1. Introduction
There’s something undeniably magical about Manali — crisp mountain air, towering deodars, winding trails, and that peaceful hum of the Beas River. But what made my recent trip truly unforgettable? Sharing it all with my four-legged best friend.
This blog isn’t just another travel diary. It’s a guide for fellow pet parents who dream of escaping to the hills with their furry companions. From pet-friendly stays to scenic strolls and tail-wagging moments, here’s how we explored Manali together — paws first!
2. Planning the Paw-some Getaway
Why Manali?
Manali has always been on my list, but this time, I wanted to experience it through a slower, softer lens — one where my pet could be a part of every moment. With its natural beauty and open spaces, Manali felt like a perfect fit.
Pet Travel Prep
Traveling with a pet takes a little extra planning. Here’s what I packed for my buddy:
- Leash, harness, and a long lead for safe outdoor play
- Dry food, treats, and collapsible food/water bowls
- A comfy blanket and his favorite toy
- Basic meds and a pet first aid kit
- ID tag and vaccination records
How We Got There
We drove from Chandigarh to Manali — around 8 hours of hilly terrain. With frequent breaks for stretching and snacks, the ride was smooth (and filled with nose-out-the-window moments!).
3. Home Away From Home: Pet-Friendly Stay in Manali
We stayed at a cozy cottage in Old Manali that was not just pet-tolerant, but genuinely pet-welcoming. The property had a fenced lawn where my dog could run freely. The hosts were warm and even brought him a bowl of warm milk on a chilly evening!
What We Loved:
- Open green space
- No extra charges for pets
- Located near walking trails
- Staff who genuinely loved animals
4. Let the Adventures Begin: Exploring Manali With a Pet
Morning Walks Along the Beas River
This became our daily ritual. Early mornings by the river were quiet, with only a few other early risers. The trail was safe, the air was crisp, and my pup had the best time sniffing every rock and leaf.
Old Manali Lanes
We wandered through cobbled streets, explored quaint shops, and discovered cafes that didn’t mind a dog chilling under the table. He even got a few head pats and some homemade dog biscuits at a café!
Solang Valley
While not all activities here are pet-safe, the open snowfields were perfect for a playful run. We avoided the crowded hours and stuck to safe patches. Pro tip: bring a dog jacket if you’re visiting in colder months — it gets freezing!
Hidimba Temple & Cedar Forest Trails
This was my favorite part — walking through tall cedar trees, soaking in the silence. It felt untouched and almost spiritual. On-leash, of course, but still a beautiful bonding moment.
Pet-Friendly Cafés
We found a few gems that had outdoor seating and were more than happy to host a wagging tail:
- Cafe 1947 (Riverside and relaxed)
- The Lazy Dog (Great ambience, attentive staff)
- Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted (Dog treat alert!)
5. A Few Barks & Hiccups
No trip is perfect, and traveling with a pet comes with its own quirks:
- Some tourist spots had “no pets allowed” signs.
- A couple of local dogs got a bit territorial — we stayed calm and walked away.
- Finding quality pet food wasn’t easy, so it’s best to carry your own.
6. Local Love & Pet Encounters
One of the best parts of traveling with a pet? Strangers become friends. Locals often smiled at us or came over to say hi. At one point, my dog made friends with a fluffy Himachali dog near the woods — they played like old pals.
I even met another solo traveler with a golden retriever, and we shared stories over coffee while the dogs bonded. It was wholesome, to say the least.
7. Paw Tips for Fellow Pet Travelers
- Best Time to Visit: March to June or October to early December
- Pet Essentials: Don’t forget winter gear for your dog if you’re heading up during the colder months.
- Stay Central: Old Manali or Vashisht offer better nature access and quieter vibes.
- Vet Backup: Keep contacts of nearby vets — Manali has a couple of small clinics.
- Be Respectful: Clean up after your pet and follow leash rules in public spaces.
8. Reflections: Why Manali Was the Perfect Choice
Looking back, this trip wasn’t about how many places we checked off — it was about being present, pausing, and enjoying every curious nose-boop and muddy paw print.
Manali gave us space to breathe, bond, and just be. It reminded me how fulfilling slow travel can be, especially when shared with a creature who finds joy in the smallest things.
9. Conclusion
If you’re thinking about traveling with your pet, Manali is more than ready to welcome you. Sure, it takes a bit more effort — but the joy, the connection, and the stories you’ll come home with? Worth every bit.
Got questions about pet-friendly places in Manali? Or want to share your own story? Drop a comment below or connect with me on Instagram @TheTravelingtail 🐶⛰️