Beas River

If you spend any amount of time in Manali, you can expect to see plenty of the Beas River. While the Manaslu River, a tributary of the Beas, flows through Old Manali, the Beas cuts right through the eastern part of town. Seasonal white-water rafting trips allow visitors to zip down its grade I, II, and III rapids on an inflatable boat, with several tour operators in the area offering guided excursions. If you prefer to admire the water from land, you can fish or go hiking, snowshoeing, or camping along the river. Quite a few hotels in Manali look right out over the Beas, too.

• Currents in the river can be unpredictable, so it’s wise to avoid swimming and take care if wading in.
• If you plan to go white-water rafting, always go with a registered guide or as part of a guided tour.
• Make sure to wear sun protection, as the sun’s rays can be damaging, even on overcast days.

The Beas River runs through the eastern end of Manali and is within walking distance of the town center. To reach Manali by plane, fly to the Kullu-Manali Airport in the town of Bhuntar, an hour from Manali via taxi. Or, take a bus or taxi from Chandigarh, an 8-hour drive away, or Delhi, a 12-hour drive away.

The best time to visit the Beas River is between March and May or from September to November, when the water levels are high and the weather is cooler than in lower elevations. The winter months can be snowy, which can make getting around difficult, while the monsoon months (June–August) can be rainy and lead to landslides in the area.

Just north of central Manali sits the Hidimba Devi Temple (Dhungari Temple), one of the most important Hindu pilgrimage sites in the area. Devotees come here to pray to the goddess Hidimba Devi, an avatar of Durga. Even if you aren’t interested in the temple’s spiritual significance, it’s worth paying a visit to check out the wooden structure’s distinct, pagoda-style architecture.