Best cafes to visit in and around Old Manali

Imagine having a hot cup of coffee while you are surrounded by amazing mountains in Himachal Pradesh. The air is fresh, the vibes are cool, and it is a place where time stands still. If this description matches your idea of paradise, then Old Manali is what you need. This small town, located 3 kilometres uphill from Manali has many cosy cafes that not only serve as perfect scenery but also offer much more. When you need the ideal place to work remotely or relax as an explorer, consider Old Manali’s cafes because you will find anything here. Read on to discover the best cafes around and in Old Manali which can be best described as a haven for food lovers and coffee enthusiasts.

Discover the top cafes in Old Manali

Old Manali is full of diverse cafes which are worth visiting for different reasons. From hidden gems to bustling spots, see below a summary of top-rated cafes all designed to make your trip memorable.

1. Cafe 1947

Cafe 1947 which has its location right beside the gushing Manalsu River is an iconic cafe in Old Manali. Its rustic wooden interiors coupled with live music sessions will transport you back in time. Their menu features Italian cuisine blended with Indian dishes including their wood-fired pizzas that stand out among others. It is an easygoing joint with outside seating suitable for relaxing and enjoying nature at its finest.

• Timings: 1:00 pm to 11:00 pm
• Cuisine: Indian, Tibetian
• Cost for two: INR 1,500
• Signature dishes/beverages: Waffles with chocolate sauce
• Drive time from The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple: 6 minutes (1.1 km)

Cafe 1947 | Credits: tales_of_akriti, Instagram

2. Sunshine Cafe

Sunshine Cafe is tucked away in a hidden corner of Old Manali and captures all that Old Manali represents at its core. People are aware of this simple yet good tasting restaurant that also offers a warm reception and relaxed atmosphere whereby you may want to stay longer. They serve heavy breakfast meals, fresh fruit juices and homemade cakes which make the best morning treats on slow days when you have no rush hours ahead of you. Being quiet inside and tranquil out, Sunshine Cafe is an escape place from the crowded streets of Old Manali town centre where everybody will be able to calm down after a long walk around them.

• Timings: 8:00 am to 12:00 am
• Cuisine: Italian, Continental
• Cost for two: INR 650
• Signature dishes/beverages: Tandoori special
• Drive time from The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple: 6 minutes (1.2 km)

Sunshine Cafe | Credits: sunshinecafe._, Instagram

3. The Lazy Dog Cafe

When it comes to vibrant surroundings, The Lazy Dog Cafe tops the list. This cafe by the riverside serves a blend of Continental and Asian cuisines using organic ingredients that are freshly obtained from farms or gardens nearby. It has different styles of music performance as well as decorations hence making people love it more, especially when they visit this place on holidays or weekends. Their outdoor seating area has hammocks, bean bags, etc., which provide a scenic view of the nearby river stream. If you are looking for an aesthetic cafe with an amazing view along with even more amazing food this is your place.

• Timings: 11:00 am to 1:00 am
• Cuisine: Asian, Italian
• Cost for two: INR 800
• Signature dishes/beverages: Potato bacon soup
• Drive time from The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple: 6 minutes (1.1 km)

The Lazy Dog Cafe | Credits: lazydogmanali, Instagram

4. Giri’s Cafe

Giri's Cafe is a hidden gem, a cosy haven tucked away from the bustling Manali streets. The warm, inviting atmosphere is enhanced by the soft glow of fairy lights and the gentle hum of conversation. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and yummy pasta fills the air, creating a sense of comfort and contentment. The menu features a variety of options, from classic sandwiches to gourmet salads and decadent desserts. If you're looking for a happening place, Giri's Cafe is the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of your trip.

• Timings: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Cuisine: Italian
• Cost for two: INR 1,200
• Signature dishes/beverages: Trout fish
• Drive time from The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple: 7 minutes (1.4 km)

Giri’s Cafe | Credits: giris_cafe, Instagram

5. The Organic Bowl

A small cafe in the lanes of Old Manali with surprisingly scrumptious food. The cafe gives the vibes of homely because the view of the mountains is beautiful and the lush greenery surrounding it makes it astonishing.

• Timings: 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Cuisine: Indian, Italian
• Signature dishes/beverages: Buckwheat pancakes
• Cost for two: INR 600
• Drive time from The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple: 15 minutes (3.2 km)

The Organic Bowl | Credits: the_organicbowl, Instagram

6. Cafe Rasta, Vashisht

Cafe Rasta is located in the village of Vashisht which is near Old Manali and is known for its reggae music and chill atmosphere backed up by an array of vegan and vegetarian dishes together with fresh juices and smoothies. The rooftop seats give you a clear view of the valley making it a good place for relaxation as you enjoy the serene environment.

• Timings: 8:00 am to 11:30 pm
• Cuisine: Cafe, Italian
• Cost for two: INR 800
• Drive time from The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple: 14 minutes (3.8 km)

Rasta Cafe | Credits: rastacafevashisht, Instagram

7. Shiva Garden Cafe, Vashisht

Shiva Garden Cafe is another treasure in Vashisht and is surrounded by greenery which makes it a calm setting. This cafe offers organic food and herbal teas thus it’s a sanctuary for health conscious travellers. Its retreat-like feel that comes along with calming sounds from nature invites you to meditate or just take time off.

• Timings: 8:00 am to 11:00 pm
• Cuisine: Italian, Cafe, Tibetan
• Cost for two: INR 1,000
• Drive time from The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple: 16 minutes (4.1 km)

Rasta Cafe | Credits: rastacafevashisht, Instagram

Old Manali has many famous Himachali cuisines, including rice dishes, and fish dishes. Some of them are Tudkiya bhath which is a flavorful rice dish that's a staple of Himachal Pradesh's culinary tradition and often served with mashed dal and lime juice. Kullu trout fish (a trout dish), Bhey (a traditional dish made from lotus stems, and Siddu (a steamed dumpling dish) are also some of the famous dishes and you should try them out.

Conclusion

Get the best of Old Manali by visiting here. The restaurants here are no mere places to grab a bite; they are where you can establish a true connection with the soul of the town. Whether you’re tucking into a substantial breakfast at Drifters’ Cafe, watching the sunset at Cafe 1947, or just drinking tea at Sunshine Cafe, every second spent in any of these cafes adds to the appeal of your trip.

And if you are planning on visiting Old Manali and finding accommodation, then The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple should be your choice. Featuring cosy suites, dynamic social areas and closeness to the best cafes in town, The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple offers a homely feel that complements your adventure in Old Manali perfectly. What could be better than having a delightful breakfast in a cafe nearby and resting in the warmth and comfort at The Hosteller Old Manali Manu Temple?

So pack up your bags and head straight for Old Manali to get dazzled by the coffee shop culture!