Manali is a famous hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh. It is one of the most beautiful and famous hill stations in India.
Situated at an altitude of 2050m in the Beas River valley, Manali is a leading tourist spot. It is a gateway for skiing in Solang Valley and trekking in Parvati Valley.
If you have planned a trip to this beautiful hill town and are pondering over the question of what can be done in Manali, read on.
This article lists several primary activities that attract tourists to Manali.
Things To Do In Manali In May
Here are some of the most famous activities you can enjoy in Manali in May 2025:
Explore the Famous Trekking Trails
It won’t be wrong to say that Manali is the true Mecca of trekkers. The Himalayas provide plenty of opportunities for an adventurous hike or trek.
Manali provides excellent treks that are accompanied by the stunning backdrop of the mountains of the great Himalayas.
Trekking is a relatively new concept that is gradually being adopted by the young blood of travelers across the country. This exciting activity interconnects both the spiritual health of an individual and his/her physical health.
The key trails of Manali are Rohtang Pass to snowline, Bhrigu Lake trek, Chanderkhani Pass, Tapri to Kalpa, Sar Pass, Sangla to Baranag etc.
There are other seasonal treks, some of which you can leave for any time of the year.
The best times for low-altitude treks are April to June then August to October. For high-altitude treks, our suggestion is to go between June to October.
Zorbing
For those of you who don’t know, you must have seen people being tossed down the hill in a giant transparent ball. That is called zorbing.
Some people may love the idea of rolling like while some may not. But let me tell you that the number of people who love this sport of rolling downhill inside a transparent orb is way more than the ones who don’t.
Generally, zorbing is performed on a gentle slope, so that the rolling is not very fast.
The 360-degree movement is quite thrilling as it is for the people who have control over their guts or you may end up puking all over.
If you want to try zorbing in Manali, Solang Valley is the best place for you to do it from March through October but not during the monsoon season.
Skiing
It is indeed a thrilling experience to go snow skiing at Manali. As one of the best adventure sports centers, Manali is among the most popular adventure sports in Manali.
Gliding down the snowy mountain on your ski, breathing the fresh mountain air, and watching the awesome beauty of the alpine forest, it is an experience of a lifetime.
There are certain easy runs offered for learners who can undertake a brief course or hire a trainer from the Directorate of Mountaineering and Allied Sports.
Rohtang is available for skiing facilities all year round. The tourists can also enjoy heli-skiing during winter.
Solang Valley is famous for skiing during the winter season. Skiing can also be done in Marhi, Gulaba, and Dhundi.
The best time to enjoy skiing in Manali is during January and February.
Paragliding
One of the best things that tourists love to do in Manali is soaring high on a glider. The freedom and the buzz of that flying like a bird reignite the true adventurer’s spirit in you.
Also, from up there you can take a look at the splendid view of the Dhauladhar, the great mountain, and the Beas River, which meanders here.
The duration of the flight depends on the wind conditions. Engage in tandem flights if it will be your first time getting engaged in the adventure sport.
It is at the Solang Valley where tourists exercise their options in paragliding. However, there are two other famous destinations for paragliding in Manali: Gulaba and Marhi.
Paragliding is quite popular in the to-do lists of tourists in Manali. It can be done anytime within the season but is particularly best from May to September.
River Rafting
One of the most amazing things you can enjoy in Manali is river rafting on the Beas. Many activities of adventure are found along the Beas River, which passes through the town.
Prepare yourself for the excitement of surviving the fast-moving water on the raft. It is perhaps one of the most cherished moments that several travelers look forward to their momentous sojourn in Manali.
FYI, the River Beas also stands as one of the two extraordinary places for rafting in India. If you are new to river rafting, you can choose beginner-level rafting for short distances and the tough ones if you are used to such adventure sports.
Also, Pirdi has a water sports center where one can enjoy several adventure activities.
River rafting in Manali is best done in June and July. Although the monsoon causes a limitation of visitors for a couple of months, it formally resumes by the end of October.
