Have you ever thought about what is the best time to visit Manali? We believe you haven’t because this is one of those destinations or hill stations of India where people visit throughout the year. It is ideally said that people should refrain from visiting hill stations in monsoon- but Manali remains crowded even in those months. That’s because of the adventure it has on offer and the relentless beauty across the route and hill station. If you are planning on visiting Manali during January, we would suggest that you should not miss out on the festivities here. There are multiple fairs and executing and annual fests.
If you are planning a trip in the first week of January, don’t miss out on the Manali Winter Carnival. It usually happens between the 2nd of Jan and the 6th of Jan. You can be a part of this amazing cultural and dance annual festival celebrated at the hill station. Apart from this, there are a lot of amazing places to visit in Manali during January. Let’s have a look at a few of them.
Knowing a bit more about the weather in Manali during January 2023
Manali experiences winters from October and until February. It is the stretch of these months when the mercury drops even below 0°C. But if you are a fan of snow activities and cold weather- then Manali is next to heaven for you in these months. A lot of honeymooners, families, and couples visit here during this time. You can also spot multiple solo travelers who come here to explore the lesser explored areas.
During this time, you will also get a chance to enjoy more because the crowd thins away due to harsh cold weather. You also get hotels at lower prices due to the off-season.
Major attractions of Manali that can be visited on your January trip in 2023
1. Hadimba Devi Temple
Hidimba Devi Temple is one of the most popular and visited attractions of Manali. It is believed that this temple was built in the 15th century and has been dedicated to Goddess Hidimba. Who was the wife of Bheem. The temple is very intriguingly designed in the pagoda style and is set on a huge rock. The locals have a lot of faith in this temple and they believe that good luck comes to them by praying to Goddess Hidimba.
Apart from the amazing architecture you can also spot some intriguingly card designs and illustrations on the doors and walls of the temple. The temple is approximately 3.5 km from the bus stand of Manali. And you can take a small hike to this temple and explore the nearby areas. The temple is also surrounded by thick Cedar forest on all sides. And while you stand at the temple, there is a great view of the surroundings which includes the lofty snow-clad Himalayan Range.
2. Jogini Falls
Jogini Falls is the next best attraction of Manali that can be visited during your trip in Jan. It is ideal to visit the waterfall in the monsoon to enjoy the full force of gushing water. But Jan is also a good time to enjoy the peace around this place. The waterfall which is approximately 160-ft tall is located in the Vashisht Village of the town. We would suggest that you should visit here during the afternoon and have a picnic around the place.
Tranquillity and amusement is what is on offer here. Of course apart from the natural beauty and pristine environment. You can also enjoy a short hike closer to the waterfall.
3. Beas Kund
The popular, amazing, and adventurous Beas Kund attracts a lot of trekkers. This Kund is located in the Dhauladhar Range and is considered as a key attraction of Manali. If you are an adventurer by heart, then this place is for you because of a lot of reasons. The scenic beauty and the Beas Kund Trek speaks for itself and makes the attraction and activity thriller than it already is.
The entire Beas Kund trek is of approximately 3-days where you walk through the banks of the river with the same name. You go through the beautiful Solang Valley which is covered in snow during January. To reach the base camp of the trek, you will have to go approximately 21 km from Manali.
4. Gauri Shankar Temple
Manali has two of the most important temples of India; one of which we have already talked about. And the next one is the Gauri Shankar Temple which is located on the Naggar Castle Road. Gauri Shankar Temple is also one of the oldest temples in the country and is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati (Goddess Gauri.) It is said that the temple is approximately 800-years old and has been a marvel of architecture.
The entire temple is built in the unique Shikhara style with some fine carvings on the walls and doors. There are 9 levels of carvings, motifs, and Shiva Lingam in the temple premises. Like any other Lord Shiva’s temple- you will also see the statue of Nandi inside the temple. Who happens to be the guardian of the lord.
5. Chanderkhani Pass
If you take a trip to Manali and don’t visit the beautiful and amazing Chanderkhani Pass- it will be a bummer. Isn’t it? This pass has been attracting a lot of travelers and adventurers for years. It is a low-altitude trekking trail that offers you an experience and expedition of a lifetime. Here you can enjoy the magnificence of the Himalayan Mountains.
It is a long 10-day trek which people enjoy in the lap of nature. From thick forests of pine, chestnut, and deodar to the snow-clad mountains; the entire expedition is an experience for life. The trek takes you through Kasol and Malana and the base camp is approximately 21 km from the town of Manali.
Conclusion
Small or big, popular or offbeat, temples or attractions, activities or food- Manali is one of the most diverse hill stations of not just Himachal Pradesh but even India. There are multiple things and attractions to visit here during your Jan trip but don’t forget to ensure all the top places that are present here.
See Also: Places to visit in Manali in December | Best time to visit Manali
