Are you planning a trip to Solang Valley or Kothi, or looking to find a place to stay near Manali? This travel guide covers everything you need to know about Solang Valley and Kothi in 2026, including how to reach, activities, costs, where to stay, and a suggested itinerary.
Have you ever been to Manali from Leh or Spiti? If yes, then have you noticed how the landscape changes as you cross Rohtang pass? As you pass the last signs of the cold desert that lie in the trans-Himalayas, you see the harbinger of the yet to be reached Kullu valley. Let me introduce you to Kothi and Solang Valley.
Let's quickly dive into the details:
What Makes Kothi and Solang Valley Special?
Solang Valley sits at 8,400 feet (2,560 m) and Kothi at 8,500 feet (2,590 m), both in the upper Kullu valley just 13-15 km from Manali town. These two spots offer adventure sports, snow activities, quiet village stays, and panoramic Himalayan views without the chaos of Manali’s Mall Road.
| Detail | Solang Valley | Kothi |
|---|---|---|
| Altitude | 8,400 ft (2,560 m) | 8,500 ft (2,590 m) |
| Distance from Manali | 13 km (30 min drive) | 15 km (40 min drive) |
| Best For | Adventure sports, skiing, paragliding | Quiet stays, gorge views, treks |
| Taxi from Manali | Rs 1,500-2,000 (round trip) | Rs 1,500-2,000 (round trip) |
| Best Time | Dec-Feb (snow), Apr-Jun (summer) | Year-round |
| Entry Fee | No entry fee | No entry fee |
Your eyes witness the remarkable change in scenery. Lush greenery all around, impressions of streams running through the valley. You can feel the magic of Kullu valley when you approach it from the trans-Himalayas. Looking at it from that height and then gradually descending the valley makes you wish for more, you want to explore every nook and corner of it.
The broad open Kullu valley starts from the base of Rohtang pass, extends through Manali, many tranquil villages, Kullu town, and Mandi. Beas river beautifully crosses through it. Laden apple orchards and forests of pine and deodar cover these beautiful mountains. The valley is surrounded on three sides by Pir Panjal, Lower Himalayan, and the Great Himalayan ranges.
Upper reaches of the valley house some beautiful villages, such as Kothi, Gulaba, Solang, Sethan, Prini, Tirthan, Banjar, Shoja, Jibhi and the heart of Kullu valley, Naggar. Pursuing my love for Himachal, I am going to write about some of these lesser-visited and some fairly popular gems of Kullu valley like Jibhi and Banjar Valley.
In this article, I am sharing my experience at Kothi and Solang, two idyllic places in the upper Kullu valley. They are mostly on the checklist of tourists from Manali, but I wonder why not many people stopover and stay here to absorb more of these beautiful locales.
Why Should You Visit Kothi and Solang Valley?
I am always on the lookout for offbeat places near famous tourist centers. Because, vicinity to the usual destinations makes for easy connectivity (keeping in mind the comforts of my co-travelers, usually family and kids :)). The offbeat nature of places helps us escape the usual rush (the plight of the chaotic lives of city dwellers :)).
Although, this unique requirement of easy accessibility and exclusivity isn’t always fulfilled. Though, on most occasions, I find a way around. During my multiple trips to and around Manali, I discovered such befitting destinations, that keep me away from the mall roads, main towns, traffic, and hustle-bustle.
During one such quest, I stumbled upon Solang. When staying at Solang Valley, I explored more of the nearby village of Kothi and found it pretty enough to spend more time there.
If this isn’t a good enough reason for you to spend more time at these places, then go there for the beautiful vistas and view of lofty snow-covered mountains which are certainly going to mesmerize you. You can enjoy the place and its surroundings during a weekend (or long weekend) trip comfortably.
What Is Kothi Village and Why Is It Worth a Stop?
Kothi is a small village on the Manali – Leh Highway, about 15 km (40 minutes drive) from Manali town, at an elevation of approximately 8,500 feet (2,590 m). It sits at the base of Rohtang pass and is also the last village before the pass.
During the old days, when people used to trek to Rohtang pass, Kothi used to be the camping site for Rohtang. You can still choose to do that if you wish. Being at a little distance from Manali, most tourists don’t stay here but visit the place, especially during snow-time. It is the reason why you won’t find cluttered spaces here.
Bollywood fans would be elated to be here as Kothi has been featured in many movies including Tubelight and Krrish. The highlight of Kothi is the steep and deep gorge through which runs the River Beas. Though Beas runs through the entire Kullu valley, the gorge depth in Kothi makes it unique. The panoramic landscapes of the village make it a picturesque spot worth spending time at.