Camping
Indeed, Solang Valley is the most beautiful and active region in Manali. Located 13 km from the hill station, the valley offers a view of glaciers and snow-clad mountains and peaks.
In summer or in winter, one of the most interesting things to do in Manali is to visit the valley and enjoy camping under the open sky full of stars.
Its camping services are available throughout the year with reasonably hospitable lodges and numerous adventurous activities.
The best time for camping in Solang Valley would be throughout the year excluding monsoon season. You can also choose to avoid winters for obvious extreme cold conditions.
Visit Manali Gompa
Originally called ‘Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa,’ the Manali Gompa is a powerful center of Buddhist pilgrimage and one of the major attractions for travelers in Himachal.
Constructed in 1960, this has become a home to people traveling from Tibet. This beautiful Buddhist monastery has pagoda-style architecture.
Apart from its clean environment, the monastery is well known for its wall paintings, shortens, and a colossal statue of Lord Buddha.
There are small shops in the complex that sell other forms of special Tibetan handicrafts and carpets.
Snowball Fight at Rohtang
Sitting at an altitude of 3979m over sea level, Rohtang Pass is one of the favorite adventure destinations in Himachal Pradesh. It is just 51 km away from Manali.
It receives snow throughout the year; that is why tourists flock here very frequently. You can visit with your family and enjoy snowball fights with the kids.
Although the way is blocked during winter, it can be used for automobiles in summer and autumn—from May to October.
The beautiful Rohtang Pass is the entrance to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi, and Leh valley. Different amazing adventures include snow scooters, skiing, and mountain biking for visitors.
Have long scenic views of the glaciers, peaks, and the snow. Every photography lover should find his or her way to this pass because one gets to take one of the most beautiful natural pictures..
Rock Climbing
For those who love adventure, then rock climbing is among the best adventure things to do in Manali, as the place has a great background of mountains.
The location for rock climbing in Manali is simply 20 minutes outside the city. This activity is getting favored among the young crowd, and people are also getting a job in this.
Some of the nearby attractions for rock climbing are Aleo, Dungri, and Solang Nallah. You can also engage in single-day rock climbing and decide to participate in a course.
Here, you will discover various Olympic movements, gears, knots, and techniques of rock climbing during the course. You also have an experienced instructor with you as well.
Enjoy rock climbing in Manali during January and May as well as between October and December, as the climate is so favorable for this outdoor activity.
Rappelling
The list of things to do in Manali is way too many, one of which is rappelling, perfect if you are seeking that fix of adventure.
Widespread natural rock formations make Manali a paradise for different sorts of adventure sports.
For balancing and rappelling, one uses the harness and rope and the trainers will teach you how to do it.
Adventure lovers who love Manali prefer visiting this place as they get an opportunity to do something different.
You can enjoy moderate to difficult levels of rappelling in Manali. You can climb the rock and then rappel down if you want to do two activities at once.
However, do not loosen your hold on the rope and harness lest you have an unfortunate encounter.
Unlike other adventure activities, you can truly indulge in rappelling in Manali in both seasons—summer as well as winter.
However, it is encouraged to engage in these activities on a clear/dry and sunny day to ensure that the route appears visible to you when rappelling down.
Angling
Himachal is known to be the best fish trout in the world and has brown and rainbow trout.
Some of the things that one can do in Manali include angling which is one of the exciting tourist activities in Himachal. Some good fishing spots are the Beas, Raison, and Manaslu rivers.
The rivers and streams in Manali are beautiful and are endowed with exotic species of fish, which makes it the best place for fishing of brown and rainbow trouts.
In addition to the Beas River, Himachal Pradesh’s side streams are also the most amazing places for angling.
Fishing in the calm and beautiful surroundings on the banks of rivers is quite a rewarding experience in itself.
The best months for angling in Manali are May to October because there is no snow and no hurdles to any kind of fishing.
Explore Naggar Castle
One of the best things to do in Manali is to visit Naggar Castle, a stunning medieval structure situated within breathtaking forested hills. This palace was the home of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu.
