Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 58 travelers

Exploring Shimla, Manali, and Amritsar: A 7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary

Monday, December 18: Arrival in Shimla

Start your trip by arriving in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Begin your morning by visiting the famous Christ Church, an architectural marvel known for its neo-Gothic style. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, Shimla's main street, lined with shops, cafes, and beautiful colonial buildings. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the serene waters of the Chadwick Falls.

  • Christ Church: Entrance fee: INR 20 (~$0.27), Time spent: 1 hour
  • Mall Road: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Chadwick Falls: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Tuesday, December 19: Exploring Shimla

Start your morning with a visit to the Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman and located on Jakhu Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of Shimla from the temple premises. In the afternoon, head to the Himalayan Bird Park, a great place to observe various bird species in their natural habitat. In the evening, witness the captivating Beating Retreat Ceremony at the Indian/Pakistani border in Wagah.

  • Jakhu Temple: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Himalayan Bird Park: Entrance fee: INR 10 (~$0.14), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Wagah Border Ceremony: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Journey to Manali

Embark on a scenic drive from Shimla to Manali. Enjoy the picturesque views of the Himalayas and lush valleys during the journey. In the afternoon, explore the Hadimba Devi Temple, a wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba. Take a peaceful stroll in the surrounding cedar forests. In the evening, visit the Mall Road of Manali, bustling with shops, restaurants, and local markets.

  • Hadimba Devi Temple: Entrance fee: INR 50 (~$0.67), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Mall Road: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 21: Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley

Embark on an adventurous day trip to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Engage in activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowball fights. In the afternoon, visit Solang Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and adventure sports like paragliding and zorbing. Enjoy the thrill and beauty of the valley with your family.

  • Rohtang Pass: Entrance fee: INR 500 (~$6.72), Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Solang Valley: Entrance fee: INR 150 (~$2.02), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Friday, December 22: Exploring Manali

Start your day with a visit to the Vashisht Temple, dedicated to Sage Vashisht and known for its hot springs. Enjoy a refreshing bath in the natural hot water pools. In the afternoon, explore the Naggar Castle, a historic fort built in the 15th century, offering panoramic views of the Kullu Valley. Engage in some river rafting on the Beas River before heading back to Manali.

  • Vashisht Temple: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Naggar Castle: Entrance fee: INR 15 (~$0.20), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • River Rafting: Cost varies based on package, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 23: Journey to Amritsar

Travel from Manali to Amritsar, home to the iconic Golden Temple. Upon arrival, visit the magnificent temple and witness the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, explore the Jallianwala Bagh, a memorial garden commemorating the tragic massacre in 1919. Experience the patriotic fervor at the Wagah Border in the evening, where the Beating Retreat Ceremony takes place.

  • Golden Temple: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Jallianwala Bagh: Entrance fee: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Wagah Border Ceremony: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 24: Amritsar Sightseeing

Begin your day with a visit to the Partition Museum, showcasing the history and stories of the Partition of India in 1947. Gain insights into this significant event. In the afternoon, explore the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, dedicated to the life and achievements of the Sikh ruler. End your day with some authentic Punjabi cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Partition Museum: Entrance fee: INR 10 (~$0.14), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum: Entrance fee: INR 40 (~$0.54), Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Punjabi Cuisine: Cost varies based on restaurant, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Shimla, don't miss out on the Viceregal Lodge, a magnificent British-era building surrounded by beautiful gardens. In Manali, venture off the beaten path to the picturesque village of Old Manali, known for its charming wooden houses and cozy cafes. Amritsar offers the delightful experience of visiting the Pul Kanjri, a historical village showcasing rural life through its traditional architecture and vibrant cultural activities.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version