Shoestring Budget 5-Day Itinerary for Manali

  1. Day 1: Hadimba Devi Temple and Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art
    20 minutes (6.4 km) from Mall Road

    Start your trip by visiting the Hadimba Devi Temple, a beautiful wooden temple surrounded by forest. Next, visit the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art to learn about the history, arts, and crafts of the region.

  2. Day 2: Solang Valley and Jogini Falls
    45 minutes (11.5 km) from Hadimba Devi Temple

    Spend the day in Solang Valley, where you can try zorbing, paragliding, and skiing (in winter). After lunch, make your way to the Jogini Falls, a hidden gem with a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush greenery.

  3. Day 3: Old Manali
    15 minutes (3.5 km) from Mall Road

    Visit the charming Old Manali, where you can walk along the Manalsu River, explore the colorful street markets, and try some local food at the cafes and restaurants. Don't forget to stop by the Manu Temple and the Buddhist Monastery.

  4. Day 4: Naggar Castle and Jana Falls
    1 hour (22 km) from Old Manali

    Take a scenic drive to Naggar Castle, a historic fort-palace with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. After a tour, head to Jana Falls, a serene waterfall with a quiet and peaceful atmosphere. You can also try the local apple cider at one of the nearby orchards.

  5. Day 5: Vashisht Hot Springs and Manu Market
    20 minutes (6.5 km) from Mall Road

    End your trip by relaxing in the Vashisht Hot Springs, where you can unwind in the natural waters. Then, go to Manu Market, a bustling shopping district filled with local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Hadimba Devi Temple (1-2 hours, free)
  • Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art (1-2 hours, INR 20)
  • Solang Valley (6-8 hours, INR 500 for zorbing and paragliding)
  • Jogini Falls (2-3 hours, free)
  • Old Manali (4-6 hours, free)
  • Naggar Castle (2-3 hours, INR 30)
  • Jana Falls (2-3 hours, free)
  • Vashisht Hot Springs (2-3 hours, free)
  • Manu Market (2-3 hours, INR 200 for souvenirs)
  • Total Estimated Costs: INR 750 per person

Useful Tips

If you have more time, you can add a day trip to the Rohtang Pass or Kullu Valley. If you have less time, you can skip Naggar Castle or Jana Falls. Don't forget to try the local delicacies like momos, thukpa, and siddu.

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