|
Introduction 
Legend has it that Manu stepped off a boat in Manali to recreate human life after floods had devastated the world
thus Manali derives its name from Manu which means 'home of Manu'.
The landscape here is breath taking. One sees well-defined snow
capped peaks, the Beas river with its clear water meanders through
the town. On the other side are deodar and pine trees, tiny fields
and fruit orchards. It is an excellent place for a holiday, a
favorite resort for trekkers. It is also known as the "
SWITZERLAND OF INDIA ".
History
Manali's
`history' is really more myth than history. According to Hindu
mythology, Manali was the home of the lawgiver Manu. Vaivasvata, the
seventh incarnation of Manu, the first creation according to Hindu
mythology, found a tiny fish in his bathing water. The fish told him
to look after it with devotion, for one day it would do him a great
service. The seventh Manu cared for the fish until it grew so huge
that he released it into the sea. Before departing, the fish warned
Manu of an impending deluge when the entire world would be submerged
and bade him to build a seaworthy ark. Manu and the gods were towed
to dry ground by a giant fish, which was the seventh `avatar' of the
god Vishnu. He is supposed to have survived when the world was
drowned in Flood. Thus Manali derviced its name from Manu.
Festival
The festivals which are celebrated in Manali are :-
Lohri :- This is celebrated in mid-january day and also commemorates the last sowing of the Rabi crops. Community bonfires, folk songs and dancing mark the festival. Baisakhi
:- It is one of Himachal's most important festivals. Rooted in the rural agrarian tradition, it bids a final farewell to winter.
Numerous village fairs complete with wrestling, dancing and archery are also held on this day.
Dussehra :- They pay homage to lord Raghunath while music and colour fill the Silver valley. Numerous stalls offer a variety of local wares. This is also the time when the International Folk festival celebrated. The Jwalamukhi temple in Kangra becomes the venue for a major fair.
Best Season
In winter, the temperature can drop to below
freezing point. Summer temperatures are mild. Therefore, the best season to
visit Manali is from April to July, September to
November.
Travel Links of Manali
|
