Mahatma Gandhi once said “A nation’s culture resides in the hearts and in the soul of its people.” The quote is truly describing the beauty of Manali and its people. Being one of the ancient places in the world, Manali houses a rich culture and heritage which make this place more appalling and pleasing.
Manali, a word that derived from Manu- Alaya, which literally means the house of Manu is a prominent tourist attraction which fascinates people from not only India but from across the world. Today in this post we are going to discuss about the rich culture of Manali which will bring you more close to this enchanting place during your Manali Tourism.
Image by Axel Drainville via Flickr
Culture of Manali
The scenic beauty of Manali is as pleasing as its culture. The exotic beauty and heritage of Manali is the mirror image of the culture of Manali. What makes the culture of Manali more especial is the diversity that will make your holidays a pleasing one. Mostly one can see the influence of Himachali culture of Manali. Along with this one can also get a chance to see other cultures such as Italian and Israeli which are the major inspiration on the culture of Manali.
Image by Anjan Malik via Flickr
The presence of various dialects, cultures and communities together makes this place a perfect melting pot of culture and traditions. The tribe which majorly affecting this place is of Kinnaur community. The influence of this community can be seen on the food, clothing and on the language of this place. With that Gurjar community also has a huge influence on the culture of this place.
Image by Deep Goswami via Flickr
There are numbers of temples in Manali. Due to the presence of these temples, Manali scenic aura becomes more divine and soothing. The place has number of temples which are dedicated to various Gods related various communities. On the same hand Manali is also serving as house of numbers of monks which are dwelling in the monasteries.
Along with this the art and craft of Manali is quite unique and one can see people earning their livelihood from the woolen garments and other handmade artifacts. Knowing the culture of Manali is actually enriching and mesmerizing.
Image by Robert Panik via Flickr
Lifestyle in Manali
The simple and soothing atmosphere of Manali is quite enough to say a lot about the lifestyle of Manali. People here are living a life just like many other modern cities yet they follow their customs and values thoroughly to preserve them for the next generation. People here believe in living the simple lifestyle. Manali is the perfect amalgamation of the ethnic and the modern lifestyle.
Image by Luke X. Martin via Flickr
Being famous for natural abundance and rich flora and fauna, Manali is absolutely a surprise package for all the tech savvy people. Modern lifestyle of Manali is filled with Banks, ATMs, spas, restaurants, malls and many other things which make this place pleasing and charming. Along with that there are many n numbers of clubs, resorts and spa which make this place more rejuvenating. Place is also filled with Gyms, Boutiques, Beauty Parlors and many modern amenities which make this place more pleasing.
Shopping in Manali
Shopping is an integral part of anyone’s tour. People who would be on their North India tour package, for them Manali comes as a paradise. The place is full of different kinds of souvenirs and other things, purchasing which will be a pleasing experience for all. Manali is generally famous for shawls, bedcovers, apparel, pickles, shoes and herbs which are just to name a few.
Image by Kiran Jonnalagadda via Flickr
Festivals in Manali
The mesmerizing and enriching culture of Manali is something which can be experienced by the local fairs and festivals which are celebrated here with all zeal and charm. There are many fairs and festivals in Manali which make your Manali holidays a memorable one. Some of the major festivals in Manali are Hadimba Devi Fair, Doongri Forest Festival, Winter Carnival and many more.
Image by Robert Panik via Flickr
Hadimba Devi Fair is dedicated to local Goddess Hadimba who worshiped for happy and prosperous life. Hadimba was mentioned in Mahabharata as a wife of Bhima, one of the Pandav brothers. Then there is Doongri Forest which is held in the month of May and June. The festival is especially celebrated by the women to worship Goddess Hidimba. Some other festival celebrated here are Winter Carnival, Lossar Festival Manali, Baisakh, Lohri, Holi, Diwali and many more.