Top Places to Visit in Manali with Family

Manali, nestled in the stunning Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh, is a perfect family destination, blending fun, nature, and culture. Whether it’s kids building snowmen in Solang Valley or elders enjoying a peaceful walk in Van Vihar, there’s something for everyone. With so many places to visit in Manali with family, the town’s accessibility and variety of activities make it an ideal spot for a memorable family vacation in 2025.

Exploring Manali’s Family-Friendly Gems: A Comprehensive Guide

Manali, nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu Valley, is a family-friendly paradise where snow-clad peaks, lush forests, and lively attractions promise unforgettable memories. From the bustling Club House with indoor games to the peaceful Van Vihar park, and from the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary to the thrilling slopes of Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass, there’s something for every age group. This guide highlights the best places to visit in Manali with family, offering seasonal tips, key activities, and practical travel advice for 2025. Whether it’s snowy adventures in winter or outdoor explorations in summer, Manali ensures every trip is filled with joy. With its mix of fun, relaxation, and culture, these places to visit in Manali with family create moments worth cherishing. So, pack your warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and a sense of adventure—Manali is ready to welcome you with open arms.

1. Club House, Manali

- Location: Near Mall Road, Manali (32.2432° N, 77.1892° E).
- Why Visit: A vibrant hub managed by the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC), offering indoor and outdoor activities perfect for families.
- Activities: Swimming, indoor games (table tennis, billiards, carrom), go-karting, children’s play area with swings and slides, dining at the on-site restaurant serving Himachali and continental dishes (₹100–₹400).
- Best Time: Year-round; summer (May–June) for mild weather, winter (December–February) for cozy indoor fun.
- Cost: Entry ₹20–₹50; activities like go-karting ₹300–₹500.
- Tips: Book activities in advance during peak seasons via [www.hptdc.in]. Suitable for kids aged 5+ and elders; check activity hours as some may close early in winter. Bring cash for small fees.
- Fun Fact: The Club House’s retro arcade games give kids a nostalgic taste of old-school fun, delighting both young and old.

2. Van Vihar (Dhungri Forest)

- Location: Near Hidimba Devi Temple, 2 km from Manali (32.2481° N, 77.1752° E).
- Why Visit: A serene forest park with towering deodar trees, ideal for leisurely family walks and picnics.
- Activities: Walking trails, picnics on grassy areas, boating on a small man-made lake (₹100–₹200 for 15–30 minutes), nature exploration with Beas River and Himalayan views.
- Best Time: Summer (May–June) and autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather; winter for a snowy backdrop.
- Cost: Entry ₹30–₹50; boating ₹100–₹200.
- Tips: Bring a picnic mat, snacks, and water; wear comfortable shoes for uneven paths. Visit early morning to avoid crowds. Combine with Hidimba Temple for a cultural day trip.
- Fun Fact: Van Vihar’s deodar trees, some over 100 years old, create a magical forest canopy that kids love exploring.

3. Manali Wildlife Sanctuary (Local Zoo)

- Location: Near Old Manali, 2 km from Manali (32.2432° N, 77.1892° E).
- Why Visit: A compact zoo within a 31 km² sanctuary, showcasing Himalayan wildlife, perfect for educational family outings.
- Activities: Wildlife viewing (Himalayan black bears, leopards, musk deer, monal pheasants), guided tours (₹500–₹1,000), birdwatching with educational signboards.
- Best Time: Summer (May–June) for active wildlife; winter (December–February) for snowy views.
- Cost: Entry ₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children); guided tours ₹500–₹1,000.
- Tips: Bring binoculars for birdwatching; avoid feeding animals to respect sanctuary rules. Visit early morning for better animal sightings. Suitable for all ages, with flat trails for elders.
- Fun Fact: The sanctuary is home to the elusive snow leopard, though sightings are a rare treat for lucky visitors.

