DAY 3 

Enchanted by the Beauty of Manali⛄❅❄

Our third day began with our arrival in the beautiful hill town of Manali around 7:00 AM. Surrounded by the towering Himalayas, Manali greeted us with chilly air, snow-laden rooftops, and an atmosphere that instantly rejuvenated our tired spirits. After a long overnight journey, we headed straight to our hotel to freshen up and enjoy a warm, nourishing breakfast that set the tone for a day filled with natural wonders and memorable moments.

Our first adventure took us to Solang Valley, a renowned destination roughly 14 kilometres from Manali. Although our initial plan was to travel through the Atal Tunnel to explore other high-altitude regions, the route was temporarily closed due to heavy snowfall. Surprisingly, this detour turned out to be a delightful twist in our journey. Solang Valley, blanketed in pristine snow, was nothing short of magical.

The landscape looked like a scene from a fairy tale — tall trees wrapped in snow, soft white slopes, and a sky so clear it seemed to mirror the mountains. For many in our group, it was their first experience with snowfall, and the excitement was truly contagious. Laughter echoed through the valley as we built snowmen, engaged in snowball fights, and clicked countless photos to capture the sheer joy of the moment.

Adventure enthusiasts among us embraced the thrills that Solang is known for — paragliding, skiing, snowboarding, and zip-lining. While not everyone took part in the activities, watching our peers glide through the frosty air or dash down snowy slopes was just as thrilling. The sense of unity and fun brought us all closer together.

Later in the afternoon, we visited the Hadimba Temple, a peaceful sanctuary nestled in a cedar forest. This ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, stands out with its unique wooden architecture and historical significance. Surrounded by tall deodar trees and snow-dusted grounds, the temple offered a tranquil, almost mystical experience. It was a serene contrast to the lively excitement of the morning — a chance to reflect and connect with the spiritual heritage of the region.

Given the narrow and snow-covered mountain roads, our large tour buses were exchanged for smaller local vehicles, allowing us to navigate the terrain more safely. This change not only ensured our comfort but also gave us a glimpse into the daily challenges faced by the locals in these rugged landscapes.

As dusk fell, we returned to our hotel, where a warm dinner awaited. The meal — a blend of North Indian and Himachali flavors — was a comforting end to a day filled with awe and adventure. We gathered to share stories, laughter, and photographs before retiring to our rooms with a deep sense of fulfillment. Day three left us mesmerized by the natural beauty, cultural richness, and heartwarming experiences that Manali had offered.