What Is Solang Valley Like?
Beauty and solace are the two words that come to my mind when I think of Solang, a small side valley at the top of Kullu. Solang presents a perfect combination of serenity, adventure, and natural beauty. Beas river running through the valley makes it even more scenic.
We visited Solang during peak winters. As we drove towards the upper valley from Manali, we started having glimpses of the beauty awaiting us. As we pulled over near our hotel, we were captivated by the white mountains covered in fresh snow with hardly any soul in sight. We knew right then that this is going to be a lovely experience.
Solang is situated 13 km ahead of Manali at an elevation of 8,400 feet (2,560 m). The altitude attracts a generous amount of snowfall every year. The distance from Manali makes it a good destination to stay at (instead of Manali), on any given day.
How To Reach Solang Valley and Kothi?
By Road from Delhi or Chandigarh
Both Kothi and Solang are a part of Kullu valley, which is well connected to all the neighboring states of Himachal and Delhi, via a good network of roads. While coming from Delhi, board an overnight bus to Manali. Both HRTC (State transport) and private bus operators run regular buses on this route. Comfortable luxury Volvos ply from different boarding points in Delhi, viz, Majnu ka Tila, ISBT Kashmere Gate, Ramakrishna Ashram Marg.
Bus fares from Delhi to Manali (as of 2026): HRTC ordinary buses cost Rs 700-900, HRTC Volvo Rs 1,500-2,000, and private sleeper buses Rs 2,000-4,000 depending on the operator and season. The journey takes 12-14 hours overnight.
From Manali, you can hire a taxi to Solang or Kothi. As per Manali taxi union rates, a round trip to Solang Valley costs Rs 1,500-2,000 depending on the vehicle type. Alternatively, get on a local bus heading towards Rohtang/Leh Highway. Kothi is close to the highway and buses often stop here. Local buses charge Rs 20-50 per person.
Self-drive to either destination from Delhi is also feasible. It will be a drive of 540-560 km taking about 12-14 hours, and the roads are in good shape via Chandigarh – Mandi – Kullu route.
By Air
Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali) airport is about 64 km away and is connected to Delhi and Chandigarh by regular flights. People traveling from other cities will have to opt for a connecting flight to either of these airports. Most of the flights from Delhi have a layover at Chandigarh. From Bhuntar, taxis to Manali cost Rs 1,500-2,000 and the drive takes about 1.5 hours.
By Train
The nearest broad gauge railway station is Chandigarh (313 km, about 9 hours away). From here, you can either board a bus (6-7 hours) till Manali or hire a taxi till Solang/Kothi.
Una (Himachal Pradesh) is another nearby railhead which is almost 278 km away. Jogindernagar in Himachal Pradesh is the closest narrow gauge railhead, connected to Pathankot broad-gauge station. However, narrow-gauge trains take much longer and further boarding of buses or taxis will increase your journey time.
In my opinion, the simplest and most cost-efficient way to reach Kothi or Solang from Delhi is by road, either via bus or self-drive. That is what most people do and I would recommend the same.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Solang Valley and Kothi?
Solang Valley and Kothi are accessible year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Here is a month-by-month breakdown to help you decide.
Winter (December – February): This is the peak season for snow lovers. Moderate to heavy snowfall covers the valley, sometimes reaching two to three feet. This is the time for skiing, snowboarding, snow scooter rides, and the Anjani Mahadev ice Shivling trek. Temperatures range from -10C to 5C. Keep in mind, the road to Solang can get slippery after heavy snowfall, so carry chains or drive carefully.
Summer (April – June): Pleasant weather with temperatures around 15-25 degrees Celsius. This is the best time for paragliding, zorbing, ropeway rides, and nearby treks like Bhrigu Lake and Patalsu Peak. June is the warmest month but still a great escape from the heat of the plains.
Monsoon (July – September): Rainfall hits the valley and landslides can disrupt road connectivity. Paragliding stays closed during this period. I would suggest avoiding this season unless you are comfortable with unpredictable weather.
Autumn (October – November): Clear skies, fewer crowds, and the landscape turns golden. A good time for photography and quiet treks. Early snowfall can sometimes start by late November.
What Are the Things to Do in Solang Valley?
