A 5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Manali

Day 1: Arrival in Manali

Start your trip to Manali by arriving at the Bhuntar Airport. From there, hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Manali, which is approximately an hour away. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax. In the afternoon, visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, a beautiful wooden temple surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the evening exploring the Mall Road, a popular shopping area with shops, restaurants, and local handicrafts.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: Entrance fee - INR 50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mall Road: Cost depends on shopping and dining preferences, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 2: Solang Valley and Adventure Activities

Start your day by heading to Solang Valley, located around 13 km from Manali. Marvel at the stunning views of snow-capped mountains and indulge in various adventure activities such as paragliding, zorbing, and skiing. After an exciting morning, visit the Beas River for a peaceful riverside picnic. In the evening, visit the Van Vihar National Park, a serene park with beautiful gardens and a boating facility.

• Solang Valley: Entrance fee - INR 20, Adventure activities cost varies, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Beas River: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Van Vihar National Park: Entrance fee - INR 10, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Day 3: Rohtang Pass and Snow Activities

Embark on an exciting day trip to Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters. Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains and experience a winter wonderland with snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowball fights. Don't forget to capture the breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks. Return to Manali in the evening and relax at your hotel or explore the local markets.

• Rohtang Pass: Permit fee - INR 550, Snow activities cost varies, Time spent - 6-8 hours

Day 4: Naggar Castle and Manikaran Sahib

Start your day by visiting the Naggar Castle, a historic fort built in the 15th century. Explore the castle's museum and art gallery, which showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region. Afterward, head to Manikaran Sahib, a famous Sikh pilgrimage site known for its hot springs. Take a dip in the healing waters and visit the beautiful Gurudwara. In the evening, stroll around the old Manali area and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the local cafes.

• Naggar Castle: Entrance fee - INR 30, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Manikaran Sahib: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Day 5: Great Himalayan National Park and Departure

On your last day in Manali, take a trip to the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Embark on a guided nature walk and explore the diverse flora and fauna of the area. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings and capture some memorable photographs. After the visit, it's time to bid farewell to Manali. Check out from your hotel and proceed to Bhuntar Airport for your return journey.

• Great Himalayan National Park: Entrance fee - INR 50, Guided nature walk fee - INR 250, Time spent - 4-5 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting Vashisht Village, located near Manali. It is known for its hot springs, ancient temples, and peaceful ambiance. Take a dip in the natural hot water springs and explore the Vashisht Temple, dedicated to the sage Vashisht. The village offers a glimpse into the local way of life and is perfect for a relaxing day trip with your family.

For hotel and flight prices in Manali, you can check here.