7-Day Nature Itinerary: Manali Shimla

Friday, December 29: Manali

Start your trip by exploring the beautiful town of Manali. In the morning, visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, a serene wooden temple surrounded by tall cedar trees. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Solang Valley and indulge in thrilling adventure activities like paragliding and zorbing. As the evening sets in, enjoy a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1 hour
• Solang Valley: Estimated cost - Activities range from INR 500 to INR 2000, Time spent - 3-4 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• The Lazy Dog Café: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Lazy Dog Café, known for its cozy ambience and delicious menu. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• Café 1947: For lunch, head to Café 1947, a riverside eatery offering a variety of cuisines. The relaxed atmosphere and scenic views make it the perfect spot to unwind. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• Johnson's Cafe: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Johnson's Cafe, known for its European cuisine and charming courtyard setting. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Saturday, December 30: Manali

Embark on a nature-filled day in Manali. In the morning, visit the picturesque Rohtang Pass and marvel at the snow-capped mountains and stunning landscapes. In the afternoon, head to the Beas Kund, a serene alpine lake located amidst breathtaking mountains. Spend some time soaking in the tranquility of the surroundings. As the evening approaches, enjoy a bonfire and stargazing session at your hotel.

• Rohtang Pass: Estimated cost - INR 500 for permit, Time spent - 4-5 hours
• Beas Kund: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Bonfire and Stargazing: Estimated cost - Provided by hotel, Time spent - Evening

Sunday, December 31: Shimla

Travel to the enchanting hill station of Shimla. In the morning, visit the iconic Jakhu Temple and witness the stunning views of the city from the hilltop. In the afternoon, explore the Shimla Ridge and indulge in some ice-skating at the popular ice rink. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road and enjoy the festive atmosphere on New Year's Eve.

• Jakhu Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Shimla Ridge: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - Evening

Monday, January 1: Shimla

Start the new year with a visit to the beautiful Chadwick Falls. In the morning, take a short hike to reach the falls and enjoy the mesmerizing cascades amidst lush greenery. In the afternoon, explore the Viceregal Lodge, a grand colonial building with stunning architecture and beautiful gardens. As the evening approaches, spend some time shopping for local handicrafts at Lakkar Bazaar.

• Chadwick Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Viceregal Lodge: Estimated cost - INR 50 for entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Lakkar Bazaar: Estimated cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - 2 hours

Tuesday, January 2: Shimla

Embark on a scenic day trip to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla. In the morning, visit the Himalayan Nature Park and get a chance to see various Himalayan animal species. In the afternoon, enjoy horse riding and take a thrilling yak ride at Kufri Fun World. As the evening sets in, head back to Shimla and unwind at one of the cozy cafes in the city.

• Himalayan Nature Park: Estimated cost - INR 30 for entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kufri Fun World: Estimated cost - INR 100 for entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Cafes in Shimla: Estimated cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - Evening

Wednesday, January 3: Manali

Return to Manali for a day filled with natural wonders. In the morning, visit the enchanting Jogini Falls and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the afternoon, explore the Vashisht Village and take a dip in the hot springs known for their therapeutic properties. As the evening approaches, indulge in some shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs at the Old Manali Market.

• Jogini Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Vashisht Village and Hot Springs: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Old Manali Market: Estimated cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, January 4: Manali

Conclude your journey in Manali with a visit to the Naggar Castle. In the morning, explore the ancient castle and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk through the picturesque Naggar Village and discover its traditional houses and temples. As the evening sets in, bid farewell to the serene beauty of Manali and depart for your next destination.

• Naggar Castle: Estimated cost - INR 30 for entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Naggar Village: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2 hours
• Departure: Estimated cost - Varies based on personal expenses, Time spent - Evening

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Johnson's Cafe, a cozy restaurant known for its delicious pancakes and fresh fruit juices. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
• For lunch, try Cafe 1947, a popular spot overlooking the Beas River. They offer a variety of cuisines, including Indian, Tibetan, and Italian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 400 rupees per person.
• For dinner, dine at The Lazy Dog Lounge, a charming restaurant with a rooftop seating area offering stunning views of the mountains. They serve a range of dishes from Indian to Continental, with an average cost of about 800 rupees per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For nature enthusiasts seeking off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Great Himalayan National Park near Manali. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers breathtaking views, stunning treks, and a chance to spot diverse flora and fauna. In Shimla, explore the serene Glen Forests, known for its tranquil walking trails amidst tall deodar trees. Experience the beauty of nature up close while enjoying peace and solitude.