Solang is a place where you can step out and stumble upon a quad-biking operator tending to his machine, and he would happily lend it to you for a ride, in return of a little remuneration of course. And that’s how we had our first taste of quad-biking in the snow. Wading through the snow on that big four-wheeled bike was fun and exhilarating.
Solang has developed into the adventure sports hub of Himachal Pradesh, and rightly so. Because the quality and number of mountain-sports offered here are quite good. Kothi, on the other hand, is more of a picturesque Himalayan village which will charm you with the view of majestic and snowy mountains, rivers, and forests. The place is ideal for a leisure stay, aimless walks, and some planned treks.
Mountain Sports at Solang
Solang Valley is famous for its ski slopes, meadows, and the meandering Beas river. The valley has been developed into a full-fledged mountain-sports destination. You can enjoy everything from quad-biking to snowmobiles, zorbing to skiing or snowboarding (if there’s enough snow), and of course, paragliding. There is a wide-open ground at Solang dedicated to these activities.
Approximate activity costs (as of 2025-2026):
- Skiing lessons: Rs 300-1,000 per session (including equipment)
- Paragliding: Rs 1,500-3,000 depending on altitude and flight duration
- Quad bike ride: Rs 500-1,500 per ride
- Snow scooter: Rs 500-1,000 per ride
- Zorbing: Rs 300-500 per ride
- Gondola/Ropeway: Rs 500-900 per person (round trip)
These rates are approximate and can vary based on the season and vendor. Winter peak season (December-January) tends to be more expensive, and you should always negotiate before committing. Keep in mind that rates at the ground level are generally cheaper than what you find on booking platforms.
Skiing
A thick snow blanket covers the slopes of Solang during winter and turns it into a perfect skiing destination. A vertical drop of 500 meters from the top of the slope makes it a paradise for professionals. Amateurs can enjoy the sport at comparatively softer slopes in the center of the valley. Trained instructors help both kinds of skiers and some operators also offer skiing lessons.
Quad Rides
You can do it at the ground or if you get a chance, like we did, on the snow-covered streets of Solang. We cruised through the streets, down to the river bank and ended our sojourn next to a pretty wooden bridge to cross the river.
Snow Mobiles
These motored sleds give you the thrill of zooming through the snow at a good speed. However, when you notice the muddy sludge these vehicles create (both quads and snowmobiles), you feel disheartened. The white and pristine snow-covered slopes get turned into this (see the picture below). Something to be mindful of from a responsible travel perspective.
Paragliding
Solang has a good paragliding location and facilities. There are two take-off sites: one is at a lower level and another one at the peak where the gondola ride culminates. Paragliding can be done here in both summers and winters. You can appreciate the beauty of valley’s snow-covered slopes, dotted with oaks and pines in winters and the green meadows along the banks of Beas in summers. During the monsoon season (July-September), paragliding stays closed.
You can enjoy the sport at Kothi also. Though paragliding at Solang nullah offers comparatively longer and higher rides, Kothi is a decent option for joy rides and high rides, which are short-duration flights (ranging from 5 to 15 minutes). The take-off site is near the gorge in the village, and the landing site is at Solang. View of mountainous landscapes from that height is amazing, displaying the green slopes, white mountains, and blue sky.
Gondola Ride (Ropeway)
Next to paragliding, the most exciting thing to do here is the ropeway. Especially when the valley is covered with snow, the view from the top is spellbinding. The cable car covers a distance of 1.3 km, with a rise of 500 meters, and takes about 9-10 minutes each way. The ropeway operates from 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM and tickets cost approximately Rs 500-900 per person for a round trip (as of 2025-2026). The top station sits at around 3,200 metres, where you will also find a small restaurant for hot snacks and tea.
When at the Solang ground, you are highly likely to be approached by various vendors trying to convince you to get clicked in Himachali attire, or with rabbits, or even yaks! If any apple seller approaches you with a good deal, take it. We brought home a box of local produce for a very nominal price.
Some camping organizers arrange for night camps at the lush meadows of Solang valley in summers. You can explore this activity here as well. That’s one more fun way to enjoy the valley and the beautiful night sky.
Check Out the Bollywood Locations
Kothi is a small but picturesque destination, and even Bollywood couldn’t stay away from it. Panoramic landscapes of the village have been featured in movies like Tubelight and Krrish. You can visit the spots and spend some time taking in all that beauty.
Treks Near Solang Valley and Kothi
Step out and explore the gorgeous lakes, forests, and peaks surrounding the valley. Locals at the village or your hosts (hotel/homestay) can help arrange for the treks. They can send guides along too. Or you can contact any trekking operator in Manali to help you with the trekking gear and guides.
