scenic background. The Hidimba of the Mahabharata is said to have remained here in meditation when the Pandavas went forward. The temple is very peculiar in its conception and in its shape. Tourists who visit Manali definitely come to Hidimba Temple too. The surroundings add to the beauty of the temple. The tall pine trees are stationed like soldiers guarding the temple.

Very very soothing place located in the pine forest. You can reach temple by climbing stairs and by direct car as well however parking the vehicle is a bit difficult task. You can visit further from there also there is a place called van vihar. Must visit for picnics and photoshoot.

One of the most iconic sightseeing spots in Manali. The temple has its own deep-rooted beliefs and peaceful vibes. Outside the temple, there’s a touch of fun too you can enjoy a yak ride, try on traditional Manali attire for photos, and even pose with the cutest pet rabbits! A perfect mix of spiritual calm and touristy fun. Definitely worth a visit with family.

It is a very old temple with a quiet place and feels very peaceful when inside the temple. Beautiful scenery around feels like the temple is touching the sky and the snow based mountains all surrounded with apple trees. Difficult to walk to the temple but there is a facility of auto... But it was with walking to the hill top as I would not like to miss the beautiful old wooden houses n lots of shopping stops.

Beautiful, Old-Styled ancient temple of Sage Manu located in Old Manali. It is also believed that Manali was named after him. The Manusmiriti is attributed to Sage Manu, who is also considered as the first man & lawgiver in Hindu tradition. Road to it is narrow so avoid taking SUVs. Walking, 2-wheeler or Lord Alto is the best way to reach. Sit inside the temple for a while and soak in the peace. Photography is not allowed inside the temple. Date of Visit - 25th March, 2025

The Manu temple 🛕 which is dedicated to manu rishi is beautiful piece of architect that show our rich cultural heritage as temple has its significance.

No, this temple is not dedicated to any god or goddess. This temple, with traditional himachali architecture, is dedicated to sage Manu, who, according to Hindu beliefs, was the first human being and progenitor of the human race. The temple was a short hike from The Hosteller, where we stayed in old Manali. There were many old, beautiful, traditional wooden houses in the vicinity of this temple, and many cafes serving traditional himachali dishes.

Visiting Manu Temple in Old Manali was such a peaceful and refreshing experience. The temple is surrounded by stunning mountain views and has a very calming atmosphere. The walk up to the temple feels like a journey through nature itself, and once you reach, the serenity makes it all worth it. 🙏 I loved how the wooden architecture blends beautifully with the surroundings and adds to the charm of Old Manali. It’s not just a place of worship but also a spot where you can sit quietly, reflect, and feel connected with the environment. If you are in Manali, this temple is definitely worth the visit for both spiritual vibes and the scenic beauty around it. 🌿🏔️

An ancient temple on top of Old Manali dedicated to Maharshi Manu. A small shrine with a peaceful ambience. Can be reached by a hike through the Old Manali market.

This ancient temple dedicated to Sage Manu is such a special place! Nestled in Old Manali, it has a mystical charm that draws you in. The wooden architecture and stone idol are beautifully crafted, and the peaceful surroundings make it perfect for quiet reflection. Climbing the steps to reach the temple is worth every bit of effort - the views of the valley are stunning! A sacred spot with deep spiritual significance. If you're in Manali, take time to visit this gem and connect with its ancient history!

Wow such an underrated place in Manali. I highly recommend this place to only nature lovers, birds watchers, hikers and peace seekers. This place is a treat in Manali if you wish to discover the pine trees, scenic views, fresh air and overall nature lovers. Ps. Please avoid using bluetooth speakers while exploring and throwing trash is not acceptable.

Seems like a nice place but it's confusing to get to or get tickets. We followed directions to an entrance which looked as though it had been abandoned for some time; there was a sign saying we needed tickets but not how or where to get them.

4.5 Stars - A Peaceful Escape into Nature The Manali Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit spot for anyone who loves nature and wildlife. Just a short walk from the main town, it feels like entering a whole new world of peace, greenery, and fresh mountain air. Tall deodar and pine trees surround the walking trails, and the sound of birds and the rustling leaves makes it a perfect escape from the crowd. We spotted Himalayan birds, a few deer, and some really unique plant life. If you’re lucky and quiet, you might even spot a black bear or snow leopard—though they’re quite rare. The trails are easy to walk, and it’s a great place for nature photography or a peaceful picnic. The entry fee is reasonable, and it’s ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers. If you're visiting Manali and want to do something offbeat and calming, this sanctuary is a great choice.

