Offbeat Places Near Manali: Quiet Getaways and Hidden Adventures

Let’s face it- Manali, while stunning, tends to get a little too popular among tourists. Come holiday season, the winding roads start buzzing, cafes get crowded, and finding a quiet corner feels exhausting like a mini trek in itself.

But here’s the thing. Manali isn’t just about the crowds, the Mall Road, or the usual viewpoints. These are the offbeat places near Manali where the air feels fresher, the skies clearer, time moves a little slower, and the mountain charm is untouched.

In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best offbeat places near Manali. And if you’re staying at Club Mahindra White Meadows or Club Mahindra Snow Peaks, you’re already closer than most.

In this blog:

• Why Choose Offbeat Over Popular
• Top Offbeat Places Near Manali
• Offbeat Travel Tips
• Club Mahindra: Your Ideal Base for Offbeat Exploration
• FAQs

Why Choose Offbeat Over Popular

Peace and Space

Sometimes you just want the mountains to yourself. Offbeat places near Manali offer wide-open meadows, quiet trails, and sunrise spots without a crowd in sight. It’s the calm your soul’s been craving.

Authenticity

The charm of these hidden spots lies in their simplicity. You’ll find age-old wooden homes, smoke rising from village kitchens, and locals who welcome you like family. It’s Himachal in its most honest and heartwarming form.

Adventure of Exploration

There’s something magical about stepping into places that aren’t in every travel brochure. Offbeat travel is all about finding hidden waterfalls, unnamed trails, and roadside dhabas that serve the best chai you didn’t know you needed.

Top Offbeat Places Near Manali

Sethan Valley (12 km from Manali)

Sethan Valley is one of the closest and most peaceful offbeat places near Manali. Just 12 km uphill, this tiny Buddhist hamlet offers uninterrupted views of the Dhauladhar range and a calmness you won’t find in the usual tourist zones. The journey is scenic, winding through forests and small villages.

What to Do:

• Go snow trekking or bouldering during winter
• Set up camp and stargaze away from city lights
• Spend quiet mornings soaking in the Himalayan view

Best Time to Visit:

Visit between October and March for snow, or April to June for clear skies and mountain sunshine. It’s ideal for a peaceful nature break near Manali.

Hamta Valley (15 km from Manali)

For those searching for hidden places near Manali, Hamta Valley checks all the boxes. Located beyond Sethan, this valley is known for its wild beauty, alpine forests, and glacier-fed streams. The route from Manali is full of dramatic scenery and fewer people, making it a true offbeat Himachal experience.

What to Do:

• Begin the Hamta Pass trek for a serious adventure
• Pack a picnic and relax near the riverside
• Try landscape photography and easy day hikes

Best Time to Visit:

May to October is best. The valley is accessible and full of colour during these months, especially for those planning offbeat weekend trips from Manali.

Jana Waterfall (35 km from Manali)

If you’re craving fresh air, local food, and a quiet corner in the hills, Jana Waterfall is a must-visit. Nestled in a small village surrounded by deodar trees and apple orchards, this is one of the most underrated offbeat destinations in Himachal. Even the drive feels like a cinematic experience.

What to Do:

• Taste authentic Himachali food at local dhabas
• Relax by the stream and listen to the waterfall
• Enjoy peaceful nature walks in the surrounding forest

Best Time to Visit:

March to November is ideal. This scenic village near Manali is at its best in spring and post-monsoon, with lush greenery all around.

Naggar (20 km from Manali)

Naggar is what you'd call quietly charming. Perched on the left bank of the Beas River, just 20 km from Manali, this town has a rich cultural vibe without the chaos. Once the capital of the Kullu kingdom, Naggar is now a peaceful village with cobbled paths, heritage sites, and postcard-worthy views of the valley.

What to Do:

• Explore Naggar Castle and the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery
• Sip coffee at a hillside café with panoramic views
• Wander through the pine forest trails around the village

Best Time to Visit:

September to May is perfect, especially if you want a peaceful getaway close to Manali. This is one of the most authentic offbeat places near Manali that blends history and nature.

Rumsu Village (21 km from Manali)

Just above Naggar lies Rumsu, a sleepy little village often missed by tourists. It is known for its traditional wooden houses, quiet stone paths, and views that stretch endlessly across the Kullu Valley. If you’re seeking scenic villages near Manali that no one talks about, Rumsu is the place.

