Vashisht Temple Manali
Ancient wooden temple dedicated to Sage Vasistha, featuring sacred hot springs with healing properties and charming village surroundings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Vashisht Temple Manali
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ancient wooden temple dedicated to Sage Vasistha, featuring sacred hot springs with healing properties and charming village surroundings.
"A must-visit for its Himachali architecture and rejuvenating hot springs, offering peace and natural beauty."
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking is available for 4-wheelers near the temple, and 2-wheelers can be parked for a small fee. Plan for narrow roads.
♨️ Hot Spring Experience
Separate baths for men and women. Test hotter springs carefully; some are significantly warmer.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Intricate Wooden Architecture
Marvel at the detailed Himachali craftsmanship of this ancient wooden temple dedicated to Sage Vasistha.
Sacred Hot Spring Baths
Rejuvenate in natural hot springs with separate sections for men and women, rumored to possess healing powers.
Vashisht Village Charm
Explore the surrounding village with its cafes, shops, and stunning mountain views, offering a glimpse into local life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Serenity
Hot Spring Etiquette & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking is available for 4-wheelers near the temple, and 2-wheelers can be parked for a small fee. Plan for narrow roads.
♨️ Hot Spring Experience
Separate baths for men and women. Test hotter springs carefully; some are significantly warmer.
🚶♀️ Village Walk
Enjoy a 400m walk from the drop-off point, with shops and cafes along the way offering local goods.
👟 Be Prepared for Mud
The road to the temple can be muddy and wet, especially in certain seasons. Wear appropriate footwear.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Advice
Parking is available for 4-wheelers near the temple, and 2-wheelers can be parked for a small fee. Plan for narrow roads.
♨️ Hot Spring Experience
Separate baths for men and women. Test hotter springs carefully; some are significantly warmer.
🚶♀️ Village Walk
Enjoy a 400m walk from the drop-off point, with shops and cafes along the way offering local goods.
👟 Be Prepared for Mud
The road to the temple can be muddy and wet, especially in certain seasons. Wear appropriate footwear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Vashisht Temple for its beautiful Himachali wooden architecture and the unique experience of its natural hot spring baths, which are considered both relaxing and potentially healing. The surrounding village offers charming shops and cafes, contributing to a pleasant overall visit. However, the site can become quite crowded, especially on weekends, and the approach roads may be in less-than-ideal condition.
"Beautiful temple situated in Vashisth Village. A must visit if you love Himachali architecture. Can get crowded during weekends and public holidays. The temple offers hot-spring baths in two different sections for males and females."
Sukanya Pednekar
"Ancient, wooden-carved temple dedicated to Sage Vasishtha.
There are three main temples - Lord Krishna, Lord Rama, Lord Shiva.
Parking spaces are available for 4-wheelers.
For 2-wheeler, it costed me 60 INR near the temple.
It is very well known for the natural hot water springs, believed to be having healing powers.
There are separate bathing sections for male & female.
Another hot spring is there few metres away which has even hotter water.
There are a lot of cafes, restaurants and hotels nearby.
Date of Visit - 25th March, 2025"
Kunal Goyal
"Beautiful temple located 2.5 km from the main road, with easy access to vehicles. From the drop-off point, it’s just a 400m walk, offering stunning mountain views and, in season, guaranteed snow. There’s also a market along the way where you can eat, shop, and explore local items. However, the road isn't in great condition—mud and water might make walking a bit messy. Still, the serene atmosphere and breathtaking scenery make it worth the visit!"
Kartik Ambaliya
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Vashisht Temple is located in Vashisht Village, about 2.5 km from Manali's main road. You can hire a taxi or take a local bus to the village. From the drop-off point, it's a short 400m walk to the temple, offering scenic mountain views.
Yes, parking is available for 4-wheelers near the temple. For 2-wheelers, there's a designated parking area that costs around 60 INR. Be aware that the roads leading to the temple can be narrow.
You can take a local bus from Manali town to Vashisht Village, which is a frequent and affordable option. Taxis are also readily available. The journey offers glimpses of the surrounding landscape.
The road condition can vary. While accessible by vehicles, some parts might be muddy and wet, especially after rain. It's advisable to wear comfortable walking shoes.
While possible, it's a significant walk. Taking a taxi or bus to Vashisht Village is generally recommended for convenience, allowing you to save energy for exploring the temple and its surroundings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is typically no entry fee to visit the Vashisht Temple itself. However, there might be charges for using the hot spring baths or for parking.