The wildlife sanctuary is a walking trail behind Hadimba temple. Not to be confused with Nehru park, that is in front of Hadimba temple or Vannvihar that is near Mall road auto stand. Reaching the gate of the sanctuary itself is a great walk.

Excellent place to visit if you are in Manali not to see the birds but for quite time and walk in the lush green forest.

A quiet, scenic spot just a short distance from the main town. The sanctuary has beautiful forest trails with cedar, deodar, and pine trees. You might spot some birds and small animals, but big wildlife sightings are rare. Great for a peaceful walk and nature lovers, not ideal if you’re expecting a typical zoo experience.

This place is awesom for walk and stroll. Beautiful long trees and fresh air without any noise from outer town. You will feel real peace and joy of hill stations in this park.

Recently visited the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, a private museum showcasing the state's cultural heritage. It's just 50 meters far from Hadimba devi temple. While I appreciate the effort to preserve and promote Himachal's rich cultural history, I left feeling somewhat underwhelmed. The museum's collection is modest, and the exhibit space is quite small. Unfortunately, the artifacts and displays didn't quite live up to my expectations. With an entry fee of ₹30, I felt that the experience wasn't entirely worth the cost. That being said, I do acknowledge the museum's potential as a valuable resource for those interested in Himachal's cultural heritage. Perhaps with additional exhibits, interactive displays, or a more comprehensive collection, this museum could become a more engaging and enriching experience for visitors. Rating Breakdown: - Collection and Exhibits: 2.5/5 - Value for Money: 2/5 - Overall Experience: 3/5 I hope this review provides a balanced perspective, and I wish the museum's management all the best in their efforts to improve and expand their offerings.

Worth visiting this attraction having visited Manali. It’s quite easy for us since we stayed in the resort attached to the same building. One can get glimpse of Himachal related to its culture and folk arts. Practically there’s no rush of visitors at the time of our visit. There’s an entrance ticket @ Rs 30 per head. This attraction is very close to well known Hadimba Temple.

Museum is neat and clean and well maintained, but when you look at the descriptions and start reading it, you will realise that it is a 10th grader’s holiday homework done satisfactorily. Need to have good descriptions for what exactly people are looking at, what its value is and how it was important to people using them. Also, there is a washroom inside the museum but no sign board or direction to reach it or actually know if there is a washroom! All in all, learnt few things and laughed at few. Can be a greater place of information if taken seriously for the purpose of knowledge sharing. Ticket was ₹30 per person.

Review of Himachal Museum of Art and Culture I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Himachal Museum of Art and Culture, and I must say that it was a truly enriching experience. Located in the scenic state of Himachal Pradesh, this museum stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions of the region. Upon entering the museum, I was immediately struck by its well-curated exhibits and the attention to detail in presenting the art and culture of Himachal Pradesh. The museum offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical objects that provide a glimpse into the vibrant history and diverse traditions of the region. The museum showcases a wide range of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, textiles, and woodwork. Each exhibit is accompanied by detailed descriptions, offering valuable insights into the significance and symbolism behind the artworks. The arrangement of the exhibits is thoughtful, allowing visitors to navigate through the different sections and themes with ease. One of the highlights of the museum is its collection of traditional Himachali paintings. The intricate brushwork and vivid colors used in these artworks are truly captivating. The museum does an excellent job of preserving and displaying these delicate paintings, allowing visitors to appreciate the skill and craftsmanship of the artists. Another aspect that impressed me was the inclusion of interactive displays and multimedia presentations. These features enhance the visitor experience by providing additional context and a deeper understanding of the art and culture of Himachal Pradesh. It was fascinating to learn about the various rituals, festivals, and customs through audio-visual aids. The museum staff deserves special commendation for their knowledge and enthusiasm. They were approachable and eager to answer any questions, offering valuable insights and anecdotes about the exhibits. Their passion for preserving and promoting the cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh was evident throughout my visit. The ambiance of the museum is serene and inviting. The architecture of the building blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape, creating a tranquil setting for exploring the exhibits. The well-maintained gardens and outdoor spaces provide a pleasant retreat, allowing visitors to relax and reflect upon their museum experience. In terms of facilities, the museum offers amenities such as a gift shop and a café, which adds to the overall convenience and enjoyment of the visit. The museum's dedication to accessibility is also worth mentioning, as it provides wheelchair accessibility and accommodates visitors with special needs. Overall, my visit to the Himachal Museum of Art and Culture was a delightful and educational experience. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the rich artistic and cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh. The museum's well-curated exhibits, knowledgeable staff, and beautiful setting make it a standout attraction in the region. I highly recommend a visit to this museum to all art enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

Not ur normal museum in that theres very little information and dating of pieces for context. Still, great to walk thru, admission was so cheap I can't accurately remember the price(30 rupees?). If your up in that part of town, drop in. It's worth a quick look.

