page_title: Mandi district
section_title: Places of interest
hierarchical_section_title: Mandi district / Places of interest
caption_attribution_description: Nature, Scenery, Forests, Agriculture Between Shimla and Mandi Himachal Pradesh India
context_page_description: Mandi district is one of the central districts of Himachal Pradesh state in northern India. The town of Mandi is the headquarters of the district. The town has mythological and historical significance and boasts of a unique temple architecture. It is referred to as Chhoti Kashi as there are many ancient temples in the city and on the banks of river Beas.
  The town is an important commercial hub of the state. It is a major transit route to Kullu-Manali and other adjoining places from NH 3 and NH-154. Sundarnagar is one of the emerging towns of the district.
  The main native language is Mandeali.
  As of 2011 it is the second most populous district of Himachal Pradesh, after Kangra.
context_section_description: The historic town of Mandi is built along the banks of the river Beas. It has long been an important commercial centre, and the sage Mandvya is said to have meditated here. This one-time capital of the princely state of Mandi is a fast developing town that retains much of its original charm and character. Today, it is a district headquarters. Mandi is renowned for its 81 old stone temples and their enormous range of fine carving. Because of this, it is often called the "Varanasi of the Hills." The town has the remains of old palaces and notable examples of colonial architecture. Mandi is the gateway to the Kullu valley and acts as the base for several exciting excursions.
caption: The Karsog valley in Mandi district.
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