What to Do:

• Walk around the village and admire the Kathkuni-style house
• Visit the centuries-old Jagatipatt Temple
• Use Rumsu as a starting point for the Chanderkhani Pass trek

Best Time to Visit:

March to June and September to November are the best times. The village stays quiet year-round, making it ideal for a relaxed break in the mountains.

Gulaba (27 km from Manali)

Looking for a quieter alternative to Rohtang Pass? Gulaba is your answer. Located around 27 km from Manali on the same route, it offers snow in winter and meadows in summer, all without the rush of tourists. It’s perfect for a spontaneous drive out of town.

What to Do:

• Enjoy snow activities in winter without the Rohtang crowd
• Stop for photos with unbeatable views of the valley
• Take a nature walk and enjoy the peaceful surroundings

Best Time to Visit:

December to February for snow, and May to June for green pastures. It’s one of the most accessible offbeat places near Manali for a quick escape into nature.

Old Manali (3 km from Manali Main Town)

Old Manali isn’t exactly a secret, but it still feels like a world apart from the bustle of the main town. Cross the bridge over the Manalsu River and you’ll find narrow paths, rustic cafés, chill vibes, and mountain views that haven’t made it to every travel reel yet. It may be slightly known, but it’s still one of the most peaceful places near Manali.

What to Do:

• Explore cafés with live music and locally brewed apple cider
• Join a yoga class or simply relax with a book
• Walk along forest trails that start right behind the village

Best Time to Visit:

April to June and September to November. The weather is ideal, and the scene stays low-key just before and after the tourist rush. 

Jibhi (101 km from Manali)

Jibhi feels like a storybook village that somehow missed the tourist memo. Tucked in the Banjar Valley, this quiet hamlet is surrounded by thick pine forests and wooden houses with slate roofs. The drive from Manali takes about 3 to 4 hours, but every turn feels worth it. It’s one of the most beloved offbeat destinations in Himachal for nature lovers and backpackers alike.

What to Do:

• Walk along the river or explore hidden trails
• Visit the nearby Chehni Kothi and mini waterfalls
• Stay in a homestay and enjoy slow, meaningful travel

Best Time to Visit:

March to June and late September to November. This is the sweet spot for clear skies, green surroundings, and quiet evenings by the bonfire.

Prashar Lake (103 km from Manali)

If there’s one place near Manali that feels truly magical, it’s Prashar Lake. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and home to a floating island that drifts within the lake, this serene spot sits at an altitude of over 2,700 metres. The road from Manali takes you through villages, forests, and open ridgelines, making the journey half the reward itself.

What to Do:

• Visit the ancient Prashar Rishi Temple beside the lake
• Camp overnight for a surreal sunrise experience
• Try your hand at night photography under a star-filled sky

Best Time to Visit:

May to November for pleasant weather and clear views. This spot is perfect if you're searching for hidden valleys near Manali worth visiting. 

Soyal Village (13 km from Manali)

Nestled in a thick pine forest just 13 km from Manali, Soyal Village is a peaceful retreat that remains largely untouched. It’s perfect for travellers looking for offbeat places near Manali with ancient temples, riverside serenity, and forest trails. A great pick for slow, soulful walks and quiet reflection.

What to Do:

• Very close to Manali, ideal for a short day trip
• Hardly any tourists, offering true peace and quiet
• Perfect for forest therapy, nature walks, and soft adventure
• Offers a raw, authentic Himachali village experience

Best Time to Visit:

March to June and September to November for pleasant weather and forest greenery.

Shoja (106 km from Manali)

Shoja is a serene hamlet in the Seraj Valley, just beyond Jibhi, and one of the most scenic offbeat destinations in Himachal. Surrounded by deodar forests and alpine beauty, it offers jaw-dropping views, misty mornings, and complete peace. Shoja is ideal for trekkers, nature lovers, and those craving a digital detox.

What to Do:

• Close to Jibhi, great for an extended offbeat Himachal itinerary
• Less commercialised, with minimal foot traffic
• Stunning valley views, ideal for slow travel and nature stays
• Gateway to Jalori Pass and Serolsar Lake

Best Time to Visit:

April to June and September to November for clear skies and a vibrant landscape. 

