12 Places To Visit In Malana: A Village In Himachal Pradesh Worth Exploring In 2024

6 Feb 2021

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The ancient Indian village namely Malana is located in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The beautiful Malana village stands by itself amid picturesque valleys of the Malana Nala, Kullu Valley and Parvati Valley. It is shadowed by the glorious Himanyan Ranges’ peaks of the Deo Tibba and Chanderkhani. It is situated at an altitude of 2,652 meters and the Malana River flows beside it. This Himalayan village lies in the laps of nature which is still unaffected by the impact of globalisation and modernisation initiatives. It is a village of only about 35 km but still, it has a lot of offer to the tourists.

Regarded as the Hashish Capital of Himachal, Malana is a secluded society amidst nature and all its bounties. It is a perfect place to catch a break from the monotony of city life as if enjoying some good times far from the maddening crowd of the urban lifestyle. There are many unique places to visit in Malana, Himachal Pradesh that makes you believe the irrefutable power of nature and its scintillating beauty.

12 Places To Visit In Malana

Valleys, wildlife, mountains, rivers and the interesting culture and traditional practices of Malana are the great attractions of sorts in them – towering customs, mindset and practices which include the Cannabis farming, touch-me-not believes, lambs as a medium of law and order and just so many taboos that have caught the fancy of all of India. With that in mind, explore the famous places to visit in Malana and its surroundings for an experience for a lifetime.

1. Jamadagni Temple

It is a prominent religious site for the people of Malana. Considered a true marvel of the architectural design and creativity as for its construction from only wood and stone usage, it seeks the attention of devotees as much as the tourists. The intricate designs on the outer walls of this temple give it a complete rustic feel. It is very much aesthetically pleasing thus a delight to stand in its midst. Located in the centre of the village and surrounded by the lush greenery of the landscape, its backdrops as snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan Range look amazing, especially during the wintertime.

Timings: No one is allowed to come near the temple after nightfall
How to Reach: It is a small village and any local will point you to the direction of this temple thus you can walk up to here.
Things to Do: Admire the architecture and take in the serenity of this sacred place.

Must Read: Malana Trek: A Pretty Journey On The Road Less Travelled In Parvati Valley

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2. Renuka Devi Shrine Temple

This temple is located in the lower region of Manala amidst the dense mountains. Archaeologists from all over India keep flocking to assess its unique and most intricate woodworks. Tourists arrive here to explore its beauty and architectural richness. Good chunk of devotees worship in the temple cum shrine. You might find here the relics of animals arranged on the outer walls of the temple. They are appealing and remain in the centre of attention. Observing them will make you understand and help you get a glimpse into the lifestyles of the common masses in Manala and their cultural leanings.

How to Reach: The only option is a small trek which is rather easy and a local guide’s help can be taken.
Cost: None whatsoever.

3. The Chanderkheni

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This Himalayan peak overshadowing the Malana tribal village looks an amazing nature’s beauty. Most popularly, it is known for trekking. It is also regarded as one of the best trails in India. Crossing the lush green valleys, stumbling upon the traditionally styled houses, flower-bedecked meadows and meandering rivers are all a part of this trek. Nothing else can give you a wholesome adventure experience than it here. That is why it remains one of the best places to visit in Manala for a truly challenging adventure act.

Distance from Malana: 5-6 km.
Best Time to Visit: From April to June and from October to November.
Stay Options: Small houses and guesthouses are available in Malana for rent.
Things to Do: Trekking and camping.

4. The Deo Tibba Mountain

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It is another mountain that dominates the backdrop of the Malana tribal village. Being an offbeat but one of the top places to visit in Malana, it remains the most popular place for trekking and camping although much of it is still unexplored. The trail promises the enchanting views of the meadows, rocky terrains, forests, lakes under the snow-covered mountains. Apart from the Deo Tibba, there is also another Himalayan Peak here named as the Indrasan which along with the Jagatsukh glacier makes the surroundings even more charming.

Distance from Malana: 12 km.
Best Time to Visit: From June to September.
Things to Do: Trekking, camping, hiking and sightseeing.

5. The Hampta Pass

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Situated at an altitude of 4333 m, the Hampta Pass offers a variety of landscapes. Be it, lush forests, valleys, deep blue lakes, open and barren lands, the Hampta Pass can be a treat to the eyes. It can be an exhilarating experience that enriches the heart and soul of a traveller.

Distance from Malana: 12 km.
Best Time to Visit: From June to September
Things to Do: Trekking, camping, hiking, mountain climbing, sightseeing.

