A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali!

Tripoto
9th Nov 2019
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

We all fantasize about travelling. Everyone wants to show their inner traveler to the world, to explore the unexplored and to experience the inexperienced. And our Bloggers and the Bollywood movies like Dil Chahta hain and Yeh Jwaani Hain Deewaani does the work of adding fuel to the fire.

Though time is a challenging factor, we cannot deny the fact that our budgets are also a concern for most of us,whether you're planning Solo trips or in group. And the truth is most of the times we end up cancelling the plan or even the idea of any trip.

Well, what would be a traveling story without any challenges. Challenges are one of the key factors that going to make your trip memorable. Similarly and fortunately in my case I accepted the challenge of the Budget and time and did not end up cancelling my trip to Manali!!

It all started with the irritation after Diwali celebration in Delhi (NCR). The air pollution was breaking all the records like Virat Kohli and my urge to run away from the city has fixed the plan of going to Himachal Pradesh( not sure where, just wanted to ran away). Someone suggested to visit Manali and to stay in Old Manali.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! 1/1 by Hemansu Chamaria

I am a working student, so the next task was to convince my Boss to allow me 4 days leave. With some innocence and drama he agrees to grant me the leaves. As you can assume the next thing was, I packed my bag and left for my trip. Before the trip I needed some accessories and winter wears so I went for shopping with two of my friends. In the mean time I was searching for cheapest but comfortable buses online(did not found it much helpful). However, by online surfing I get to know that I can get a bus either from RK Ashram Marg or from Majnu ka Tila. As I was on a Very strict budget, I had to make sure that I deal in the best possible way for the things I am going to spend on. So instead of booking online, I directly went to an office of Tours and Travels to book a Volvo's seat. I booked one at ₹800 only.

Finally at 19:00 hrs IST, I Boarded the Bus, seating beside me was a Gujarati Uncle who has just retired and was heading to Manali on a Family trip. We had a great conversation throughout the journey. I think the bus driver was very fond of history and Action movies. That's why the only place he thought would be good to have dinner was Panipat ( Haryana) and was driving like he doesn't care about any of us. He just wanted to win the race, with whom? You will never know. I was enjoying it though. Though it was a 13 hours journey, after some 6=7 hours approx, I started to feel colder. Welcome to Himachal Pradesh!!

Around at 4:00 am, we stopped by a tea stall at Sundernagar, all of them were having Tea, bread Omlet etc. but my attention was completely on the cool breeze and the fresh air that I was craving for while back in Gurugram. I was breathing like the way a doctor asks while checking up, to listen your heartbeat clearly. Those who are residing in Delhi NCR or nearby could certainly relate to the feeling I was experiencing. It was as dark as the midnight and you can surely make an unsuccessful attempt to gaze the stars hidden behind the freezing fog. My attempt and focus was interrupted by the horn of the Bus, signalling to get back as it was about to reach where it is destined to.

Day 1

Just imagine, you step down from the bus feeling like you are going to get freeze, your eyes are half opened and to see where you are, you dare to open it completely. Oh Shoot! I am in Heaven!!!! The way of breathing is still the same, the only difference is that you can hear your heart beating more clearly, giving the proofs that you are more than just alive. You see around, and find yourself on the laps of the greatest Mountain, The Himalayas and the board in front of you is saying "Welocme to Manali"!!!

Photo of Manali Bus Stand, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

I took a Taxi to Old Manali, which cost me ₹100. I pre-booked my hotel room from Make My Trip (as Usual). Unfortunately the room I booked was an Oyo room and the hotel had some dispute with the Oyo. They refused to accommodate me based on my online booking and the Direct booking was 5 times more expensive so there was no chance I am going to go for that considering my budget. So I called Make My Trip Customer service team and they requested me for some time. They responded back in 15 minutes and apologized for the inconvenience( it was not their fault either). So as a resolution they requested me to book another non Oyo hotel, refunded my money and compensated me with some digital cash for my next booking. Here is a tip for hotel booking:- If you are solo, try to book only for a single day, the rates will be much cheaper most of the time you get the same hotel at the same price or at minimal difference, else the hassle is worth the money it saves. The above incident might seems unfortunate but it was one of the most fortunate thing that happened on my trip. The next hotel that I booked "Spring House Manali", for me it was the best and I am very very glad that the previous hotel refused to accommodate.

Photo of Spring House Manali, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of Spring House Manali, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

The above two pictures are the view from the hotel room I stayed, It was very near to the Hadimba Temple and the best place to stay. The cost of my per day booking was ₹250 only and the room was fab, service was fab, the manager or the handler of this hotel was fab as well. The hospitality I received was remarkable. The only reason I am mentioning about this is because other factors might have made my trip exciting and thrilled, this hotel and its in-charge have made my trip Very comfortable. Always ready to help, to guide, to assist and to tell stories. I was getting Spring water also. Who wants those mineral water bottles claiming to contains fresh mountain waters, when you can get it directly from the mountain itself?!

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

You can rent a Two wheeler from the Hotel directly. I rented a scooty ( as it was the cheapest and with the best mileage) it cost me ₹600 and ₹100 for the fuel. I headed towards Solang Valley. When I reached Solang Valley, it was very crowded so I wanted to go further, but was not able to, as roads were blocked by the Armed officials. Two days ago heavy snowfall happened and it has blocked the roads. Instead of staying there, I decided to experience the Road trip and do some clicking.

Photo of Solang Valley, Burwa, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of Solang Valley, Burwa, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

In the mean time I also ate some Bread Toast and Black Coffee. I met a Group of travelers from Delhi as they were heading towards Solang Valley. I was advised to visit Vashistha Temple. I went there but was not able to get any good pictures of the same. The temple was constructed based on ancient architecture and is a great place to worship and to attain peace. Around 18:00 hrs, I decided to go back to Mall Road to explore the Market of Manali and if possible to eat some traditional food. On my way back, I can hear the aggressive yet mesmerizing sound of the river,challenging and crushing all that comes on its way.

The Mall Road of Manali. Most of us have heard about it and some of us have explored it too. It is a colorful market, full of lights, reflecting and attracting you with its tradition, culture and handicrafts at every part of it and welcoming one and all with open heart. If I have to describe it, the market is just like the Rangoli that you design at your home in Diwali. It is eventually going to make you happy even if you are not ready to buy anything. And ladies, its really a small paradise for your winter-wear shopping. Oh! I forgot, I have to eat something. But where would I find a decent traditional food which will also be good for my pocket. While roaming the Galis of the market, I came across this great Cafe, who has a complete theme of music and the Fragrance that was coming from it was lovely as well. I thought of giving it a try and check the prices.

Photo of Manali Mall Market, Mall Road, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

I went into the cafe and checked out the Menu. The prices were good for the Chinese and the snacks. But I was looking for the Traditional food and I had no idea about any. So I asked the manager and he told me that its 'Siddu'( You can also see the name written on board in the above picture which I didn't paid attention earlier)and the price was ₹70. Before ordering it I need to know what actually I am going to eat. So the manager explained me that it is a dish made up of multigrain flour and have the stuffing of Mashed walnuts. You have to eat it with some Chatni ( Paste of some herbs or chilli) and Desi Ghee. He also added that it is good for energy and warmth. Then lets Bring it on!! It looks like Kind of Momos but taste bit different. But you will still like it.

Siddu with Ghee

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

After having my food I went back to my hotel room and around at some 22:00 hrs I ordered a plate of Maggi ( a dish that you are going to eat by default while at Manali). I sat on the Balcony in front of the room and was enjoying the moment, the feeling and the nature that I was craving for, back in my city life. The pet dog of the hotel In-charge was barking non-stop just to listen the echo of his voice coming back from the hills. I tried to do the same for twice or thrice then I left the idea, as I do not wish to lose that hotel room just because the other people think that I am crazy ( In the mean time I have also booked the same room for the other day at same price).

Day 2
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

Wake up!! Its time! Its the second day of the trip. I have rented the scooty again. As decided previous day I headed towards Gulaba. I have been told that at this time, I will get to see most of the snow in Gulaba.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

Not only Gulaba, the roads towards it was also fun( not to forget the villages and valleys in between).

To save some time I headed empty stomach. So first thing that I was looking for was some food.

Photo of Gulaba Viewpoint, Kothi, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of Gulaba Viewpoint, Kothi, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

I have already reached Gulaba. Stopping for food was a good idea. Talking to some people, I got to know where to go further in Gulaba. How far I can take the scooty etc. etc. In addition to that I get to sit with couple of groups and also to see families enjoying there.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

Going further above was the smart decision. Though I have to park the scooty behind. But that track was most memorable one.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

While tracking I met and got involved with couple of groups, had some snow ball fight as well.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

While clicking the above shot, I suddenly realize that behind me there is a place untouched. No one even cared to notice it. How could they. Trying not to slip on the snow and saving my bones I slide down. Not even a single human foot print. A complete Wallpaper!!

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

Just when I thought nothing could get better. Two horses came. And guess what, the view got even more beautiful.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

I sat there for around 1 hour and just enjoyed the beauty, the unbelievable beauty of the nature. The sound of the shallow river water, the whistle of the freezing wind and people laughing in distance. This all created the urge to trek further until its dark. And what if its dark I have a torch light a phone ( though no network but songs are already downloaded in offline mode).

Now its around 16:30 hrs IST. I am moving further with slow pace, enjoying every moment of this beauty which I was missing back in Gurugram. Suddenly a tempo was coming down ( finally the road which was blocked for 2 days have started to open and let the vehicles pass). It was full of vegetables and 3 locals. They stopped as soon as they saw me. They asked, "Hey what are you doing here. Its going to be dark soon."

