Manu Temple, Manali

The Manu Temple stands at the top of Old Manali, past the guesthouses and cafes, in the older core of the village. It honours Manu, the progenitor of humankind in Hindu tradition, who by local legend stepped ashore here after a great flood — a story that gives Manali its name ('Manu-Alaya', the home of Manu). The present concrete structure replaced an older shrine and keeps the pagoda-like roof line of hill temples. The walk up through Old Manali, along the Manalsu stream, is part of the visit.

1. Manali is about 250 km from Chandigarh and connected by bus and by air to Bhuntar (50 km).
2. From the Mall in Manali, cross to Old Manali (about 3 km) by taxi, auto or on foot.
3. From Old Manali the temple is a signposted uphill walk of 20–30 minutes.

March to June and September to November. Old Manali is quiet in winter, and some cafes close.

• The lanes of Old Manali are narrow and steep — the last stretch is on foot.
• It is a working temple; dress modestly and remove shoes at the shrine.
• Combine it with Old Manali's cafes and the Manalsu stream on the way up.

Individual pages for these are added as they are reviewed.