Solang Valley: A Complete Guide To The Adventure Paradise of Manali

Are you looking for a thrilling and scenic destination for your next vacation? Do you want to experience the best of nature, adventure, and culture in one place? If yes, then you should head to Solang Valley, a stunning valley in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, India.

In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Solang Valley, covering its history, best time to visit, things to do, places to stay, places to visit, tips, and FAQs. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to plan a perfect trip to Solang Valley.

Best Time to Visit Solang Valley

Solang Valley is a year-round destination that offers different attractions and activities for different seasons. However, the best time to visit Solang Valley depends on your preferences and interests.

If you are a winter lover and want to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing, then the best time to visit Solang Valley is from November to February. This is when the valley receives heavy snowfall and transforms into a white wonderland. The average temperature during this time ranges from -12°C to 8°C.

If you are a summer lover and want to enjoy paragliding, zorbing, gondola ride, camping, or trekking, then the best time to visit Solang Valley is from March to June. This is when the valley becomes a green paradise with blooming flowers and fresh grass. The average temperature during this time ranges from 5°C to 25°C.

If you are a monsoon lover and want to witness the valley in its most vibrant and colorful form, then the best time to visit Solang Valley is from July to September. This is when the valley receives moderate rainfall and becomes a rainbow of hues. The average temperature during this time ranges from 11°C to 16°C.

However, no matter which season you choose to visit Solang Valley, you should always check the weather forecast and road conditions before planning your trip. You should also carry appropriate clothing and accessories for the season and activity you choose.

Things to Do in Solang Valley

Solang Valley is a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. It offers a wide range of activities and experiences that cater to different levels of thrill and skill. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Solang Valley:

Skiing:

Skiing is one of the most popular and exciting activities in Solang Valley. It is suitable for both beginners and experts, as there are various slopes and courses available. You can rent ski equipment and hire instructors from the ski agencies in the valley. The best time to enjoy skiing in Solang Valley is from November to February.

Paragliding:

Paragliding is another thrilling activity that lets you soar over the valley and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the scenery. You can choose from different heights and durations depending on your level of comfort and budget. You can book paragliding sessions from the operators in the valley. The best time to enjoy paragliding in Solang Valley is from March to June.

Zorbing:

Zorbing is a fun and unique activity that involves rolling down a hill inside a giant transparent ball. You can enjoy zorbing with your friends or family members as two people can fit inside one ball. You can book zorbing sessions from the operators in the valley. The best time to enjoy zorbing in Solang Valley is from March to June.

Gondola Ride:

Gondola ride is a relaxing and scenic activity that takes you up to the top of Mount Phatru at an altitude of 3200 meters. You can enjoy panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding mountains from the gondola cabin. You can buy gondola tickets from the ticket counter in the valley. The best time to enjoy gondola ride in Solang Valley is throughout the year.

Camping:

Camping is a great way to experience the beauty and tranquility of nature in Solang Valley. You can pitch your own tent or rent one from the campsites in the valley. You can enjoy bonfires, star gazing, music, and games with your fellow campers. You can book camping packages from the operators in the valley. The best time to enjoy camping in Solang Valley is from March to June.

Trekking:

Trekking is a rewarding and adventurous activity that lets you explore the hidden gems of the valley and the nearby areas. You can choose from different trails and difficulty levels depending on your fitness and experience. Some of the popular treks from Solang Valley are Beas Kund Trek, Bhrigu Lake Trek, Patalsu Peak Trek, etc. You can hire guides and porters from the trekking agencies in the valley. The best time to enjoy trekking in Solang Valley is from March to June.

Photography:

Photography is a must-do activity in Solang Valley as it offers stunning views and landscapes that are worth capturing. You can click amazing pictures of the snow-capped mountains, green meadows, blue skies, colorful flowers, and wildlife. You can also take selfies and group photos with your loved ones. The best time to enjoy photography in Solang Valley is throughout the year.

Shopping:

Shopping is a fun and enjoyable activity that lets you buy some souvenirs and memories from Solang Valley. You can find various shops and stalls in the valley that sell local handicrafts, woolen items, shawls, caps, gloves, etc. You can also buy some snacks and refreshments from the vendors in the valley. The best time to enjoy shopping in Solang Valley is throughout the year.

You may also like to read: Solang Valley- A must visit in Manali, Himachal Pradesh

Places to Stay in Solang Valley

Solang Valley offers a variety of accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences. You can choose from hotels, resorts, cottages, homestays, or campsites depending on your comfort and convenience. Here are some of the best places to stay in Solang Valley:

Photo of Solang Valley 5/8 by — (c) Johnson Lodge & Spa

Hotel Iceland Solang Valley Resort & Spa: This is a luxury resort that offers spacious and elegant rooms with modern amenities and stunning views of the valley. It also has a spa, a restaurant, a bar, a gym, a game room, and a conference hall. The price for one night starts from INR 6000.

