Manali and Vashisht (Photo Feature)

Manali

The word Manali literally means “Manu’s abode”. As per Hindu mythology, Manu stepped off his ark in Manali to recreate human life after the great flood deluged the world.

Manali has a lovely shrine dedicated to Manu, the ancient lawgiver of India. It is probably the only one of its kind in India.

Manu Maharishi Temple

Hidimba Devi Temple (erected in 1553) is dedicated to Hadimba, wife of the Pandava prince Bhim. The temple is know for its four-level pagoda and beautiful wooden carvings.

Hadimba Temple

Vashisht

Located about 3km north of Manali on the slopes east of the Beas, Vashisht is lovely hamlet popular with domestic tourists for the temple & hot water springs. Where as most of the backpackers come here for the cheap accommodation, live music and Boom Shanker .

Vashisht temple junction

Waiting for the rain to stop

Shiva and Rama temples

Vashisht Temple

Vashisht is known for its music scene.

The charming Sei Baba restaurant and cafe

Sei Baba is one of the most popular places to catch these jam sessions.

Bikram – an excellent sufi singer.

It is a wonderful experience to sit through these sessions with musicians from all over the world jamming away.

Madan on the dhol

Bikram singing his rendition of Sayoni – way better than the original IMHO

Madan on the flute

Both Madan and Bikram are professional musicians available for gigs in the Manali area.
Contact Info : Bikram Kalikotey (99325-60632, 96419-63843) Madan (98570-71331)

Pattikuttans of Vashisht

Vashisht is a dog lover’s paradise. The place is full of lovely dogs. Sadly most of them are strays.

Mama doggie with her pups

Life is good