Mandi Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Mandi, Himachal Pradesh with this comprehensive travel guide, including top things to do, where to stay, and how to get around.


A Comprehensive Guide to Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Nestled in the Central Himachal Pradesh, in Himalayan North of India, lies the small yet culturally rich town of Mandi. Surrounded by lush green valleys, awe-inspiring mountains, and glistening water bodies, Mandi is a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. This comprehensive travel guide to Mandi will provide you with all the necessary information you need to plan an unforgettable trip to the town.

List of Places to Visit in Mandi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Bhutnath Temple: Built-in the 17th century, Bhutnath Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is one of the oldest temples in the town.
  2. Triloknath Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva, Vishnu, and Brahma, and is believed to be over 1000 years old.
  3. Rewalsar Lake: The lake is surrounded by three Hindu temples, a gurudwara, and a monastery making it a unique religious site.
  4. Shyama Kali Temple: Also known as Tarna Mata Temple, it is one of the most visited temples in Mandi and is located on the banks of the Beas River.

Natural Attractions of Mandi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Parashar Lake: Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and deodar forests, this serene lake is famous for its floating island.
  2. Joginder Nagar Valley: This valley is famous for its scenic beauty and a popular destination for camping and trekking.
  3. Barot Valley: Located on the banks of Uhl River, the valley is famous for its trout fishing and trekking trails.
  4. Janjehli Valley: Surrounded by lush green valleys and pine forests, Janjehli is famous for its trekking routes and camping sites.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Mandi

Mandi is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts, with numerous hiking and biking routes. The popular ones include:

  1. Prashar Lake Trek: The trek is a moderately difficult 7 km journey through alpine forests and offers beautiful views of the Dhauladhar ranges.
  2. Barot Valley Trek: The trek takes you through the remote villages of Himachal Pradesh and offers stunning views of the Himalayan peaks.
  3. Joginder Nagar Valley Trek: The trek is a 4 km journey that offers scenic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains.
  4. Janjehli Valley Trek: The trek is a 29 km journey through dense forests and offers beautiful views of the Thamsar Pass.

Best Things to Do in Mandi: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Temples: Mandi is famous for its temples, and visiting them is a must-do activity.
  2. Go for Trekking: The town offers various trekking routes, suitable for both beginners and experienced trekkers.
  3. Take a Dip in Hot Springs: The Karsog Valley in Mandi is famous for its hot springs, and taking a dip in them is a refreshing experience.
  4. Explore the Markets: Mandi is famous for its handicrafts and local products, and exploring the markets is a fun way to spend the day.

Week-Long Itinerary for Mandi

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Mandi, visit Bhutnath Temple
2 Trek to Parashar Lake
3 Hike to Janjehli Valley
4 Visit the Rewalsar Lake
5 Take a dip in the hot springs of Karsog Valley
6 Visit the local markets
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Mandi

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Dhaam: A traditional lunch served on festivals, it includes rice, rajma, and various vegetable and meat dishes.
  2. Siddu: A steamed bun filled with stuffing made of mashed potatoes or kidney beans.
  3. Chha Gosht: A spicy lamb curry made with yogurt and served with rice or roti.
  4. Mittha: A sweet delicacy made of rice, sugar, and dry fruits.

Local Beverages

  1. Chhaang: A locally brewed beer made of barley and is served in wooden mugs.
  2. Gulab Sharbat: A refreshing drink made of rose petals and sugar syrup.

Where to Stay in Mandi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  1. Himalayan Eco Lodges and Camps: A luxurious campsite surrounded by apple orchards and pine forests.
  2. The Regent Palms Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities and scenic views of the town.
  3. Shikari Devi Eco-tourism Guest House: A beautiful guest house located in the lap of nature and offers stunning views of the valley.

What to Buy in Mandi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  1. Handicrafts: Mandi is famous for its handicrafts, including wooden carvings, shawls, and embroidered items.
  2. Local Wines: The town is famous for its locally brewed wines made of apricots and apples.
  3. Kullu Caps: A woolen cap with a colorful pom pom, made by the artisans in the Kullu Valley.

Local Culture and Customs of Mandi

The locals follow a unique culture that revolves around festivals, fairs, and temples. The town is famous for its Dussehra festival, which is celebrated with grandeur and attracts tourists from around the world. The locals also believe in various superstitions and customs, which adds to the charm of the town.

Best Time to Visit Mandi

The best time to visit Mandi is from March to June and September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the skies are clear.

Do’s and Don’ts of Mandi

Do:

  1. Respect the local culture and traditions of the town.
  2. Stay hydrated and carry water bottles with you.
  3. Explore the remote villages and interact with the locals.

Don’t:

  1. Carry single-use plastic items.
  2. Litter around and maintain cleanliness.
  3. Disrespect the religious sites and sentiments of the locals.

Safety and Health

Safety in Mandi

Mandi is a safe town, but it is always recommended to take necessary precautions while traveling. Avoid traveling alone in remote areas and stay aware of your surroundings. Do not display your valuables and carry only the necessary items.

Health in Mandi

Carry a basic medical kit with you while traveling, which includes the essential medicines and first aid items. Drink only bottled water and avoid street food to avoid any health issues.

Getting to Mandi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Mandi

  1. Bhuntar Airport: Located 57 km away from Mandi, the airport is well-connected to major cities in India such as Delhi.

Bus Stations Near Mandi

  1. Mandi Bus Station: Located in the town center, the bus station is well-connected to major cities in Himachal Pradesh.

Other Options

  1. Private/Hired Cars: You can hire private or shared cabs from the Bhuntar airport and the Mandi bus station.
  2. Trains: The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, located 55 km away from Mandi.

How to Get Around in Mandi

The best way to get around in Mandi is by hiring a private or shared cab. You can also explore the town on foot or rent a bike to explore the remote villages and scenic routes.

Where to Go Next from Mandi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Kullu-Manali: Located 110 km away from Mandi, Kullu-Manali is a popular hill station known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities.
  2. Chamba: Located 160 km away from Mandi, Chamba is known for its ancient temples and scenic landscapes.
  3. Dharamshala: Located 170 km away from Mandi, Dharamshala is known for its serene monasteries and the headquarters of the Dalai Lama.

Conclusion

Mandi is a hidden gem in the lap of Himalayas, and visiting the town is an experience of a lifetime. The town offers a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and serenity, making it a perfect retreat for all. Plan your trip to Mandi today, and witness the beauty of the Himalayas in all its glory.

River Beas flowing through Mandi River Beas flowing through Mandi