A 5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary in Manali

Thursday, September 28: Explore Manali Town

Start your trip by exploring the charming town of Manali. In the morning, visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, a beautiful wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the Van Vihar National Park in the afternoon, where you can rent a paddleboat and admire the scenic views. In the evening, head to Mall Road, a bustling street filled with shops, restaurants, and local handicrafts.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: Entrance fee - INR 50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Van Vihar National Park: Entrance fee - INR 10, Boat rental - INR 50, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Mall Road: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, September 29: Rohtang Pass Adventure

Embark on a thrilling adventure to Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters. Start your morning early as the journey takes around 2 hours. Enjoy the breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, visit the Solang Valley for adventure activities like paragliding and zorbing, and take a pony ride in the snow. Return to Manali in the evening and unwind.

• Rohtang Pass: Entrance fee - INR 550 (for vehicles), Time spent - 4-6 hours
• Solang Valley: Adventure activities cost varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, September 30: Visit Manikaran Sahib and Kasol

Start your day by visiting the peaceful Manikaran Sahib, a Sikh pilgrimage site known for its hot springs. Take a dip in the hot water and enjoy a langar (community meal) at the gurudwara. In the afternoon, head to the nearby village of Kasol, popular among trekkers and nature enthusiasts. Explore the serene Parvati Valley, go for short hikes, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Himalayas.

• Manikaran Sahib: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kasol: Free, Time spent - 3-4 hours

Sunday, October 1: Explore Naggar Castle and Jana Waterfall

Visit the historic Naggar Castle in the morning, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views of the Kullu Valley. Explore the castle museum and enjoy a leisurely walk in the beautiful surrounding gardens. In the afternoon, drive to Jana Waterfall, a hidden gem nestled in the hills. Take a short hike to reach the waterfall and spend some time relaxing amidst nature.

• Naggar Castle: Entrance fee - INR 30, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Jana Waterfall: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, October 2: Visit Old Manali and Vashisht Temple

Experience the cultural charm of Old Manali in the morning. Explore the narrow winding lanes filled with cafes, guesthouses, and local shops. Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu, and enjoy the serene ambiance. In the afternoon, head to Vashisht Temple and Vashisht Hot Water Springs, known for their therapeutic properties. Take a dip in the hot springs and relax before concluding your trip.

• Old Manali: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
• Manu Temple: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
• Vashisht Temple and Hot Water Springs: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the Naggar Art Gallery, which showcases beautiful artworks by local artists. You can also take a day trip to the picturesque village of Malana, known for its distinct culture and stunning landscapes. Families with children may enjoy a visit to the Himalayan Nyinmapa Tibetan Buddhist Monastery, where they can learn about Tibetan Buddhist traditions and even participate in meditation sessions.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.