Start your trip by flying into Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. In the morning, explore the iconic Mall Road, a bustling street lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and visit the Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll through Shimla's beautiful botanical gardens. In the evening, visit The Ridge, a spacious open area offering stunning views of the sunset.
Botanical Gardens: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
The Ridge: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
The Indian Coffee House is a popular breakfast spot known for its delicious local cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Cafe Sol is a trendy lunch spot offering a variety of dishes from around the world. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Sunday, October 15: Manali
Embark on a scenic drive to Manali, a charming hill station nestled in the mountains. Start your morning by visiting the Hadimba Devi Temple, a unique wooden shrine dedicated to the goddess Hidimba. In the afternoon, head to Solang Valley for thrilling adventure activities like paragliding and zorbing. Conclude the day with a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, enjoying local delicacies and shopping for souvenirs.
Hadimba Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - INR 20 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
Mom's Kitchen: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Mom's Kitchen, a cozy restaurant known for its delicious homemade pancakes and omelettes. The average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Lazy Dog Lounge: For lunch, head to Lazy Dog Lounge, a vibrant restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Asian, and Continental. Don't miss their mouthwatering wood-fired pizzas. The average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Johnson's Bar and Restaurant: Indulge in a delightful dinner experience at Johnson's Bar and Restaurant, famous for its fresh seafood and great ambiance. Treat yourself to their signature dishes like butter garlic prawns. The average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Monday, October 16: Kullu
Take a day trip to Kullu, known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Begin your day by exploring the famous Kullu Dussehra grounds, where a grand festival takes place annually. In the afternoon, visit the Bijli Mahadev Temple, located atop a hill, offering breathtaking views of the valley. Engage in white-water rafting on the Beas River for an adrenaline-filled adventure. End the day by visiting the Naggar Castle, a historic fort-turned-art gallery.
White-water rafting: Estimated Cost - INR 1,500 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Naggar Castle: Estimated Cost - INR 30 per person, Time Spent - 1 hour
Restaurants
Kullu Cafe: Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at Kullu Cafe, known for its wide variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
Kullu Bistro: Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at Kullu Bistro, offering a diverse menu of local and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Himalayan Heights: Indulge in a memorable dinner experience at Himalayan Heights, a fine-dining restaurant serving authentic Himachali dishes with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 17: Dharamshala
Travel to Dharamshala, a serene town known for its Tibetan influence and the residence of the Dalai Lama. Start your day by visiting the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which includes the Namgyal Monastery and the Dalai Lama's residence. Explore the beautiful Norbulingka Institute, dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and culture. In the evening, take a peaceful stroll through the charming streets of McLeod Ganj, filled with shops selling Tibetan handicrafts and delicious eateries.
The Clay Oven: Enjoy a delicious and filling vegetarian breakfast at The Clay Oven. They offer a variety of Indian breakfast items such as dosa, idli, and paratha. Average cost for a meal is about ₹200 per person.
Pema Thang Restaurant: For lunch, head to Pema Thang Restaurant to savor authentic Tibetan cuisine. Try their momos, thukpa, or shabalay for a satisfying lunch. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
Illiterati Café: Indulge in a cozy dinner at Illiterati Café, known for its relaxed ambience and mouthwatering menu. Enjoy a variety of dishes including pastas, pizzas, and burgers. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
Wednesday, October 18: Dalhousie
Head to Dalhousie, a hill station with colonial charm and stunning natural beauty. Start your day by visiting the Khajjiar, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," and enjoy horse riding or zorbing. In the afternoon, explore the St. John's Church, known for its beautiful architecture and tranquil surroundings. Take a relaxing walk along the Mall Road, lined with shops offering local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Dalhousie, a charming café known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Kwality Restaurant, a local favorite that serves a wide range of Indian and Chinese dishes. Don't miss their flavorful butter chicken and crispy honey chili potatoes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Bon Appétit, a cozy restaurant offering a mix of Indian and continental cuisines. Try their mouthwatering tandoori kebabs or creamy pasta dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Thursday, October 19: Departure
On your last day, bid farewell to the beautiful Himachal Pradesh. Take some time to explore the local markets for last-minute shopping and souvenirs. Depart from Shimla with cherishable memories and a desire to return to this enchanting region.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, venture off the beaten path and visit the Chail Cricket Ground in Chail, which is the highest cricket ground in the world. Enjoy a game of cricket or simply admire the breathtaking surroundings. Another hidden gem is the Tirthan Valley, a lesser-known destination offering serene landscapes, trekking opportunities, and the chance to interact with local communities. It's a perfect spot for families looking for a peaceful getaway amidst nature.