Start your journey by visiting the Hadimba Devi Temple, a significant religious site surrounded by beautiful forests and tranquil ambience. This temple is dedicated to Hadimba, the wife of Bhima from the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple's architecture is unique, with a four-story pagoda-style roof, intricate stone carvings, and wooden doors bearing religious signs. Visitors can spend time admiring the temple's artwork and historical significance while immersing themselves in local culture and traditions.
On Day 2, head to Solang Valley, a spectacular scenic spot that lies on the western banks of the Beas River. The valley's stunning views of snow-covered mountains and glaciers are so picturesque that several Bollywood movies have been filmed here. Adventurous types can participate in outdoor activities like skiing, paragliding, and zorbing. The valley is also home to the Manali Mountaineering Institute, where visitors can go trekking and learn about local flora and fauna.
Day 3 entails visiting the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art in Upper Manali. This museum displays several traditional art forms and cultural exhibits that showcase the region's rich heritage. There are wax statues of Himachal Pradesh's famous personalities and villages depicting their lifestyle. It also has a folk art section comprising masks, musical instruments, and textile designs. This is a perfect place for visitors to learn more about Himachal Pradesh's history and culture.
Conclude your trip by heading to Vashisht Hot Water Springs on Day 4. This is a small village on the banks of the Beas River, and the hot springs are its highlight. The water's temperature is comfortable and allows visitors to relax and rejuvenate. Visitors can also visit the Vashisht Temple, which is adjacent to the hot springs. The temple's design and intricate carvings are worth admiring, and visitors can learn a bit more about the village's history and religious significance.
For adventure enthusiasts and trek-lovers, an additional day trek to the Bhrigu Lake trek can be added as a pre-day activity before Day 1. Travelers with more time can extend their trip to visit the several surrounding small hamlets like Naggar, Tosh, and Kheerganga. In contras,t if time is a constraint, one can skip visiting the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art.