The best time to visit Manali depends on the kind of experiences you are looking for. The crown jewel of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is a beautiful town that is loved by domestic and international tourists. No matter how many times you visit Manali, there is always something to look forward to. While the summer season promises respite from the intense sun in the rest of the country, the winter season covers the region in a white blanket of snow. The monsoons are generally avoided, but it turns Manali into a stunning landscape. Read on to find out the best time to visit Manali.
Best time to visit Manali
The best time to visit Manali is from October to June. Winter and summer seasons respectively in the region, people visit Manali in winter to experience snow and enjoy the winter activities, while many people prefer summer to escape the heat in the rest of the country and try some outdoor activities like trekking and paragliding. The Rohtang Pass opens up in May or June, and stays open till October or November, after which it is closed due to the bad weather. Make sure to plan your trip accordingly if you plan on visiting via this route. Check out all the things you can do in Manali here.
Winter in Manali (October to February)
Manali becomes a winter wonderland from November to February. Temperatures see a massive drop. Snowfall is a common occurrence, and December to January is the best time to enjoy snowfall in Manali.
There are many winter sports you can try out, such as ice skating, snowboarding, and skiing. Make a snowman or indulge in a snowball fight. The Manali Winter Carnival is held in January to welcome the new year. The festival includes food, music, street plays and dances.
Keep in mind that heavy snowfall can result in roadblocks, so make sure you check road conditions before starting your journey. Also, since Manali is located at a higher altitude, acclimatize gradually. Carry heavy woollens to keep warm, and remember to stay hydrated.
Places to visit in winter in Manali
Old Manali, Hampta Pass, Great Himalayan National Park, Jogini Waterfall
Summer in Manali (March to June)
Summer in Manali is the perfect escape for domestic tourists in India. While the rest of the country faces scorching heat, Manali turns into a pleasant paradise. Stunning landscapes, cool weather, and a range of outdoor activities make it a good tourist destination in summer.
The temperatures range from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day, while nights are often chilly. Try adventure activities such as paragliding, trekking, and river rafting. Try the Beas Kund Trek or the Hampta Pass Trek, and visit the Hadimba Temple and Solang Valley.
Summer is one of the busiest seasons for tourism in Manali. Apart from the pleasant weather, there are also many festivals and events that attract tourists, such as the Doongri Forest festival.
If you visit Manali during summer, make sure to book everything in advance, since it can get expensive at a later date. Also keep a shawl or sweater handy as the nights are chilly. Carry some sunscreen as well, and stay hydrated.
Places to visit in summer in Manali
Rohtang Pass, Hadimba Temple, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary
Read more: Things to do in Himachal Pradesh
Monsoon in Manali (July to September)
July to mid-September is the monsoon season in Manali. The temperatures range from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius during the day, and can dip to 10 degrees Celsius at night. The region often faces heavy rainfalls, which can result in landslides and roadblocks. Most adventure activities are also closed for the season.
We recommend you to avoid the monsoon season for a trip to Manali, despite the low airfare and accommodation costs. However, if you are prepared for unprecedented delays and cancellations, monsoon brings out a different charm of Manali, as the mountains are covered in mists and you will find beautiful flora everywhere. The waterfalls add to the ambience of the region, turning Manali into a beautiful paradise. Plus, you can also head to indoor places such as the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, Manali Gompa, and the many small cafes in the region.
Places to visit in monsoon in Manali
Kuthar Fort, Naga Castle, International Roerich Memorial Trust
So, did this article make you want to pack your bags and go to Manali? Let us know! At India Someday, we create travel itineraries to India for you based on your interests and preferences. Contact us, and we will plan the perfect trip to India for you!
