7-Day Adventure Itinerary: Shimla and Manali

Saturday, August 19: Arrival in Shimla

Arrive in Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh, and check into your hotel. In the morning, explore the Mall Road, a vibrant shopping area with local handicrafts and delicious food. Afternoon, visit the Viceregal Lodge, an impressive colonial building with stunning architecture. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Ridge, enjoying the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Mall Road: Make sure to try some local snacks and shop for souvenirs. Estimated cost: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Viceregal Lodge: Learn about the history of the region and admire the beautiful gardens. Estimated cost: INR 20 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • The Ridge: Capture memorable sunset views and enjoy the cool breeze. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Sunday, August 20: Shimla Adventure

Start your day with an exciting trek to Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Enjoy the breathtaking views of Shimla from the temple's hilltop location. In the afternoon, visit Kufri, a nearby hill station known for its beautiful landscapes and thrilling adventure activities like skiing and horse riding. In the evening, explore the lush greenery of Annandale, a picturesque meadow.

  • Jakhu Temple: Trek through the dense forests to reach the temple. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Kufri: Indulge in adventure activities or simply enjoy the natural beauty. Estimated cost: Varies (depending on activities chosen). Time spent: 4-5 hours.
  • Annandale: Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the serene surroundings. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Monday, August 21: Travel to Manali

Leave Shimla and embark on a scenic road trip to Manali. Marvel at the picturesque landscapes as you drive through the winding roads of the Himalayas. Upon arrival in Manali, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the charming town on foot.

  • Scenic Road Trip: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains during the journey. Estimated cost: Varies (depending on transportation). Time spent: 8-10 hours.
  • Exploring Manali: Discover the local markets, cafes, and temples. Estimated cost: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
Tuesday, August 22: Manali Adventure

Start your day with an exhilarating river rafting experience in the Beas River. Feel the adrenaline rush as you navigate through the rapids amidst the stunning natural surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Solang Valley, a haven for adventure enthusiasts, and indulge in activities such as paragliding, zorbing, and skiing. In the evening, unwind by taking a peaceful stroll along the Mall Road.

  • River Rafting: Enjoy the thrill of rafting in the Beas River. Estimated cost: INR 1500 per person. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Solang Valley: Try out various adventure activities or simply enjoy the scenic beauty. Estimated cost: Varies (depending on activities chosen). Time spent: 4-5 hours.
  • Mall Road: Explore the shops and eateries for a delightful evening. Estimated cost: Varies. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Wednesday, August 23: Manali Sightseeing

Spend the morning exploring the Hadimba Temple, a unique wooden temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba. Experience tranquility in the midst of cedar forests. Afterward, visit the Vashisht Temple and hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties. In the afternoon, venture to the nearby village of Old Manali, offering a glimpse into the local way of life. In the evening, enjoy a sunset view from the Manali Nature Park.

  • Hadimba Temple: Marvel at the intricate wooden architecture and serene surroundings. Estimated cost: INR 50 (entrance fee). Time spent: 1-2 hours.
  • Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs: Take a dip in the natural hot springs and visit the ancient temple. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Old Manali: Explore the narrow streets, cafes, and vibrant markets. Estimated cost: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Manali Nature Park: Enjoy the panoramic views and lush greenery. Estimated cost: Free. Time spent: 1-2 hours.
Thursday, August 24: Rohtang Pass Excursion

Embark on an exciting excursion to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass located at an elevation of 3,978 meters. Enjoy the stunning views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and picturesque landscapes. Engage in activities such as snowboarding, skiing, and playing in the snow. Return to Manali in the evening and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

  • Rohtang Pass: Experience the thrill of reaching the snow-covered pass. Estimated cost: INR 550 (permit fee) + Varies (depending on activities chosen). Time spent: 6-8 hours.
Friday, August 25: Manali Shopping and Departure

Spend your last day in Manali exploring the local markets, such as the Manu Market and Tibetan Market, where you can find a variety of handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs. After shopping, head back to Shimla and catch your evening flight back home, carrying unforgettable memories of your adventure-filled trip in Shimla and Manali.

  • Manu Market and Tibetan Market: Bargain for unique souvenirs and local goods. Estimated cost: Varies. Time spent: 2-3 hours.
  • Return to Shimla: Estimated cost and time depend on chosen mode of transportation.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, don't miss the opportunity to go paragliding at Solang Valley in Manali. Soar through the sky, enjoying panoramic views of the valley and mountains. Another hidden gem is the trek to Bhrigu Lake, located near Manali. This challenging trek takes you to a stunning glacial lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Local adventure enthusiasts highly recommend these off-the-beaten-path attractions for an adrenaline-filled experience in Shimla and Manali.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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