The temple is generally open throughout the day, allowing visitors to explore its architecture and surroundings. The hot spring baths may have specific operating hours.
No, advance booking is not required for Vashisht Temple. It's a public place of worship and a tourist attraction, so you can visit anytime during its open hours.
Yes, the hot spring baths at Vashisht Temple are divided into separate sections for men and women to ensure comfort and privacy.
It's recommended to wear modest swimwear or comfortable clothing that you don't mind getting wet. Some visitors also bring a towel.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Vashisht Temple is renowned for its ancient wooden architecture, its spiritual significance dedicated to Sage Vasistha, and its natural hot water springs believed to have healing properties.
The complex houses temples dedicated to Lord Rama and Lord Krishna, in addition to the main Vashisht Temple. The natural hot springs are a major draw.
Yes, visitors are welcome to take a dip in the natural hot springs. There are separate bathing areas for men and women. Be aware that some springs are hotter than others.
Weekday mornings or late afternoons are ideal for a more peaceful experience, avoiding the weekend crowds. The serene atmosphere is best enjoyed when it's less busy.
As a place of worship, visitors are expected to dress modestly and behave respectfully. Photography might be restricted inside certain areas of the temple.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the area around Vashisht Temple is bustling with numerous cafes and restaurants offering a variety of local Himachali and Indian cuisines. You can find options for snacks and full meals.
You can expect a range of food options, from local Himachali specialties to popular Indian dishes. Many cafes offer a cozy ambiance with mountain views.
Yes, you can find several small eateries and street food stalls in Vashisht Village that offer affordable and tasty options for snacks and meals.
Most restaurants in the area cater to diverse dietary needs, and vegetarian options are widely available.
While specific famous dishes might vary, trying local Himachali thalis or Siddu (a steamed bread) is often recommended by visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The intricate wooden carvings of the temple itself, the steaming hot springs, and the panoramic mountain views surrounding Vashisht Village offer excellent photography opportunities.
Photography might be restricted inside the inner sanctum of the temple. It's best to check for any signage or ask locals before taking pictures within the temple premises.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create a beautiful, soft glow on the temple and the surrounding landscape. Golden hour offers stunning opportunities.
Try capturing the temple from a slightly elevated position to include the village and mountains in the background. Close-ups of the wooden carvings are also highly recommended.
Yes, you can photograph the hot springs, but be mindful of other visitors' privacy, especially in the bathing areas. Capturing the steam rising from the water can create atmospheric shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the springs, the intricate wooden architecture of the temple can spark curiosity in younger minds. The surrounding village offers a chance to explore local markets, where kids might enjoy browsing for small souvenirs. Be prepared for potentially muddy paths, so comfortable, easy-to-clean footwear is a must for little ones.
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
The hot springs are also seen as a place of purification and healing, adding another layer to the spiritual experience. Many visitors find solace and rejuvenation here, making it a key destination for those seeking a deeper connection to themselves and the divine. The architectural details and the stories associated with the sage further enhance the spiritual resonance of the site.
🚶♂️ Adventure & Culture Enthusiasts
The unique aspect of the hot springs adds an element of natural wonder. It's not every day you get to bathe in naturally heated, mineral-rich waters believed to have healing properties. Combine this with the stunning Himachali architecture, and you have a destination that satisfies both the cultural explorer and the seeker of unique natural phenomena.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Spiritual Significance of Sage Vasistha
The architecture itself tells a story, with intricate wooden carvings depicting various deities and mythological scenes. This craftsmanship is a hallmark of Himachali temple construction, blending religious devotion with artistic expression. The serene atmosphere encourages contemplation and a sense of peace, making it a significant pilgrimage site for many.
The Healing Waters: Vashisht Hot Springs
There are separate bathing areas for men and women, ensuring privacy and comfort. While the main springs are comfortably warm, some visitors mention a separate spring a little further away that is even hotter. It's advisable to test the water temperature before immersing yourself fully, especially if you have sensitive skin. The experience of soaking in these warm waters amidst the cool mountain air is truly invigorating.
Exploring Vashisht Village
The walk to the temple from the main road is part of the adventure, with stunning mountain vistas unfolding as you ascend. In season, you might even catch glimpses of snow-capped peaks. The market area along the way is perfect for picking up local snacks or unique mementos. Despite the occasional muddy patches on the road, the overall atmosphere of the village is welcoming and picturesque.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit