7-Day Budget Travel Itinerary to Shimla, Kullu, Manali, and Rothang

Thursday, October 5: Arrival in Shimla

Morning: Start your trip by arriving in Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Explore the Mall Road, sample local street food, and visit popular attractions like Christ Church and Scandal Point. Afternoon: Head to Jakhu Hill to see the highest point in Shimla and catch breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Evening: Enjoy a peaceful walk at the Ridge and witness the spectacular sunset over the Himalayas.

• Cost estimates: INR 500 ($7) for food and transportation.
• Time spent: Approximately 6 hours.

Friday, October 6: Shimla to Kullu

Morning: Leave Shimla and travel to Kullu, known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities. Visit the Raghunath Temple and explore the local market. Afternoon: Go for a thrilling river rafting experience in the Beas River. Evening: Witness the traditional Kullu Dussehra festival, if it coincides with your visit, and enjoy cultural performances and festive celebrations.

• Cost estimates: INR 800 ($11) for transportation, temple visit, and rafting.
• Time spent: Approximately 8 hours.

Saturday, October 7: Kullu to Manali

Morning: Journey from Kullu to Manali, a picturesque hill station. Explore the Old Manali village and visit the Hadimba Devi Temple. Afternoon: Head to Solang Valley and indulge in adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (subject to availability). Evening: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, shop for local handicrafts, and savor delicious Himachali cuisine.

• Cost estimates: INR 700 ($10) for transportation, temple visit, and local food.
• Time spent: Approximately 10 hours.

Sunday, October 8: Manali sightseeing

Morning: Visit Rohtang Pass for breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and enjoy activities like snow biking and skiing (subject to weather conditions and permits). Afternoon: Explore the Vashisht Temple and take a dip in the hot springs for a refreshing experience. Evening: Take a stroll in the serene Manali Nature Park and appreciate the scenic beauty of the surroundings.

• Cost estimates: INR 1,500 ($21) for transportation, Rohtang Pass permit, and temple visit.
• Time spent: Approximately 12 hours.

Monday, October 9: Manali Adventure

Morning: Embark on a trek to the beautiful Beas Kund, a high-altitude glacial lake offering stunning views. Afternoon: Engage in thrilling river rafting in the Beas River. Evening: Explore the Naggar Castle, an ancient royal palace, and soak in the cultural heritage of the region.

• Cost estimates: INR 1,200 ($17) for transportation, trekking guide (optional), and rafting.
• Time spent: Approximately 10 hours.

Tuesday, October 10: Manali Exploration

Morning: Visit the charming village of Naggar and explore Naggar Castle and the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. Afternoon: Experience exhilarating paragliding in Solang Valley, enjoying the panoramic views from above. Evening: Relax and enjoy shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs from the Manali Market.

• Cost estimates: INR 1,300 ($18) for transportation, entry fees, paragliding, and shopping.
• Time spent: Approximately 10 hours.

Wednesday, October 11: Departure

Morning: Bid farewell to the serene mountains of Himachal Pradesh and head back to your destination.

• Cost estimates: INR 500 ($7) for transportation.
• Time spent: Approximately 6 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting Kasol, a small village near Kullu, known for its backpacking culture and scenic landscapes. Also, explore the lesser-known hill station of Tirthan Valley, known for its trout fishing, trekking trails, and stunning waterfalls. These places offer budget-friendly accommodation options and provide an authentic experience of the Himachal region.