Manali- the moment I hear the name, it makes me think of beautiful mountains, sunsets and chai, especially if it's snowing. If you are like me and are planning to visit Manali, the picturesque hill station in Himachal Pradesh, In that case, you must take advantage of the chance to explore the fantastic cafes in Manali that offer a variety of cuisines, ambience, and experiences. Whether you want to enjoy a hot cup of coffee with a stunning view of the mountains, savour some delicious local dishes with live music, or cosy up by the fireplace with a book, you will find a cafe in Manali that suits your mood and taste.
1. Cafe 1947
Cafe 1947 is one of Manali's most popular and oldest cafes, located on the banks of the Manalsu River. It is known for its Italian cuisine, especially pizzas and pasta, and its cosy and rustic decor. You can enjoy your meal while listening to live music by local bands or artists or watching movies or sports on the big screen. The Cafe also has a library where you can borrow or exchange books.
Location: Cafe 1947
Cost for 2: Rs. 1500/-
2. Drifters' Cafe
Drifters' Cafe is another famous cafe in Manali, located near the Old Manali Bridge. It is a paradise for backpackers, bikers, and adventure seekers, as it offers services and facilities such as bike rentals, travel guides, camping equipment, and more. The Cafe also serves delicious continental, Chinese, and Indian food, exotic drinks and desserts. You can relax on the rooftop terrace with a panoramic view of the valley or play board games or guitar with your friends.
Location: Drifters' Cafe
Cost for 2: Rs. 650/-
3. The Lazy Dog
The Lazy Dog is a charming cafe in Manali located on the banks of the Beas River. It is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of Manali, as it has a spacious lawn, a garden, and a riverside seating area. The Cafe offers a variety of cuisines, such as Italian, Chinese, Tibetan, and Indian, along with some mouth-watering desserts and beverages. You can also indulge in activities such as fishing, rafting, trekking, or chilling with your pet dog, as the Cafe is pet-friendly.
Location: The Lazy Dog
Cost for 2: Rs. 800/-
4. Johnson's Cafe
Johnson's Cafe is classy and elegant in Manali near the Circuit House. It is part of the Johnson's Lodge, a luxury hotel that offers comfortable and cosy rooms and cottages. The Cafe is famous for its continental and Indian cuisine, especially the trout fish, chicken steak, and apple pie. You can enjoy your meal in the indoor dining area, the outdoor garden area, or the rooftop lounge. The Cafe also has a bar serving some of Manali's finest wines and cocktails.
Location: Johnson's Cafe
Cost for 2: Rs. 1500/-
5. Cafe Meraki
Cafe Meraki is a cosy and cute cafe in Manali near the Hadimba temple. It is a great place to enjoy authentic Tibetan and Nepalese food, such as momos, thukpa, and sel roti. The Cafe also serves some continental and Indian dishes, refreshing drinks and smoothies. You can sit in the indoor area, on the outdoor balcony, or the rooftop terrace and admire the views of the pine trees and the snow-capped mountains.
Location: Cafe Meraki
Cost for 2: Rs. 400/-
6. Cafe Il Forno
Cafe Il Forno is a trendy modern cafe in Manali, located on Mall Road. It is a must-visit for pizza lovers, offering some of the best wood-fired pizzas in Manali and other Italian delicacies, such as lasagna, ravioli, and tiramisu. The Cafe also serves some continental and Indian dishes and hot and cold beverages. You can enjoy your meal in the stylish and spacious indoor or outdoor seating area with a bustling street view.
Location: Cafe Il Forno
Cost for 2: Rs. 200/-
7. Dylan's Toasted and Roasted Coffee House
Dylan's Toasted and Roasted Coffee House is a cosy and quirky cafe in Manali, located near the Manu temple. It is a heaven for coffee lovers, as it offers a range of freshly brewed coffee, such as espresso, cappuccino, latte, and mocha, along with some exotic flavours, such as hazelnut, caramel, and vanilla. The Cafe also serves some delicious sandwiches, burgers, pancakes, waffles, cakes, and pastries. You can relax in the indoor, outdoor garden, or rooftop areas and enjoy the music and ambience.