The Himalayan Village Resort: This is a heritage resort that offers cozy and rustic cottages with traditional architecture and decor. It also has a spa, a restaurant, a bar, a library, and a garden. The price for one night starts from INR 5000.

Johnson Lodge & Spa: This is a boutique lodge that offers comfortable and stylish rooms with wooden flooring and furniture. It also has a spa, a restaurant, a cafe, a lounge, and a terrace. The price for one night starts from INR 4000.

Solang Ski Resort: This is an eco-friendly resort that offers simple and clean rooms with basic amenities and mountain views. It also has a restaurant, a coffee shop, a ski shop, and a playground. The price for one night starts from INR 3000.

Zostel Manali: This is a budget hostel that offers dorms and private rooms with colorful walls and funky art. It also has a common area, a kitchen, a cafe, a library, and a garden. The price for one night starts from INR 500.

Places to Visit Near Solang Valley

Solang Valley is not only a destination in itself but also a gateway to many other attractions and places of interest in the region. You can easily visit some of the nearby places from Solang Valley by road or trekking. Here are some of the places to visit near Solang Valley:

Rohtang Pass:

This is one of the most famous and scenic passes in India that connects Kullu valley with Lahaul and Spiti valleys. It is located at an altitude of 3978 meters and offers breathtaking views of the glaciers, peaks, rivers, and valleys. It is also a popular spot for adventure activities such as skiing, snow scootering, etc. It is about 50 km from Solang Valley and can be reached by car or bus.

Beas Kund Trek:

This is one of the most popular and easy treks in Himachal Pradesh that takes you to the source of the Beas river at an altitude of 3690 meters. It is a beautiful trek that passes through meadows, forests, streams, and glaciers. It also offers stunning views of the Hanuman Tibba peak and other mountains. It is about 15 km from Solang Valley and can be completed in 2 days.

Bhrigu Lake Trek:

This is another popular and moderate trek in Himachal Pradesh that takes you to the pristine Bhrigu lake at an altitude of 4300 meters. It is a sacred lake that is believed to have been visited by Sage Bhrigu in ancient times. It is a scenic trek that passes through meadows, forests, streams, and snow. It also offers spectacular views of the Pir Panjal range and other peaks. It is about 20 km from Solang Valley and can be completed in 3 days.

Manali Wildlife Sanctuary:

This is a wildlife sanctuary that covers an area of 31.8 sq km and houses a variety of flora and fauna. You can spot animals such as musk deer, brown bear, leopard, snow leopard, etc. and birds such as monal, kokla, kingfisher, etc. You can also enjoy nature walks, camping, and birdwatching in the sanctuary. It is about 15 km from Solang Valley and can be reached by car or bus.

Manikaran:

This is a holy place that is famous for its hot springs, temples, and gurudwara. It is believed that the hot springs have healing properties and can cure many diseases. You can take a dip in the springs or visit the temples and gurudwara to seek blessings. You can also enjoy the local cuisine and culture in Manikaran. It is about 80 km from Solang Valley and can be reached by car or bus.

You may also like to read: Solang Valley in Winters

Tips to Visit Solang Valley

To make your trip to Solang Valley smooth and enjoyable, you should follow some tips and advice before and during your visit. Here are some of the tips to visit Solang Valley:

Plan your trip in advance and book your activities and hotels online to avoid last-minute hassles and higher prices.

Carry appropriate clothing and accessories for the season and activity you choose, such as woolen clothes, jackets, gloves, caps, sunglasses, sunscreen, shoes, etc.

Check the weather forecast and road conditions before planning your trip, as they may change due to snowfall or landslides.

Carry enough cash and cards, as there are limited ATMs and card machines in the valley.

Respect the local culture and customs, and do not litter or harm the environment.

Carry a valid ID proof and permit if you are visiting Rohtang Pass or other restricted areas.

Follow the safety instructions and guidelines of the operators and instructors while doing any activity.

Have fun and enjoy the beauty and adventure of Solang Valley.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Solang Valley that you may find useful:

How far is Solang Valley from Manali? Solang Valley is about 14 km from Manali and can be reached by car or bus in about 30 minutes.

Is there snow in Solang Valley in June? There is no snow in Solang Valley in June, as it melts during the summer months. However, you can still enjoy activities such as paragliding, zorbing, gondola ride, etc.

