Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Administratively, Manali is a part of district Kullu. In the mountains of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is located at the northern end of Kullu. It is about 250 km far away from Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. It is on of the biggest tourist destinations in India.  Manali and the surrounding areas represent Indian culture and heritage. Manali is known to be home of Saptarshi or Seven Sages. The name ‘Manali’ is derived from a combined word “Manu-Alaya”, literally meaning “the adobe of Manu”. It is famous that sage Manu stepped off of his ark in Manali to recreate human life after a huge flood which had deluged the world. So there is a temple after the name of Manu which is located in Old Manali. This place is often known as the valley of God. Kullu Manali is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Himachal Pradesh. The History – This valley (Manali) settled at widely spaced intervals of itinerants who were known as “Rakshas”. The next arrivals were shepherd from Kangra valley and settled here to take up agriculture. They are called Naur or Nar. Today, only a few Naur families are in existence. These families are in the village Soyal. Manali was famous for the vast land owned by naur families. The best source of income here is apple, plum and pear. First apple tree was planted here by the British.