7-Day Nature Itinerary for Himachal Pradesh in July 2023

1. Day 1: Shimla
   30 minutes (14.9 km) from Jubbarhatti Airport

   Begin your trip in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Walk along The Ridge, a large open space in the heart of the city that offers views of the surrounding mountains. Visit the Jakhu Temple, dedicated to the Hindu god Hanuman, and take a ride on the historic Shimla-Kalka toy train.

2. Day 2: Manali
   6 hours (248 km) from Shimla

   Travel to Manali, a resort town located in the Kullu Valley. Take a stroll through the Mall Road and visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, a wooden temple dedicated to the goddess Hadimba. Hike to the Jogini Waterfall and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

3. Day 3: Great Himalayan National Park
   2.5 hours (105 km) from Manali

   Spend the day exploring the Great Himalayan National Park, home to a variety of flora and fauna. Take a guided trek and spot wildlife such as snow leopards, Himalayan black bears, and musk deer. Visit the Tirthan Valley and experience the local culture.

4. Day 4: Dharamshala
   6.5 hours (235 km) from Great Himalayan National Park

   Travel to Dharamshala, a city located in the Kangra Valley. Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex, home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government in exile. Explore the Norbulingka Institute, a center for Tibetan arts and culture. Take a walk along the scenic Dal Lake.

5. Day 5: Triund Trek
   2 hours (9.8 km) from Dharamshala

   Embark on the Triund Trek, a popular hiking trail that offers panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range. The trek is approximately 9 km long and takes around 4-5 hours to complete. Spend the afternoon relaxing and taking in the beautiful scenery.

6. Day 6: Bir-Billing
   2.5 hours (69.1 km) from Triund Trek

   Travel to Bir-Billing, a small village known for its paragliding opportunities. Take a tandem paragliding flight and enjoy the stunning aerial views of the surrounding landscape. Visit the Chokling Monastery and learn about Tibetan Buddhism.

7. Day 7: Chandigarh
   7 hours (246 km) from Bir-Billing

   End your trip in Chandigarh, a planned city designed by Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier. Visit the Rock Garden, a sculpture garden made entirely of industrial and urban waste. Take a boat ride on Sukhna Lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Spiti Valley or the Kinnaur Valley for more stunning views of the Himalayas. Take a day trip to the Solang Valley from Manali for outdoor activities such as skiing and ziplining. To maximize your fun, plan activities in advance and book tickets in advance during peak travel season in July.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Toy Train Ride in Shimla (2 hours, INR 825)
• Jogini Waterfall Hike in Manali (3 hours, INR 500)
• Great Himalayan National Park Trek (6 hours, INR 1500)
• Dalai Lama Temple in Dharamshala (1 hour, Free)
• Triund Trek (4-5 hours, INR 1500)
• Paragliding in Bir-Billing (1-2 hours, INR 2500)
• Rock Garden in Chandigarh (1 hour, INR 20)
• Boat Ride on Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh (1 hour, INR 100)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 7,945

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Himachal Pradesh!