An Adventurous 6-Day Itinerary in Manali

Monday, August 7: Arrival in Manali

Welcome to Manali! Start your adventure by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to Solang Valley, known as the adventure hub of Manali. Engage in thrilling activities like paragliding, zorbing, and rope climbing. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Hadimba Temple, a wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests. In the evening, take a stroll along the Mall Road, filled with shops and cafes offering local delicacies.

• Solang Valley: Approx. cost INR 1,500, Time spent: 4-5 hours
• Hadimba Temple: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Mall Road: Food and shopping expenses, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Johnson's Cafe and Bakery, a charming cafe known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, try The Corner House, a cozy restaurant serving mouthwatering Italian and Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• For dinner, dine at Chopsticks Restaurant, a popular spot for authentic Chinese and Tibetan cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹700 per person.

Tuesday, August 8: River Rafting and Tibetan Monastery

Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping day! Start your morning with river rafting in the Beas River, one of the most popular adventure activities in Manali. Afterward, visit the peaceful Tibetan Monastery to experience tranquility amidst the beautiful surroundings. In the evening, you can explore the nearby Van Vihar National Park and enjoy a peaceful walk.

• River Rafting: Approx. cost INR 1,800, Time spent: 3-4 hours
• Tibetan Monastery: Free entry, Time spent: 1-2 hours
• Van Vihar National Park: Approx. cost INR 20, Time spent: 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe 1947, a charming riverside cafe known for its delicious pancakes and fresh juices. The average cost for a meal here is about 400 INR per person.
• If you're looking for a delightful lunch spot, try Johnson's Cafe, which offers a wide range of cuisines including Indian, Tibetan, and Italian. Don't miss their momos and pizzas! The average cost for a meal here is about 600 INR per person.
• In the evening, dine at The Lazy Dog Lounge, a popular restaurant and bar that serves a variety of dishes including European, Indian, and Asian fusion. Enjoy their cozy ambiance and live music performances. The average cost for a meal here is about 800 INR per person.

Wednesday, August 9: Trek to Hampta Pass

Embark on an exciting day trek to Hampta Pass, located at an altitude of 4,270 meters. Start early in the morning and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. After a challenging and rewarding trek, return to Manali by evening and relax.

• Hampta Pass Trek: Approx. cost INR 3,000 (including guide), Time spent: Full day

Thursday, August 10: Paragliding and Naggar Castle

Get ready for another thrilling adventure! Start your day by indulging in paragliding in Solang Valley. Enjoy the bird's eye view of the majestic landscapes while soaring in the sky. In the afternoon, visit Naggar Castle, a historic fort displaying a blend of Himalayan and European architecture. Explore the castle and its art gallery showcasing traditional and contemporary art forms.

• Paragliding: Approx. cost INR 2,500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Naggar Castle: Approx. cost INR 30, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Friday, August 11: Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley

Embark on a scenic drive to Rohtang Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,978 meters. Admire the stunning panoramic views of snow-covered peaks, glaciers, and the Beas River. Engage in snow activities like skiing and snowboarding (subject to availability). On the way back, stop at Solang Valley to enjoy more adventure activities or simply relax amidst the picturesque surroundings.

• Rohtang Pass: Approx. cost INR 2,500 (including transportation), Time spent: Full day
• Solang Valley: Additional adventure activity costs if chosen, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Saturday, August 12: Manikaran Hot Springs and Kasol

On your final day, take a day trip to Manikaran, famous for its hot springs and religious significance. Take a dip in the hot springs known for their therapeutic properties. Explore the Gurudwara and visit the temples in the vicinity. Afterward, head to Kasol, a quaint village known for its hippie culture and scenic beauty. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Parvati River and soak in the serene atmosphere.

• Manikaran Hot Springs: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours
• Kasol: Approx. cost INR 500 (including transportation), Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventure seekers, a visit to the nearby Solang Valley during winters offers an opportunity to indulge in winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. Another hidden gem is Bhrigu Lake, a high altitude glacial lake known for its mesmerizing views and challenging trek. For a taste of local culture and cuisine, venture into the Old Manali area, known for its charming cafes, live music, and cozy atmosphere.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check prices and availability on Kayak.