In the summer, at least, there are regular buses from Manali and Leh, run by the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (http://www.himachal.nic.in/hrtc); also an express from Delhi, taking around 24 hours (August 2007).
A number of gompas are within a few hours' walk, in wonderful scenery.
There is an 'English Wine & Beer Shop' on The Mall, close to Tashi Delek hotel.
The Nordaling Paying Guest House gave very friendly service (Rs 350 for double en suite, August 2007); tel. 01900 222294, 94810 45394; near the new bus stand.
Sumrila Guesthouse on the main road, a short walk downstairs to the Mall. Rs 300 for a double ensuite, bathroom with geyser. There is a good restaurant in the guesthouse, great views from the terrace.
There are plenty of buses to Manali (during the summer, that is), but going north can be a problem, as there may not be seats available (August 2007).