6-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Manali in June 2023

  1. Day 1: Old Manali
    10 minutes (3.2 km) from Manali Bus Stand

    Explore the charming lanes of Old Manali, lined with quaint cafes, shops selling hippie clothing and handicrafts, and buzzing with a bohemian vibe. Must-visit spots include the Manu Temple, Hadimba Devi Temple, and the Manali Club House.

  2. Day 2: Solang Valley
    30 minutes (13.9 km) from Old Manali

    Head to the picturesque Solang Valley, famous for adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing, and enjoy the stunning views of snow-capped mountains. You can also take a cable car ride to the top of the valley for panoramic vistas or go trekking in the surrounding hills.

  3. Day 3: Naggar Castle and Jana Waterfall
    1 hour 10 minutes (20.7 km) from Solang Valley

    Visit the Naggar Castle, a 15th-century fortress-turned-heritage hotel with beautiful stone and wood architecture and a museum showcasing traditional Himachali art. Then, drive to the serene Jana Waterfall, nestled amid apple orchards and pine forests, and take a dip in the cool waters or have a picnic.

  4. Day 4: Great Himalayan National Park
    2 hours 30 minutes (77.3 km) from Jana Waterfall

    Explore the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna, including snow leopards, musk deer, and Himalayan tahr. You can take a guided trek or camping trip to experience the natural beauty up close.

  5. Day 5: Vashisht and Manikaran
    1 hour 10 minutes (24.9 km) from Great Himalayan National Park

    Visit the hot springs and ancient temples of Vashisht, a quaint village known for its therapeutic waters and scenic views of the Beas River. Then, head to Manikaran, a pilgrimage town famous for its gurudwara and Hindu temples, and enjoy a delicious langar meal or shop for souvenirs.

  6. Day 6: Rohtang Pass
    2 hours 10 minutes (51.5 km) from Manikaran

    End your trip with a drive to Rohtang Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass with panoramic views of the Pir Panjal range, glaciers, and snowfields. You can also indulge in adventure activities like skiing, snowboarding, and sledging or try local delicacies like maggi noodles and hot chai.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Old Manali (1 day) - Free
  • Solang Valley (1 day) - Cable car ride (INR 700), Adventure activities (INR 500-1000)
  • Naggar Castle and Jana Waterfall (1 day) - Entrance fees (INR 30-50), Food and drinks (INR 500)
  • Great Himalayan National Park (1 day) - Entrance fees (INR 100-200), Trek or camping costs (INR 1000-3000)
  • Vashisht and Manikaran (1 day) - Food and drinks (INR 500), Souvenirs (INR 100-500)
  • Rohtang Pass (1 day) - Entrance fees (INR 500), Adventure activities (INR 500-1000)
  • Total Estimated Costs - INR 5,000-10,000
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