Plan to book an air-conditioned Volvo bus ride from Dharamsala to Manali. New Manali can be reached by overnight bus from Dharamsala and other nearby areas. Then Old Manali is just a short auto-rickshaw or cab drive from the bus station. Old Manali is recommended as the more interesting, laid-back “hippie-area” of town.
Contact P.C., the owner of Manalsu Guest House, and he will pick you up at the bus stop when you arrive. He can take you to Manalsu Guest House, for comfortable, inexpensive accommodations. Mention this website, or that you were referred by Ed Ellsworth. Eat and hang out at Shesh Besh, the restaurant just down the street, you will enjoy the people and the music there.
Recommendations: Stay at the Manalsu Guest House, dine at Shesh Besh, listen to music at Raju’s. Consider going paragliding, rafting, or on a mountain hike or trek. Go to nearby Vashisht Hot Springs Temple and other local spots.
