If you love to see snowfall on the fringes of the town or at places higher; then pack your bags and head to Manali. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best destinations to visit anytime in the year. Whenever and however you make a plan to visit here; you will never regret your decision. Even in December, there are a lot of things to do in Manali that are thrilling as well as enjoyable.
What makes this place so much better is the list of options that are available for everyone. If you want to have a cozy outing, you may sit at the comfortable cafes and have something tasty while glaring at the distant snow-capped peaks. Whereas if you are one of those who wish to make their trip full of thrill, you can do anything between paragliding in Manali in December to going for a 3-day Bhrigu Trek.
Best places to visit in Manali during December for an enthralling trip in 2023
1. Solang Valley
| Location | Solang Valley, Manali, Himachal Pradesh |
| Distance from Manali | 16 km (approximately) |
| Time Taken | 1 hour (approximately) |
| Altitude | 2560 m |
| Activities to enjoy |
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Out for a winter vacation with your friends or family? Do not miss out on the fun offered by the amazing Solang Valley in December. This is one of the best places to visit during your trip because of a lot of reasons. From a range of activities to enjoy to being a part of the winter skiing festival. A lot of things can be done here during the last month of the year. And even when snow falls in Manali in December, you will see charming beauty all around. Surely everything will be covered in a thick white sheet but it still will be amazing and beautiful. Don’t forget to pack your bags because it will be anywhere between 0°C -10°C.
See Also: Best Time to Visit Solang Valley
2. Nehru Kund
| Location | Bashisht, Himachal Pradesh 175103 |
| Distance from Manali | 5 km (approximately) |
| Time taken | 1 hour (approximately) |
| Best Time to visit Nehru Kund | May to October |
| Attractions around Nehru Kund |
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| Entry Charges | None |
A lesser known but an amazing attraction of Manali which is close to the hill station- Nehru Kund is also worth your visit. It is located in the Vashisht region of the hill station and offers a breathtaking view to the visitors. Not only do you get to enjoy the natural hot spring but also a lot of cafes and restaurants around.
A lot of people also believe that the water flowing to this kund has its source from Bhrigu Lake. Whatsoever be the math here, Nehru Kund is surely worth your while- undoubtedly.
3. Hidimba Devi Temple
| Location of the temple | Hadimba Temple Rd, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh |
| Entry fee | None |
| Timings of the temple | 8 am to 6 pm |
| Important festivals celebrated |
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| Key highlights of the temple |
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As the name suggests this temple is dedicated to Goddess Hidimba who is also worshipped as the wife of Bhima (one of the brothers of Pandavas). She is also known as the mother of Ghatotkacha. Like Hidimba Devi herself, this temple is also known for helping and guiding people or lost souls. People from around the country visit here to seek blessings from the goddess.
The Ghor Puja is one of the best times when you should visit here. It is the same day when the rest of the country celebrates Dussehra. On this festival day, the idol of the goddess is taken out from the temple and proceeds to the Dhalpur Maidan. And there she blesses the ceremonial horses. Also if you visit here during Navratri; there will be a long queue of devotees.
4. Bhrigu Lake
| Location of the lake | Kullu, Himachal Pradesh |
| Best time to visit here | October and November or April to June |
| Altitude range of the lake | High (alpine lake) |
| Elevation of the lake | 4235 m |
| Distance of the lake from major places (approximately) |
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| Trek points |
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| Total trek distance | 14 km (approximately total) from Vashisht Kund |
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| Grade of trekking | Challenging (steep trek throughout) |
| Best route to follow | Manali- Gulaba- Rola Kholi (this is the 14 km trek that takes just 5 hours) |
If you are an avid adventurer and visiting Manali on your next trip; we would suggest that you should not miss out on visiting Bhrigu Lake. One of the most enchanting sights you will ever see in your life. It not only offers that but also a scenic view of the surrounding that surely will keep you engaged. This is going to be a tough trek so keep your trekking gears ready.
This lake is also known as the “pool of god” and is always mentioned as one of the most pious lakes of the country. The lake is named after a renowned Hindu sage and legend “Maharishi Bhrigu.” It is said that he meditated here for a long time and that many gods in the Kullu Valley take a dip in the holy lake of Bhrigu.
5. Old Manali
| Distance from New Manali | 3 km (approximately) |
| Activities to enjoy in Old Manali |
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| Attractions of Old Manali |
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| Best cafes of Old Manali |
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Manali is a place for everyone and that’s not it. You can travel to Old Manali and enjoy your time just like you did in the newer version of it. Old Manali is known for a lot of things and to enjoy all of them, you will have to visit here. There are a range of activities that are offered here in this place. You can check out its availability and indulge in those you like.
Old Manali is also a wonderful place for people who wish to spend time in cafes and enjoy the ambiance of the surrounding. Situated approximately, 6000 ft. above the sea level- this amazing petite hill town is known for the presence of temples, amazing cafes, walkways, marketplaces, and so much more. Don’t miss out on the local drinks and food items.
Conclusion
So, what are your plans now? People visiting from Chandigarh to Manali or Delhi to Manali can spend some time here and enjoy the appealing view that surrounds the place. Moreover, you will also have the chance to explore the farthest corners and see the beauty of the mighty Himalayas.
But if you want to enjoy the best of Manali we would suggest you plan the trip to Manali in December first week. Because after that, it will snow heavily for the upcoming 2.5 months. So, pick your places and activities and enjoy your time.
See Also: Things to do in Manali | Places to visit in January in Manali
