Manali is a well-known hill station located in the stunning Himachal Pradesh, India highlands. It has long been a preferred vacation spot for those looking for peace and beauty in the outdoors.
Manali has seen tremendous growth and change throughout time, resulting in the creation of Old Manali and New Manali, the town's two unique faces.
Manali is separated geographically into Old Manali and New Manali by the Manalasu River. Old Manali appears less congested and more clean than New Manali.
Every location provides a distinct experience and draws in a diverse range of tourists.
Let's examine the key distinctions between Old and New Manali.
1. Ambiance & Atmosphere
Old Manali has a charming old world appeal with its antique temples like Manu Temple, traditional wooden buildings, and small, twisting streets. For those looking for a quiet getaway, the location is perfect because it keeps a relaxed and tranquil vibe. The lovely atmosphere is enhanced by the sound of cascading rivers and the aroma of Deodar trees.
Conversely, New Manali is an example of commercialization and modernization. It is distinguished by busy marketplaces, edifices made of concrete, and an energetic nightlife. With lots of hotels, restaurants, and adventure sports to offer, this area of town appeals to travelers seeking a more urban experience.
2. Cultural Heritage Of Old Manali & New Manali
Rich cultural legacy is lovingly preserved in Old Manali. Numerous historic temples, including the Hadimba Devi , which honors the wife of the epic figure Bhima, may be found there. The region offers cultural events and traditional festivals that let tourists fully experience the cultures and traditions of the area.
With its greater cosmopolitanism, New Manali features a confluence of cultures. It draws a multicultural group of visitors from all over the world, resulting in a mingling pot of influences and ideas. This area of town is thriving with cafes, art galleries, and international food, which contributes to its cosmopolitan appeal.
3. Adventure & Nature
The stunning natural splendor of Old Manali and New Manali is shared by both. Trekking paths and gorgeous sceneries are easily accessible from Old Manali. From here, it's easy to access the Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass, which are renowned for their expansive views and adventure sports like paragliding and skiing.
There are more outdoor sports and adventure activities available in New Manali. Activities available to tourists include rock climbing, zorbing, and river rafting. There are many of options for leisurely hikes and picnics along the Beas River, which runs alongside New Manali.
4. Accommodation and Facilities
The main lodging options in Old Manali include charming guesthouses, inexpensive hotels, and inconspicuous homestays. The traditional and comfortable lodging options here offer a window into the way of life of the locals. The facilities, meanwhile, might not be as fancy as those in New Manali.
New Manali offers accommodations to suit a broader spectrum of tastes and budgets, from luxury resorts to low-cost motels and hostels for backpackers. Modern amenities including supermarkets, ATMs, and retail centers are present in the neighborhood to ensure that guests have a comfortable stay.
5. Old Manali Cafes
5.1 Café 1947
Situated in Old Manali, Café 1947 exudes fantastic vibes. Renowned for its thin-crust pizzas and the delightful experience of dining by the riverside, the place is often crowded. Due to limited outdoor seating, there might be a wait to secure a table. The café boasts an ambiance reminiscent of classy Irish cafes, adorned with captivating riverside decor.
5.2 Lazy Dig Café
Nestled in an ideal location in Manali, Lazy Dig Café offers a unique setting overlooking the river, with the soothing sound of flowing water. Featuring well-maintained indoor and outdoor seating areas, the café provides a perfect backdrop for enjoying a meal. We ordered Chicken BBQ wings, chicken steak, and various vegetarian options, relishing our lunch alongside the gushing river. The café also hosts live music sessions in the evening.
Other notable Old Manali cafes include Dylans Toasted and Roasted Café House, Born Free Café, and Drifter’s Café.
6. New Manali Cafes
6.1 Corner House
Upon exploring their face book page, I discovered that Corner House caters to vegetarian food lovers with offerings like "Eggplant Parmigiana" served alongside salad and garlic bread. The café boasts a pleasant ambiance and a mouth watering menu featuring sweet and spicy chicken wings, a variety of sweet bites, and brownies.
6.2 Dana Coffee House
Located in the heart of Mall Road, Manali, Dana Coffee House is a German Bakery. Enjoy a cup of coffee while taking in the stunning mountains of Manali through their clear glass windows. The café offers an array of desserts, with the pumpkin caramel cake being a personal favorite.
6.3 Chopsticks & Noodles
Situated on the bustling Mall Road of Manali, Chopsticks & Noodles is renowned for satisfying Chinese food cravings. Their menu also includes continental, Japanese, and Tibetan dishes. Noodles, similar to Chopsticks, is another café with a chic ambiance, delighting customers since 1970.
7. How to reach
You will be dropped off close to New Manali in either a private or government owned Volvo. Walking from New Manali to Old Manali takes around 15 to 20 minutes. Three kilometers separate New Manali from Old Manali. From New Manali, there are plenty of auto-rickshaws and taxis that one can take.
8. Conclusion
In conclusion, different tourist types are catered to and unique experiences are offered by both Old Manali and New Manali. While New Manali is more appealing to those looking for a more lively and cosmopolitan setting, Old Manali captivates with its tranquil ambiance and cultural heritage.
No matter which area of Manali you decide to visit, the breathtaking Himalayan scenery and the friendly locals will undoubtedly make your stay unforgettable.
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