Old Manali

Old Manali is the original village above the Manalsu stream, where old stone-and-timber houses stand beside backpacker cafes. The rare Manu Temple sits at the top.

Old Manali is the original village of Manali, on the slope above the Manalsu stream, a tributary of the Beas, a short walk or drive uphill from the Mall. Himachal Tourism describes its narrow streets as popular with foreign travellers, with music playing from hippie-style cafes, and says most menus here lean towards Western food, such as Italian and Mexican dishes.

The lower part of the village, near the bridge over the Manalsu, is lined with guesthouses, cafes, bakeries and shops selling clothes and handicrafts. Further up of the village is the Manu Temple, about 1 km from town, a stone and wood building roofed with slate. It is dedicated to the sage Manu, who in Hindu tradition codified the laws of the Manusmriti; the name Manali is traced to Manu-Alaya, the abode of Manu, and temples to him are rare in India.

Old Manali works well as a base for walks, and Hadimba Devi Temple is within walking distance. The streets are steep and narrow, so park lower down and walk. The atmosphere is quiet by day and livelier in the evenings. Respect the privacy of residents and the customs at the temple.