Manali

Manali (well, Old Manali, up the hill, not the new monstrosity around the bus station), has managed to retain alot of its natural charm, and architecture, and its a lovely place to just walk around. Wooden houses with stone roofs, women working on looms infront of the house, cows and goats tethered to the side of the house, AND APPLE TREES EVERYWHERE! Blossom season, not ripening season unfortunately, but still great to see. People still wear local dress as well, women more than men, but also adds to the charm. For women, its a woolen esque sari, in very bright colours contrasting with a main neutral one, coupled with a gypsy style bandanna. The men wear a strange little woolen hat that doesnt seem to offer much in terms of warmth or sun protection, but its certainly unique.

The season hasn't started here yet, so easy to get a bargain for a room, and choice of hotels. It also means its so much quieter here than McLeodganj! Different type of people as well- more of the hippy, sit around and smoking, Israeli group - no yoga classes or volunteering here. Still has cake shops though!

I have realised that when people say 'its snowing in the hills there', they are neglecting to say, 'it is therefore raining in the valleys'. Manage to get half of the day to be dry, but rain the other half- seems to alternate between mornings and afternoons. Rather a shame as it limits exploring, but i guess thats why the season hasn't started here yet, so wont complain.