Manali, in Himachal Pradesh is located at an altitude of 2050 m, is situated along the banks of the Beas, close to the Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley. Manali derieved its name from Manavalaya that means home of Manu. According to mythology, Manu is a significant character that survived when the world was drowned in a flood, he recreated human life in Manali. Thus the place is considered sacred for pilgrimage and has many temples.

Manali presents a wonderous canvass to the traveller. Its picturesque hillside, gurgling streams, snocapped peaks exhibit sheer magic. This place is quite popular for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Manali is the centre of a flourished orchard industry, apple growing has been the mainstay of the local economy.

The place gives you ample opportunity to experience the local beauty in Manali's temples, quaint villages, festive mood of the people, their colorful clothes and handicrafts and to encounter adventure on the trekking trails.

The hill resort of Manali is well connected with the other important cities of India through air, road and rail.

Airway : The airport at Bhuntar is the nearest. There are other regular flights from Delhi. Shimla, Chandigarh and other cities that offer easy commuting to Manali.

Railway : The nearest narrow gauge railhead is at Jogindernagar (135 km). The nearest broad gauge raiheads are at Chandigarh (310 km), and Ambala (355 km).

Roadway : The distance from Delhi via Mandi is 585 km, and from Simla the distance is 270 km. From Simla, Chandigarh and Delhi, luxury buses run by Himachal Tourism regularly ply to Manali.

The Kullu topis or caps are the most famous of all the items. The Tibetan curios are other specialty of Manali. Manali's woolen goods can be good souvenirs. Buddhist artefacts are very popular such as prayer wheels, amulets, dorjes (thunderbolts), masks, musical instruments and thangkas. Handicrafts can be purchased from the Main Market, New Shopping Centre, Tibetan bazaar and Tibetan Carpet Centre. The government shop on the Mall also has good collection. For shawls, Bhutico, Himachal Handicrafts at Circuit House Road, and NAC Market can be visited.