Start your trip by arriving in the beautiful hill station of Manali. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax and acclimate to the altitude. In the afternoon, explore the Mall Road, a popular shopping and dining area in the heart of Manali, offering a variety of shops and local cuisine. In the evening, visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, a unique wooden temple dedicated to the goddess Hadimba.
Mall Road: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hadimba Devi Temple: Cost of entry: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Tuesday, August 8: Rohtang Pass
Embark on a full-day excursion to Rohtang Pass, located at an elevation of 3,978 meters. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains and glaciers. You can also engage in activities like snowboarding and skiing, depending on the weather conditions. In the evening, return to Manali and relax at your hotel.
Rohtang Pass: Cost of entry: INR 500 (approx.), Time spent: 6-8 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Manali is Johnson's Cafe, known for its delicious pancakes and omelettes. Expect to spend around 200 INR per person for a meal.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Cafe 1947, a charming riverside restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Tibetan. You can enjoy a meal here for approximately 400 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try La Plage, a French restaurant known for its vibrant ambiance and delectable seafood dishes. The average cost for a meal at La Plage is around 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, August 9: Solang Valley
Head to Solang Valley, known for its picturesque views and adventure activities. Start your day with paragliding or zorbing, and then take a cable car ride to enjoy panoramic views of the valley. In the evening, explore the local markets and try some delicious street food.
Solang Valley: Cost varies depending on activities, Time spent: 4-6 hours
Exploring local markets: Cost varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Solang Valley is Cafe 1947, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, try The Johnson's Cafe, a charming restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
In the evening, have dinner at Johnson's Bar and Restaurant, a lively place known for its vibrant atmosphere and tasty food.Menu includes a range of dishes from North Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Thursday, August 10: Manikaran and Kasol
Take a day trip to Manikaran and Kasol, located in the Parvati Valley. Visit the famous hot springs in Manikaran and explore the Gurudwara Sahib. In Kasol, immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of the Parvati River and enjoy the scenic beauty of this hippie town. Return to Manali in the evening.
Manikaran: Cost of entry: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kasol: Cost varies depending on activities, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Breakfast: The Lazy Dog Cafe is a cozy cafe that serves delicious pancakes, omelettes, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a breakfast meal is about 200 INR per person.
Lunch: The Evergreen Cafe offers a diverse menu including sandwiches, pizzas, and salads. Enjoy a hearty lunch while taking in the scenic views of the Parvati River. The average cost for a lunch meal is about 300 INR per person.
Dinner: Johnson's Cafe is a popular spot for dinner, known for its mouthwatering Indian and continental dishes. The cozy ambiance and live music make it a perfect place to unwind. The average cost for a dinner meal is about 500 INR per person.
Friday, August 11: Old Manali
Discover the charm of Old Manali, with its narrow lanes, traditional houses, and vibrant cafes. Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu, and learn about the local mythology. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Manalsu River and indulge in delicious Himachali cuisine at one of the cozy cafes. In the evening, witness a live music performance at one of the local venues.
Manu Temple: Cost of entry: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Exploring Old Manali: Cost varies, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Saturday, August 12: Naggar Castle and Jana Waterfall
Visit the Naggar Castle, a historic fort nestled in the scenic mountains. Explore the castle's museum and admire the architecture. From there, proceed to Jana Waterfall, where you can enjoy a short hike through the forest to reach the cascading waterfall. Spend some time by the waterfall, taking in the natural beauty, before returning to Manali.
Naggar Castle: Cost of entry: INR 30 (approx.), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Jana Waterfall: Cost of entry: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Sunday, August 13: Manali Nature Park and Vashisht Village
Start your day by visiting the Manali Nature Park, a serene sanctuary dedicated to preserving the local flora and fauna. Take a leisurely walk amidst the lush greenery and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings. In the afternoon, visit the Vashisht Village, known for its hot springs and ancient temples. Relax in the therapeutic hot water springs and explore the local markets before bidding farewell to Manali.
Manali Nature Park: Cost of entry: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Vashisht Village: Cost of entry: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path attractions, head to the lesser-known Hampta Pass for a thrilling trekking experience amidst the majestic Himalayan mountains. Another local favorite is the picturesque village of Malana, known for its distinct culture and ancient traditions. Explore the unique architecture and interact with the friendly locals to learn more about their way of life.