The Manu Maharishi Temple in Old Manali is the oldest place of worship in the area and the only temple in India dedicated to the sage Manu, the progenitor of humanity in Hindu cosmology. It stands on a rocky outcrop above the old village lanes, a modest structure built in traditional Himachali style with a tiered wooden roof and stone walls.
The temple is an active place of worship for the local Pahari community, and the atmosphere is unpretentious and devotional. The climb up through Old Manali's lanes is itself worthwhile — you pass traditional stone houses with carved wooden balconies, apple orchards, and occasional glimpses of the mountains above. The temple is the natural turnaround point for a walk through Old Manali, with views back down the valley from the terrace.