In the present study Zn1-xMnxO (x = 0, 0.05 and 0.1) nanoparticles (NPs) have been synthesised in aqueous solution phase at mild reaction temperature 100 degrees C in moderate alkaline medium (pH = 9.5), and the role of external additives; like sodium dodecyl sulphate and manganese chloride on the morphology and size of the products has been explored on the basis of transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectral analyses data. ZnO hexagonal nano-plates, core-shell like spherical/ellipsoidal Zn0.95Mn0.05O structures and thin sheets, thorn/needle mixed shaped Zn0.9Mn0.1O structures have been observed in TEM and SEM images. Zn(OH)(2) formed in moderate alkaline medium, converted to Zn(II) hydroxo complex ions on dissolution, which further recrystallizes to produce wurtzite ZnO at 100 degrees C. From XRD and EDX analysis, successful doping of Mn2+ ions at the Zn2+ sites in ZnO host has been proved. In the photoluminescence spectra, the observed blue shifts in NBE peaks and decrease of emissions intensity on Mn doping have thoroughly been discussed in the present investigation. (C) 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.