Explore Manali and Shimla in 3 Days

Wednesday October 18: Arrival in Manali

Start your trip in the picturesque town of Manali, nestled in the Himalayas. In the morning, explore the charming Old Manali area, known for its narrow lanes, traditional houses, and quaint cafes. Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu, and admire its unique architecture. In the afternoon, head to the Hadimba Devi Temple, surrounded by beautiful cedar forests, and enjoy the serene atmosphere. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants, and savor delicious local cuisine.

• Old Manali: Free, 2-3 hours
• Manu Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Hadimba Devi Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Mall Road: Varies based on personal spending, 2-3 hours

Thursday October 19: Exploring Manali

On the second day, venture into the beautiful landscapes surrounding Manali. Start your morning by driving to Solang Valley, where you can enjoy breathtaking views, go paragliding, or try your hand at skiing (subject to availability). In the afternoon, visit the Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters, and experience the thrill of being surrounded by snow-capped mountains. As the evening sets in, relax by the Beas River and take in the tranquility of nature.

• Solang Valley: INR 1,000 (paragliding cost), 4-6 hours
• Rohtang Pass: INR 550 (permit fee), 3-4 hours
• Beas River: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your morning with a delightful breakfast at Cafe 1947, located near the Beas River. This cozy cafe offers a variety of gourmet sandwiches, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For a delicious lunch, head to Johnson's Cafe, known for its mouthwatering European and Indian dishes. With its charming ambiance and outdoor seating, you can enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the scenic views of Manali. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at La Plage, a rooftop restaurant offering a fusion of Indian and Continental cuisine. Indulge in their flavorful seafood dishes and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.

Friday October 20: Shimla Exploration

On the final day, travel to the charming hill station of Shimla. Start your morning by visiting the famous Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and enjoy panoramic views of Shimla from its hilltop location. In the afternoon, explore the Viceregal Lodge, also known as the Rashtrapati Niwas, which once served as the summer residence of the British viceroys. Finally, take a stroll along the iconic Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial-era buildings, and indulge in some souvenir shopping.

• Jakhu Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Viceregal Lodge: INR 50 (entry fee), 2-3 hours
• Mall Road: Varies based on personal spending, 2-3 hours

Restaurants

• Head to Cafe Sol, a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious pancakes and eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, dine at Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar, a charming restaurant offering a wide range of cuisines, including Indian, Chinese, and Continental. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, visit the iconic Baljees Regency Rooftop Restaurant for a delightful dinner experience with breathtaking views of Shimla. Indulge in their lip-smacking North Indian and Chinese dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Manali and Shimla, don't miss the chance to visit the off the beaten path attractions and experience what locals love. In Manali, take a short hike to the picturesque Jogini Waterfall, where you can relax amidst nature's beauty. In Shimla, visit the serene Annandale Ground, a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities. Additionally, don't forget to try the delicious street food in both cities, such as momos (dumplings) and siddu (a local bread stuffed with various fillings).

For the best hotel and flight prices in Manali and Shimla, you can check here.