One day, Varvasvata, the seventh incarnation of Manu found a tiny fish in his bathing water. The fish told him to look after it with devotion as one day it would do him a great service. The seventh Manu cared for the fish till the day it grew so huge that he released it into the sea. Before departing, the fish warned Manu of an impending deluge when the entire world would be submerged and bade him to build a sea worthy ark. When the flood came, Varvasvata and seven sages were towed to safety by Matsya, the fish which is regarded as first avatar of Lord Vishnu. As the water subsided the seventh Manu's ark came to the rest on a hill side and the place was named Manali (2050 m) after him.

As the flood slowly dried, here arose a place of breath- taking natural beauty which was only appropriate at Manali that life began again. Today this legendary cradle of all human kind is a prime holiday destination. There are high mountains surrounded by snow and deep boulder strewn gorges. There are thick forests full of cool breeze and bird songs. There are fields of wild flowers, small picturesque hamlets and fruit laden orchards.

ACCESS: The airport at Bhunter is 50 km from Manali where taxis and buses are available. The closest narrow gauge railhead is at Joginder Nagar, 165 km away. The closest broad gauge rail heads are Chandigarh (310 km) and Ambala (355 km). By road the distance from Delhi is 570 km and from Shimla the distance is 280 km. From Delhi, there is a regular HPTDC Luxury and Volvo Coach to Manali. HPTDC runs Luxury coach from Shimla to Manali in tourist season.

CLIMATE: In winter, the temperature can drop to below freezing point when heavy woolens are required. Summer temperature are mild and light woolens / cottons are recommended.

THE LOG HUTS & HAMTA COTTAGES: For sheer luxury, nothing in Manali can surpass HPTDC Log Huts. Here is a blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. About 2 km away from Manali, the Log Huts and Hamta Cottages are set in glorious surroundings with the best view of the snow capped peaks.

Accommodation And Facilities:

• Each Log Hut has two double bed rooms, a living room with dining area and a fully equipped kitchen. The bedrooms have attached baths with running hot and cold water
• Each Hamta Cottage has one double bedroom, a living room and a kitchen. Each Cottage has attached baths with running hot and cold water. These cottages are specially recommended for honeymoon couples.
• Satellite Television in Log Hut. No television facility in Hamta Huts.
• Room service.
• Laundry and Dry-cleaning arranged.
• Parking within premises.
• Taxis on hire.
• Doctor on call.
  MasterCard / Visa Credit Cards accepted