After an overnight journey from Noida, we finally reached Manali around 8 AM. We were tired after the long bus journey, but the moment we started seeing the mountains and experiencing the fresh Manali weather, the tiredness somehow felt worth it. 
Reaching Manali
Manali Bus Stand: Google Maps Location
We reached our hotel at around 9:30 AM. Our hotel was approximately 1.5 km from Manali Bus Stand, and we paid around ₹250 for an auto to reach there.
After checking in, we started our Manali experience with a simple breakfast of aloo paratha and chai. 
After travelling overnight, a little rest was definitely needed!
Once we were fresh, we booked a cab for 2 days for ₹5,000 to explore Manali and nearby places.
And finally, our first proper Manali sightseeing adventure began! 
Hadimba Devi Temple
Hadimba Devi Temple, Manali: Google Maps Location
Our first major stop was Hadimba Devi Temple, which we reached around 1 PM.
The temple is surrounded by beautiful deodar trees, giving the entire place a peaceful and unique atmosphere. 
The traditional wooden architecture and natural surroundings made this one of our favourite stops of the day.
We also decided to try the traditional Himachali dress and clicked some memorable pictures together.
Himachali dress: ₹100 per person
Photo: ₹50 per photo
It was a fun experience and definitely something different from our usual travel photos!
Van Vihar National Park
Van Vihar National Park, Manali: Google Maps Location
Next, we visited Van Vihar National Park, a lovely green space where we enjoyed a relaxing walk surrounded by nature.
The greenery, tall trees and fresh mountain air made it a nice place to slow down and enjoy the surroundings. 
Entry ticket: ₹50 per person
We also stopped for some snacks there:
Maggi – ₹100
Veg Momos – ₹100 for 6 pieces
I’m sharing these prices because I always find it useful when travellers mention the actual prices they experienced during their trip. It helps others make a realistic travel budget. 
Buddhist Monastery
Buddhist Monastery, Manali: Google Maps Location
After Van Vihar, we visited the Buddhist Monastery.
After the day’s sightseeing, this place felt especially peaceful. We spent some time enjoying the calm surroundings, beautiful architecture and quiet atmosphere.
It was nice to simply slow down for a while and take in the peaceful side of Manali.
Evening at Mall Road
Mall Road, Manali: Google Maps Location
In the evening, we headed towards Mall Road.
It was a weekend, so we expected it to be quite crowded. But surprisingly, it was not too crowded, which made it comfortable for us to walk around, explore the shops and enjoy the evening.
There were plenty of shops, cafés, restaurants and local stores selling different Himachali products and souvenirs.
We also bought a few souvenirs, with some items available in the ₹50–₹100 range.
Walking around Mall Road in the evening, surrounded by the mountains and cool weather, was a really nice experience.
Ending Our First Day
By around 5 PM, we returned to our hotel after a full day of exploring.
We had dinner, relaxed and finally got some proper rest after a long and exciting day.
Looking back, our first proper day in Manali was a perfect combination of nature, temples, local food, shopping, peaceful places and beautiful memories.
And honestly, this was just the beginning of our Manali adventure!
Manali, Himachal Pradesh
More places, experiences, photos and travel tips coming in Part 3!
If you’re planning a Manali trip, I hope sharing our actual travel experience and on-ground prices helps you plan your journey better.
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