Naggar Castle was constructed in 1460 and is made of stone and wood, combining European and Himalayan designs.
There are wonderful works of art on display for art lovers. Check out the works of the legendary Russian painter Nicholas Roerich.
In 1978, the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) converted the castle into a heritage hotel.
A journey to Manali is incomplete unless you visit this site. Traditional souvenirs include wall hangings, ancient treasures, and impressions of Roerich’s paintings.
Get blessing at Manikaran Gurudwara
Manikaran Gurdwara is a famous pilgrimage for Hindus and Sikhs. It is almost a day trip from Manali.
It is held that the shrine was built by Sri Guru Nanak Devji and his disciple Bhai Mardana. Also, the holy site is popular for its hot springs as well as the cave.
Visit the Gurudwara and offer respect to Guru Granth Sahib in peace. People by the hundreds flock to this shrine annually.
This is perfect for a visit with your family where you can enjoy langar, the holy meal, and take a dip in the sacred Sarovar that possesses healing properties.
Visit Hadimba Devi
Hadimba Temple is another important tourist attraction in Manali. It is an old temple located about 1.5 km from the Mall Road, Bharatpur.
The wooden temple was constructed 4 stories high by Raja Bahadur Singh in 1553, at the center of Van Vihar, a dense forest.
This pagoda-style building is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba. While no other idol is worshipped here, a pair of foot imprints are revered.
For centuries, a fair known as Bahadur Singh Re Jatar has been held every year around May. Go to visit the temple because it is quite peaceful with a serene aura.
More so, ensure that you take a camera and take a picture of the impressive building.
Pray at Manu Temple
Manu Temple is one of the most beautiful temples that is a must-visit in Manali. It is dedicated to the sage Manu who is believed to be the architect of the world and author of the Manu Smriti.
Manu Temple is in Old Manali. While this area is quite developed, the River Beas adds to its appeal a little extra. It is one of the popular tourist attractions of Manali. It also offers wonderful views of the valley and town.
As for clothing, visitors are expected to wear dresses that should not display their knees or shoulders while in the temple. The journey up to the temple is, in fact, a very interesting and picturesque experience.
FAQs
Is Manali good to visit in May?
Yes, Manali is great in May, with pleasant weather and lush greenery. It’s perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and adventure activities.
Is there snow in May in Manali?
In May, snow is usually not found in Manali town but is accessible at higher altitudes like Rohtang Pass
Is Rohtang Pass closed in May?
Rohtang Pass is generally open in May, depending on weather and road conditions.
Do we need a sweater in Manali in May?
Yes, you’ll need light woolen or a sweater for evenings and early mornings in Manali during May.
Does Solang Valley have snow in May?
In May, Solang Valley may still have patches of snow at higher elevations.
Can I see snow in May in Manali?
You won’t find snow in Manali town during May, but nearby areas like Rohtang Pass and some parts of Solang Valley often retain snow.
Is there ice in Rohtang Pass in May?
Yes, Rohtang Pass usually has snow and ice in May, offering breathtaking views and snow activities. It’s one of the best places near Manali to enjoy snow in the summer months.
Is Manali worth visiting in May?
Absolutely! Manali in May offers a blend of pleasant weather, stunning landscapes, and exciting activities.
What is the famous thing of Manali?
Manali is famous for its scenic beauty, snow-capped mountains, adventure sports, and rich culture. Highlights include Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, and Old Manali’s rustic charm.
Which is better, Kullu or Manali?
Manali is ideal for adventure, snow, and vibrant tourist experiences, while Kullu offers a serene, cultural vibe with lush landscapes. Both complement each other, but Manali tends to attract more visitors due to its diverse attractions.
Conclusion
It doesn’t matter if you are a nature lover, an adventure lover, or you are looking for some peace; there are a lot of things to do here in Manali.
Visit Manali Tour Planner to get exclusive discounts for the Manali packages. We also provide you with an option to customize your tour!
Also read: How To Plan Tirthan and Jibhi Valley Trip For 3 Days
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