7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Manali and Shimla - December 2023

1. Day 1: Exploring Manali
   10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Manali

   Start your day with a visit to Hadimba Temple, a serene and ancient temple surrounded by pine forests. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walk through Manali Mall Road, lined with shops and cafes. In the evening, take a stroll along the Manali Riverwalk and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

2. Day 2: Rohtang Pass
   2 hours (51 miles) from Manali

   Embark on an exciting day trip to Rohtang Pass, a picturesque mountain pass offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Enjoy snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowball fights. Don't forget to capture stunning photographs against the snowy backdrop.

3. Day 3: Naggar Castle and Art Gallery
   30 minutes (12 miles) from Manali

   In the morning, visit the Naggar Castle, a historic castle with impressive architecture and scenic views. Explore the Naggar Art Gallery, showcasing traditional and contemporary Himachali art. In the evening, relax at the charming cafes in Old Manali.

4. Day 4: Solang Valley
   30 minutes (9 miles) from Manali

   Indulge in adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding at Solang Valley. Enjoy the stunning landscapes and snow-capped mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Tibetan Monastery in Manali and immerse yourself in its serene ambiance.

5. Day 5: Transfer to Shimla
   6 hours (160 miles) from Manali

   Travel to Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Upon arrival, take a walk along the bustling Mall Road and explore its shops and local attractions. Visit the Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and enjoy panoramic views of Shimla from the hilltop.

6. Day 6: Kufri and Adventure Park
   30 minutes (9 miles) from Shimla

   Embark on a day trip to Kufri, a scenic hill station known for its snow-capped mountains and lush greenery. Enjoy horse riding, go-karting, and other thrilling activities at Kufri Adventure Park. In the evening, explore the Shimla Ridge and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

7. Day 7: Viceregal Lodge and The Mall
   10 minutes (2 miles) from Shimla

   Visit the Viceregal Lodge, an impressive colonial-era building with beautiful architecture and sprawling gardens. Explore The Mall, Shimla's main street, lined with shops, restaurants, and landmarks. Relax at Scandal Point and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara near Manali, known for its hot springs and religious significance. For a memorable day trip, visit the picturesque town of Mashobra near Shimla, offering scenic hikes and nature trails. To maximize your fun, try local Himachali cuisine and engage with the friendly locals for a deeper cultural experience.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Hadimba Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Rohtang Pass Day Trip (10-12 hours, price varies based on transportation and activities)
• Naggar Castle and Art Gallery (2-3 hours, Castle Entry: ₹30, Art Gallery Entry: ₹10)
• Solang Valley Adventure Activities (3-4 hours, activity prices vary)
• Transfer to Shimla - Transportation Costs
• Jakhu Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Kufri Adventure Park (3-4 hours, entry fee: ₹250)
• Viceregal Lodge (1-2 hours, Entry Fee: ₹20)

Total Estimated Costs: Costs may vary based on personal preferences and transportation options chosen during the trip.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.