7-Day Shimla Kulu Manali Itinerary

Monday, December 25: Arrive in Shimla

Morning: Begin your adventure in Shimla by visiting the famous Jakhu Temple, located on the Jakhu Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and explore the temple's rich history. Afternoon: Head to Mall Road, the bustling heart of Shimla, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial-era buildings. Take a leisurely walk along the road, enjoy local delicacies, and shop for souvenirs. Evening: Visit the Christ Church, a stunning architectural gem, and attend the mesmerizing evening ceremony.

• Jakhu Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Christ Church: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Tuesday, December 26: Explore Shimla

Morning: Visit the Viceregal Lodge, an impressive colonial-era building that was once the summer residence of British viceroys. Explore the beautiful lawns and captivating architecture. Afternoon: Take a short journey to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla. Engage in exciting outdoor activities like horse riding and skiing. Evening: Enjoy a peaceful walk through the serene Himalayan Bird Park and get a chance to spot various species of birds.

• Viceregal Lodge: Estimated cost - INR 20, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kufri: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Himalayan Bird Park: Estimated cost - INR 10, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Wednesday, December 27: Journey to Kullu

Morning: Check out from your Shimla hotel and embark on a picturesque drive to Kullu. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the mountains along the way. Afternoon: Explore the famous Kullu Shawl Factories and witness the intricate process of shawl-making. Purchase beautiful handmade shawls and other traditional handicrafts. Evening: Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Beas River, enjoying the tranquility and breathtaking views.

• Kullu Shawl Factories: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Beas River Walk: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Thursday, December 28: Discover Manali

Morning: Head to Solang Valley, a picturesque valley known for its snow-capped mountains and adventure sports. Engage in activities like skiing, paragliding, and zorbing. Afternoon: Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, an ancient cave temple dedicated to Goddess Hadimba. Marvel at its unique architecture surrounded by tall deodar trees. Evening: Explore the local markets of Manali, offering a variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, and local delicacies.

• Solang Valley: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 4 hours
• Hadimba Devi Temple: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Manali Markets: Estimated cost - Varies, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Friday, December 29: Rohtang Pass Adventure

Morning: Embark on an exhilarating journey to Rohtang Pass, located at an altitude of 3,978 meters. Enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-covered peaks and indulge in fun activities like skiing and snowboarding. Afternoon: Visit the beautiful Rahala Falls, formed by the melting glaciers. Enjoy the tranquility and capture memorable photographs. Evening: Return to your hotel and relax after a thrilling day.

• Rohtang Pass: Estimated cost - INR 500 (permit fee), Estimated time spent - 6 hours
• Rahala Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Saturday, December 30: Explore Old Manali

Morning: Explore the charm of Old Manali by visiting the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu. Learn about the mythological significance and enjoy the serene ambiance. Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk through the enchanting cedar forests to the picturesque Jogini Falls. Enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility. Evening: Relax and rejuvenate at the famous Vashisht Hot Water Springs and experience the therapeutic properties of the natural hot springs.

• Manu Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour
• Jogini Falls: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Vashisht Hot Water Springs: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Sunday, December 31: Bid Farewell to Manali

Morning: Take a nature walk along the Manali Nature Park, enjoying the fresh mountain air and serene surroundings. Afternoon: Explore the Naggar Castle, a historic castle with breathtaking views of the Kullu Valley. Immerse yourself in the rich history and visit the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. Evening: End your trip by witnessing the spectacular sunset at the picturesque Solang Valley, bidding farewell to the mountains.

• Manali Nature Park: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Naggar Castle: Estimated cost - INR 30, Estimated time spent - 3 hours
• Solang Valley Sunset: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Shimla, don't miss the opportunity to visit the quaint town of Mashobra, located near Shimla. Experience tranquility and scenic beauty away from the crowded tourist spots. Another off the beaten path attraction is Naggar Village near Manali, known for its ancient heritage houses and stunning views of the Beas River. Explore the ancient temples, art galleries, and serene nature trails for a truly immersive local experience.