Me:- I am trekking above, would like to see what more this place have.

Guy 1:- Don't you know that after its dark a bear might come down and that's not rare but usual.

Me:- So what? Its only a bear after all. ( I am so dumb that until now for me the image of a bear is of Winnie the Pooh)(they only eat honey)

Guy2:- Boy One slap of bear will get you the need of plastic surgery.

Me:- WHAAAAT!!!!!

Lady:- Do you have other people with you?

Me:- Yes, there are couple of groups behind me. I am good.

"Alright, bye then."

When I turned back. There was literally "NO ONE"

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

In hurry to ran down. I even dropped my selfie stick. Hopefully I have come down enough to meet other people and one of them was making a cool snowman. Watching it I forgot what just happened.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Day 3

Here comes the day, the day which no one wants. Going back to daily schedule from holiday. But I don't want the thought of it to ruin the time that was left. Because I am supposed to catch a bus in the evening.

Last day was more fun and exciting than expected. I was the last one who was coming down from Gulaba and it was already dark. The wind had start blowing faster and all the locals were also gone. Fortunately I found a tea stall who was about to pack up. He made some maggi for me and we talked for almost half an hour( because I was going to give him a ride back to his home).

Before I booked my tickets for delhi ( which I do not wanted at all), I decided to visit Hidimba Devi Temple. A temple in the mid of the jungle. The temple is dedicated to Devi Hidimba, the wife of Mahabharata's mighty warrior and a Pandav Bhim and the mother of Veer Ghatotkacha.

Hidimba Devi Temple

Photo of Hadimba Devi Temple, Hadimba Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

I was very excited about trekking trough the jungle (friendly Jungle though).

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

At Hidimba temple you feel great, only by its ambience. You can see the big Himalayan rabbit, locals selling local products and specially the dry fruits and local fruits. **Do not buy saffron or Shilajit from the roaming salesman.**

Temple will get you directly at the flashback of ancient times. Not only the monument, but the appearance of the locals, place etc. etc.

Photo of Hadimba Devi Temple, Hadimba Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of Hadimba Devi Temple, Hadimba Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of Hadimba Devi Temple, Hadimba Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of Hadimba Devi Temple, Hadimba Temple Road, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

I forgot! I have to book tickets for my return. Now I have to look for the price also. While checking the price A/C bus was not an option. But who needs A/C in this winter. The concern is the comfort and hygiene. I can compromise a bit with the comfort ( not much just a bit). I decided to go by the Himachal Roadways.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

The hotelier was too nice to keep my belongings with him, while I visit the Hidimba Mandir. I went back and decided to trek the forest back of my hotel. You can see the picture of it above. I had 4 hours until my bus leave. The departure time was 20:30 hrs.

The housekeeper warned me not to trek in the evening, again because of the bears, but I didn't listen. With complete over-confidence I started the trek. It was good until I trek for one hour. Met few locals collecting woods and few dogs as well. I kept a stick with me ( because I am afraid of the dogs). (Not to hit them, but to keep them away). Then I sat for few minutes to drink some water and to look around. Suddenly I heard a light roar. It sucked life out of me!! Like Dementors from Harry Potter. I ran, To be honest I roll down so fast that I was back in hotel within half an hour.

I sat on a bench at Mall Road market. I was recalling everything that has happened so far, the excitement, the fun, the adventure, the fear, the exploring and more. Suddenly a dog came and sat beside me. This time I was not afraid, instead I lost in the thought about what all local people have said about dogs all along my trip.

Photo of Mall Road Manali, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India by Hemansu Chamaria

Manali locals do not purchase dogs to make them pet. They feed, they nourish they care their street dogs and whichever dogs like them they stay with them. They always say that dogs are more loyal and helpful than human. They will wait for you, they will take care of yours, they will always provide you company and they will also do many work of yours. They do not need to be purchased. They only need to be loved.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

Despite of all the fear and disliking I have for the dogs ( just because I fear of them). A respect was developed for them which I do not wanted. But now it did. The fear is still there but now there is a sense of respect as well. This was something this trip has given me which I did not wanted or expected. But I am okay with it. The thought process broke when I met a group again whom I have met in Gulaba. It was their last day of holiday too. That reminded me that my bus is departing within half an hour.

The thought process continues in the bus. But something was more tempting and I decided to post that on my Whatsapp status in my words.

Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria
Photo of A Budget Friendly Solo Trip To Manali! by Hemansu Chamaria

This was my trip a Budget trip. Budget of time and Money but too much in return. Always remember "When you go to mountains, you can never come back."

Frequent Searches Leading To This Page:-

10 best things to do in manali, things to do in manali in december, best things to buy in manali, do's and don ts in manali, famous things in manali for shopping, top places in manali to visit, best places to visit in manali for honeymoon, top manali tour packages with prices from delhi