A Family-Friendly 3-Day Itinerary in Manali

Saturday, September 30, 2023: Exploring Manali

Start your trip by exploring the beautiful hill station of Manali. In the morning, visit the Hadimba Temple, a peaceful and serene place surrounded by lush greenery. Afterward, head to the Manali Nature Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk amidst stunning landscapes and let your kids have fun at the playground. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Solang Valley, known for its breathtaking views and adventure activities like paragliding and zorbing. As the evening approaches, visit the Mall Road, a bustling street filled with shops, cafes, and local delicacies.

• Hadimba Temple: Free admission, approximately 1 hour
• Manali Nature Park: Free admission, approximately 2 hours
• Solang Valley: Adventure activities cost extra, approximately 4 hours
• Mall Road: Cost of shopping and dining varies, approximately 2 hours

Sunday, October 1, 2023: Rohtang Pass Adventure

Embark on an exciting day trip to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass located at an altitude of 3,978 meters. Start your morning early to beat the crowds and enjoy the scenic drive. Once you reach Rohtang Pass, marvel at the snow-capped peaks, indulge in snow activities like skiing and sledding, and capture beautiful family photos. In the afternoon, visit the Rahalla Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. On your way back to Manali, stop by the Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs, where you can relax and rejuvenate in the natural hot water baths.

• Rohtang Pass: Entry fee and adventure activities cost extra, approximately 6 hours
• Rahalla Falls: Free admission, approximately 1 hour
• Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs: Free admission, approximately 2 hours

Monday, October 2, 2023: Naggar Castle and Manikaran Excursion

Spend your last day exploring the cultural heritage and natural wonders near Manali. Start your morning by visiting the Naggar Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Explore the castle's art gallery and museum to learn about the region's rich history. In the afternoon, take a scenic drive to Manikaran, known for its hot springs and religious significance. Visit the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara and take a dip in the hot springs believed to have healing properties. Enjoy a delicious langar (community meal) at the Gurudwara before heading back to Manali.

• Naggar Castle: Entry fee varies, approximately 2 hours
• Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara: Free admission, approximately 3 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe 1947, a charming riverside cafe offering a variety of delicious options including pancakes, omelettes, and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, visit Johnson's Cafe, a popular restaurant known for its cozy ambiance and mouthwatering Italian dishes. Try their wood-fired pizzas and homemade pastas. Average cost for a meal is about 600 INR per person.
• For dinner, dine at The Lazy Dog Lounge, a rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy their extensive menu featuring Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Manali, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, a serene place where you can spot various species of birds and animals in their natural habitat. It's a great place for kids to learn about wildlife conservation. Another hidden gem is the Jogini Falls, a mesmerizing waterfall located in the Vashisht Village area. The hike to the falls is relatively easy and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. For a unique experience, consider visiting the Roerich Art Gallery, where you can see the artworks of Nicholas Roerich, a Russian painter who fell in love with the beauty of the Himalayas.

Check the prices for hotels and flights in Manali here.