Family-Friendly Itinerary to Manali - August 6-11, 2023

Sunday, August 6: Arrival in Manali

Start your family adventure in Manali by exploring the beautiful surroundings. In the morning, head to the Hadimba Devi Temple, a peaceful place surrounded by cedar forests. Afterward, take a short trek to Jogini Falls, a picturesque waterfall perfect for a picnic. In the evening, visit the Mall Road, a bustling street filled with shops and restaurants.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Jogini Falls: Free, 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Food and shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours

Monday, August 7: Solang Valley Adventure

Embark on an exciting day of adventure in Solang Valley. Start your morning with thrilling activities like paragliding and zorbing. In the afternoon, enjoy a cable car ride to the top of Mount Phatru for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. End the day with a visit to the Nehru Kund, a natural spring known for its crystal-clear water.

• Paragliding/Zorbing: INR 1,500-2,500 per person, 2-3 hours
• Cable Car Ride: INR 750 per person, 1-2 hours
• Nehru Kund: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For a delicious breakfast in Solang Valley, head to Cafe Paradise. This cozy cafe offers a variety of freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and hot beverages. Average cost for a meal is about $5 per person.
• Enjoy a hearty lunch at Johnson's Cafe, a popular spot serving a range of international cuisines. From burgers and pizzas to Indian curries, there's something for everyone. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
• Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at The Lazy Dog Lounge. This restaurant offers a charming ambiance and a menu featuring delectable dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.

Tuesday, August 8: Rohtang Pass Excursion

Explore the majestic Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters. Begin your day with a scenic drive to the pass, surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Enjoy activities like snowboarding and snowball fights. Afterward, visit the nearby Marhi, a picturesque spot known for its stunning views and local delicacies.

• Rohtang Pass: INR 550 per person (permit fee), 6-8 hours
• Snow Activities: Costs vary, 2-3 hours
• Marhi: Food and shopping costs vary, 1-2 hours

Wednesday, August 9: Manikaran and Kasol

Embark on a religious and cultural journey to Manikaran and Kasol. In the morning, visit the Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, a famous Sikh pilgrimage site known for its hot springs. Enjoy a dip in the healing waters. In the afternoon, explore Kasol, a charming village nestled in the Parvati Valley, known for its scenic beauty and hippie culture.

• Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib: Free, 2-3 hours
• Kasol: Food and shopping costs vary, 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe 1947 in Kasol, known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, try the German Bakery and Restaurant in Kasol, offering a wide range of European and Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• For dinner, visit The Johnson's Cafe in Old Manali, which serves a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.

Thursday, August 10: Old Manali and Vashisht Village

Discover the heritage and spirituality of Old Manali and Vashisht Village. Start your morning with a visit to the Manu Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to the sage Manu. In the afternoon, explore the traditional village of Vashisht, famous for its hot springs. Take a dip in the therapeutic waters and unwind. End the day by watching the sunset at the Himalayan Nyinmapa Tibetan Buddhist Monastery.

• Manu Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Vashisht Hot Springs: Free, 2-3 hours
• Himalayan Nyinmapa Tibetan Buddhist Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours

Friday, August 11: Departure

On your last day, take some time to relax and soak in the beauty of Manali. Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. In the afternoon, visit the Van Vihar National Park and take a peaceful walk amidst lush greenery. Bid farewell to Manali as you depart for your next destination.

• Local Markets: Shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours
• Van Vihar National Park: INR 10 per person, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, visit the Manali Nature Park, a haven for nature lovers. Explore the dense forests, spot wildlife, and enjoy a picnic amidst serene surroundings. Another local favorite is the Naggar Castle, a historic fort offering panoramic views of the Kullu Valley. Don't miss the chance to try authentic Himachali cuisine at Johnson's Cafe in Old Manali, known for its delicious food and cozy ambiance.