Old Manali

Old Manali is the original settlement of the region, dating back centuries before British administrators developed the new township near the plains. According to legend, Old Manali was the actual land where Sage Manu stepped off his ark to recreate human civilization after the great flood. The village grew around agriculture, apple orchards, and sheep rearing. In the late 1960s and 70s, it became a popular stop on the famous 'Hippie Trail' through India, introducing cafe culture, acoustic music, and international cuisines to the valley, which has seamlessly blended with local Pahadi traditions.

Old Manali stands in stark, beautiful contrast to the busy commercial blocks of the main Mall Road. Separated from the new town by the rushing waters of the Manalsu River, Old Manali retains an old-world charm with its traditional wood-and-stone houses (Kathkuni style), terraced fields, and slower backpacker lifestyle. The narrow uphill streets are lined with indie clothing stalls, bookshops, organic bakeries, and bohemian cafes playing live acoustic music. In these cafes, travelers from around the world gather over mountain coffee, trout platters, and wood-fired pizzas. The sound of the gushing river, coupled with the fragrance of pine woods, creates a peaceful atmosphere popular among writers, artists, and remote work professionals.