Imagine this: You’re sitting in a cosy corner of a quaint café, a steaming cup of hot chocolate warming your hands and reading your favourite book.

The soft glow of the fireplace casts a warm, inviting light, and the gentle hum of conversation fills the air. Sounds dreamy, right?

This is the essence of hygge, a Danish and Norwegian concept of cosiness and contentment. You can experience it firsthand at the beautiful hill station of Manali, 498 Km from the capital, Delhi, in India.

Why Manali for Hygge?

Like a few other popular destinations in India for locals and tourists, Manali has breathtaking mountain views and a serene atmosphere, which make it the perfect place to unwind and relax. Inspired by the hygge concept, the town’s cosy hygge cafés offer the ideal setting to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Here are a few cafés in Manali where you can experience the magic of hygge:

Sabali Cafe

Imagine sipping on a warm beverage while gazing at snow-capped peaks. The sabali Café offers just that. The restaurant’s cosy interiors, warm wooden accents, and comfortable seating inside and outside create a relaxing ambience. Don’t miss their Hot Mocha and freshly baked cakes.

Corner House Manali

As the name suggests, a building on the corner of bustling Mall Road in Manali is ideal for unwinding and doing nothing. People-watching is one of the most preferred activities in this cafe. The cosy interiors, wooden decor, and comforting food invite you to relax and rejuvenate. Indulge in their delectable pastries and sandwiches, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.

Johnson’s Café

Johnson’s Café is a popular hangout spot for locals and tourists alike. Its warm wooden interiors, easy access through most parts of the city, comfortable seating, and friendly staff create a welcoming ambience. Enjoy their delicious local cuisine and refreshing beverages while soaking in the beauty of Manali. It’s an actual hygge experience.

Dylan’s Cafe

Dylans is a popular spot for travellers and locals alike in Manali. Known for its cosy atmosphere, great coffee, and delicious food, it’s a perfect place to relax and unwind. Cafge has two inside rooms with art and books, which serve as the best hygge experience, a moment of calmness and slow living. The cafe has a unique bohemian vibe, colourful decor and quirky artwork. You can enjoy a variety of dishes, from hearty breakfasts to light snacks.

Many cafes are also situated within and around the central city. Some are not famous but can be explored along different walks. To experience hygge like a local, we recommend booking a hygge cottage and enjoying the best local cafes, which are still unexplored.

Some of our Tips for a Hygge Experience in Manali:

Dress Warm

Layer with sweaters, scarves, and cosy socks to stay warm and comfortable. Remember to buy or find it in many shops that sell socks and woollen on Mall Road in Manali.

Bring a Good Book

Curl up with a good book and lose yourself in a captivating story. A must-visit is Deepti Naval, a famous Indian actor’s art studio in Naggar, to buy the best of her writing.

Enjoy a Hot Beverage

Hot chocolate, coffee, or tea can help you relax and unwind. Dylan’s cookies and a cup of espresso are the best in Manali town.

Savour the Moment

Take a moment to appreciate life’s simple pleasures, such as the warmth of a fireplace, the sound of rain, or the beauty of nature.

So, the next time you plan a trip to Manali, include these cosy cafés in your itinerary. You’ll be glad you did!

Editors Choice 

Ritu Singh

Team Hygge

Manali, India.