Suggested Read: 12 Snowfall Places In Himachal Pradesh

6. Manikaran

It is a small town situated between the rivers of the Beas and Parvati. It is at an altitude of 1760 m. The town has various magnificent temples where various Hindu deities are installed. They attract lots of pilgrims from all over India. It remains one to of most famous places to visit in Malana due to its hot springs besides pilgrimage identity. And, these springs are believed to have the medicinal effects as well.

Distance from Malana: 25 km.
Best Time to Visit: January, February and December.
Things to Do: Sightseeing, trekking, rafting, camping and worshipping.

7. The Great Himalayan National Park

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Surrounded by the Jiw, Sainj and the Tirthan Rivers, this National Park is famous for its riverine forests, meadows, valleys and white peaks in the backdrop. It is indeed one of the best places to visit in Malana due to various reasons. The National Park has the collection of different species of plants and about 375 species of animals. Snow leopard, Musk Deer, Bharal, Himalayan Tahr are amongst the exotic animals found here.

Distance from Manala: About 32 km.
Best Time to Visit: From April to June and October, November.
Things to Do: Camping, exploring the wildlife and natural beauty, hiking and rafting.

Suggested Read: 17 Monuments In Himachal Pradesh

8. Parvati Valley

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The view from Parvati Valley is that of green mountains, open clear skies and the gushing Parvati River. It truly is sheer magic! Situated in the laps of the Himalayas and just one small trek away from Manala, it is worth exploring the place. It is heaven for the trekkers and backpackers. For its beautiful landscapes, it is known as the ‘Amsterdam of India’ and is indeed one of the amazing tourist places to visit in Malana at least once in a lifetime.

Distance from Malana: 40 km.
How to Reach: You can trek or hire a cab as well; buses are available too.
Best Time to Visit: Summers and Springs. It can get too much snow in the winters and rendering the valley is inaccessible thus avoid during winters.

9. The Sar Lake and Pass

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Situated in the Parvati, this is also one of the top places to visit in Malana. It is most known for the adventurous trekking. The view along the route looks gorgeous while the view from the top of the peak remains marvellous for the travellers to feel the ascent of nature. You pass by a frozen lake and enjoy snow slides that can be about 100 ft long along your way to the peak.

Distance from Manala: About 40 km.
Best Time to Visit: It is accessible all year long but winters are highly recommended.
Things to Do: Trekking and camping.

10. Bhuntar

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It is also located between the Parvati and Beas Rivers and is often regarded as the ‘Gateway to the Queen Hills’ which are Kullu and Manali. It has several architecturally significant temples dedicated to the Hindu deities and is popularly known for pilgrimage. It also has the Pin Valley National Park which is worth exploring for the exotic wildlife like the black bears and langurs. Considered as one of the best places to visit in Malana to indulge in the scenic beauty and try out some adventure sports, travellers explore its beauty.

Distance from Malana: About 42 km.
Best Time to Visit: It is accessible and beautiful all year long.
Things to Do: Rafting, gliding, trekking and camping.

11. Tosh

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One of the most interesting places to visit in Malana, Himachal Pradesh, Tosh is definitely an enchanting one to keep you hooked. It packs the entire experience of Himachal Pradesh in itself. Traditional culture, mesmerising beauty of mountains, valleys, thick woods, glacier rivers and exotic wildlife awaits you at Tosh. What is most inviting is the fact that Tosh is quiet, calm, serene and is a perfect secluded place to unwind.

Distance from Malana: About 40 km.
Best Time to Visit: It is beautiful and quiet all year long.
Things to Do: Sightseeing, adventure sports, trekking and camping.

12. Kheerganga

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Amongst the places to visit in Malana, Kheerganga is regarded as the ultimate trekking destination in Himachal Pradesh. It is located in the Parvati Valley and is another location which is famous for the medicinal hot springs. It is surrounded by lush woods and offers a rewarding experience altogether.

Distance from Malana: About 44 km.
Best Time to Visit: From January to March and November, December.
Things to Do: Trekking and Camping.

Further Read: Trekking In Himachal Pradesh: 23 Best Routes To Put On Your Bucket List

Malana is truly a tribal paradise with great beauty in and around it. It is also known as one of the oldest democracies apart from its misty mountains, vibrant wildflowers and beautiful lakes, rivers and valleys. Plan a trip to Himachal Pradesh and explore this wonderland.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Malana

How to reach Malana?

You can reach Malana through the mountain passes of Rasol and Chanderkhani or hire a taxi from the nearby town of Jari but you would have to trek for 4 km to get to Malana.

Can tourists stay in Malana?

There are very few accommodation options is Malana but cottages and guesthouses are available for rent.

Is Malana closed for the tourists?

It was closed in the year 2017 because of the regulatory measures to control the production of Cannabis there, but as of 2019 tourists are allowed.

What is Malana famous for?

It is known for something called the ‘Manala Cream’ which is made only here and is a top-quality Cannabis.