4. Snow Zones (Solang Valley & Rohtang Pass)

- Location: Solang Valley (14 km from Manali, 32.3172° N, 77.1587° E); Rohtang Pass (51 km from Manali, 32.3646° N, 77.2461° E).
- Why Visit: Winter wonderlands offering snow-based activities that delight kids and are manageable for elders.
- Activities: Snow play (building snowmen), sledding (₹500–₹1,200), horse riding (₹300–₹500) in Solang Valley; snow scootering (₹500–₹1,200) in Rohtang Pass; zorbing in Solang during summer (₹500–₹800).
- Best Time: Winter (December–February) for snow activities; summer (May–June) for green meadows and zorbing.
- Cost: Sledding ₹500–₹1,200; zorbing ₹500–₹800; Rohtang permit ₹550–₹1,000.
- Tips: Dress warmly (temperatures drop to -5°C to -10°C); book Rohtang permits in advance via [www.hptdc.in]. Choose age-appropriate activities (sledding for kids 5+, zorbing for 8+). Use licensed operators for safety.
- Fun Fact: Solang Valley hosted India’s first National Winter Games in 1998, cementing its status as a snow sports hub.

5. Hidimba Devi Temple

- Location: Dhungri Forest, 2 km from Manali (32.2481° N, 77.1752° E).
- Why Visit: A 16th-century pagoda-style temple dedicated to Hidimba from the Mahabharata, set in a serene forest, offering cultural exploration for families.
- Activities: Temple visit, museum tour at the nearby Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art, forest walks, attending the Hidimba Devi Fair (May).
- Best Time: Summer (May–June) for mild weather; winter (December–February) for a snowy ambiance.
- Cost: Free entry; donations appreciated.
- Tips: Wear modest clothing; visit early to avoid crowds. The short trek to the temple is manageable for elders. Combine with Van Vihar for a full day.
- Fun Fact: The temple worships Hidimba’s engraved footprints instead of an idol, a unique feature that fascinates kids.

6. Manu Temple

- Location: Old Manali, 3 km from Manali (32.2432° N, 77.1892° E).
- Why Visit: An ancient temple dedicated to Sage Manu, the mythical lawgiver, offering a peaceful setting with Beas River views.
- Activities: Temple visit, scenic walks through Old Manali, cultural exploration of Hindu and Buddhist influences.
- Best Time: Summer (May–June) and autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather.
- Cost: Free entry.
- Tips: Dress modestly; combine with a stroll through Old Manali’s cafes and markets. Suitable for all ages with easy access.
- Fun Fact: It’s one of the few temples in India dedicated solely to Sage Manu, making it a unique cultural stop.

7. Tibetan Monasteries

- Location: Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa (near Mall Road); Himalayan Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple (Old Manali).
- Why Visit: Vibrant centers of Tibetan Buddhism showcasing colorful frescoes, prayer flags, and a museum, perfect for family cultural immersion.
- Activities: Prayer sessions, museum visit at Gadhan Gompa, handicraft shopping (carpets, souvenirs, ₹200–₹1,000), spinning prayer wheels.
- Best Time: Year-round; February for the Losar Festival (Tibetan New Year).
- Cost: Free entry; donations for photography ₹20–₹50.
- Tips: Remove shoes and maintain silence during prayers; visit during festivals for cultural vibrancy. Kid-friendly with educational displays.
- Fun Fact: The Gadhan Gompa’s museum lists Tibetan martyrs from the 1987–1989 clashes, adding a poignant historical layer.

8. Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs

- Location: Vashisht Village, 3 km from Manali (32.2581° N, 77.1887° E).
- Why Visit: An ancient temple dedicated to Sage Vashisht, paired with therapeutic hot springs, offering relaxation and cultural exploration.
- Activities: Temple prayers, hot spring bathing (separate areas for men and women, 35°C–40°C), scenic exploration of the Beas River valley.
- Best Time: Winter (December–February) for warm springs; summer for temple visits.
- Cost: Free entry.
- Tips: Bring swimsuits and towels for the springs; wear modest clothing for the temple. Visit early to avoid crowds. Suitable for elders and older kids.
- Fun Fact: The springs are believed to have been created by Lakshmana, Lord Rama’s brother, adding mythical allure.

9. Jogini Falls

- Location: Near Vashisht Village, 3 km from Manali (32.2581° N, 77.1887° E).
- Why Visit: A scenic waterfall reached via a 3-km easy trek through pine forests, ideal for family picnics and light adventure.
- Activities: Trekking, picnics by the natural pool, photography of the cascading falls.
- Best Time: Summer (May–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather.
- Cost: Free entry.
- Tips: Wear sturdy shoes; carry water and snacks. Be cautious near the water to avoid slips. Suitable for kids 5+ and elders with moderate fitness.
- Fun Fact: Named after the goddess Jogini, the falls are considered sacred by locals, adding a spiritual touch.

