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Best places to visit in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh

Mandi, a picturesque town in Himachal Pradesh, India, is often referred to as the “Varanasi of the Hills” due to its numerous temples and rich cultural heritage. Nestled along the banks of the Beas River, Mandi is known for its historical significance, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant local culture. Here are some of the best places to visit in Mandi:

1. Rewalsar Lake

Rewalsar Lake is a sacred lake located about 25 km from Mandi. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is considered holy by Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs. It is known for its floating reed islands and is associated with the legends of Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) and Guru Gobind Singh. The area around the lake is home to several monasteries, temples, and a Gurudwara.

  • Key Attractions: Sacred lake, monasteries, temples.
  • Activities: Boating, meditation, exploring religious sites.
  • Location: Rewalsar, near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

2. Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake is a serene high-altitude lake located about 50 km from Mandi. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush meadows. It is famous for its floating island and the ancient Prashar Temple, dedicated to the sage Prashar. The lake area offers breathtaking views and is a popular spot for trekking and camping.

  • Key Attractions: High-altitude lake, Prashar Temple.
  • Activities: Trekking, camping, photography.
  • Location: Near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

3. Pandoh Dam

Pandoh Dam is an embankment dam on the Beas River, located about 19 km from Mandi. The dam is part of the Beas-Sutlej Link project and is known for its scenic surroundings. The reservoir created by the dam offers beautiful views and is a great spot for picnics and photography.

  • Key Attractions: Scenic views, dam reservoir.
  • Activities: Picnicking, photography.
  • Location: Near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

4. Bhutnath Temple

Bhutnath Temple is one of the oldest temples in Mandi, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The temple is known for its architectural beauty and spiritual significance. It is the focal point of the famous Shivaratri festival celebrated with great enthusiasm in Mandi. The temple complex is a serene place for worship and reflection.

  • Key Attractions: Ancient temple, Shivaratri festival.
  • Activities: Worship, attending festivals.
  • Location: Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

5. Shikari Devi Temple

Shikari Devi Temple is an ancient temple situated at an altitude of about 3,350 meters. The temple is dedicated to Shikari Devi, a local deity, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trek to the temple is a popular activity, attracting adventure enthusiasts and pilgrims alike.

  • Key Attractions: High-altitude temple, panoramic views.
  • Activities: Trekking, exploring the temple.
  • Location: Near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

6. Barot Valley

Barot Valley is a hidden gem located about 67 km from Mandi. The valley is known for its lush green landscapes, rivers, and trout fishing opportunities. Barot is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, offering activities like trekking, camping, and fishing. The Uhl River flowing through the valley adds to its scenic charm.

  • Key Attractions: Scenic landscapes, trout fishing.
  • Activities: Trekking, fishing, camping.
  • Location: Near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

7. Janjehli Valley

Janjehli Valley is a beautiful and relatively unexplored destination near Mandi. The valley is known for its apple orchards, terraced fields, and traditional Himachali villages. It is an ideal place for trekking, nature walks, and experiencing the local culture. The serene environment and picturesque views make it a perfect getaway.

  • Key Attractions: Apple orchards, traditional villages.
  • Activities: Trekking, nature walks.
  • Location: Near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

8. Sundernagar

Sundernagar is a town located about 24 km from Mandi, known for its beautiful lake and lush gardens. The Sundernagar Lake, surrounded by greenery, is a popular spot for picnics and boat rides. The town is also home to the famous Mahamaya Temple and Murari Devi Temple, which offer stunning views of the surrounding area.

  • Key Attractions: Sundernagar Lake, temples.
  • Activities: Boating, sightseeing.
  • Location: Sundernagar, near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

9. Triloknath Temple

Triloknath Temple is an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located in Mandi. The temple is known for its intricate wooden carvings and historical significance. It is a prominent religious site in the region and attracts devotees throughout the year. The temple offers a peaceful ambiance for worship and meditation.

  • Key Attractions: Ancient architecture, religious significance.
  • Activities: Worship, exploring the temple.
  • Location: Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

10. Kamru Nag Lake

Kamru Nag Lake is a sacred lake located at an altitude of about 3,334 meters. The lake is associated with the local deity Kamru Nag, who is believed to control the weather in the region. The area around the lake is known for its natural beauty and dense forests. It is a popular trekking destination and a serene spot for reflection.

  • Key Attractions: Sacred lake, natural beauty.
  • Activities: Trekking, worship.
  • Location: Near Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.

Summary Table

PlaceDescriptionKey AttractionDistance from City Center
Rewalsar LakeSacred lake with monasteries and templesFloating reed islands, religious significanceNear Mandi
Prashar LakeHigh-altitude lake with a floating islandPrashar Temple, scenic beautyNear Mandi
Pandoh DamEmbankment dam with scenic surroundingsDam reservoir, scenic viewsNear Mandi
Bhutnath TempleAncient temple dedicated to Lord ShivaShivaratri festival, architectural beautyMandi
Shikari Devi TempleHigh-altitude temple offering panoramic viewsPanoramic views, trekkingNear Mandi
Barot ValleyScenic valley known for trout fishingTrout fishing, lush landscapesNear Mandi
Janjehli ValleyBeautiful valley with apple orchards and traditional villagesApple orchards, traditional cultureNear Mandi
SundernagarTown known for its beautiful lake and gardensSundernagar Lake, templesNear Mandi
Triloknath TempleAncient temple with intricate wooden carvingsHistorical significanceMandi
Kamru Nag LakeSacred lake associated with a local deitySacred lake, natural beautyNear Mandi

How to Reach Mandi

By Flight

The nearest airport to Mandi is Bhuntar Airport, located about 60 km away. The airport offers domestic flights and is well-connected to major cities like Delhi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mandi.

By Train

The nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar Railway Station, located about 55 km from Mandi. However, the connectivity is limited. The major railway station is Chandigarh, from where you can travel by road to reach Mandi.

By Road

Mandi is well-connected by road to other parts of Himachal Pradesh and neighboring states. The town is accessible via NH154 and NH3. Buses, taxis, and private vehicles are available for local transportation.

Best Time to Visit Mandi

The best time to visit Mandi is during the summer months (April to June) and the autumn months (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The winter months (December to February) can be cold, while the monsoon season (July to August) brings occasional rains.

Travel Tips

  • Local Cuisine: Mandi offers a variety of Himachali dishes, including local delicacies like sidu, patande, and chana madra. Don’t miss trying the local sweets and snacks.
  • Cultural Insights: The town has a rich cultural heritage with influences from Hinduism and Buddhism. Visitors can explore temples, monasteries, and local markets to experience the vibrant culture.
  • Safety Tips: Mandi is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions, especially in crowded areas. Keep an eye on your belongings and be cautious when trekking or exploring remote areas.

Itinerary Suggestions

One-Day Trip

  • Morning: Start with a visit to Rewalsar Lake and explore the monasteries and temples around the lake. Head to Pandoh Dam for beautiful views.
  • Afternoon: Visit Bhutnath Temple and explore the local markets. Have lunch at a local restaurant.
  • Evening: End the day with a visit to Sundernagar and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the lake.

Weekend Getaway

  • Day 1: Begin with a visit to Rewalsar Lake and Pr

ashar Lake. Spend the afternoon exploring Bhutnath Temple and Triloknath Temple. In the evening, visit the local markets and enjoy the local cuisine.

  • Day 2: Start with a trek to Shikari Devi Temple for stunning views. Head to Barot Valley for a day of fishing and relaxation. Conclude your trip with a visit to Janjehli Valley and experience the local culture.

Mandi offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness, making it an enchanting destination for travelers.

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