Thrilling Adventure in Shimla, Kullu Manali and Dalhousie

Thursday December 28: Arrival and Shimla Exploration

In the morning, arrive at Shimla and check into your hotel. Start your adventure by visiting Kufri, a small hill station known for its picturesque views and opportunities for skiing, horse riding, and yak riding. In the afternoon, head to Mall Road and explore the bustling market, filled with shops, cafes, and local handicrafts. End the day with a visit to The Ridge, a popular viewpoint offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

• Kufri: Estimated cost - INR 500, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• The Ridge: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Restaurants

• The Indian Grill: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at The Indian Grill, known for its wide range of Indian breakfast delicacies such as parathas, poha, and dosas. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 150 per person.
• Café Sol: For a delicious lunch, head to Café Sol, a popular restaurant offering a variety of cuisines including Mexican, Italian, and Indian. Try their signature dishes like tacos, wood-fired pizzas, and butter chicken. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar: Indulge in a delightful dinner at Eighteen71 Cookhouse & Bar, known for its elegant ambiance and delectable multi-cuisine menu. Savor dishes like grilled salmon, tandoori kebabs, and creamy pastas. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.

Friday December 29: Whitewater Rafting in Kullu

Embark on an adrenaline-filled day of whitewater rafting in Kullu. Start the morning by driving to Pirdi, the starting point for rafting. Enjoy the thrill of navigating through the challenging rapids of the Beas River. After the rafting adventure, explore the serene Naggar Castle, a historic fort offering breathtaking views of the valley. In the evening, stroll through the colorful markets of Kullu and indulge in local delicacies.

• Whitewater Rafting: Estimated cost - INR 1500 per person, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Naggar Castle: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kullu Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Restaurants

• For breakfast, head to Cafe Valley View which offers breathtaking views of the mountains. Enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes and coffee for an average cost of about INR 250 per person.
• For lunch, Vyanjan Restaurant is a great choice. They serve delicious local cuisine such as Himachali Thali and momos. You can expect to spend an average of INR 400 per person for a satisfying meal here.
• For dinner, The Johnson's Cafe is an excellent option. They offer a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Chinese. Enjoy a candlelit dinner with live music for an average cost of about INR 800 per person.

Saturday December 30: Trekking in Solang Valley

Embark on a thrilling trekking expedition in Solang Valley, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Begin the day with a visit to Rohtang Pass (subject to availability) and witness the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas. Afterward, head to Solang Valley and start your trek. Enjoy the scenic landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and fresh mountain air. In the evening, return to your hotel in Manali and relax.

• Rohtang Pass: Estimated cost - INR 600 per person (if accessible), Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Trekking in Solang Valley: Estimated cost - INR 1000 per person, Estimated time spent - 6 hours

Restaurants

• Head to Café Sol in Manali for a delicious breakfast. This cozy café offers a variety of options from continental to Indian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
• For lunch, visit Johnson's Café and Restaurant in Shimla. This charming restaurant serves mouthwatering North Indian and Chinese cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
• Indulge in a fine dining experience at Kwality Restaurant in Dalhousie for dinner. This popular restaurant offers a range of Indian and Mughlai delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.

Sunday December 31: Snow Activities in Manali

Embrace the winter wonderland of Manali by indulging in snow activities. Start the day with a visit to the famous Hadimba Devi Temple, surrounded by lush cedar forests. Then, proceed to the Solang Valley to enjoy exciting snow activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. As the sun sets, celebrate New Year's Eve at a local restaurant or join a festive party to welcome the new year.

• Hadimba Devi Temple: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Snow Activities in Solang Valley: Estimated cost - INR 1500 per person, Estimated time spent - 4 hours

Monday January 1: Nature Exploration in Dalhousie

Travel to the breathtaking hill station of Dalhousie and immerse yourself in nature's beauty. Start the day by visiting Khajjiar, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," with its lush green meadows and a sparkling lake. Take a leisurely walk around the Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to diverse flora and fauna. In the evening, explore Dalhousie's colonial architecture and treat yourself to local delicacies.

• Khajjiar: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Dalhousie Exploration: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For adventurous souls seeking off the beaten path experiences, consider visiting Tirthan Valley near Kullu. This serene paradise offers opportunities for trout fishing, trekking, and camping amidst pristine nature. Another lesser-known gem is Chamera Lake near Dalhousie, perfect for boating and enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Locals also recommend exploring the quaint village of Old Manali to experience its unique culture and hippie vibes.

You can find hotel and flight prices here.