Mandi, a town located in the peaceful hills of Himachal Pradesh, consists of ancient structures, natural beauty, and a touch of spirituality. People call the town the ‘Varanasi of the Hills’ because it has more than 80 ancient stone temples. For such a small town, it is a culturally rich place and is one of the must-visit destinations in North India. If you are planning a trip to the hills, do not forget to check out the places to visit in Mandi.
A Sneak Peek into Mandi’s Past
Mandi has a rich historical and cultural past. It was a princely state that was ruled by the Sen Dynasty prior to its merge into the Indian Union after independence. Rich religious beliefs, ancient temples, and old colonial buildings are some of the reflections of Mandi history that tell a rich story of Indo-Tibetan culture and royal heritage.
Here are the Top 10 Places to Visit in Mandi!
1. Prashar Lake
Prashar Lake is about 49 km from Mandi city. It’s a beautiful mountain lake surrounded by green forests and snow-covered peaks. The lake has a small floating island, and there’s also an old temple of Prashar Rishi nearby, which makes the place feel magical.
2. Bhima Kali Temple
This is one of the most worshiped religious places in Mandi, and it’s dedicated to Goddess Bhima Kali. The architectural beauty and spiritual surroundings attract both pilgrims and people who love architecture.
3. Rewalsar Lake
It is a holy lake that is worshiped by Hindus, Buddhists, and Sikhs alike. Its religious importance and the temples and monasteries surrounding it make it among the top places to visit in Mandi.
4. Barot Valley
A secret gem in the district, Barot is ideal for people who want to relax and feel nature. Fishing and trekking available, this is the ideal destination for adventure seekers.
5. Shikari Devi Temple
Standing on top of a hill at 3,350 meters, this ancient temple provides a bird’s-eye view and a sense of calmness. It’s a unique and interesting place to visit among all the attractions in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh.
6. Tarna Temple
The temple is built on a hill above Mandi town and offers a wide view of the valley and the Beas River. It is dedicated to Goddess Shyama Kali and is an important place for pilgrims.
7. Sunder Nagar
This town has its own charm and is often included in travel plans for Mandi. Visitors come here to enjoy its peaceful gardens and to visit the Mahamaya Temple, which is an important spiritual spot. The place is calm, refreshing, and perfect for a short day trip if you want to relax and explore something different without going too far.
8. Kamrunag Lake
Far from the crowd destination, Kamrunag Lake is famous for its religious importance and beauty. Perfect for trekking and nature lovers.
9. Pandoh Dam
Pandoh Dam is located on the way from Chandigarh to Mandi, and it’s a nice spot to stop for a short break. The dam is built on the Beas River, and the view of the flowing water and surrounding hills is really beautiful. Many travelers stop here to click photos and enjoy the peaceful scenery before continuing their journey.
10. Joginder Nagar
This place is known for the old Shanan Power House and its cool hill station vibes. It’s a peaceful spot with pleasant weather, making it a nice addition to your Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, travel plans.
Best Time to Visit Mandi:
The most suitable time to visit Mandi is from March to June or September to November. The weather is nice and ideal to go sightseeing at this time. Monsoons are unpredictable with landslides, and winters, though gorgeous, can be tough on some tourists. Plan your trip accordingly based on Mandi weather updates and your convenience.
How to Reach Mandi?
- By Road: Mandi is also well linked by road and is situated on the highway from Chandigarh to Manali. The journey from Chandigarh to Mandi is about 6–7 hours via NH-205 and NH-3.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Joginder Nagar, which is around 55 km away.
- By Air: The nearest airport is at Bhuntar (Kullu), which is approximately 60 km from Mandi. Taxis and buses are accessible from there.
Why Visit Mandi?
Besides being an entry point to the famous hill stations of Manali and Kullu, Mandi is unique for its combination of spiritual legacy and natural charm. Be it the serenity of Rewalsar Lake, the enigma of Prashar Lake, or the raw beauty of Barot Valley, there are lots of places to explore in Mandi that suit every type of traveler, from pilgrims and historians to adventure enthusiasts and backpackers.
Tips for Travelers!
- Accommodation: Mid-range hotels to budget guesthouses are readily accessible. Book in advance in peak seasons.
- Local Cuisine: Don’t miss trying the local Himachali food such as Siddu, Babru, and Chana Madra.
- Travel Light: Carry warm clothes and comfortable walking shoes if you are traveling in winter or visiting high altitudes.
Final Thoughts
Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, offers a unique travel experience. Ancient temples, picturesque lakes, and lesser-explored valleys make it a perfect destination for a peaceful retreat or cultural exploration. With so many captivating places to visit in Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, you’ll find every moment here to be spiritually and naturally enriching. So pack your bags and head off to discover the best places to visit in Mandi.
F&Qs
Q. What is Mandi famous for?
Ans. Mandi is famous for its old temples, beautiful landscapes along the Beas River and the lively Shivratri Festival. It’s referred to as the Varanasi of the Hills.
Q. Is Mandi worth visiting?
Ans. Yes, it’s a serene hill town with cultural richness, natural scenery, and fewer crowds, ideal for a stress-free retreat.
Q. What’s the Best Time to Visit Mandi?
Ans. March to June and October to November for the best weather.
Q. How to Reach Mandi?
Ans. Mandi is well-connected via road. You can take a bus or taxi from Delhi, Chandigarh, or Manali. The nearest airport is Kullu (Bhuntar), about 60 km away, and the nearest railway station is in Joginder Nagar.