Tandi (107 km from Manali)

Located at the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in Lahaul Valley, Tandi is a scenic, hidden place near Manali that offers rugged beauty and spiritual calm. Surrounded by barren peaks and high-altitude silence, it’s perfect for road trippers and landscape photographers looking for a unique stop off the usual route.

What to Do:

• Quiet, high-altitude village with stunning river confluence views
• Ideal for offbeat road trips toward Keylong or Spiti
• Rarely visited by mainstream tourists
• Beautiful spot for photography and nature connection

Best Time to Visit:

June to October, when roads to the Lahaul Valley are open and the weather is pleasant.

Baragran (50 km from Manali)

Baragran is a peaceful village en route to Barot, perfect for travellers seeking less crowded places in Himachal. With terraced farms, dense greenery, and a laid-back pace, it’s ideal for birdwatchers, nature photographers, and those in need of quiet. The rustic charm and slow village life make it a restful detour.

What to Do:

• Located midway on scenic drives toward the Barot Valley
• Hidden village vibe with authentic Himachali culture
• Great for digital detox, walking trails, and photography
• Zero tourist traffic and plenty of green space

Best Time to Visit:

March to June and post-monsoon (September to November) for lush greenery and birdlife.

Kalang (Near Rumsu, ~23 km from Manali)

Kalang is a small, lesser-known village tucked near Rumsu, surrounded by forests and dotted with traditional homes. This offbeat place near Manali offers raw Himalayan life, with views of the Kullu Valley and a deep sense of silence. It’s perfect for nature lovers, trekkers, and cultural travellers who like it rustic.

What to Do:

• Can be paired with a visit to Rumsu or Naggar
• Rich in local architecture and untouched natural beauty
• Great for low-key hiking, village walks, and sunrise views
• Far from commercial tourism and full of quiet charm

Best Time to Visit:

April to June and September to November for clear skies and cultural immersion.

Offbeat Travel Tips

Planning a trip to these offbeat gems around Manali? Here are some practical and local-friendly tips to make your getaway smoother, quieter, and a lot more memorable.

• Pick your season wisely: For snow-laden landscapes, December to February is perfect. For wildflowers and greenery, visit in spring or early summer. Post-monsoon months (September to November) are clear, vibrant, and great for treks.
• Avoid weekends if you can: While these are less crowded places in Himachal, long weekends still bring in a few explorers. Travelling midweek means even quieter trails and better chances at that perfect sunrise view.
• Be monsoon-smart: If you're planning a trip between July and August, check for landslide warnings and road conditions, especially when visiting remote villages or hidden valleys near Manali.
• How to reach offbeat spots near Manali: Most of these places are accessible by car or a hired cab. Roads can be narrow or bumpy, so a local driver who knows the route is always a good idea.
• What to pack for offbeat Himachal travel: Carry layered clothing, power banks, sunscreen, and cash (some areas have patchy network and limited ATM access). Don’t forget good shoes if you're planning to hike or explore on foot.
• Craft your own offbeat Himachal itinerary: Mix short and long trips. For quick escapes, stick to Sethan, Naggar, or Gulaba. For full-day adventures, plan for Jibhi or Prashar Lake. These make for some of the best offbeat weekend trips from Manali.

Club Mahindra: Your Ideal Base for Offbeat Exploration

For exploring the best offbeat places near Manali, you need to set your camp in the best mountain resorts in Manali. This is where Club Mahindra White Meadows and Club Mahindra Snow Peaks come in. These resorts in Himachal Pradesh are conveniently located, and from here, day trips to Sethan, Naggar, or Gulaba are easy and scenic. After your adventures, return to warm hospitality, cosy rooms, and stunning views. With excellent amenities and consistently high Club Mahindra reviews, these resorts offer the perfect mix of comfort and convenience for travellers seeking both peace and memorable experiences in Himachal.

Conclusion

The best part about travelling is finding what others overlook. These offbeat places near Manali offer peace, beauty, and raw Himalayan charm. Whether it’s a hidden village or a quiet lake, every spot brings you closer to nature. Stay at Club Mahindra Manali resorts and begin your journey into Himachal’s quieter, calmer side.