Relaxation in Manali

Saturday August 26: Arrival in Manali

Welcome to Manali, a stunning hill station nestled in the mountains of Himachal Pradesh. After arriving at the airport, take a scenic drive to your hotel and check-in. In the morning, relax and rejuvenate with a spa session at your hotel's wellness center. In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Hadimba Devi Temple and soak in the serene surroundings. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road, lined with charming shops and eateries.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: INR 50, 1 hour
• Spa session: INR 1000, 2 hours

Restaurants

• Cafe 1947: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this charming cafe located near the Beas River. Indulge in delicious pancakes and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
• Johnson's Café: For a satisfying lunch, head to Johnson's Cafe famous for its Tibetan cuisine. Try their mouth-watering momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
• Casa Bella Vista: End your day with a delightful dinner at Casa Bella Vista, a rooftop restaurant offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Treat yourself to their delicious pasta and wood-fired pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.

Sunday August 27: Solang Valley

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel. In the morning, head to Solang Valley, known for its breathtaking views and adventure activities. Enjoy a thrilling cable car ride to the top and marvel at the panoramic vistas. Spend the afternoon indulging in activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (if available). In the evening, return to your hotel and unwind with a peaceful walk in the surrounding nature.

• Cable car ride: INR 500, 1 hour
• Adventure activities: Prices vary, 3-4 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe 1947, a charming riverside eatery with a cozy ambiance. They offer a variety of delicious breakfast options such as pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
• For lunch, visit Johnson's Cafe, a popular spot known for its mouthwatering pizza and pasta dishes. With its casual atmosphere and outdoor seating area, it's a great place to relax and enjoy a tasty meal. The average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
• For dinner, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at The Corner House, a fine dining restaurant specializing in Indian and international cuisines. Situated in a historic building, this restaurant offers a sophisticated ambiance and exquisite dishes. The average cost for a meal is about ₹1000 per person.

Monday August 28: Rohtang Pass

Embark on an exciting trip to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass that offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas. Wake up early and drive through the picturesque landscapes to reach the pass. Spend the morning exploring the snow-covered peaks, taking in the beauty of the surroundings. In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic amidst the scenic vistas. Return to Manali in the evening and relax at your hotel.

• Rohtang Pass entry fee: INR 500, 2-3 hours
• Picnic lunch: INR 500, 1 hour

Tuesday August 29: Old Manali

Discover the charm of Old Manali, a quaint village known for its rustic beauty. Start your morning with a visit to Manu Temple, believed to be the only temple dedicated to Sage Manu. Explore the narrow lanes of Old Manali, lined with traditional houses and cozy cafes. In the afternoon, indulge in a relaxing yoga session amidst nature. In the evening, enjoy a serene riverside walk along the Beas River.

• Manu Temple: INR 20, 1 hour
• Yoga session: INR 300, 1 hour

Wednesday August 30: Manikaran Gurudwara

Embark on a spiritual journey to Manikaran Gurudwara, a renowned Sikh pilgrimage site famous for its hot springs. Start your day with a dip in the hot springs believed to have healing properties. Explore the beautiful Gurudwara and witness the Langar (community kitchen) where free meals are served to visitors. In the afternoon, savor a delicious vegetarian meal at the Langar. Return to your hotel in the evening and relax.

• Hot springs dip: Free, 2-3 hours
• Meal at Langar: Donation-based

Thursday August 31: Naggar Castle

Visit the historic Naggar Castle, a medieval fortress located on a hilltop. Start your day with a scenic drive to Naggar and explore the ancient castle, which now houses a heritage hotel and an art gallery. Enjoy panoramic views of the valley from the castle's terrace. In the afternoon, indulge in a traditional Himachali lunch at a local restaurant. Return to Manali in the evening and spend your last night exploring the local markets.

• Naggar Castle entry fee: INR 30, 2 hours
• Himachali lunch: INR 400, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a truly relaxing experience, venture off the beaten path and visit the Vashisht Hot Water Springs. These natural hot springs are known for their therapeutic properties and provide a perfect opportunity to unwind and soak in the healing waters. Another hidden gem is the Jogini Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Take a short trek to reach the falls and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.

Local favorites in Manali include exploring the Tibetan market for unique handicrafts and souvenirs, visiting the serene Van Vihar National Park for a peaceful walk amidst nature, and trying the local delicacies like Himachali Dham and Siddu at authentic restaurants.

Check hotel and flight prices here.