Things To Do
in Manglaur

Manglaur is a small town in Uttarakhand's Haridwar district, nestled on the plains near the foothills of the Shivalik range. It offers a rewarding blend of rural charm, modest markets, and approachable temples, all within a relaxed, day-trip-friendly vibe. Locals are known for their warmth and hospitality, making it easy for visitors to feel at home in a short stay.

As a convenient base, Manglaur provides quick access to nearby villages, religious sites, and nature, while maintaining a distinctly unhurried tempo.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the ancient temples scattered throughout Manglaur, where you can admire intricate carvings and the peaceful atmosphere. Stroll through the local market, where vibrant colors and the scent of spices fill the air, as you interact with friendly vendors. Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like parathas and chai.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Manglaur Fort, a historic site that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and a glimpse into the town's rich history. Take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where you can see local fishermen at work and enjoy the tranquility of nature. Don't forget to stop by a local café for a refreshing drink as you soak in the sights.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a traditional Indian restaurant for a delightful dinner featuring regional specialties. After your meal, wander through the streets of Manglaur, where the evening lights create a magical ambiance. Conclude your day with a visit to a local cultural event or performance, immersing yourself in the vibrant local traditions.

day 2
Nature Walk and Wildlife Spotting
morning
:

Begin your day early with a guided nature walk through the lush greenery surrounding Manglaur, where you can spot various species of birds and wildlife. The fresh morning air and chirping birds create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for reconnecting with nature. Enjoy a light breakfast picnic amidst the trees, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

afternoon
:

After your nature walk, visit a nearby wildlife sanctuary where you can observe animals in their natural habitat. Engage with knowledgeable guides who will share fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna. Indulge in a hearty lunch at a nearby eco-friendly café, enjoying organic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.

evening
:

As twilight approaches, return to Manglaur to relax at a local park, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. Enjoy the cool evening breeze as you take a leisurely stroll or sit on a bench to reflect on your day. For dinner, head to a local dhaba for an authentic, rustic dining experience, relishing the flavors of North Indian cuisine.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🍛Lunch for two at casual restaurant$8-15
Cup of tea/coffee$0.5-1.5
🚆Local transport (auto/rickshaw)$0.5-3
🛍️Souvenirs and market purchases$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Affordable prices and good value for money
  • Friendly locals and approachable culture
  • Easy access to nearby villages and nature
  • Relaxed pace ideal for short trips
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options
  • Public transport can be infrequent outside town
  • Smaller selection of specialty restaurants and cafes
  • "Namaste" - Hello
  • "Aapka naam kya hai?" - What is your name?
  • "Main vegetarian hoon" - I am vegetarian
  • "Yeh kitna hai?" - How much is this?
  • "Dukan kahan hai?" - Where is the shop?
  • "Shukriya" - Thank you

Places to Visit in Manglaur

Visit one of these nice places.

Old Town Temple Complex

Historic temple architecture with stone carvings and temple courtyards ideal for candid and detail shots.

Manglaur Market at Golden Hour

Busy market lanes bathed in sunset light, great for street photography and vibrant color shots.

Riverside/Canal Banks

Shallow water channels and river-adjacent views offer reflective water and calm evening compositions.

Culinary Guide

Food in Manglaur

Manglaur’s food scene centers on hearty North Indian home cooking, simple street snacks, and seasonal vegetables. Expect vegetarian-friendly options, fresh bread, and flavorful dals and curries at modest prices. Tea, chai, and small family-run eateries are common, making it easy to sample with locals. For special occasions, you’ll find thali meals and comforting gravies that pair well with regional breads.

Manglaur Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dal-Chawal

A staple combination of lentils and rice, widely available in local eatries and dhabas.

Must-Try!

Bajra Roti with Sabzi

Millet bread served with seasonal vegetable curries, a hearty, locally enjoyed pairing.

Chaat and Street Snacks

Savory bites like potato-based chaat and quick fried snacks from market stalls.

Tea with Spices

Strong, comforting chai sometimes spiced with cardamom or ginger, ubiquitous in cafés and on street corners.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Manglaur Old Bazaar

Lively market lanes with spice stalls, fruit sellers, and quick bites perfect for a casual lunch stop.

Railway Station Market

Small stalls near the station offering snacks, sweets, and fresh prepare-at-home ingredients.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate is characterized by hot summers, a rainy monsoon season, and cool winters. Spring and autumn are generally mild, making outdoor activities comfortable for most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respectful greetings

Greet elders with Namaste and use a polite tone when addressing locals.

Dress modestly

Cover shoulders and knees in temples and public spaces; remove shoes before entering homes or religious sites.

Photograph with permission

Ask before taking photos of people or intimate settings; avoid intrusive photography near religious sites.

Hands and feet

Offer and receive items with the right hand; avoid pointing feet toward people or sacred spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware in crowded markets to prevent pickpocketing. Use licensed transport after dark, keep valuables secure, and drink bottled water. Road conditions can be uneven; travel with a map or trusted local guidance, especially for day trips to surrounding villages.

Tipping in Manglaur

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In sit-down restaurants, a small tip (around 5-10%) is customary if service charge is not included. For small purchases, rounding up is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; many places also accept cards or digital payments (UPI). Autos and smaller vendors may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot and dry days with significant daytime temperatures. Carry water, wear a hat, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Monsoon

Humid with regular showers; lush greenery and dramatic skies. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear.

Winter

Cool to cold mornings and evenings; fog can reduce visibility at times. Layered clothing is recommended.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming trees make outdoor exploration and photography particularly enjoyable.

Nightlife Guide

Manglaur at Night

Manglaur’s nightlife is quiet compared with larger cities. Expect tea stalls, casual café conversations, and occasional local events or temple fairs in the evening. Most entertainment happens in family-run eateries or at community spaces rather than formal clubs or bars.

Hiking in Manglaur

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Shivalik foothill trails (nearby)

Gentle to moderate trails in the Shivalik range, offering scenic viewpoints and rural village scenery suitable for day hikes.

Airports

How to reach Manglaur by plane.

Dehradun Jolly Grant Airport (DED)

The closest major airport, offering domestic flights and connections to larger Indian cities; accessible by road from Manglaur via a few hours of travel.

Pantnagar Airport (PGH)

A secondary option further away, with limited domestic services; typically used for regional travel and requires additional ground transport.

Getting Around

Walkability

The old town center is quite walkable with narrow lanes and compact markets. For excursions to surrounding villages or temples, a short vehicle ride is generally needed due to distance and road layouts.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

A predominantly Hindu population with Muslim and other minority communities; languages include Hindi and Garhwali, with Punjabi influence in some pockets.

Students and Workers

A mix of local students, markets workers, and people who travel to nearby towns for work or study.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

The dominant sport in the region, played in fields and parks with local clubs and informal matches.

Football

Common in schools and open grounds; informal games on weekends are popular.

Kabaddi

Traditional sport played in villages and community events, reflecting local culture.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic consists mainly of two-wheelers and cycles, with autos and cars sharing narrow town lanes. Roads outside the town can be busy during morning and evening rush hours, and signage may be limited in rural areas. Public transport is available but less frequent than in major cities, so plan day trips with local guidance.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Manglaur.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available. Look for thali setups, confirm ghee or butter usage if avoiding dairy, and request separate utensils if needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Manglaur has basic healthcare facilities and clinics. For more advanced care or emergencies, the nearest major hospitals are in Haridwar or Roorkee, with private clinics offering outpatient services in town.

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