Tucked away in the Almora district of Uttarakhand, Manila is a serene and offbeat hill station known for its breathtaking Himalayan views, lush green forests, rich birdlife, and spiritual significance. Named after Manila Devi, the local deity of the Katyuri and Chand dynasties, this quiet Himalayan retreat offers unparalleled peace and natural beauty, making it perfect for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and spiritual seekers.
Located 85 km from Ranikhet and 100 km from Nainital, Manila is one of Uttarakhand’s best-kept secrets, ideal for a weekend escape or a rejuvenating long stay in nature. Whether you’re into birdwatching, trekking, spiritual exploration, or simply looking for an offbeat destination away from crowded tourist places, Manila offers a truly magical experience.
This Manila Travel Guide covers everything you need to plan your trip, including how to reach, the best time to visit, birdwatching details, must-visit places, accommodations, distances, local cuisines, and travel routes from Delhi and Nainital.
How To Reach Manila?
Manila is well-connected to Delhi, Nainital, and Kathgodam via road, rail, and air.
By Road
Driving to Manila is a beautiful journey, passing through dense pine forests, winding mountain roads, and small Kumaoni villages.
- From Delhi (385 km): A 10-hour drive via NH 9 through Haldwani → Ranikhet → Manila.
- From Nainital (100 km): A 3-hour drive via Ramnagar and Ranikhet.
- From Ranikhet (85 km): A 2.5-hour drive via Majkhali and Bhikiyasain.
Regular buses and shared taxis operate from Kathgodam and Ranikhet to Manila.
By Train
The nearest railway station is Kathgodam Railway Station (150 km), connected to Delhi, Lucknow, and Kolkata. From Kathgodam, take a bus or taxi to Manila via Ranikhet.
By Air
The nearest airport is Pantnagar Airport (180 km). From the airport, take a taxi or bus to Manila.
Best Time To Visit Manila
Manila is a year-round destination, offering different experiences in every season.
- Spring & Summer (March to June): The best time for birdwatching, trekking, and photography, with temperatures between 15°C to 25°C.
- Monsoon (July to September): The valley turns lush green, but frequent showers may limit outdoor activities.
- Autumn (October to November): Ideal for clear Himalayan views, apple orchards, and pleasant weather.
- Winter (December to February): Experience snowfall and winter treks, with temperatures dropping to 0°C to 10°C.
Recommended: Visit between March to June or October to November for the best experience.
Birding in Manila
Manila is a paradise for birdwatchers, with a wide variety of Himalayan and migratory birds found in its forests and open meadows.
Popular Birds in Manila:
- Himalayan Monal (State Bird of Uttarakhand)
- Koklass Pheasant
- Cheer Pheasant (rare sighting!)
- Black-headed Jay
- Rufous-bellied Woodpecker
- Yellow-billed Blue Magpie
- Eurasian Griffon
Best Birdwatching Spots:
- Manila Forest Reserve
- Majkhali Birding Trail
- Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (Nearby)
Best Time for Birding:
- March to June (Spring-Summer) & October to November (Autumn-Winter) are the best seasons to spot rare birds and capture stunning photographs.
For a better experience, consider hiring a local birding guide who can help you explore hidden trails.
Manila Hotels & Resorts
Manila offers a mix of homestays, eco-resorts, and budget hotels, ensuring a comfortable stay amidst nature.
Luxury Resorts & Boutique Stays:
- The Manila Heights Retreat – A boutique eco-resort with stunning valley views and Kumaoni hospitality.
- Nature’s Abode Resort – A luxury resort offering camping, bonfire nights, and yoga retreats.
- Whispering Pines Manila – A serene stay surrounded by dense forests and birdwatching trails.
Mid-Range & Budget Hotels:
- Manila Homestay – A budget-friendly stay with traditional Kumaoni food and local hospitality.
- Himalayan Bliss Hotel – A mid-range hotel with cozy rooms and mountain views.
- Pine View Lodge – A comfortable budget stay with an in-house restaurant serving Kumaoni cuisine.
Best Places To Visit In Manila
1. Manila Devi Temple
A sacred temple dedicated to Goddess Manila, offering spiritual significance and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
2. Manila Forest Reserve
A dense forest perfect for trekking, birdwatching, and nature photography.
3. Ranikhet (85 km from Manila)
A charming hill town known for colonial architecture, Kumaoni heritage, and breathtaking views.
4. Jageshwar Temple Complex (90 km from Manila)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring over 100 ancient Shiva temples.
5. Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary (100 km from Manila)
A biodiversity hotspot, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Manila Tour from Delhi
Manila is a 10-hour drive from Delhi, making it an ideal weekend getaway.
- Distance: 385 km
- Travel Time: 10-11 hours
- Route: Delhi → Haldwani → Ranikhet → Manila
2-Day Itinerary from Delhi
Day 1:
- Start early (6 AM) from Delhi.
- Breakfast at Haldwani (Try Aloo Puri & Kumaoni Raita!).
- Reach Manila by noon and check into The Manila Heights Retreat.
- Visit Manila Devi Temple & explore the Manila Forest Reserve.
- Sunset at Whispering Pines Resort.
Day 2:
- Early morning birdwatching at Majkhali Birding Trail.
- Trek to Binsar Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Return to Delhi by evening.
Manila Tour from Nainital
Manila is just 100 km from Nainital, making it a perfect day trip or overnight stay.
- Distance: 100 km
- Travel Time: 3-4 hours
- Route: Nainital → Ramnagar → Ranikhet → Manila
1-Day Itinerary from Nainital
- Start early (7 AM) from Nainital.
- Visit Manila Devi Temple & Manila Forest Reserve.
- Lunch at The Manila Heights Retreat.
- Explore birdwatching trails & return to Nainital by evening.
Manila Distances from Major Cities
| City | Distance | Travel Time |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 385 km | 10-11 hrs |
| Nainital | 100 km | 3-4 hrs |
| Ranikhet | 85 km | 2.5 hrs |
| Kathgodam | 150 km | 5 hrs |
Manila Local Cuisines
Manila offers delicious Kumaoni cuisine, made with fresh, organic ingredients.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Aloo Ke Gutke – Spiced pahadi potatoes.
- Bhaang Ki Chutney – A tangy hemp seed chutney.
- Chainsoo – A black gram dal dish.
- Bal Mithai – A famous Kumaoni sweet.
Final Thoughts
Manila is a perfect blend of adventure, nature, and peace, offering a refreshing escape from city life. Whether you’re trekking in the forests, birdwatching, or exploring temples, this Himalayan gem promises an unforgettable experience.
So pack your bags and explore the untouched beauty of Manila! 🌲🏔️✨
