The first chill of winter had just begun to creep into Delhi’s air when I decided it was time for an escape. The city’s usual hustle felt heavier, and my heart longed for crisp mountain breezes and untouched snow. That’s when the idea struck, why not head to Kullu Manali? A quick search for a Kullu Manali tour from Delhi later, and I was all set for what would become one of the most magical trips of my life.
The Journey Begins
My adventure started on a chilly Delhi morning. Wrapped in a cozy jacket, I boarded the Volvo bus that would take me straight to Manali. As the city faded behind me, replaced by endless fields and then rolling hills, I felt my stress melting away. The 12-hour ride was surprisingly comfortable, with short breaks for steaming cups of chai and parathas that tasted like heaven at roadside dhabas.
By dawn, the scenery had transformed completely. Towering pine trees, mist-covered valleys, and the first glimpses of snow-capped peaks welcomed me. The cold here was different like its a fresh, invigorating, and pure feeling.
Manali: A Winter Wonderland
Stepping into Old Manali felt like entering a fairy tale. Wooden cottages with sloping roofs, tiny cafes emitting the aroma of freshly baked apple pies, and the distant sound of the Beas River flowing, it was all straight out of a dream. I checked into a cozy homestay, where the host greeted me with a warm smile and a cup of ginger honey tea.
The next few days were a blur of exploration. I wandered through the narrow lanes, stopping at little shops selling handmade woolens and local jams. A visit to the Hadimba Temple, surrounded by towering deodar trees, left me in awe of its peaceful energy. But the real magic happened when I took a short hike to Jogini Falls. The path was quiet, with only the sound of my footsteps and occasional bird calls. The waterfall, though not at its peak in winter, was a serene sight, framed by frost-kissed rocks.
Kullu: Where the Mountains Speak
A short drive from Manali took me to Kullu, a quieter but equally enchanting valley. The apple orchards were bare, waiting for spring, but the views of the snow-dusted mountains were breathtaking. I spent a day by the river, just sitting on the banks, listening to the water rush by. The locals were friendly, sharing stories of their valley over plates of steaming siddu (a local bread) and tangy chutney.
One highlight was the drive to Solang Valley. Though the ski slopes weren’t fully operational yet, the sheer beauty of the place—blanketed in a thin layer of snow, with horses grazing lazily, it was unforgettable. I even tried a short paragliding session, soaring above the valley like a bird, the cold wind biting my cheeks as I laughed in pure joy.
The Magic of Early Winter
Traveling to Kullu Manali at the start of winter was a brilliant decision. The crowds were thin, the prices lower, and the landscapes untouched by heavy snowfall. Mornings were misty, afternoons sunny but crisp, and evenings, oh, the evenings! Sitting by a bonfire under a sky full of stars, wrapped in a blanket, sipping hot cocoa, it was the kind of peace I had been craving.
Heading Back, But Not Goodbye
As my trip came to an end, I felt a pang of sadness. The mountains had a way of making you feel at home, and leaving wasn’t easy. But as my bus rolled back toward Delhi, I promised myself I’d return. Maybe in spring, when the valley bloomed, or perhaps in peak winter, when the snow would turn everything into a silent, white paradise.
If you’re looking for a break from the city chaos, a hill station tour package to Kullu Manali in early winter is perfect. It’s not just a trip, as it’s an experience that stays with you, long after you’ve returned to the noise of everyday life.
