9 Must Visit Cafes In Manali | Old Manali Cafe Crawl

9 Must Visit Cafes In Manali | Old Manali Cafe Crawl 

Manali is truly a magical place and no matter how many blogs I write about it, its never going to be enough. Today we are counting down my favourite cafes in Manali, now remember there are not the ranking of the cafes but rather just a list of my favourite 9 cafes in Manali. 

As someone who absolutely loves to go to cafes Manali never once led me down. Away from all the hustle and bustle of the Manali town, these cafes are a bag packers paradise. these cafes are packed from local delicacies to multi cuisine from various parts of the world.  

Here are my top 9 cafes that you have to visit when you go to Manali. 

9. Kilta Cafe: 

Its more of a coffee shop rather than a cafe and this one is one of the best for a coffee lover who just wants to enjoy there cup. With an Amazing view of the snow-capped Himalayas and a perfectly brewed coffee in your hand. 

Its a small cafe run by an extremely pleasant American couple Robert and Grace, this cafe has the perfect cup of coffee and baked sweets and one of the best place to eat hot dogs for they have the best in the city. 

An absolute must visit if you enjoy the quiet and need some time away from the crowds.

8. People's Cafe:

If you are a person who starts its day with trance and psychedelic music then this place is perfect for you guys. Great food with some good music can never be a bad combination. 

the live techno music that starts in the evening is a real charm. just sit back and relax the chill of the night in the warmness of music and food. The mix of everyone & everything and yet maintaining a good standard is what makes this place special for me!

A definite go-to place if you are going to Manali go alone or with someone, this place will never disappoint you. 

7. Dylan's Toasted And Roasted: 

Well here is something of a mixed review of what I have heard and experienced. This place has a lot of vibe to it in terms of culture that we get to see from around the world. Its a cool coffee joint in the thick of “Manali Gaon” or Old Manali. 

It’s always packed with foreigners, a cool hang out joint for Backpackers, trekkers, hippies and general junkies. I have heard of some people having a terrible experience at this place. So I leave it up to you guys to go and decide how you liked or disliked this place. 

6. River Music Breakfast And German Bakery:

The roar of the river mixes in organically with the relaxing tibetian music. The Tibetan prayer flags all around set the mood, the Manalsu river creates the all-powerful audio-visual backdrop. 

This cafe is famous for its breakfast. You can choose between English breakfast, continental, Israeli or Indian Breakfast. this place is also great to just sit back and get your work done on the go no one flusters you, you can chill using wifi for hours altogether sipping their wonderful Hazelnut Latte or cappuccino.

5. The Lazy Dog:

The lazy dog is one of my favourite cafe in Manali and if you ask me why? I would say the location, food and the view are just amazing. The place is located in close proximity to the flowing river which makes the atmosphere more serene and adds to the charm of the place.

One can sit along the river and listen to the sound of gushing water along with the live performances. The famous bands like Rudra, Local train perform in the cafes during the peak season that is from May to July.

4. Johnson's Cafe:

A little on the expensive side I would say as a budget traveller but definitely worth every penny. This cafe was built in the 1980s and was featured on The Lonely Planet and Highway on my Plate as one of the best cafes in Manali.

It is situated on the Circuit House Road and is known for its European cuisines and Trout fish. It has a picturesque location with the view of snow-covered mountains.

3. Drifter's Cafe:

Again a little bit on the expensive side for just okay food but definitely worth the price when you have it combined with the vibe of the place and the music you get. The general vibe of this place is enough for a drifter to feel right at home. 

The pizza, pasta and Irish coffee are something that you have to when you visit this cafe. Take your pick from a selection of exciting board games, relax in the comfort and warmth of the fireplace on a cold snowy day, swap stories with fellow travellers.

2. Cafe 1947:

It has a great view of the river and the mountains. The music is soothing - they even have live music and would have been on number one in my favourite list. this cafe has one of the best atmospheres of all that I mentioned above.  

Known for its Italian Delicacies, this place offers a splendid view, food and service. This cafe is highly recommendable as it is one of the best in Old Manali. Don't forget to try their Pizzas, Pasta and Risottos.

1. Born Free:

This is definitely my personal favourite, not known to many people this place has the best atmosphere with its live music and the view of the mountains and great food. The French fries, Honey fried potato are a must have when you visit this cafe.

Many of you would have never heard about this cafe in Manali but if you are a budget traveller then believe me guys its the best place to enjoy your evening in Manali. 

The sitting capacity is not large enough but it's sober to sit here, have some beer and enjoy the live performances.

That is a list of my favourite cafes in Manali. what is your favourite? share your thoughts with me through any social media or just leave a quick comment. 


A limerick is always appreciated. 

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