Introduction

Lush green in summers and milky white in winters, the picturesque Solang Valley is about 13 kilometers (8 miles) from Manali between Solang Village and Beas Kund. Affording views of glaciers and the snow-capped Himalayan ranges, Solang Valley receives many adventure sports enthusiasts year round. When the snow melts in summer and the valley reveals a lush green carpet, holidaymakers camp on its slopes and take up zorbing - an adventure activity in which a giant ball with room for two people is rolled off a 200-meter-hill (667 feet), besides paragliding, parachuting and horse riding.

In winter, the valley turns into a ski resort when a skiing festival is organized and training in skiing is imparted to enthusiasts. Solang has fine ski slopes making it ideal for skiing and skating among other winter sports. Interestingly, few ski agencies such as the Mountaineering and Allied Sports Institute set shop here in winters and offer courses and equipment. In fact, the Mountaineering Institute has installed a ski lift for training purpose, and has its hut and guest house here. The area is now home to a few hotels. The surrounding areas of Manali from 3 to 20 kilometers are ideal for rock climbing. And if nothing of this suits your type, just explore its giant slopes and behold the breathtaking scenery of dense alpine forests, sapphire-blue glaciers and the majestic pinnacles covered with mist billowing up into the sky.

Special Attributes

A skiing festival is organized in Solang Valley and training in skiing is imparted to enthusiasts.

Nuisance

The site is very peaceful and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress is whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

HPTDC Transport has a large fleet of well maintained luxury coaches operating around Manali. You can also explore places around Manali in a private taxi.

Enjoyed by

Families, Backpackers

Exposure

You will be under open sky of Manali. The temperature remains pleasant here in the summer months and can dip below freezing point in winter. At any time of the year, you are advised to carry at least light woolens. The sun could be harsh in afternoons, so bring along your sunshades and a sunscreen lotion.

Avoidable Season

You can visit Solang Valley any time of the year.

Facilities

You can enjoy skiing, skating, paragliding, parachuting and horse riding in Solang Valley.

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction.

Tip

The tour involves some bit of trekking, so you are advised to wear your walking shoes.

Type of site

Ski resort