A Week of Family Fun in Mumbai, Chandigarh, Shimla, Manali, Kullu, Dharamshala, Kurfi, Solang Valley, and Amritsar

Sunday December 24: Mumbai - Arrival and Local Exploration

Welcome to Mumbai, the bustling metropolis on the west coast of India. Start your day with a visit to the iconic Gateway of India in the morning. Afternoon can be spent exploring the lively Marine Drive promenade and Chowpatty Beach. In the evening, take a stroll at Bandra Bandstand and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

• Gateway of India: Free, 1-2 hours
• Marine Drive and Chowpatty Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
• Bandra Bandstand: Free, 1-2 hours

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast at Cafe Madras. Known for its authentic flavors and cozy ambiance, this restaurant offers a variety of dosas and idlis. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
• For lunch, head to Britannia & Co. Restaurant, an iconic Parsi eatery. Enjoy their famous berry pulao and dhansak, along with other Parsi delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• In the evening, dine at Bayview Restaurant located at Hotel Marine Plaza. Indulge in their seafood specialties while enjoying breathtaking views of the Arabian Sea. The average cost for a meal is about 1,500 INR per person.

Monday December 25: Chandigarh - City Tour and Rock Garden

Arrive in Chandigarh, the planned city known for its beautiful architecture. Spend the morning exploring the magnificent Capitol Complex and the serene Rose Garden. Afternoon can be dedicated to visiting the unique Rock Garden, a mesmerizing art installation created from recycled materials. In the evening, take a leisurely walk around Sukhna Lake.

• Capitol Complex: Free, 2-3 hours
• Rose Garden: Free, 1-2 hours
• Rock Garden: INR 30 per person, 2-3 hours
• Sukhna Lake: Free, 1-2 hours

Tuesday December 26: Shimla - Hill Station Delights

Travel to Shimla, the enchanting hill station nestled in the Himalayas. Spend the morning exploring the Mall Road, the main shopping and entertainment hub. Afternoon can be dedicated to visiting the Viceregal Lodge, a majestic colonial-era building. In the evening, take a joyful ride on the Shimla Toy Train.

• Mall Road: Free, 2-3 hours
• Viceregal Lodge: INR 30 per person, 1-2 hours
• Shimla Toy Train: INR 60-300 per person, 2-3 hours

Wednesday December 27: Manali - Adventure and Nature

Reach Manali, a paradise for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. In the morning, embark on a thrilling river rafting expedition on the Beas River. Afternoon can be spent exploring the stunning Solang Valley and indulging in activities like paragliding or zorbing. In the evening, visit the serene Hadimba Temple.

• River Rafting: INR 800-1500 per person, 3-4 hours
• Solang Valley: Free, 2-3 hours
• Hadimba Temple: Free, 1-2 hours

Thursday December 28: Kullu - Cultural Heritage and Nature

Head to Kullu, a picturesque valley known for its cultural heritage and natural beauty. In the morning, visit the Raghunath Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to Lord Rama. Afternoon can be spent exploring the lush greenery of the Great Himalayan National Park. In the evening, take a peaceful walk along the banks of the Beas River.

• Raghunath Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
• Great Himalayan National Park: INR 400 per person, 3-4 hours
• Beas River: Free, 1-2 hours

Friday December 29: Dharamshala - Spiritual Retreat and Tibetan Culture

Arrive in Dharamshala, a spiritual retreat and home to the Tibetan government-in-exile. Begin your day by visiting the serene Namgyal Monastery and the Dalai Lama Temple Complex. In the afternoon, explore the beautiful tea gardens of Kangra Valley. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan meal at a local restaurant.

• Namgyal Monastery: Free, 1-2 hours
• Dalai Lama Temple Complex: Free, 1-2 hours
• Kangra Valley Tea Gardens: Free, 2-3 hours
• Tibetan Cuisine: INR 500-1000 per person, 1-2 hours

Saturday December 30: Kurfi and Solang Valley - Winter Adventure

Head to Kurfi, a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts. Spend the morning enjoying the snowy slopes of Kurfi Ski Resort. Afternoon can be dedicated to exploring the snow-covered landscapes of Solang Valley and trying thrilling activities like skiing and snowmobiling. In the evening, warm up with a cup of hot chocolate at a cozy café.

• Kurfi Ski Resort: INR 500-1000 per person, 3-4 hours
• Solang Valley: Free, 2-3 hours
• Café: INR 200-500 per person, 1-2 hours

Sunday December 31: Amritsar - Golden Temple and Cultural Experience

Travel to Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural hub of Punjab. Begin your day with a visit to the awe-inspiring Golden Temple, the holiest Sikh shrine. Afternoon can be dedicated to exploring the historical Jallianwala Bagh and the vibrant bazaars of the Old City. In the evening, witness the magical Retreat Ceremony at the Wagah Border.

• Golden Temple: Free, 2-3 hours
• Jallianwala Bagh: Free, 1-2 hours
• Old City Bazaars: Shopping costs vary, 2-3 hours
• Wagah Border Ceremony: Free, 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When in Mumbai, don't miss the chance to visit the Elephanta Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on an island. In Chandigarh, explore the peaceful tranquility of Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary. If you have extra time in Manali, take a day trip to the enchanting Rohtang Pass. In Amritsar, indulge in the local culinary delights at the famous food street near the Golden Temple.

Check hotel and flight prices for your trip!