What are the charges for paragliding in Solang Valley? The charges for paragliding in Solang Valley vary depending on the height and duration of the flight. The average charges are INR 600 for a short flight (1 minute) and INR 3000 for a long flight (15 minutes).

Is Solang Valley safe for solo travelers? Solang Valley is safe for solo travelers, as it is a well-known tourist destination with many operators and guides. However, you should always be careful of your belongings and surroundings, and avoid venturing out alone at night.

What are the best places to eat in Solang Valley? There are many restaurants and cafes in Solang Valley that serve delicious local and international cuisine. Some of the best places to eat in Solang Valley are Mount View Restaurant , Cafe Zeppelin , The Corner House , etc.

Solang Valley is a perfect destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. It offers a variety of activities and experiences for all seasons and tastes. You can enjoy skiing, paragliding, zorbing, gondola ride, camping, trekking, photography, shopping, etc. in Solang Valley. You can also visit nearby places such as Rohtang Pass , Beas Kund Trek , Bhrigu Lake Trek , Manali Wildlife Sanctuary , etc. from Solang Valley.

If you are planning to visit Solang Valley soon, then you should book your activities and hotels online from our website . We offer the best deals and discounts for your trip to Solang Valley. You can also contact us for any queries or assistance regarding your trip to Solang Valley.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable trip to Solang Valley! Thank you for reading this article!

Solang Valley Reviews

Kashif Choudhary

72 Followers

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"Living happily is the goal, just Surving isn't." I was in Solang valley. Along with 60 others, I was on a trip to Manali, Rohtang and Solang Valley. It was the second trekking expedition of my life. A 11 years old boy, with a dream of exploring the world. Yeah...That's me. So, as decided, we started our trek from Solang valley to Dhundi. It was not an easy trek. On one side is the Chambal, 400 ft down, flowing in it's fluency & on the other is risk of landslide from the mountain above us. Clearly, the risk was enough to turn back a faint-hearted person to the resort. But as it was not enough for the God, it suddenly starts raining. It was becoming more and more difficult to trek, so we decided to set our camp in a safe open area. As it was raining cats and dogs, it was a difficult task to set up the camp. We were helpless. As we all were thinking about going back to the resort, I saw 2 cottages up in the hill.It was a ray of hope in the middle of nowhere. We all start climbing up the hill towards the cottage. When we reached there, I saw a man standing in the shelter and observing the valley. I with my father walked towards him. As my father was telling him about our situation, some other members of his family walked towards us. One of them was of my age, his name was Rahul. We became friends later. After listening to us, they took us in. Though they were very poor, they offered tea for the whole group. While drinking, Ramprakash, the man who took us in, told us about their life. Their family used to grow crops on that hill for generations, and then they go all the way down to Manali for selling their crops. But in those days the business wasn't so good,still he was trying to educate his children. After listening to this, a lot of respect took place in my heart for Ramprakash and his family. They didn't complaint even once about the difficulties they were facing, instead they believe that God has never left them alone. Then he told us that it would be impossible to cross the glacier in this weather. He suggested us to set our camp on the other side of the hill for one day. His family also helped us in establishing the camp. Later in the evening, we invite the whole family for the dinner and campfire. Ladies of our camp were chattering with their women, elders were having discusssion about politics and all and I along two of my friends was playing with Rahul. They also showed us their traditional dance. It was one of the best nights of my life. In the morning, Rahul told us that they have hot water in the cottage for ablutions. After packing our stuff, my father tried to give some money to Ramprakash, but he refused. I liked his spirit. I slept in the night thinking about Ramprakash and his family, like even in this harsh climate, they were not just surviving, instead they were 'LIVING' happily. At that moment, I decided that no matter whatever problem I'll face in my life, I'm not gonna stop 'LIVING'. Even now, after 10 years of that incident, I sometimes think about it. If an average person with so many difficulties could find happiness, I can find it too, everyone can. This is the story of how I met a man who taught me the real meaning of happiness.

