Why Visit Hidden Villages in Kullu Manali?
Hidden villages in Kullu Manali offer some of the most peaceful, authentic, and memorable experiences in the Himalayas. While most travelers stick to Old Manali or Solang, a short detour can take you to quiet hamlets full of natural beauty, Himachali culture, and warm hospitality. In this guide, I’ll share 5 hidden villages in Kullu Manali that I explored and loved, perfect for your 2025 trip.
Hidden Villages in Kullu Manali You Must Visit in 2025
Soil Village: Forest Escape Near Manali
7 km from Manali, ~2,100m elevation
Airtel & Jio 4G (patchy but fine for calls)
This was my first real “offbeat” experience near Manali, and wow, what a difference it makes to leave the main town behind. Soil is nestled in thick deodar forest, with just a handful of homestays run by warm, welcoming families.
I remember waking up here to birdsong and mist rolling through the trees, no honking cars, no tourist chatter. There are a couple of quiet forest trails that start right from the village, perfect for a digital detox or just slowing down.
Why go?
- 3–4 traditional homestays, no big hotels
- Forest hikes & birdwatching
- Clean air, total peace
Best months: March–June, Sept–Nov
Jana Village: Apple Orchards & Waterfalls
12 km from Naggar, ~2,300m elevation
Jio & BSNL work well.
If you love food and orchards, don’t miss Jana. I visited in late August during apple season, and the whole village smelled sweet from ripe fruit! Locals here are proud of their Himachali thalis, and the siddu (stuffed bread) I had at a roadside dhaba still makes my mouth water.
A short, easy walk from the village takes you to a cool little waterfall where you can sit and soak your feet.
Why go?
- Home-cooked Himachali food
- Orchard-view homestays
- Day hike to Jana Waterfall
Best time: August for the apple harvest
Rumsu Village: Traditional Architecture & Remote Work Hub
6 km uphill from Naggar, ~2,400m elevation
Jio is reliable; Airtel is spotty.
I stayed here for a week while working remotely, and honestly? It was one of my most productive weeks ever. Rumsu is quiet but not cut off, Kathkuni-style wooden houses, friendly villagers, and a couple of decent homestays with Wi-Fi.
In the evenings, I’d walk narrow stone alleys and watch the sunset over the valley. It’s also a great base if you’re planning to trek to Chandrakhani Pass.
Why go?
- Traditional architecture & culture
- Homestays & hostels with Wi-Fi
- Perfect for longer stays
Sajla Village: Temple, Stream & Eco-Camping
11 km from Manali (towards Kullu), ~1,800m elevation
Jio & BSNL are strong here.
I stumbled on Sajla by accident — and I’m glad I did. The village sits by a gentle stream, with an old Shiva temple at its heart. There’s a little eco-camp here too, where I spent a night listening to the water and looking at the stars.
If you’re into quiet spirituality and nature, this is your place.
Why go?
- Temple & streamside walks
- Sajla waterfall (short trek)
- Eco-camps & homestays
Best months: Any except July–August monsoon
Tandi Village: Living Himachali Culture
15 km from Kullu (near Bhuntar), ~1,500m elevation
All major networks work here.
Tandi is one of those places that instantly transports you to a simpler time. I was lucky to visit in March during the vibrant Phagli festival, and the whole village came alive, with music echoing through the lanes, dancers in colorful masks, and locals welcoming everyone with warm smiles.
The wooden temples here, set against the hills, feel timeless. Walking through the heritage homes and chatting with the villagers was one of the most memorable parts of my trip.
What I loved most was how easy it was to get here, just a short drive from Bhuntar airport, yet it remains peaceful and uncrowded.
Why visit Tandi?
- Experience traditional festivals like Phagli and Gochi
- See beautiful wooden temples and heritage Himachali homes
- Conveniently located near Bhuntar but still off the beaten path
Best time to visit: February-March for the festivals
How to Choose the Right Hidden Village in Kullu Manali
✅ For solitude & nature: Soil
✅ For food & orchards: Jana
✅ For remote work: Rumsu
✅ For spirituality: Sajla
✅ For cultural vibes: Tandi
Final Tips Before Exploring Hidden Villages in Kullu Manali
- Carry enough cash, as ATMs are rare.
- Dress modestly, especially near temples.
- Avoid loud music, respect the silence.
- Support local homestays over hotels.
- Stay at least 2–3 nights to soak it in.
Ready to Explore the Real Himachal?
If you’re tired of selfie crowds and overpriced cafes, try one of these hidden gems. These villages gave me some of my most peaceful, authentic travel memories in Himachal, and I bet they’ll do the same for you.
Ready to discover Himachal’s hidden charm? Visit these villages, and tag @RealYatra to share your #RealHimachal moments in 2025!