Are you planning to visit Manali anytime soon? If yes, then you would be excited to click some amazing pictures and create memories for the rest of your life. Well, visiting Manali is just not enough as you need to understand the best places for photography so you can click the best of the pictures.
Manali is a picturesque town located in the Himalayan mountains of Himachal Pradesh. The town is a perfect gateway if you are a nature enthusiast or adventure lover and you look forward to unwinding from the hustle and bustle of regular life. Manali is blessed with abundant beauty and picturesque landscapes that make it a perfect location for photography.
Top 7 Photography Destinations to Explore in Manali: A Must-See List
1. Solang Valley
One thing that you can surely not miss while you are in Himachal Pradesh is Solang Valley. Prominent tourist destinations and, of course, a photographer’s paradise. The valley is five hundred feet above sea level. It is known for its amazing views of snowcapped mountains and clear water streams.
If you love adventure sports, then you should surely visit Solang Valley as it has something for everyone; from skiing to zorbing, you can find different adventure sports here. At the same time, it is also a nature lovers’ paradise as you can capture and keep taking views of the Himalayas. Solang Valley is fourteen kilometers away from Manali, and you can reach it by taxi or bus. The nearest airport is Bhuntar Airport which is located 50 kilometres away, while the nearest railway station is Joginder Nagar which is 135 kilometres away.
If you are here for photography, then you can capture panoramic views of the mountains and large green valleys beside water streams. Read More: Solang Valley Manali: Things To Do, Best Time to Visit
- Best Time to Visit: Winter (December to February) for snow-covered landscapes; summer (May to July) for lush greenery and activities like paragliding.
- Getting There: About 14 km northwest of Manali, accessible by road. Taxi or private vehicle recommended.
- Photography Tips: Bring wide-angle lenses for landscapes and a good zoom lens for capturing distant action.
- Additional Notes: It can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons. Early morning visits might offer better light and fewer crowds.
2. Rohtang Pass
Rohtang Pass is a high mountain pass nestled 13,050 feet above sea level. This pass connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh. At the same time, Rohtang Pass, known for its jaw-dropping views of the snowcapped mountains and glaciers, is open only from May to November due to heavy snowfall in the winter months it is shut. You can reach Rohtang pass by taxi or bus as it is located 51 kilometers away from Manali.
Once you are here, you can capture the stunning views of the Alpine meadows and panoramic views of the mountains. It is also an excellent place for adventure enthusiasts, as you can enjoy trekking and skiing here.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to October); closed in winter due to heavy snowfall.
- Getting There: Situated about 51 km from Manali. Requires a permit to visit, which can be arranged in Manali.
- Photography Tips: Polarizing filters can help manage reflections and enhance the blue of the sky.
- Additional Notes: Weather can change quickly; be prepared with appropriate clothing and check weather conditions before heading out.
3 Nights 4 Days Manali Itinerary
3. Hadimba Temple
Hadimba temple is a 14th-century temple nestled amid dense deodar forests, and the temple is dedicated to Hadimba, the wife of Bhima, who was one of the Pandavas of the epic Mahabharata. The temple is prominent for its unique architecture, and it is a blend of Hindu and Tibetan-style cultures. The temple is surrounded by lush green forests that make it a perfect location for photography.
Hadimba temple is located around 2 kilometers away from Manali, and you can reach it by taxi photo rickshaw.
You can capture these stunning shots of the temples’ unique architecture, and you can also capture the natural beauty of the surroundings. The temple is prominent for its intricate wood carvings, which can make for a perfect close-up shot. It would be best if you went to Hadimba temple because it is a great location for photography and also a significant cultural and historical site. The unique architecture and amazing wood carvings are a test attainment of the rich cultural heritage of this region. The temple is a peaceful and serene location where you can spend some time in quiet contemplation amid nature.
Read also: Top Tourist Spots in Himachal in September
- Best Time to Visit: Open year-round, but early mornings or late afternoons provide the best natural light for photography.
- Getting There: Located in Manali, easily accessible by foot from the town center.
- Photography Tips: Use a standard or wide-angle lens to capture the full splendor of the temple architecture and the surrounding deodar forest.
- Additional Notes: Respect the sanctity of the temple; avoid using flash inside or disturbing worshippers.
8 Days Manali Dharamshala Dalhousie Tour
4. Beas Kund Trek
It is one of the most prominent destinations nestled in the Peer Panjal range of the Himalayas. The trek takes you through the scenic meadow’s lush green forests beside clear streams. When you go for this trek ends at Beas Kund, which is a high-altitude glacier lake located 12,772 feet above sea level. When you visit this lake, you can see snowcapped mountains which offer breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
The trek starts from Solang Valley, which is located around 14 kilometers from Manali. You can easily reach Solang Valley by bus or taxi. It would be best if you visited this offbeat destination for photography as you can capture stunning shots of scenic meadows, clear streams, and lush green forests. The panoramic views of the Himalayas are just breathtaking, and the high-altitude glacial lake is also a perfect location for photography.
Besides being a great location for photography Beas Kund trek is a perfect way to experience the natural beauty of the Himalayas. This trekking experience takes you through the scenic meadows and gives you a great opportunity to connect with nature. When you visit the glacial lake, you can come across a remarkable sight of the Himalayas.
- Best Time to Visit: Summer months (May to October) for clear paths and good weather.
- Getting There: Trek starts from Solang Valley, which is about 14 km from Manali.
- Photography Tips: A telephoto lens for capturing distant peaks, and a sturdy tripod for long exposures of the river and landscapes.
