Exploring Shima, Manali, Kelly, and Chandigarh: A 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday, December 2: Shima

Begin your journey in Shima, a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh. In the morning, visit the iconic Jakhu Temple, located on Jakhu Hill, for breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Afternoon is the perfect time to explore the Mall Road, indulge in shopping, and savor local delicacies. In the evening, head to the Ridge, a spacious open space, and enjoy the panoramic sunset views.

• Jakhu Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• The Ridge: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Sunday, December 3: Manali

On the second day, travel to Manali, a picturesque hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Start your morning at Hadimba Temple, a serene place of worship surrounded by cedar forests. In the afternoon, visit the Solang Valley, known for its adventure activities like paragliding and skiing. As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, enjoying the local shops and cafes.

• Hadimba Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Solang Valley: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Monday, December 4: Kelly

Today, venture to the enchanting village of Kelly. Start your morning by exploring the picturesque landscapes that surround the village. Afterward, visit the ancient Kelly Temple, dedicated to the local deity. In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike to the nearby waterfalls and enjoy the tranquility of nature. In the evening, relax and immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a traditional dance performance.

• Kelly Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Waterfall Hike: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Traditional Dance Performance: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, December 5: Chandigarh

Head to Chandigarh, the capital city of Punjab and Haryana. Start your morning by exploring the stunning Rock Garden, known for its unique sculptures made from recycled materials. In the afternoon, visit the beautiful Sukhna Lake, where you can indulge in boating and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the evening, explore Sector 17, a bustling shopping and entertainment district, perfect for shopping and dining.

• Rock Garden: Estimated cost - INR 30, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Sukhna Lake: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Sector 17: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Wednesday, December 6: Shima

Return to Shima to explore more of its natural beauty. Start your morning with a visit to the serene Chadwick Falls, where you can witness the cascading water amidst lush greenery. Afterward, take a cable car ride to the picturesque Kufri, a small hill station known for its panoramic views and adventure activities. In the evening, relax at a local spa and unwind with traditional Ayurvedic treatments.

• Chadwick Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kufri: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Spa: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Thursday, December 7: Manali

Return to Manali for another day of exploration. Start your morning with a visit to the Vashisht Temple, known for its hot springs. Afterward, embark on a thrilling river rafting adventure in the Beas River. In the evening, take a leisurely walk to Old Manali, known for its bohemian vibe, quaint cafes, and lively nightlife.

• Vashisht Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• River Rafting: Estimated cost - INR 1,500, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Old Manali: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Friday, December 8: Chandigarh

Conclude your trip in Chandigarh with a visit to some of its renowned attractions. Start your morning with a visit to the beautiful Rose Garden, home to a vast collection of roses and other floral species. In the afternoon, explore the stunning architecture of the Capitol Complex, designed by Le Corbusier. In the evening, soak in the peaceful ambiance of the Pinjore Gardens, known for their Mughal-inspired design.

• Rose Garden: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Capitol Complex: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Pinjore Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Shima, make sure to visit the serene Mashobra Valley, a hidden gem known for its untouched beauty and panoramic views. In Manali, take a detour to the charming village of Naggar, where you can visit the Naggar Castle and enjoy the tranquility of the countryside. In Chandigarh, don't miss out on the unique experience of visiting the Nek Chand's Rock Garden, a hidden masterpiece of art and creativity.

Check hotel and flight prices in Shima, Manali, Kelly, and Chandigarh here.