If you want to know about the history, food, culture and habits of the people of this region, you can visit the museum. You can see many interesting artifacts like cooking utensils, ornaments, models of historical buildings, wood carvings, vintage pictures, etc. Coins and tools. It showcases almost extinct articles that vividly showcase the forgotten culture, art and handicrafts of Himachal Pradesh. The museum displays models of temples and forts, traditional costumes, utensils, musical and ritual instruments, wood carvings and various other items. It is a small museum near Hidimba Devi temple. Entry fee is only Rs.20.

The Museum is a unique and extraordinary collection of unknown and rare antiques of the state. It demonstrates the almost extinct articles that clearly display the forgotten culture, art and handicraft of Himachal Pradesh. The Museum displays models of temples, old houses and forts, traditional dresses, utensils, musical and ritual instruments, wood carvings and various other articles.

Visited Van Vihar in Manali during our trip, and it was truly a refreshing experience! 🌲✨ The place is surrounded by tall deodar trees, peaceful walking paths, and the beauty of nature all around. It’s the perfect spot to relax, click some amazing photos, and enjoy the calm vibe away from city noise. The natural scenery is absolutely stunning — a paradise for nature lovers and photographers! Highly recommended for anyone visiting Manali. Don't miss it

If you want to spend around 2 hours, then it’s a good spot. There are plenty of deodar trees inside, which add to the charm. However, the pond with the boating facility was quite disappointing—it was very small and not well-maintained.

Located in the heart of the mall road, Van Vihar is a municipality run public garden. It is famous far and wide for its Deodar trees and a manmade lake, built right in the middle of the forest. Overall this place is just ok. There is a provision for boating in a very small pool. There are not much animals available to see here. I have heard from the locals that couple of years back there was a river flowing from this place, but later separated by the government to build some Road. Dipawali finished the real charm of this place. However one time visit is more than enough.

In May 2024, I had the opportunity to visit Van Vihar National Park during my Manali tour. This park is located right in the heart of the town, yet it feels like a peaceful green world of its own. As I entered, I was welcomed by tall deodar and pine trees that formed a natural canopy, giving cool shade even during the summer sun. The walking paths were soft with fallen leaves, and I could hear birds chirping from all directions. It was a real treat for nature lovers like me. I spent time observing the calm and beauty of the forest. I saw Himalayan magpies, bulbuls, and sparrows flying between trees, and heard their pleasant calls. I also noticed small creatures like squirrels jumping from branch to branch, and some monkeys near the lake area. One of the most peaceful spots was the small man-made lake inside the park. The still water reflected the surrounding trees, and I sat quietly on a bench, just enjoying the silence and cool breeze. Boating is also available there, and many tourists were enjoying it with families. The overall experience was very relaxing and close to nature. I felt completely refreshed and connected to the peaceful environment. Van Vihar is a must-visit spot in Manali for anyone who enjoys calm surroundings, greenery, and a little wildlife experience right in the middle of town.

Beautiful nature walk near the chaos of Mall Road, Manali. I entered via gate number 1. Entry ticket is 50 INR for adults and 20 INR for children. Timings are 9 AM to 8 PM (Summers), 9 AM to 5 PM (Winters) I had got clicked at just 100 INR for 4 pictures and pictures were amazing. Do give the photographers a chance to click you, it is up to you to take it but their livelihood depends on it. There is a boating area also downstairs, children park and few places to seat and chill.

Amazing Experience at Van Vihar National Park, Manali! 🌲🛶🐰 Van Vihar National Park in Manali is a perfect place for a fun and relaxing outing with family or friends. The park is full of natural beauty, tall deodar trees, and fresh mountain air that instantly lifts your mood. We loved the boating experience in the small lake — peaceful and enjoyable with beautiful surroundings. For kids, it’s a total joy! There are slides and swings where they can play and have fun safely. One of the cutest attractions was the rabbit area, where you can click lovely photos with adorable rabbits — a big hit with kids and animal lovers alike! If you get hungry, don’t worry. There’s a small eating area inside where you can enjoy tasty Maggi, momos, sandwiches, burgers, and more. Perfect for a quick bite while enjoying the scenic vibes. Overall, Van Vihar is a must-visit if you're in Manali — peaceful, kid-friendly, and full of small joys. Highly recommended! 🌟 Let me know if you want a shorter version or one written for Google reviews or social media!