Ranjan Singh

111 Followers

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On our way back to Manali i told our taxi driver to take us to Solang Valley (which was not discussed earlier) and after convincing my brother we finally reached the valley. Solang Valley aka Solang Nala among locals as the name is combination of two words Solang (the village) and Nala (river stream) is an all season tourist spot of Manali,a heaven for adventure junkies.it has a range of adventure sports and activities from Zorbing,biking,horse riding and Paragliding in summers to Skiing when its snow in winters depending on time of the year and weather conditions.It is widely famous for ultimate Paragliding site of Himachal Pradesh with splendid views of snowy mountains all around.Paragliding is much enjoyed and pursued by tourists and adventure seekers among other activities to get thrilling experience of soaring in the sky. Enquiring certified trainers,clearing doubts and filling mandatory declaration form i was ready to experience first extreme adventure of my life!.my instructor took me to Paragliding jump point through a cable car which was delightful and is the best way to calm your mind and nerves to get ready for ultimate experience while ascending to a prominent altitude of 3500 feet. With a short briefing of 10 minutes and providing safety gears instructor harnesses tandem with me and it was time to Jump! (the most critical part) as for parachute to open and to traverse some distance in the air before landing down you will have to jump from higher altitude.on the command of instructor i ran and with all my guts i took leap of faith,thank god parachute opens and i started soaring in the sky much above giant peaks,it was getting more excited than scary with each minutes passing by.i was flying like a bird with a mesmerising view of sprawling green valley with snow capped Kullu ranges at the backdrop.instructor made it more enthralling with some swirls ,swing and rotating parachute upside down during the 15-20 minute of flight.enjoy the splendid view of snow laden mountains with dense green conifer forest and a meandering while soaring up high before landing at the valley where this activity ends.

MyTravelDairy965

222 Followers

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Day 8we wake up early in the morning had breakfast in hotel and headed to solang valley. (Note: Private vehicle is not Allowed you have to Hire Vehicle).A day before we already hired cab for solang valley cab driver is very nice and friendly his Name is Amit is localite. You can also hire him he's mobile no +919817186330. we Leave the manali in early morning for Solang valley. It is a side valley at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India 14 km northwest of the resort town Manali . its favorite for adventure enthusiasts, Parachuting to paragliding, horse riding, fancy photography are the other attractions that keeps a tourist engaged and maintains a fair like atmosphere in the valley throughout the day. The best part about Solang Valley is that it is an all season place. Visiting Solang, hence depends on your purpose. (I Recommended when u go to solang valley u can rent Gears like Jackets, gloves and Ice skating Shoes) There is many shops on the route between Manali and Solang valley after lots of enjoyment we back to the town. After 2 hours of rest we headed Manu temple This magnificent temple is dedicated to the sage Manu, who is said to be the creator of the world and the writer of Manusmriti. The Manu Temple is located in old Manali, at a distance of three kilometers from the main market. Though this area is quite congested, the presence of the River Beas adds to its attraction. The temple is one of the prime attractions in Manali and is believed to be the same place where sage Manu meditated after stepping on earth. Than we are back to mall road and had a dinner after that back to hotel because next day we have to leave.

Travel Maniac

85 Followers

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The place is know for two things, Shiv Lingam (Anjani Mahadev Temple) & Winter Sports. After much contemplation we decided first to go and see the Shiv Temple which was situated at a height and could be reached only by foot or on a horse back. And we opted to ho on ‘foot’ (only to experience worst ever foot pain at night). After many breathless steps, unlimited halts, slip offs, blame game, water gulping and against all odds, finally we reached the point where we saw Ice covered Shiv Limgam and water turned ice falling on It. It was one of the most beautiful sites to watch with mountains and tress in the surrounding and frozen trail of water falling from the top of a stone peak. Thus, made me realize the main reason for this place being a magnet for the tourists. A cup of tea and a bowl of maggi pumped up our energy to go down the same height that we had climbed and experience people enjoying the winter sports. A little walk (once we climbed down the track) is an area dedicated to Winter Sports. Paragliding, Skiing are few sports which are the main sports attraction of this place and people take part in it whole-heartedly. This is one of the most vibrant and enjoyable places in Manali and should not be missed. We left on a good note from our last drop.

Priya Soni

91 Followers

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Day 10 Solang Valley.. We started from Losar to solang very early at about 6am. This was due to the fact that the road is one hell of adventure with "pagal nalas" overflowing and washing away even vehicles. This particular route has a lot of vehical breakdown. It was one adventurous drive for us where our car got stuck in one of the nalas with huge rocks. The route is amazingly scenic. On our way we passed by the very famous rohtang pass. Since in the past few days we had just laid our eyes on the most scenic of the nature, rohtang pass somehow could not make it up to our excitement list. Nearby to rohtang pass is a temple of Rishi vyas, and it is also said to be the origin of beas river. From the hair pin bending route to long traffic for clearing the pass, we reached solang valley. Also to mention, this rohtang pass route is closed on certain day of the week. Please check before travelling to avoid a day wastage. Solang valley however to our dismay could not offer us much excitement and thrill of adventure sports as it has become too commercialized and the cost of such activities is not even regulated. We decided to skip it for the sheer fact that we have seen and done much better things in life to while our money on such stuffs.