Anjani Mahadev
This is a short and moderately challenging trek which starts from Solang ground. The trek is about 2 km one way and takes approximately 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on your pace. You can opt for a mule ride or even an ATV ride (available near the ground) to cover a couple of miles up the slope. However, the last stretch of the steep climb can only be covered by hiking.
A magnificent Shivling appears every year at Anjani Mahadev, out of nowhere. A natural phenomenon enables the water from the waterfall at this spot to transform into a snow formation (Shivling) during freezing winters. Mythologically, people believe that Lord Hanuman’s mother Anjani meditated here. The slopes around the Shivling are named after the famous Rishi Bhrigu and are called the Bhrigu slopes.
The snow formation starts appearing by the end of December or earlier (if it snows enough) and manifests itself in full glory by mid-January. Its actual size varies every year, but during some winters, it reaches up to a humongous 20 feet in height and becomes a sight to behold! The best time to see the ice Shivling is between late December and February.
Dashaur Lake
Known by many other names, such as Dashaur, Sarkund, Shelasar, this stunningly beautiful lake lies in the upper reaches of Rohtang pass. It is a high altitude lake at approximately 4,200 meters (13,780 feet). A moderate level trek originating from Kothi village would take you there.
Surrounded by Pir Panjal mountain ranges, Dashir lake has religious significance for locals who believe its waters to be sacred with curative properties. Lofty mountains on all sides guard the pristine blue water of the lake. View of the mighty Hanuman Tibba, Indrasan and the Deo Tibba from here is magical.
If you are staying at Kothi, you may choose to start your trek from Rani Nullah, which lies on the outskirts of Kothi village. From here the lake is 8 km away. Plan for a full day for this trek.
Patalsu Peak
Another one-day trek in the neighboring mountains of Kothi will be Patalsu peak. It is a moderate level trek that passes through dense forests of oaks and pines and surprises you with charming views of the valley. The head of Kullu valley, Patalsu peak, is located at 4,400 meters (14,435 feet) above sea level. Experienced skiers can even ski down from the summit of Patalsu to slopes of old Solang.
Bhrigu Lake
This one is a popular trek in the upper Kullu valley. Bhrigu lake lies at 14,100 feet on the eastern side of Rohtang. The lake remains frozen during winters and holds immense religious and mythological significance. It is believed by locals that Bhrigu rishi meditated and prayed here thousands of years ago.
If not for religious reasons, trekkers go there to enjoy the unspoiled beauty of the Himalayan lake. It is almost 6 km from Gulaba, the neighboring village of Kothi from where the trek officially commences. The best time for this trek is June to October.
So, take your pick and set the wanderer in you free to embark on any of these treks during a visit here.
Enjoy the Good Old Manali Town
Yes, you can also visit Manali and its many treasures while you are staying at Solang or Kothi because it is just 13-15 km away. Old Manali cafes, Hadimba Temple, Vashisht hot springs, Naggar Castle, and the local markets are all easily accessible for a day trip.
Where to Stay in Solang Valley and Kothi?
Solang Valley has better accommodation options compared to Kothi. There are several hotels, and some locals have started homestays in the area as well. Budget rooms start from around Rs 1,000-2,000 per night, while mid-range options with valley views go for Rs 2,500-5,000 per night (as of 2025-2026, rates vary by season).
We stayed at Hotel Iceland, nestled in the heart of Solang valley, hardly a kilometer away from the sports ground. Cozy rooms with wooden flooring, room heater, hot water and an amazing view of the valley will greet you at this hotel.
I don’t think you need anything more to have a good time in the mountains. The staff here is friendly with decent service and good value for money. It is a simple hotel but gives you the perfect ambiance to unwind and enjoy the tranquility of Solang at your own pace.
Kothi has very few and modest accommodation options. There is an HPPWD rest house, for which you would need to make the booking in advance or try your luck by just arriving there and requesting the manager for a room. Sometimes that works too for short stays. You can refer to this article for the process of booking rest houses or forest houses in Himachal.
The Apple Tree Cafe and Lodge is a small restaurant with basic rooms, located near the Manali – Leh highway in Kothi. The facilities offered here are minimal but you will get good food and a nice view. A few more homestay options have also come up in Kothi in recent years.
What Is a Good Itinerary for Solang Valley and Kothi?
