Old Manali vs New Manali: Which Part of Manali Should You Visit?

If you’re planning a trip to the beautiful hill town of Manali, chances are you’ve come across the question: Old Manali vs New Manali – which is better? Though both are part of the same scenic destination nestled in Himachal Pradesh, they offer two entirely different travel experiences.

Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking serenity, a foodie on the lookout for the perfect café, or a family needing easy access to tourist attractions, this guide will help you decide which side of Manali suits you best.

Old Manali vs New Manali: The Vibe
Things to Do in Old Manali
Things to Do in New Manali
Old Manali vs New Manali: Food & Cafés
Places to stay in Old Manali
Where to Stay in New Manali
Best Places to Visit in Old Manali
Places to Visit in New Manali
Shopping in New Manali
Old Manali vs New Manali: Which One is Right for You?
Your Manali Pick
FAQs- Old Manali vs New Manali: Which Part of Manali Should You Visit?
Akbar Travels Services

Old Manali vs New Manali: The Vibe

The Backyard Cafe by the river
Image Credit: Shantum Singh/Pexels

Aspect	Old Manali	New Manali
Vibe & Atmosphere	Calm, rustic, artistic, and laid-back	Busy, commercial, and energetic
Scenery	Surrounded by apple orchards, riverside views, and mountain charm	More urban setting with markets, hotels, and busyness
Culture	Bohemian cafés, hippie vibe, local interactions	Tourist-focused, modern eateries, and shops
Best For	Backpackers, solo travelers, and those seeking peace	Families, first-time visitors, and those who want convenience
Activities	Nature walks, café hopping, exploring local art	Shopping, dining, booking tours, easy transport access
Overall Feel	Rustic escape away from the rush	Central hub with all facilities

For those planning a peaceful getaway, now is the perfect time to explore Old Manali – especially with many cheap flights to Manali available, making your journey both affordable and unforgettable.

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Things to Do in Old Manali

Man On A Tree Holding Apples in Manali, Himachal Pradesh
Image Credit: Nishant Aneja/Pexels

There’s something magical about wandering through the winding lanes of Old Manali.

Things to do in Old Manali

Take riverside walks.
visit the ancient Manu Temple.
Enjoy café hopping.
Interact with locals and fellow travelers.
Participate in forest hikes.
Enjoy the calm of apple orchards if you are visiting in spring.

The area is perfect for slow travelers, digital nomads, and backpackers looking to escape the crowds.

Things to Do in New Manali

Tibetan monastery in Manali Town
Image Editorial Credit: ImagesofIndia/Shutterstock

New Manali is where the action happens. It’s also the starting point for day trips to Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass.

Things to Do in New Manali

Visit the sacred Hadimba Devi Temple.
Explore Vashisht Baths.
Pay a visit to Tibetan monasteries .
Enjoying rides at Van Vihar Park.

Old Manali vs New Manali: Food & Cafés

A cafe at night in Manali
Image Credit: Farzan Lelinwalla/Unsplash

Food is a big part of the Manali experience. If you love sitting by the river with a cup of coffee and some live music in the background, you’ll be spoilt for choice here.

Old Manali cafes like Café 1947, The Lazy Dog, and Sunshine Café are favorites among travelers. They serve everything from wood-fired pizzas to momos and Himachali thalis, often with stunning views.

New Manali, on the other hand, is packed with local dhabas and multi-cuisine restaurants. While it may not have the same charm, it’s the place to enjoy quick meals and local street food, especially if you’re on the go.

Places to stay in Old Manali

Building Near Mountains at Daytime
Image Credit: Guduru Ajay bhargav/Pexels

Wondering where to stay in Old Manali? There are plenty of best hotels in Manali, boutique cottages, and hostels perfect for travelers who enjoy peace and natural beauty.

Accommodations here often offer riverside views, garden cafés, and a homely feel. Whether you’re a couple looking for romance or a solo traveler seeking solitude, Old Manali offers the perfect mountain escape.