Location: Dylan's Toasted and Roasted Coffee House
Cost for 2: Rs. 300/-
8. Cafe Amigos
Cafe Amigos is a fun and friendly cafe in Manali, located near the Club House. It is a great place to hang out with your friends and family, as it offers a variety of cuisines, such as Chinese, Tibetan, Italian, and Indian, along with some snacks and beverages. You can enjoy your meal in the indoor, outdoor seating, or rooftop areas and play games such as chess, carrom, or ludo. The Cafe also has a karaoke system where you can sing your favourite songs and have a blast.
Location: Cafe Amigos
Cost for 2: Rs. 550/-
9. Ride Inn Cafe
Ride Inn Cafe is a motorcycle-themed cafe and boutique hotel in Manali, located near the Nehrukund Bridge. It is a popular destination for bikers, travellers, and foodies, as it offers various services and facilities, such as bike rentals, travel guides, camping equipment, and more. The Cafe serves a variety of cuisines, such as continental, Chinese, Tibetan, and Indian, along with some exotic drinks and desserts. You can relax on the rooftop terrace with a panoramic view of the valley or play board games or guitar with your friends. The Cafe also has a library where you can borrow or exchange books.
Location: Ride Inn Cafe
Cost for 2: Rs. 900/-
10. Cafe Nirvana
Cafe Nirvana is a peaceful and serene cafe in Manali near the Vashisht temple. It is a perfect place to meditate and rejuvenate, as it offers a calm and soothing atmosphere and some healthy and organic food, such as salads, soups, sandwiches, and juices. The Cafe also serves some continental and Indian dishes, herbal teas and coffees. You can sit in the indoor, outdoor garden, or rooftop areas and enjoy the views of the hot springs and mountains.
Location: Cafe Nirvana
Cost for 2: Rs. 650/-
11. Cafe Kathmandu
Cafe Kathmandu is a vibrant and colourful cafe in Manali, located near the Manu temple. It is a great place to experience the culture and cuisine of Nepal, as it offers some authentic Nepalese dishes, such as dal bhat, chow mein, and momos. The Cafe also serves some continental and Indian dishes, drinks, and desserts. You can enjoy your meal in the indoor, outdoor seating, or rooftop areas and watch cultural shows or performances by local artists.
Location: Cafe Kathmandu
Cost for 2: Rs. 300/-
12. Cafe By The Way
Cafe By The Way, is an excellent and funky cafe in Manali, located on Mall Road. It is a great place to chill and enjoy the nightlife of Manali, as it offers a lively and upbeat ambience, along with some delicious food and drinks. The Cafe serves a variety of cuisines, such as continental, Chinese, Italian, and Indian, along with some cocktails and mocktails. You can enjoy your meal in the indoor, outdoor seating, or rooftop areas, and groove to some music by the DJ or live band.
Location: Cafe By The Way
Cost for 2: Rs. 400/-
13. Cafe Evergreen
Cafe Evergreen is a cosy and charming cafe in Manali located near the Hadimba temple. It is a great place to enjoy some homemade and fresh food, such as pizzas, pasta, burgers, and cakes. The Cafe also serves some continental and Indian dishes and hot and cold beverages. You can enjoy your meal in the indoor, outdoor seating, or rooftop areas and admire the forest and temple views.
Location: Cafe Evergreen
Cost for 2: Rs. 800/-
14. Born Free Cafe
Born Free Cafe is a cafe and hostel in Manali, located near the Nehrukund Bridge. It is a popular destination for travellers who want to enjoy some delicious food, live music, and a friendly atmosphere. The cafe offers a variety of cuisines, such as continental, Chinese, Tibetan, and Indian, along with some exotic drinks and desserts.
Location: Born Free Cafe
Cost for 2: Rs. 500/-
15. Cafe Rendezvous
Cafe Rendezvous is a cosy and romantic cafe in Manali located near the Vashisht temple. It is a perfect place to enjoy some quality time with your partner, as it offers a candle-lit and intimate ambience and delicious food and drinks. The Cafe serves a variety of cuisines, such as continental, Chinese, Italian, and Indian, along with some wine and champagne. You can enjoy your meal in the indoor, outdoor seating, or rooftop areas and enjoy the stars and moon views.
Location: Cafe Rendezvous
Cost for 2: Rs. 1000/-
So while you are in Manali, visit these lovely cafe's and let me know which is your favourite among this!
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