Especially after the opening of Attal Tunnel, famous tourist destination like Manali is also feeling the pinch of the shift towards Lahaul-Spiti & beyond. Tourists are now looking for virgin destinations away from the maddening crowd of popular tourist destinations.

My brother-in-law had some other assignments clubbed. His clients had made the stay arrangements in Mahin’s Cottage, Manali.

This article is centered around Mahin’s Cottage in Manali, and other information such as – the best time to visit Manali, other best hotels in Manali, the nearest airport to Manali, things to do in Manali, and so on. 

The cottage has a reasonable-sized lawn and has tables set to enjoy the patio sitting. Ivy covering the main wooden door appeared elegant and beautified the simple cottage. We parked our automobile behind the cottage where 3-4 cars were already parked.

The suite that we got was having a dining table placed at the entry, though the room size having a double bed was a bit small.

We were tired of traveling all the way from Shimla, passing through the under-construction express highway, so we hit the beds directly. The staff at Mahin Cottage was cooperative and energetic. He was handling the whole property alone, maybe there were one or two guys to assist him in the kitchen.

The next morning, the breakfast was served at the right time and we decided to enjoy the breakfast outside on the lawn enjoying the mild sun.

The sun’s rays were mild as the cold weather of Manali was taking all the heat as they passed to hit Mahin Cottage on the Earth. We enjoyed sitting & having breakfast outside.

Quick walk In Manali

I realized that I was quite close to Hidimba Temple. So I decided to take a walk up to the famous temple. I had visited Hidimba Temple sundry times, but always in hurry. This time it was different, I had plenty of time.

I was not in a hurry!

So I wanted to sit in the huge courtyard in front of the temple and watch tourist activities silently. I did exactly that. I was looking at the temple, critically admiring the craftsmanship, engineering applied, and shape of the temple.

The temple is a protected monument under the Archeological Survey of India. Hidimba is the most visited temple in Manali, in fact in the entire Himachal.

The temple is dedicated to demoness Hidimba who was married to Bhima. Being a demoness she performed her duties like a devoted wife. She raised her son Ghatotkach single-handedly and while being revered as “Hidimba Mata” m she even protects the entire Manali.

Like any other tourist destination, the temple seemed to be generating employment for villagers. I could see local resident females carrying rabbits, and males towing yaks to help tourists create lifelong memories.

Vashistha Temple

One must visit the Vashsitha temple which is around 400 years old and famous for its natural hot water springs. The main occasion for Vashsitha’s public appearance is during the temple festival in April.

Vashsitha visits annually to Bhrighu Lake where he bathes.

Vashishtha does not take part in the Dasara festival in Kullu.

Other Adventure Activities in Manali

Manalis has more options as compared to Shimla. In Manali, you can enjoy paragliding, rafting, skiing and zorbing. It’s easy to hire bikes on rent, therefore a short bike trip could also be attempted. If you are good enough to take the adventure to the next level then the trek also is worth trying, for instance, Jogini Water Falls Trek.

Rafting in the River Beas looks scary but those who are strong at heart won’t miss the opportunity at all. The same is with the paragliding.

Why even recommend Mahin Cottage?

• Cleanliness & hygiene maintained.
• Lots of space for kids to frolic around.
• Surrounded by residential areas yet border-lined properly.
• Ample parking space.
• Close to the main hub (Mall Road) in Manali.