Van Vihar National Park A great place to unwind after shopping on Mall Road. The park has a nice play area with a trampoline for kids, and boating is also available for a fun, relaxing experience. We visited in May and enjoyed the cool, refreshing atmosphere—even during the summer heat. Entry is reasonably priced at ₹50 for adults and ₹20 for children under 8 years. Overall, a peaceful spot perfect for families and nature lovers.

Shivu was definitely the best pilot in Rohtan pass and delivered an excellent service. Safe and effective landing and highly recommend Shivu for anyone trying paragliding in India ! 🇮🇳

I have been back to fly with Shivu on four different trips now. He goes above and beyond at accommodating your every need. He is also a master in the air and can guide you to greater heights. We absolutely love flying in Manali with him

Excellent experience! Staff were friendly and the flight was incredible. Quite easy to get to from Manali, and price was very reasonable. All of the staff treated us like friends. Would recommend to anyone looking to paraglide in Manali.

Uff!!! What a ride it is ....!!! The scariest part is the taking of and lading. You don't have to worry, there's a person to protect and it's safe!!! Now, Let's talk about money now it's 3500 per person, if video in Gopro requires an additional 500. In total, I paid 4000 and did it!

Very humble and supportive guy, initially I was just messing with him, but he was super cool and nice.

We are 4 Australians visiting manali and wanted a safe paragliding experience- this was amazing ! The team were awesome - definitely recommend

It was wonderful life time memory..so glad that our guide are so experienced and well behaved, so that our flight is smooth and good memorable. Bucket list PARAGLIDING ✅

It's awesome experience. Riding is very good. Experienced pilot and nice rafting. Altogether a super rafting experience. It is must and should for a one when you reach manali.

A perfect fly with the youngest pilot in the town! It was an amazing experience. The instructors are well spoken and good. Cant wait to be back.

cold water fun msti photography place

Searched only and didn't visited

N joy every thing

Nice place

This place is perfect for an outing with your colleagues. Love all the adventure activities and the relaxing atmosphere along with the impeccable service provided to us by the team. They provide good amenities. The staff is polite and helpful. A variety of food options available...........thankx again for Travel To Top for nice trip.

Good service exillent follow-up by travel expert Ms. Nidhi nd very very special thnx Mr Rahul for making my tour memorable fabulous service good staff

Multiple business here

This is a great place but it is over crowded. This robs the beauty of the place. Please avoid this place during public holidays that make long weekends. Most people from Delhi end up there. There are many activities like paragliding, there. The hot air balloons there are a scam.

My most fav place in Manali. Loved walking thru it as its trail connect the mall road and the old Manali. So many dogs but they wouldn’t approach you. Entry fee is 20 INR.

Really peaceful spot right in Manali—perfect if you just want to chill and enjoy nature. The tall trees and cool mountain vibes make it a great place for a walk or just to sit and take it all in. It can get a bit busy during tourist season, but it’s still totally worth a visit. Great for a break from the hustle and perfect if you’re into nature and fresh air.

A perfect spot to connect with nature and listen to your soul. You'll find a nature trail of approx 2 km and a pheasantry where lots of birds are kept although unnecessary. Even in December it felt like autumn with yellow leaves it's quite scenic and the deodar trees are stoic. Entry is at a nominal 20 rs and is situated nearby mall road.

2 minutes walking distance from Mall road. A calm place. You can spend few hours here walking and seating. You will have nice river view. Also there are seating places. No food stalls inside. Entry fee is 20 INR.

The small patch of jungle under Kullu Forest Division really one of the peaceful places in n around Manali. The forest dept. has worked well by managing this patch and still planting in between the density gaps. The significant thing is for Botanists and Foresters, here they can find 18 varieties of exotic pine species. Moreover, this is an oasis of greenery & ideal place for varied flora & fauna, a real treat for nature enthusiasts. People can explore by trailing from one side to other, definitely they will be satisfied. You will get the smell of pine resins, it's refresh for your mind also. A perfect place to enjoy with nature but kindly do not pollute the environment by throwing plastics anywhere... Save Himalayas... Save our Mother Nature.

