7-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Manali in March 2024

1. Day 1: Hadimba Devi Temple
   10 minutes (2.5 km) from Mall Road

   The temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba, wife of Bhima in Mahabharata, is surrounded by cedar forest and offers scenic views. In the afternoon, explore Mall Road for shopping and local cuisine. In the evening, relax at the Vashisht Hot Springs.

2. Day 2: Solang Valley
   30 minutes (12 km) from Hadimba Devi Temple

   Try adventure sports like zorbing, skiing, and paragliding in the morning. After an adrenaline rush, enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch overlooking the beautiful valley. In the evening, visit the scenic Jogini Falls.

3. Day 3: Manu Temple
   20 minutes (5 km) from Jogini Falls

   Visit the temple dedicated to Sage Manu, the creator of human race according to Hindu mythology. In the afternoon, explore the nearby Old Manali village for its cafes and handicrafts. In the evening, enjoy a river walk by Beas River.

4. Day 4: Naggar Castle
   1 hour (22 km) from Manu Temple

   Visit the former royal palace of Naggar, now converted into a heritage hotel. The castle offers a stunning view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the afternoon, visit the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery to see the Russian artist's works inspired by Himalayan landscapes. In the evening, relax at the Jana Waterfall.

5. Day 5: Rohtang Pass
   2.5 hours (51 km) from Naggar Castle

   Take a scenic drive to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass that connects Manali to Lahaul and Spiti district. Enjoy snow activities like skiing and snowboarding and breathtaking views of the Himalayan peaks. In the evening, rest at the hotel.

6. Day 6: Great Himalayan National Park
   3 hours (85 km) from Rohtang Pass

   Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Great Himalayan National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna including snow leopards, Himalayan brown bears, and more than 375 species of flora. In the afternoon, rest at the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a riverside bonfire.

7. Day 7: Gayatri Temple
   3 hours (64 km) from Great Himalayan National Park

   Visit the ancient Gayatri Temple dedicated to Goddess Gayatri, the mother of Vedas. Take a dip in the nearby Kullu hot springs and explore the nearby towns of Kullu and Naggar for their scenic beauty and local markets. In the evening, relax at the hotel.

Recommendations

Other activities to consider are visiting the Tibetan Monastery, attending the Manali Winter Carnival, and taking a day trip to Kasol for its serene landscape and Kasol Music Festival. You can also maximize your fun by trying local cuisine like Dham, trout fish, and siddu.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Hadimba Devi Temple (1 hour, free)
• Solang Valley (4 hours, Rs. 500 per person for adventure sports)
• Manu Temple (1 hour, free)
• Naggar Castle (2 hours, Rs. 200 per person)
• Rohtang Pass (8 hours, Rs. 600 per person for entry fee and taxi fare)
• Great Himalayan National Park (6 hours, Rs. 1000 per person for entry fee and guide)
• Gayatri Temple (3 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: Rs. 2300 per person