- Additional Notes: The trek is moderately challenging, so be in good physical condition and carry necessary trekking gear.
5 Nights 6 Days Manali Shimla Trip
5. Mall Road
Mall Road in Manali is one of the most prominent destinations, especially for photography enthusiasts. It is located in the heart of Manali, and you can easily access it by car or bike. To reach Mall Road, you can also take a taxi or rent a bike. Mall Road might be within walking distance if you are staying in a hotel in Manali. Mall Road is a bustling street With a great atmosphere and a mix of modern and typical architecture.
You can click photos of the street vendors selling typical handicrafts, and it is a great place to capture the local culture and tradition. Mall Road also has a huge range of food options, from typical Himachali cuisine to international food; you can capture some shots of the food displays and the local delicacies.
Mall Road looks beautiful at night also, with colourful lights and a bustling atmosphere so that you can capture some amazing night shots. Overall, mall Road is a perfect spot for you if you are a photography enthusiast. The vibrant atmosphere and a mix of contemporary architecture make it an interesting subject for photography.
- Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with evenings offering vibrant street scenes.
- Getting There: Centrally located in Manali, easily walkable from most parts of the town.
- Photography Tips: A fast lens is useful for low light conditions in the evening. Be ready for spontaneous street photography opportunities.
- Additional Notes: The area is bustling with tourists and locals, so keep an eye on your equipment in crowded spots.
8 Days Manali Shimla Tour Package
6. Bhrigu Lake
it is one of the best locations for photography in Malawi, and it is located at an altitude of 14,000 feet, around 18 kilometers away from Manali. The lake itself is a beautiful spot to capture the clear water that reflects the surrounding mountains.
You can capture a reflection shot where you can get the reflection of the mountains and the sky in the lake water. At the same time, you can have some stunning sunrise and sunset shots with mountains and lakes in one frame. Overall, this place is a must-visit spot if you are a photograph enthusiast visiting Manali.
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early autumn (May to October) to avoid heavy snow.
- Getting There: The trek to Bhrigu Lake starts from Gulaba, which is about 22 km from Manali.
- Photography Tips: Filters like ND and polarizers can help manage light and reflections on the lake.
- Additional Notes: The trek is considered moderate but involves high altitudes, so acclimatization is essential.
7. Jogini Waterfall
Jogini waterfall is a beautiful spot for photography nestled in Manali. It is located 3 kilometers away from Vashishat temple in old Manali. You can take a taxi or hire a bike and drive towards this temple. You need to trek for around 30 to 40 minutes to reach the waterfall. If you want to take breathtaking views, then Jogini Waterfall is your best bet. It is a perfect spot for nature and landscape photography. You can take a closer shot of the waterfall, capturing the water flowing down, and you can take the reflection of the waterfall in small pools of water.
The area is also surrounded by lush greenery and offers a chance to capture some wildlife photographs also. If you are in Manali and you love photography, then you should visit this spot undoubtedly.
Manali is a paradise for a photographer, and if you are in Manali, you can visit the locations mentioned above, as these are some of the best places for photography in the town. From scenic meadows to snowcap mountains, Manali offers a diverse range of natural beauty which is sure to capture all the photographers for the rich cultural heritage and historical significance.
- Best Time to Visit: Post-monsoon (September to November) for the best flow.
- Getting There: The trek starts from Vashisht Temple in Manali, about 3 km away.
- Photography Tips: A tripod is essential for capturing the movement of the waterfall with long exposures.
- Additional Notes: The hike is relatively easy and offers scenic views of the valley and surrounding apple orchards.
Further Reading:
- 18 Must-See Places to Visit in and Around Manali
- Manali 9 Most Famous Restaurants to Eat
- 10 Most Luxury Hotels In Manali For A Romantic Honeymoon
- Manali Winter Carnival 2024: Everything You Need to Know
- Top 10 Destinations in Manali for a Honeymoon
- 8 Best Places to See in Manali in April 2025
- Top 10 Destinations to Visit in Manali
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are some beautiful places in Manali for photography?
Some beautiful places in Manali include Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, Rohtang Pass, and Manu Temple.
2. Where is the best location for a photoshoot near me?
Popular spots often include local parks, scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and botanical gardens.
3. Where is the best sunrise point in Manali?
The best sunrise point in Manali is generally considered to be Solang Valley and the nearby high-altitude areas.
4. Where is the best sunset point in Manali?
The best sunset point in Manali can be found at the Manu Temple and the Beas River viewpoint.
5. What are some popular photoshoot ideas in Himachal Pradesh?
Popular photoshoot ideas include capturing the natural beauty of valleys, snow-capped mountains, and cultural sites.
6. Where is the ‘I Love Manali’ selfie point?
The ‘I Love Manali’ selfie point is usually located on Mall Road, a popular tourist spot in Manali.
7. When is the best time for a photoshoot in Manali?
The best time for a photoshoot in Manali is during the early morning or late afternoon to capture the best light.
8. Where can I find photographers in Manali?
You can find local photographers through online directories, social media, or local photography studios.
9. What are some unique photography spots in Manali?
Unique spots include Old Manali, Vashisht Hot Springs, and the scenic roadways around the town.
10. What should I consider for a couple photoshoot in Manali?
Consider picturesque locations like Solang Valley, Mall Road, and riverbanks for a romantic backdrop.
11. Where can I view the latest pictures of Manali?
You can view the latest pictures of Manali on travel blogs, social media platforms, and tourism websites.