Where to Stay in New Manali

If you need easy access to transportation or are traveling with kids or elderly family members, consider where to stay in New Manali. This part of town has well-established hotels, resorts, and family-friendly stays with all the modern amenities.

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Best Places to Visit in Old Manali

Manu Temple, Manali
Image Credit: Gagan deep/Unsplash

The best places to visit in Old Manali aren’t your typical tourist spots – they’re soulful and scenic.

Things to Do in Old Manali:

Visit Manu Temple
Take a nature walk along the Manalsu River
Stop by creative art studios
Enjoy the fully bloomed apple orchards
Discover forest trails

AT Recommendation: Don’t forget to visit the Old Manali market for handmade souvenirs and eco-friendly products.

Places to Visit in New Manali

Picture of the Hidimba Devi Temple
Image Credit: Aditya Chache/Unsplash

The best places to visit in New Manali are iconic and perfect for first-time visitors.

Places to Visit in New Manali

Hadimba Temple
Tibetan Monastery
Van Vihar Park
Stroll down Mall Road.

You’ll find local street food, handicrafts, and a perfect setting to soak in Manali’s lively culture.

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Shopping in New Manali

If shopping is on your mind, shopping in New Manali is all about variety. Mall Road is the commercial heart of the town where you’ll find woollen clothes, handmade shawls, trinkets, and Tibetan handicrafts. It’s great for picking up souvenirs, local snacks, and winter wear.

For budget travelers and shopaholics alike, it’s a must-visit. To make the most of your experience, many Manali tour packages include guided shopping stops that help you explore the best spots with ease.

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Old Manali vs New Manali: Which One is Right for You?

Still unsure between Old Manali vs New Manali? Here’s a quick comparison:

Choose Old Manali if you want peaceful surroundings, indie cafés, scenic views, and a more authentic Himachali feel.
Choose New Manali if you want comfort, easy access to taxis, shopping, and proximity to tourist attractions.

Your Manali Pick

Whether you choose the soulful charm of Old Manali or the lively streets of New Manali, your trip is bound to be unforgettable. While Old Manali vs New Manali might seem like a tough choice, it truly depends on your travel style. So go ahead – sip coffee by the river, shop on Mall Road, visit ancient temples, and let Manali’s magic do the rest!

FAQs- Old Manali vs New Manali: Which Part of Manali Should You Visit?

Which is better, Manali or Old Manali?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Manali (New Manali) is better for easy access to transport, shopping, and major attractions, especially for families. Old Manali is better for travelers seeking peace, nature, riverside cafes, and a laid-back vibe.

What is special about Old Manali?
Old Manali is known for its charming, rustic feel, artistic cafés, scenic views, and peaceful atmosphere. It offers a slower, more soulful experience compared to the hustle of New Manali, making it a favorite for backpackers and solo travelers.

Does it snow in Old Manali?
Yes, Old Manali receives snowfall in winter, typically from late December to February. The entire area turns into a winter wonderland, ideal for snow lovers.

What are the hidden gems in Old Manali?
Some hidden gems in Old Manali include forest trails behind Manu Temple, less-known riverside spots, tiny art studios, and cozy local cafés tucked into mountain corners like Drifter’s Café and Renaissance.

What is the name of zero point Manali?
The Zero Point near Manali typically refers to the area beyond Rohtang Pass, where the road meets snow all year round. It’s a high-altitude spot with stunning views, popular among tourists.

Why is Rohtang Pass called Valley of Death?
Rohtang Pass is sometimes referred to as the “Valley of Death” due to its unpredictable weather, sharp turns, landslides, and challenging driving conditions. However, with proper planning and safety measures, it is safe for tourists during open seasons.

How far is Solang Valley from Manali?
Solang Valley is about 13 to 14 kilometers from Manali and takes around 30 to 45 minutes by road, depending on traffic and weather conditions.

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