Both Solang and Kothi can be enjoyed during a long weekend stay (3 days). If you choose to go for longer duration treks or take your own sweet time to relax here, then 4-5 days should suffice to do all of the things listed above.
Day 1: Arrive in the morning and head to your accommodation. Enjoy the day chilling at Kothi and exploring its landscapes. Walk to the Beas gorge viewpoint.
Day 2: Enjoy the snow-sports or adventure activities at Solang and do the Anjani Mahadev trek. It is a short trek starting from the Solang ground, so all of this can be done easily in a day. Take the gondola ride if time permits.
Day 3: Embark on any of the treks listed above or if you wish, head to Manali for a day-outing. Board the evening bus for the return journey.
Day 4 (optional): If you chose to go on a trek like Bhrigu Lake or Dashaur on Day 3, then you would need this day to return and unwind. Board the evening bus for the return journey.
Useful Tips for Visiting Solang Valley
- Carry cash. ATMs are available in Manali but not at Solang or Kothi. UPI may not work reliably here due to patchy network coverage.
- Negotiate activity prices. Vendors at Solang ground often start with inflated prices. Negotiate firmly before agreeing, especially for quad rides and snow scooters.
- Wear proper footwear in winters. Snow boots or good quality trekking shoes with grip are essential if you are visiting between December and February.
- Mobile network: BSNL, Jio, and Airtel all work in Solang and Kothi, though signal strength drops in the valleys and on treks.
- No permit required for visiting Solang or Kothi. However, if you plan to go beyond towards Rohtang Pass on the Manali – Leh highway, you will need a Rohtang Pass permit.
- Carry warm clothing even in summer. Evenings and early mornings can get quite cold at this altitude.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Solang Valley worth visiting in 2026?
Yes, Solang Valley is worth visiting in 2026. The valley offers a range of adventure activities like paragliding, skiing, zorbing, and the gondola ropeway ride. If you visit during winter (December-February), you get snow sports and the Anjani Mahadev ice Shivling. During summer (April-June), the valley is green and pleasant with trekking opportunities. It is only 13 km from Manali, making it an easy addition to any Manali trip.
How far is Solang Valley from Manali?
Solang Valley is approximately 13 km from Manali, which takes about 30-40 minutes by road. You can reach by local taxi (Rs 1,500-2,000 round trip), local bus (Rs 20-50 per person), or self-drive.
What is the best time to see snow in Solang Valley?
The best time to see snow in Solang Valley is between December and February. Peak snowfall usually happens in late December to mid-January. If it snows well, you can find 2-3 feet of snow covering the entire valley. This is also when the adventure sports like skiing and snow scooters are most active.
Is there any entry fee for Solang Valley?
No, there is no entry fee to visit Solang Valley. You only pay for the adventure activities you choose to do, such as paragliding (Rs 1,500-3,000), ropeway (Rs 500-900), quad rides (Rs 500-1,500), and similar activities.
Can I visit Solang Valley and Kothi in one day from Manali?
Yes, you can visit both Solang Valley and Kothi in a single day from Manali since they are only 13-15 km away. However, I would recommend staying at least one night in Solang to fully enjoy the activities and the peaceful evening atmosphere. A day trip only scratches the surface.
What is the altitude of Solang Valley?
Solang Valley is at an altitude of approximately 8,400 feet (2,560 meters) above sea level. Nearby Kothi village is slightly higher at about 8,500 feet (2,590 meters). At this altitude, there is no risk of altitude sickness, and the weather remains pleasant in summers and snowy in winters.
Is Solang Valley safe for families with children?
Solang Valley is very safe for families with children. The adventure activities like ropeway, zorbing, and short ATV rides are family-friendly. In winters, kids enjoy playing in the snow. Just make sure children are dressed warmly and have proper footwear. The Anjani Mahadev trek may be too steep for very young children, but the Solang ground activities are suitable for all ages.
Wrapping Up
The beauty of this mountain-locked paradise should be enjoyed best during winters along with the snow-sports, though summers bring their own charm with green meadows and clear skies. Whether you are coming for a weekend escape from Delhi or adding Solang to a longer Manali – Leh highway trip, Kothi and Solang Valley will not disappoint.
I hope this article answers all your queries related to Solang and Kothi. If you still have any questions, feel free to reach out through the DwD Community or drop a comment below. For other travel discussions, finding travel partners, and trip planning help, go through the DwD Community from the link in the main menu of the website 🙂
If you found this guide helpful, do share it with your friends and family planning a trip to Solang, Kothi, or Manali.
Last Updated: March 2026
