Manali and Shimla are among the most visited places not only in Himachal Pradesh but also in India. I often get question in my mail where people ask me to compare both these tourist locations and tell which one is much better for holidays.
I believe that Manali and Shimla, Both the places are unique in their own aspects. On one hand we have Shimla which has always been one of the favorite tourist destination in India and Himachal and on the other hand we have Manali which has gained a lot of fame in the past 5-6 years. I wanted to share a small fact that last year Manali was second most googled destination in India after GOA.
Before giving a comparison that which place is better among Manali and Shimla do read this small Introduction about both the places
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Manali
The vibrant and colorful Manali, Himachal Pradesh, is a famous tourist destination in India. The things that make Manali mesmerizing and breathtaking are just many. The amazing weather, mountains and the lush green forests are just a few of them. All the adventurous and recreational activities that one can experience while being here make Manali much more alluring. One visit to Manali can light up your whole world.
Places to visit
- Hadimba Temple
- Solang Valley
- Manu Temple
- Old Manali
- Rohtang Pass
- Jogni water fall. etc
Verdict: I believe that Manali is much bigger and have much more places to explore than Shimla. So if you are planning a trip to Himachal of 3 or more days than Manali would be the much better choice.
Shimla
Shimla is the capital of the beautiful Himachal Pradesh which is by the wide margin, the best tourist place in the country. Dilapidated wooden structures broken-down the mountainside, while magnificent colonial buildings stand proudly by—Shimla is a fascinating meddle of Colonial Europe and Himalayan pastoral.
Shimla’s geographical location is responsible for its pleasant climatic conditions. In India, the location of Shimla is just perfect to go on an ideal vacation. It has its own charm in summers as well as winters. The city of Shimla is spread over an undulating altitude that averages at 2100 meters above sea level.
Places to visit
- The Mall Road
- Jakhu Temple
- Advanced Study
- Naldera
- Kufri
- The Green valley
How to Reach
The high altitude has a fitting vegetation cover of evergreen pine trees. But what works for this magical hill station is the location of it. About 2 hour drive from Chandigarh and 6 hour drive from New Delhi sits this amazing hill station.
Verdict: So if you are planning a trip to Himachal pradesh for 1 or 2 days than Shimla would be much better option than Manali.
Which is better Shimla or Manali/ Where should you go?
- Both the locations are amazing to go for but as I told you earlier that if you have 1 or 2 days than Shimla is much better than Manali and if you are planning a trip for 3 or more days than Manali is better than Shimla
- The second advantage which Manali has over Shimla is that here one can do adventure activities like Paragliding, River rafting, Snow biking, Skiing etc.
- The third most important thing is that Shimla is at a drive of 2 hours from Chandigarh whereas Manali is at a drive of 8-9 hours from Chandigarh.
Hence we can say that both the locations are better and the choice of Shimla over Manali or Manali or Shimla all depends on your priorities and time you have.