7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Himachal

Tuesday, December 12: Shimla

Start your trip in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. In the morning, visit the famous Jakhoo Temple and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Afterward, explore the Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants, and indulge in some local delicacies. In the afternoon, take a stroll in the beautiful Shimla Ridge and visit The Ridge Christ Church. In the evening, enjoy a toy train ride on the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla Railway.

• Jakhoo Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Shimla Ridge and The Ridge Christ Church: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Kalka-Shimla Toy Train Ride: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Wednesday, December 13: Manali

Head to Manali, a picturesque hill station. In the morning, visit Hadimba Devi Temple, known for its unique architecture. Enjoy a peaceful walk in Van Vihar National Park and explore the nearby Manali Nature Park in the afternoon. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the Mall Road and shop for local handicrafts.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Van Vihar National Park: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Manali Nature Park: Estimated Cost - INR 10-20, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, December 14: Rohtang Pass

Embark on a day trip to Rohtang Pass, a stunning mountain pass known for its breathtaking views. In the morning, enjoy exciting snow activities like skiing and snowboarding. Afterward, visit the nearby Solang Valley and try paragliding. In the evening, return to Manali and relax at your hotel.

• Rohtang Pass: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
• Solang Valley: Estimated Cost - INR 500-1000, Time Spent - 3-4 hours

Friday, December 15: Dharamshala

Travel to Dharamshala, the residence of the Dalai Lama. In the morning, visit the peaceful Namgyal Monastery and explore the Kangra Fort. In the afternoon, take a walk in the beautiful Dal Lake and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the evening, explore the vibrant McLeod Ganj market and savor Tibetan cuisine.

• Namgyal Monastery: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Kangra Fort: Estimated Cost - INR 150-200, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dal Lake: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• McLeod Ganj Market: Estimated Cost - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Saturday, December 16: Dalhousie

Visit the charming hill station of Dalhousie. In the morning, explore the picturesque Khajjiar Lake known as the "Mini Switzerland of India." Enjoy horse riding and zorbing activities. In the afternoon, visit the ancient Chamunda Devi Temple and take a leisurely walk in the beautiful Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. In the evening, relax and enjoy the stunning sunset views.

• Khajjiar Lake: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Chamunda Devi Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated Cost - INR 100-200, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, December 17: Kasauli

Explore the serene town of Kasauli. In the morning, hike to the popular Monkey Point and enjoy panoramic views of the Himalayas. Afterward, visit the tranquil Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji and the beautiful Christ Church. In the afternoon, take a relaxing stroll in Lover's Lane and shop for local handicrafts. In the evening, witness the stunning sunset views from Sunset Point.

• Monkey Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Gurudwara Shri Guru Nanak Ji: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Christ Church: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Lover's Lane: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Sunset Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Monday, December 18: Shimla

Return to Shimla for a memorable end to your trip. In the morning, visit the Viceregal Lodge, a colonial-era building with beautiful architecture. Explore the lush greenery of Himalayan Bird Park and enjoy bird watching. In the afternoon, take a nostalgic visit to the Indian Institute of Advanced Study. In the evening, stroll along the charming Scandal Point and indulge in some local street food.

• Viceregal Lodge: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Himalayan Bird Park: Estimated Cost - INR 20-50, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Indian Institute of Advanced Study: Estimated Cost - INR 40-80, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
• Scandal Point: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Himachal, consider visiting the Tirthan Valley, a hidden gem known for its natural beauty and trout fishing. Families can enjoy camping, hiking, and even river rafting. Another local favorite is the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering stunning wilderness experiences and wildlife sightings.

Before finalizing your travel plans, make sure to check hotel and flight prices on kayak.com.