This place is heaven for nature lovers. It’s walking distance from mall road. I came here three times while my trip to Manali. One must take morning walk here to get the feeling of nature’s paradise. If you are not morning person then you can come here anytime in day, its equally beautiful. Walking on the trail between long pine trees takes you to some other world. You will feel more close to nature.🧘🏻‍♀️🌲 You can take entry from the gate nearby mall road and take exit from the other gate of the park and take a walk towards Hidimba Devi temple. It can be your next destination in Manali. ✨

It's was a one of the best experience. I feel like I am in hevan

It was amazing experience

hamta circuit winter trek

Its an amazing experience there are also very small Trek You can check the details about manali trek at clubinweb.com Like Mall Road to Hadimba temple Vashisht to jogini waterfall

Good service..the staff are friendly and helpful.

Nice

Best place of trekking is Kufri and the Solang Valley mainly...

The shop is really very beautiful. It has meaningful paintings. Rakesh sir explained each and every part of painting gracefully. It helped us to choose correct painting for our new home. Must visit shop in Manali ♥️

Mr. Rakesh was very welcoming from the get-go. I noticed this shop randomly one evening and even though I told him I wasn't ready to buy yet, he explained his stuff and said no pressure. Naturally, with the warm experience I went back next day and purchased a 'medicine buddha' artwork after he asked me in detail what I was looking for. 10/10 would recommend!

What a man, and what a shop! Visiting Rakesh’s shop was a delight. He knows his stuff and I learnt so much from his interpretations and explanation. I ended up picking a beautiful painting but I hope to pick a bigger one someday. Thank you for what you do. I highly recommend this shop!

Rakesh was great, very helpful and knowledgeable. I bought the energy chakra painting and am very happy.

We purchased Mandla art from Rakesh. Whole transaction was done through WhatsApp. He guided us throughout the purchase process, with complete honesty. The art was delivered to us in a perfect manner. Overall we are very satisfied with him>

Rakesh is wonderful and told all the beautiful stories behind the traditional mandala paintings. Amazing shop amazing person amazing art!!!!

Very quaint little shop with some beautiful pieces, was great picking up a Guru Padmasambhava artwork here. Rakesh is very courteous and knowledgeable, which helps the customers make a good choice.

Nice to see an amusement park in Manali. But considering entry of INR 350 per person nothing much to enjoy. The rides are all not maintained properly and in dilapidated condition. Food available is average. Highlight is the cultural dance program. Entry fee should be much less to increase footfall . Boating area boats are very sub standard, water was drained out..

It is one of the only amusement parks in Manali. One museum will welcomes you at the entrance. It is a small park with few rides and a small lakes for children. Magic show, some of the local dance programs are available. There is an entrance fees of 200 rupees per head. മണാലിയിൽ ഉള്ള ഒരേയൊരു അമ്യൂസ്മെന്റ് പാർക്ക് ആണ് 'ഹിമവാലി '.. കുട്ടികൾക്കുള്ള ചെറിയ റൈഡുകളും ഒരു ചെറിയ തടാകവും ഒക്കെയുള്ള ഒരു ചെറിയ പാർക്ക് ആണിത്. മാജിക് ഷോ, കുറെ local ഡാൻസ് പരിപാടികൾ, ഒരു ചെറിയ മ്യൂസിയം ഒക്കെ ഇവിടെയുണ്ട്.

its a nice place for a half day spending. many activities like puppet show, yak ride, games, carousel etc. many pahadi n punjabi cultural programs r presented by dancers. worth our money

It is located on the Leh-Manali highway. Nice place to bring young kids and family. This huge area is maintained very well and is divided into many sections. There is a water body where you can do boating. Food is served by young gracious ladies of the Himachal in food court. Foods are of good quality and tasty.

We visited this place on 25-Dec expecting a lot which our kid may enjoy. Unfortunately everything was semi-closed with Little to no staffs available and even no proper lighting.. We enjoyed the magic show and the punjabi folk dance. The horror house was too dark and without any assistance, we came back halfway. The place seemed well maintained with kid play-zone, trampoline etc. and maybe on another day it could have been a fun place for my kid.

For kids there are lot of things to enjoy but limited activities for grown ups. The whole of amusement park can be covered in 2 hrs straight. Entry fee of 200/-, is it really worth ???

Good to see. 200rs ticket pr member. The culture program is good and magic show is also good. Water ball is also available also children video game center is available.Good value.