Last summer, I remember one of those moments when I was on Mall Road waiting for a sunset and, with an elixir of chai from a roadside vendor, I saw the sun creating a golden hue on the mountains of Manali.
The thought of being peaceful excited me very much.
It is the calm that is exactly this and has lured many thousands of tourists to this Himalayan spot millions of time each year.
However, with the recent security problems in some parts of northern India, the question on everyone’s mind is whether it is safe to travel to Manali now or not?
Why the Concern? The Pahalgam Attack and Its Ripple Effects
On April 22, 2025, I came across a very disturbing headline that read, “Terrorist attack in Baisaran, Pahalgam, where 26 souls died”. These words were not even half of how bad the incident was!
Would you believe that the terrorists killed the victims just because they were Hindu? The incident is likely the heaviest terrorist attack on civilians after the 26/11 incident.
The Pahalgam attack was an ordinary talk of the town, triggered a remarkable reaction in the media circle, and left tourists like me very upset.
It will definitely cast a shadow over the future of tourism and travel in North India. As you know that the Baisaran Valley attack was a very strategically planned attack with news of the involvement of ISI and the Pak Army chief as well.
The news was very sad because of the attack on the Hindus, and has disturbed a lot of people and especially those who were planning their trips in the upcoming days.
Earlier, the same people who could feel safe while travelling, do not anymore. Manali is at a distance of over 500 kilometers from Pahalgam and has a very different climate, political scene, and geography, but the fear is still present.
Recently, a very popular media personality in a formally persuasive tone announced through a post on social media that they had put an end to their travels to Kashmir, and indicated terrorism as the reason. Another person tweeted: “Everybody has been petrified of Baisaran. It pains that for the first time in Kashmir, post the abrogation of 370, there is a feeling of insecurity.”
So, if you are thinking, are we far enough away from any potential irrational effects of this turbulence to feel comfortable that Manali will be safe? Let’s take a look.
Is Manali Still the Safe Escape It Used to Be?
In March 2024 I was completely comfortable walking around Old Manali at 2:00 AM, enjoying momos from a street vendor, and accompanying a local friend to Jogini Falls.
However, the Pahalgam attack left me questioning the continuing peace of mind.
For clarification, I got in touch with Arjun, who mans a guesthouse in Manali. “It was indeed sad, but Manali is safe,” he consoled me.
Further, Arjun stated that there have not been any cases of attacks in the area, and there has been an influx of tourists to the place. He said that the police have been on high alert ever since the attack, and are in control of everything that happens at crowded places such as Rohtang Pass and Hadimba Temple.
It is consistent with reports on platforms like Tripadvisor and the authorities of the region because travelers in 2025 not only visited Rohtang Pass but also said that they feel safer in Manali.
Manali’s Safety in Context
Manali is situated in Himachal Pradesh (HP), a state with no history of terrorist activity, like that in Jammu and Kashmir.
While Kashmir has endured decades-long insurgency, Manali’s trouble, like so many in the region, tends to be of nature like landslide, heavy snow, or avalanche; not militant related.
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) advises against travel in some areas of Kashmir, including Pahalgam. However, the FCDO’s advisory does not extend to HP.
The US State Department has HP as a low-risk terrorism area and stresses one’s awareness of weather in HP, not terrorism or insurgency.
That said, the Pahalgam attack has heightened general alertness. Tourists are expressing their worry about traveling to northern India altogether, but others countered that Manali remains untouched.
Seasoned travelers say that Manali’s tourism thrives because it’s insulated from Kashmir’s conflicts. My own walks through Manali’s markets, even late at night, never felt risky—locals are quick to help, and the vibe is laid-back.
Actionable Tips for a Safe Manali Trip
Planning a trip to Manali now? Here’s how to stay safe and enjoy the magic of the Himalayas, based on my experiences and recent insights:
- Check Travel Advisories Before You Go
I follow the Indian government’s travel advisory page (mea.gov.in) as a primary source for my country’s foreign office news and updates. As of now, there are no terrorism alerts for Manali. But it is wiser to obtain information from reliable sources. The Pahalgam assault was an exceptional case but it is always advisable to keep a check on television news for real-time local disturbances.
- Stick to Popular Tourist Areas
I stayed in Old Manali during my holidays and visited busy places like Solang Valley and Manikaran. These areas are popular with tourists and are also very well protected by local police. Straying off the track alone is not advisable. I also took part in a group trek to Hampta Pass with a registered mountaineering instructor, and I enjoyed myself and i felt completely safe with them. - Travel with a Licensed Guide or Group
The hiking trip to Beas Kund in 2023 was memorable, because Rohan was our guide, and indeed, he was very resourceful in showing us the right path and also in securing our lives. Guides should only be hired through those travel agencies that are well-known, for instance, Kullu Manali Tourism or Himalayan Caravan. These guides are capable of avoiding the parts that are dangerous and also they are aware of the local scenario. - Be Weather-Savvy
Manali’s biggest risks are natural. In 2023, heavy rains caused landslides, stranding tourists. I got stuck for a day near Kullu, but my hotel had supplies, and locals helped. Check weather forecasts on apps like AccuWeather, and avoid monsoon travel (July–August). April, May, or October are ideal for clear skies. - Keep Emergency Contacts Handy
I save local police (100) and Himachal Pradesh Tourism’s helpline (+91-1902-252114) on my phone. After the Pahalgam attack, Kashmir set up helplines like +91-7006058623 for tourists. Manali hasn’t needed this, but it’s wise to have contacts ready. - Blend In and Stay Respectful
The Pahalgam attack was directed mainly at Hindus – a scenario which was rare and confined to Kashmir’s complex politics. In Manali, I can’t remember a single instance when I’ve been treated differently because of my background. So, modest dressing is a must (covering shoulders and knees in temples), and don’t wear shiny jewelry. The indigenous population pays heed to your culture-respecting actions. - Book Flexible Plans
One thing that almost canceled my 2024 trip was a sudden snowstorm. Luckily, both my hotel and my taxi allowed bookings with cancellation. Try websites like Booking.com for refundable stays, and ask the driver to verify the road conditions. According to recent posts on Tripadvisor, the Delhi–Manali highway is adequately secure.
Why I’d Still Go to Manali?
How could I ever forget that day by the Beas River. Manali was the most peaceful place to be then.
It’s very interesting to note that the incident in Pahalgam was not in any way connected with Manali, but just the opposite – it is a perfect portrayal of Kashmir’s challenges only.
Visits to Manali made by tourists totaled a number of 1.8 million in 2024, and despite the attack, the number of reservations has not significantly decreased.
Admittedly, I understand the doubts. The cousin of mine erased Kashmir from her summer plans list after the attack, and in the end, she chose Goa.
However, Manali is still that place where I have negotiated about the prices of the shawls, talked with strangers around the bonfire, and have felt at home.
The risk of terrorism here is negligible compared to Kashmir, and with basic precautions, you can focus on the views, not the news
Final Thoughts: Is It Safe to Travel to Manali Now?
So, is it safe to travel to Manali now? From my heart and my research, I’d say yes.
The Pahalgam attack was a tragedy, but Manali remains a world apart—geographically, politically, and culturally. Stick to tourist hubs, travel smart, and soak in the beauty of this Himalayan gem.
I’m already dreaming of my next trip—maybe a winter escape to see Rohtang’s snow! Will you join me in Manali’s magic?
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