Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 54 travelers

A 7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Manali, India

Saturday, December 2:

Start your trip by exploring Manali's Old Town. In the morning, visit Hadimba Devi Temple, known for its unique architecture surrounded by cedar forests. Then, head to Manu Market for some local shopping and try traditional Himachali cuisine for lunch. In the afternoon, take a stroll along the Mall Road and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. As the evening approaches, visit Van Vihar, a serene park by the Beas River where you can enjoy a peaceful sunset.

  • Hadimba Devi Temple: Entry is free, approx. 1-2 hours
  • Manu Market: Budget-friendly shopping, approx. 1-2 hours
  • Mall Road: Free to explore, approx. 2-3 hours
  • Van Vihar: Entry fee is minimal, approx. 1-2 hours
Sunday, December 3:

Embark on an adventure to Solang Valley. Start your day early with breathtaking views during the drive. In the morning, indulge in thrilling activities like paragliding, zorbing, or cable car rides. After an exciting morning, have a picnic lunch amidst the stunning scenery. Spend the afternoon trekking to Anjani Mahadev Temple, offering panoramic views of the valley. End the day by witnessing the glorious sunset over the snow-capped peaks.

  • Solang Valley: Estimated cost - activities vary, approx. 6-7 hours
  • Anjani Mahadev Temple: Free entry, approx. 3-4 hours
Monday, December 4:

Explore the picturesque village of Naggar. Begin your day with a visit to Naggar Castle, a historic castle turned heritage hotel. Enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains and visit the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery to admire the artist's works. Afterward, head to the charming Gauri Shankar Temple. In the afternoon, take a walk through the quaint village, interacting with locals and exploring the traditional wooden houses. End the day by sampling local cuisines at a dhaba (roadside eatery).

  • Naggar Castle: Entry fee is minimal, approx. 1-2 hours
  • Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery: Entry fee is nominal, approx. 1-2 hours
  • Gauri Shankar Temple: Free entry, approx. 1-2 hours
Tuesday, December 5:

On this day, venture to the enchanting village of Jana, known for its waterfalls. Start your morning with a scenic drive to Jana Waterfall and enjoy the mesmerizing natural beauty. Take a refreshing dip in the natural pool and have a picnic lunch by the falls. In the afternoon, go for a short hike to the nearby Shiva Temple, where you can admire panoramic views of the valley. Spend the evening mingling with locals at a traditional Himachali dance performance.

  • Jana Waterfall: Free entry, approx. 3-4 hours
  • Shiva Temple: Free entry, approx. 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 6:

Discover the serene beauty of the Great Himalayan National Park. Begin your day with an early morning drive to the park. Join a guided nature walk exploring the lush green forests and spotting wildlife. Learn about the diverse flora and fauna of the Himalayas from knowledgeable guides. Have a packed lunch amidst nature. In the afternoon, visit Tirthan Valley and enjoy the peaceful ambiance and crystal-clear river streams. Head back to Manali in the evening.

  • Great Himalayan National Park: Guided tour cost, approx. 6-7 hours
  • Tirthan Valley: Free to explore, approx. 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 7:

Experience spiritual tranquility at the Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa. Begin your day meditating and participating in morning prayers at the monastery. Interact with the resident monks to learn about Buddhist culture and beliefs. Afterward, hike your way up to Jogini Waterfall, a beautiful cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery. Have a packed lunch by the waterfall and enjoy the serene atmosphere. Explore the Old Manali area in the afternoon, known for its hippie culture, small cafes, and unique shops.

  • Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa: Donations accepted, approx. 2-3 hours
  • Jogini Waterfall: Free entry, approx. 3-4 hours
  • Old Manali: Free to explore, approx. 2-3 hours
Friday, December 8:

End your trip with a visit to the peaceful Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs. Start your day by visiting the temple and taking a dip in the hot springs for a rejuvenating experience. Explore the Vashisht village, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and ancient architecture. Indulge in some Ayurvedic massages or wellness treatments in the afternoon. As the evening approaches, head to Jogini Falls to witness a beautiful sunset and bid farewell to Manali.

  • Vashisht Temple: Free entry, approx. 1-2 hours
  • Vashisht Hot Springs: Minimal entry fee, approx. 1-2 hours
  • Jogini Falls: Free entry, approx. 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Manali on a shoestring budget, don't miss the offbeat destination of Malana. Situated in the Parvati Valley, Malana is known for its distinct culture and being home to the Malana Cream, a famous cannabis strain. Enjoy the scenic trek from Jari to Malana and immerse yourself in the local traditions and breathtaking landscapes. Take the time to interact with the locals, but respect their customs and privacy.

To check hotel and flight prices in Manali, you can visit this link.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version