Kasauli is one of the most popular destinations for tourists up north. In this beautiful town, Manki Point is a happening spot where you’ll find many tourists like yourself, exploring the astounding views the place boasts. Manki Point is located at the highest peak in Kasauli inside the Air Force station. It lies at an elevation of 300 meters and is also known as ‘Monkey Point’. Not only does it have historical value, but it is also a holy place for Hindus. It is believed that Lord Hanuman came here to find Sanjeevani Buti and save Laxman’s life.
Manki Point History
The Hanuman Temple at Manki Point was known for several precious magical herbs that could even bring the dead to life. As we recall the point in Ramayan where Lord Hanuman goes to find the Sanjeevani Buti for Laxman, you will realise this is the same place where he got the herb.
what is even more interesting is that the imprint of his feet is still intact on the hill. How interesting is that? Hence, devotees of Lord Hanuman built a temple of him here.
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Manki Point Location And Timings
Kasauli is a cute hill station in the state of Himachal Pradesh in North India. Manki Point is located in the southern region of this hill station, about 4 km from the centre of the city. It is under the area of Air Force One. The location is on a high elevation that enables visitors to get a glimpse of neighbouring towns like Chandigarh and also River Satluj.
The allotted time to visit Manki Point is between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The entry is closed after 4.
Manki Point Activities
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- Hanuman Temple is the central attraction here. Many tourists flock here, especially for visiting this temple. One has to climb about 500 steps to reach there. The entire place is a military area and under the Air Force Station.
- Since it is the highest peak of the Kasauli Manki Point, it offers outstanding views of nearby places like Chandigarh, Panchkula, and the river Sutlej. On a clear day, visitors can also see the snow-covered peak of ‘Choor Chandni’ in the Lower Himalayan belt.
- As the name suggests, there are many monkeys here. They are not dangerous, but please avoid interacting unnecessarily with them. Keep children away from animals.
- There are also facilities for food and beverages in a restaurant. You can enjoy refreshments while resting on benches or just stroll the hills to enjoy its scenic beauty.
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Kasauli
Places To Visit Near Manki Point
Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast or a naturalist, these places to visit near Manki Point will take your breath away:
1. Gilbert Trail, Kasauli
Image Credit: ßlåçk Pærl for Wikimedia Commons
Gilbert Trail – Situated about 2 km from Kasauli Bus Stand, Gilbert Trail is one of the most scenic trails close to the popular Sunset Point in Kasauli. The trail offers a natural path amid the green hills. If you love watching birds fly over trees and hearing their sweet voices as you trail through the journey, then Gilbert Trail is for you.
Gilbert Trail’s attraction comes from the narrow trail for tourists, lush green landscape, hills all around, and sounds of a variety of birds. What more could a nature lover want?
2. Markets at Mall Road, Kasauli
Image Credit: Biswarup Ganguly for Wikimedia Commons
Mall Road, Kasauli – This is the most popular spot in Shimla as we all have heard before. It is also the most crowded part of the town with several shops, restaurants, cafes and landmarks. It is the most active region of the town where a lot of cultural events also happen.
The main shopping market of Shimla is also situated on the Mall road. Tourists flock here during the months of April, June, October and January. The markets have local arts and crafts, jewellery, woodwork, winter clothes, shawls, food, beverages and many more amenities. The Old Bazaar is another famous market where you can buy souvenirs and winter clothes. Even the most important buildings like banks, commercial offices, etc are also located on Mall Road itself. Bookshops are also a very popular spot for tourists with large reading collections for visitors. Vehicles are not allowed on Mall Road.
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Himachal In Monsoon
3. Christ Church, Kasauli
Image Credit: Suman Wadhwa for Wikimedia Commons
Christ Church – The Christ Church Kasauli was built by the British family who, interestingly had also founded the town of Kasauli. The church is a glorious structure constructed in the shape of a cross. You can find a few chestnut and fir trees surrounding the monument that offer the area a calm and pleasant air. This church was earlier an Anglican church that was founded in the year 1844. It is also near the bus stand and quite accessible since it is the image that comes to mind when people think of Shimla. The iconic landmark has to be visited!
4. Baba Balak Nath Temple, Kasauli
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Baba Balak Nath Temple – In the Solan district of Himachal Pradesh, there is a sacred temple by the name of Baba Balak Nath Temple at a distance of 3 km from the town of Kasauli. It has always been a permanent spot in every tourist’s list of places to visit in Shimla.
It can be called a cave temple since it makes up a cave. It is dedicated to an honest devotee of Lord Shiva, Baba Balak Nath. There is a belief here that most people have faith in, which is that if couples who are not able to conceive, pray here, then they will soon bear children. One of the attractions of the temple is the several sculptures of Lord Shiva all around the premises. It is one of the best places to visit in Shimla for spiritual people and Hindus.
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How To Reach Manki Point
By Road – Manki Point is situated on a steep hill, which is not easy to hike.
It is situated about 4 kilometres from the bus station. You can also hail a taxi outside the gate of the Air Force station and then walk towards Manki Point. It takes 15 minutes to go up and back from the mountain.
By Air – The nearest airport to Kasauli is Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, (Chandigarh) from where you can either book a cab or a private car to reach Kasauli.
By Train – The nearest railway station would be Kalka which is 40 km away. It takes approximately an hour to reach Kasauli. The popular choice here is the Toy Train which is a very lively experience to have in Shimla.
Further Read: Places To Visit In Himachal Pradesh
Now that you know all about the Manki Point in Kasauli, it’s time to book your tickets to Himachal Pradesh. This trip to Himachal Pradesh will be your best so far! Book your tickets now!
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Cover Image Source: Abhimanyu7793 for Wikipedia
Frequently Asked Questions About Manki Point
What is the protocol for entering the Manki Point?
The temple is a part of the military area of the Air Force, so no gadgets are allowed. Lockers are available for you to keep your items safely. IDs are important; do not forget to take them. Passes will be issued only after the security check is done.
What facilities are there?
Parking and clean toilets are available inside. A small restaurant serves food and drinks and benches and tables to sit and enjoy.
Are there any restrictions?
Photography, carry bags, and electronic devices are not allowed. Do not litter the premises or you will have to pay a heavy fine.
What is the average temperature in Kasauli?
The average temperature in Kasauli throughout the year is 14 - 34 °C.
How much time is required to cover Manki Point?
Approximately 1 - 2 hours.
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