But the story of me travelling down to Manali is rather fascinating. My three friends and I were cooped up at my home during car hire from Delhi a night stay, and during a game of Truth and Dare, I was dared to take a trip to Manali the very next day. As crazy as the idea sounds, given that I had no reservations, I did execute it. I apprised a college friend of my plans who was based out of Manali, and prepped up to hit the road the next day.

Life had been tough after the COVID-19 pandemic; therefore, it was a much-needed break. I arranged for my commute by booking a car hire from Delhi; even at the last moment, I managed to get an incredibly reasonable deal. After reaching Manali, I stayed the night in what should be called an authentic Stilt Manali-style house which was very cheap to stay in.

Since I only had two days in my hands, I had to prioritize the tour of the place. My friend strongly recommended starting my adventure from the Gauri Shankar temple because of my love for historic temples.

Day 1

Naggar – A fascinating place

In Naggar, I climbed a hill to reach the Gauri Shankar temple, a stone building that stood moderately tall in the middle of an empty paved courtyard. Although it is believed to be dated back to the 12th century, the temple’s builder is uncertain of its original age. The temple is a prime example of beautifully cut stones piled precariously on top of one another to enter an open shikhara. The temple’s open paved courtyard reminded me of my childhood days spent in a village with my grandmother. In Naggar, the clock stopped ticking, and I felt as if I existed in an imperial age when temple courtyards were the equivalent of modern cafe coffee days.

Solang Valley – A Photographic Spot

I went to Solang Valley in the afternoon. The road up to Solang is incredibly picturesque, and I took hundreds of selfies along the way. I ate a lot of Chinese food from the nearby roadside shacks and soaked in the scenery.

Rohtang Pass – Snowy Evening

With no energy left in the evening, I went to Rohtang Pass. The lush green twisting roads that eventually lead to snow took my breath away. The fact that snow never melts in parts of the Rohtang Pass, where I attempted to build a castle, astounded me.

Eateries I visited while in Manali

Sidu – Traditional Start

My friend recommended a traditional dish for me to try, which was Sidu. His favourite shop, known as Fouji Tea Stall, owned by a Himachali lady, makes the only dish, Sidu. I had never tried any typical Manali dish before, and the very first time I did, it won my heart.

Italian Experience at Casa Bella Vista

I had lunch at Casa Bella Vista, which is set between Manali’s lush scenery. It’s a cosy café specialising in mouthwatering Spanish and Italian dishes. With a pint of cold beer, I ate their freshly cooked, hand-tossed thin-crust wood cooked pizza.

A Bob Dylan’s Cafe

I will also recommend Dylan’s Toasted Roaster, which has a fascinating backstory. It is dedicated to a Bob Dylan portrait on the fridge. Bob Dylan’s followers and music fans were so taken by it that they came up with a new name for the café, which became known as Dylan’s Toasted and Roasted. The food here is phenomenal and a must try.

Day 2

Beas Kund trek: An awe-inspiring trek

On the second and final day, I took the famous Beas Kund Trek with six strangers, and once we reached, the view was breath-taking. I forgot to bring food for the trek but luckily all 6 strangers brought food with them, which we ate family style. That day I got to devour Gujarati snacks with Bengali sweets. It was a tiring but well-spent day in the mountains. The Beas Kund trek was approximately 30 kilometres in length. Because of the distance and trail, it can be classified as a simple level trek.

The next morning I booked a Manali to Delhi taxi, and the adventure ended, but one adventure needs to end for another to start. I plan to visit Manali soon with more days to have an even more exciting adventure.