5-Day Himachal Pradesh Itinerary with City Experiences

  1. Day 1: Shimla Ridge
    30 minutes (17.5 km) from Jubbarhatti Airport

    Stroll along the Shimla Ridge and admire the impressive architecture of the buildings that surround it, including the classical Christ Church and the Tudor Library. Enjoy a delicious meal at any of the outdoor restaurants while enjoying the stunning views of the Himalayan mountains.

  2. Day 2: Manali
    6 hours (248 km) from Shimla Ridge

    Explore the beautiful Manali, known for its vibrant markets and historical temples. Visit the famous Hidimba Devi Temple, built entirely of wood and surrounded by cedar forests. You can also enjoy adventure sports like paragliding, zorbing, and rafting in the nearby areas.

  3. Day 3: Dharamshala
    7 hours 30 minutes (245 km) from Manali

    Discover the serene hill station of Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama and his spiritual residence, Tsuglagkhang Complex. Walk through the markets and shop for colorful Tibetan handicrafts; enjoy a delicious meal at any of the local eateries or take a cooking class of traditional Himachali cuisine.

  4. Day 4: Chail Palace
    3 hours 30 minutes (116 km) from Dharamshala

    Visit the beautiful Chail Palace, set amid lush greenery of the Himalayas. The palace is now a luxurious hotel that offers amazing views of the surrounding hills. The nearby Chail Wildlife Sanctuary is home to numerous wildlife species, including ghoral, sambar, and the Himalayan black bear. Go hiking on the nearby trails.

  5. Day 5: Chandigarh
    4 hours 30 minutes (102 km) from Chail Palace

    Wrap up your trip by visiting the stunning city of Chandigarh that boasts a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Visit the famous Rock Garden, a sculpture garden made from recycled materials, including building waste, rocks, and industrial relics. Have a picnic at the peaceful Sukhna Lake and visit the world-famous Nek Chand's Fantasy Rock Garden where countless sculptures are on exhibit.

Time and Costs Estimates:

  • Shimla Ridge (2 hours, INR 0)
  • Hidimba Devi Temple (1 hour, INR 50)
  • Tsuglagkhang Complex (2 hours, INR 100)
  • Chail Palace (2 hours, INR 500)
  • Rock Garden (2 hours, INR 30)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 680

Useful Tips:

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Kangra Fort in Kangra or the Baijnath Temple in Bir. Alternatively, you can spend more time in Manali and explore its many markets and other historical temples. If you are short on time, consider combining days four and five and visit the Rock Garden and the Sukhana Lake in Chandigarh on the same day.

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