People and Culture

Manali people and culture reflect the distinct and unique socio-cultural life style of the indigenous inhabitants of the region. The varied culture of the region reflects the rich traditional legacy and ancestral heritage that has percolated to the modern era from the ancient past. The cultural traits of the hilly region are unaltered and unaffected by the rapid industrialization of the modern times and brings out the traditional cultural values of the society.

The exotic valleys of Manali is the natural home to several indigenous tribes of the region. The different ethnic tribes follow distinctive cultural patterns and social customs. The tribal community of Kinnaur is one of the prominent indigenous local inhabitant of the valley. The egalitarian society of Kinnaur community believe in equal division of labor between the sexes. Gujjar is another important tribe of the region who are commonly referred to as the wandering tribe of the region.

Blessed with a rich traditional art and craft from the ancient times, Manali is famous for the indigenous folk songs and dance of the region. Accompanied with the enchanting melodious folk songs, the dancers perform their art with perfection and great enthusiasm.

The varied topography of the state of Himachal Pradesh is best suited for several adventurous sports of the area. The tourists can enjoy a plethora of sporting events in Manali. Some of the notable sports of the region are skiing, paragliding, parasailing and river rafting.

The indigenous tribal population of Manali prefer to wear the traditional attire. Usually spun out of wool, the colorful and attractive apparels reflect the culture of the local people of the area.

Manali people, culture and festivals display the varied yet enriched socio-cultural life style of the local tribal population.

Culture

Himachal Pradesh is a state in Northern India and land of natural beauty, magnificent tradition as well as colorful festivals. People in various parts of Himachal maintain their cultural integrity even if their life is affected by constant speed and sudden changes with lifestyles. The customs and rituals practiced in Manali depict the lifestyle of natives living in harmony with nature. Manali has beautiful temples dedicated to holy spirits, sages, snake gods, powerful gods and other goddesses. All gods and goddesses of Hindu traditions are well known by Himachal people who are closer to local deities.

Buddhism in Himachal Pradesh holds considerable influence in Manali and its monasteries has assured an era of socio cultural resurgence in the region. Most people in Manali sustain themselves with agriculture and animal husbandry. But recently tourism has started taking important part in Himalayan life. Manali residents implement concepts like equity, sustainability, community and participation in their day to day activities. Manali is a land of eternal snow peaks and featured among ‘Best of Asia’ by Time Magazine. Rohtang Pass is in the north of Manali and the gateway to Leh, Lahaul and Spiti.

Tourists to Manali can visit caves, lakes, natural springs and waterfalls. Kullu valley village Nagar has largest collection of surreal artworks by Russian artist and explorer. The handicrafts of the Manali region are famous countrywide and these include Kullu caps, Pullans, Basketery, Gudmas, Patti, Namdas and Pattoos. Manali sanctuary consists of Horse Chestnut, Maple, Walnut Trees flourished along with Cedar and in the summer Himalayan Ibex herds can also be seen in the glacier zone. The temple of Manu Maharaj is located in Manali village about 1.5 km from Manali town center. Bisheshwar is the most attractive temple in the valley and is situated 14 km south of Kullu in Bajaura.