Start early from Delhi after your morning arrival; the road to Manali (via NH44/NH3) is long and scenic with mountain approaches near Ambala–Chandigarh. Driving time is long so allow stops for comfort; aim to reach Manali by late evening.
Stop at a well-known Murthal dhaba like Amrik Sukhdev for hearty parantha and chai — perfect to fuel a long drive. Dhaba is typically open early morning through late evening.
Visit the Atal Tunnel (9+ km) on the Manali–Leh route; the structure is accessible year-round and offers dramatic mountain views — allow time for photo stops and short walks. The tunnel itself is open 24 hours but check local weather/traffic updates.
Enjoy Solang Valley for ropeway, zorbing, snow play (in season) and paragliding; adventure operators typically run 9:00am–5:00pm. Paragliding or zorbing are optional paid activities with weather-dependent operations.
A short cultural stop in Manali—Hadimba Temple is an iconic wooden temple set in cedar woods and is usually open 8:00am–6:00pm; evening light makes for good photos and a peaceful walk.
Scenic drive into Parvati Valley to the famous Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara and hot springs; the route runs along the Beas/Parvati river with photogenic valleys. Expect around 1.5–2 hours one way depending on stops.
The gurudwara is open 24 hours and the site is famous for boiling hot springs and free communal langar — experience the spiritual atmosphere and try the langar meal if you wish.
Drive back to Manali and stop at Vashisht village to visit its temples and natural hot water springs — accessible all day and a soothing way to end the day.
Start the long drive to Shimla; plan a stop at Kullu for quick shopping (shawls) and photos. Roads wind through valleys — allow buffer time for tea/stops.
Visit Jakhu Temple (Hanuman) perched on Jakhu Hill for panoramic views over Shimla; temple is usually open 6:00am–6:00pm and involves a short hike or short taxi ride uphill.
Afternoon spent on the Ridge for views and visiting Christ Church; Mall Road shops operate roughly 10:00am–8:00pm — good for souvenirs and warm clothes.
Arrive back in Delhi by mid/late afternoon; end of the 6-day loop. If you need an earlier morning arrival in Delhi, depart Shimla even earlier or consider starting the return the night before.