Shimla & Manali – 5 Nights • 6 Days Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Shimla & Evening Stroll

Morning: Arrive at Shimla Railway Station or Airport and check into your hotel. Freshen up and enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the pine‑covered hills.

Afternoon: Take a gentle walk to the historic Mall Road, where colonial-era shops and cafés invite you to relax. Stop for a light snack at a local café and admire the view of the Shimla ridge.

Evening: Explore the Shimla Ridge and the adjoining Christ Church, capturing sunset hues over the town. Dine at a restaurant serving Himachal specialties such as siddu and trout.

Day 2: Shimla Highlights

Morning: Visit the majestic Jakhu Temple, perched on Jakhu Hill, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the valley. Don’t miss the giant Hanuman statue and the pine‑scented forest trails.

Afternoon: Head to Kufri for a short drive (≈16 km). Experience adventure activities like horse riding or a brief sled ride, and soak in the views of the Himalayan peaks.

Evening: Return to Shimla and stroll through the lively Glen Market. Shop for local handicrafts and warm up with a cup of Himachali tea before retiring for the night.

Day 3: Transfer to Manali

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a scenic road trip to Manali (≈250 km, 7‑8 hours). The route winds through lush valleys, offering photo‑ops at Barog Tunnel and Rohru waterfalls.

Afternoon: Stop for a lunch break at a roadside dhaba near Kullu, sampling local thali dishes. Continue the journey, crossing the iconic Rohtang‑like Kullu‑Manali Road with its spectacular bends.

Evening: Arrive in Manali, check into your hotel, and unwind with a walk along the serene Manali River. Enjoy a cozy dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the town.

Day 4: Manali Town Exploration

Morning: Explore the ancient Hadimba Temple set amidst cedar forests, followed by a visit to the nearby Gautam Temple. The peaceful ambience makes for a reflective start.

Afternoon: Wander through Old Manali, a bohemian enclave with quirky cafés, boutique shops, and vibrant street art. Grab a bite at a café and browse the local souvenir stalls.

Evening: Relax at the bustling Mall Road of Manali, where you can sample local street food like channa madra and shop for woolen shawls. End the day with a gentle stroll along the riverbank.

Day 5: Solang Valley & Rohtang Pass Adventure

Morning: Drive to Solang Valley for adrenaline‑filled activities such as paragliding, zorbing, or a cable‑car ride to the top. The valley offers sweeping views of the snow‑capped Himalayas.

Afternoon: Continue onward to the famous Rohtang Pass (subject to permit and weather). Enjoy snow‑play, short hikes, and breathtaking panoramas at the highest point.

Evening: Return to Manali and unwind with a soothing herbal massage at a local spa. Savor a hearty dinner featuring Himachali dishes like madra and babru.

Day 6: Departure

Morning: Check out after breakfast and visit the historic Naggar Castle, a beautifully restored medieval fort offering artistic galleries and lake views.

Afternoon: Depending on your travel schedule, you may explore the nearby Manikaran Sahib (if heading towards Kullu) or simply enjoy a relaxed lunch in Manali before heading to the airport or bus station.

Evening: Depart from Manali with wonderful memories of the Himalayas, or extend your stay to explore the Kullu Valley further.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Mall Road (Shimla) – 2 hrs – INR 200
• Shimla Ridge & Christ Church – 1.5 hrs – INR 150
• Jakhu Temple – 2 hrs – INR 100 (donations)
• Kufri – 3 hrs – INR 500 (activities & entry)
• Glen Market – 1 hr – INR 100 (shopping)
• Road Transfer Shimla → Manali – 8 hrs – INR 2,500 (private vehicle)
• Hadimba Temple – 1 hr – INR 50
• Old Manali – 2 hrs – INR 200 (café & shopping)
• Manali Mall Road – 1.5 hrs – INR 150
• Solang Valley Activities – 4 hrs – INR 1,200
• Rohtang Pass (Permit + Activities) – 5 hrs – INR 3,000
• Naggar Castle – 1 hr – INR 100
• Manikaran Sahib (optional) – 2 hrs – INR 150
• Meals (6 days, average) – – INR 3,500
• Accommodation (5 nights, mid‑range) – – INR 7,500
• Total Estimated Cost – INR 20,400

Tips

If you have extra time, add a day to explore the beautiful Kullu Valley or visit the serene Parvati Valley. For a shorter trip, skip the Rohtang Pass and replace it with a half‑day at Vashisht Hot Springs, which reduces travel fatigue while still offering a Himalayan experience.