10. Beas River

- Location: Throughout Manali, accessible from Mall Road (32.2432° N, 77.1892° E).
- Why Visit: Offers serene riverside walks and picnic spots along its scenic banks, perfect for family bonding.
- Activities: Riverside walks, picnics, gentle rafting (₹800–₹2,000, suitable for kids 12+ and adults).
- Best Time: Summer (May–June) and autumn (September–October) for pleasant weather.
- Cost: Rafting ₹800–₹2,000; picnics free.
- Tips: Avoid swimming due to strong currents; use licensed rafting operators. Bring a picnic mat for comfort. Kid-friendly with supervision.
- Fun Fact: The Beas River is named after Sage Vyas, adding a mythical charm to its beauty.

Practical Tips

Getting There:
- By Air: Bhuntar Airport (50 km, taxi ₹1,000–₹1,500, 1 hour).
- By Train: Joginder Nagar (120 km, taxi ₹2,000–₹3,000, 3 hours).
- By Road: Buses or taxis from Delhi (540 km, 12 hours, ₹800–₹1,500) or Chandigarh (310 km, 8 hours, ₹500–₹1,000).
Accommodation: Budget guesthouses (₹500–₹1,500/night), mid-range hotels (₹2,000–₹4,000), or family-friendly resorts like Club Mahindra Snowpeaks (₹3,000–₹8,000).
Local Cuisine: Try Himachali Dham, Siddu, or momos (₹100–₹300) at local eateries or cafes like Café 1947 in Old Manali.
Safety: Pick age-appropriate activities, avoid snow sports for kids/elders, use licensed operators, and dress warm as winters hit -5°C.
Combine Visits: Pair Club House with Mall Road shopping, Van Vihar with Hidimba Temple, or Solang Valley with Atal Tunnel (13 km) for a full day.
Weather Prep: Pack layers for winter, rain gear for monsoon, and sunscreen for summer (highs of 25°C).

Comparison Table of Family-Friendly Places in Manali

Place	Location	Activities	Best Time	Cost	Suitable For
Club House	Near Mall Road, Manali	Swimming, indoor games, go-karting	Year-round	Entry ₹20–₹50; activities ₹100–₹500	Kids (5+), all ages
Van Vihar	Near Hidimba Devi Temple, 2 km	Walking, picnics, boating	Summer, autumn, winter	Entry ₹30–₹50; boating ₹100–₹200	All ages
Manali Wildlife Sanctuary	Near Old Manali, 2 km	Wildlife viewing, guided tours	Summer, winter	Entry ₹20 (adults), ₹10 (children); tours ₹500–₹1,000	All ages
Snow Zones	Solang Valley (14 km), Rohtang Pass (51 km)	Snow play, sledding, zorbing	Winter, summer	Sledding ₹500–₹1,200; zorbing ₹500–₹800; permit ₹550–₹1,000	Kids (with caution), adults
Hidimba Devi Temple	Dhungri Forest, 2 km	Temple visit, museum tour, fair	Summer, winter	Free entry; donations appreciated	All ages
Manu Temple	Old Manali, 3 km	Temple visit, scenic walks	Summer, autumn	Free entry	All ages
Tibetan Monasteries	Mall Road, Old Manali	Prayer sessions, museum, shopping	Year-round; February for Losar	Free entry; photography ₹20–₹50	All ages
Vashisht Temple & Hot Springs	Vashisht Village, 3 km	Temple prayers, hot spring bathing	Winter, summer	Free entry	All ages
Jogini Falls	Near Vashisht Village, 3 km	Trekking, picnics, photography	Summer, autumn	Free entry	All ages (easy trek)
Beas River	Throughout Manali	Riverside walks, picnics, rafting	Summer, autumn	Rafting ₹800–₹2,000; picnics free	All ages (rafting for 12+)

Why Visit in 2025?

Manali is more than just a hill station—it’s a destination where generations can bond, whether it’s enjoying snow adventures, exploring wildlife, or soaking in cultural experiences. The best part is that the places to visit in Manali with family offer something unique for both kids and elders, making your trip wholesome and stress-free.

If your family loves exploring the spiritual side of the mountains, don’t miss our detailed guide on Spiritual Places in Manali. It’s the perfect way to add meaning and calm to your vacation.

From scenic landscapes to heritage sites, the places to visit in Manali with family promise memories that last a lifetime. Ready to plan your trip? Find handpicked stays and family-friendly homestays at BidYourStay and make your Manali holiday truly unforgettable.