Kolkata to Simla and Manali: 7-Day Adventure

Sunday, December 31: Arrival in Kolkata

Welcome to Kolkata! Start your adventure by exploring the bustling streets of the city. In the morning, visit the iconic Victoria Memorial and witness its stunning architecture. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at New Market, a historic shopping destination. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely boat ride along the Hooghly River and enjoy the beautiful views of the city.

• Victoria Memorial: Estimated cost - INR 30, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• New Market: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Hooghly River Boat Ride: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 1 hour

Monday, January 1: Kolkata to Simla

Embark on your journey from Kolkata to Simla, famous for its picturesque landscapes and colonial charm. Take a morning flight from Kolkata to Chandigarh and then a scenic drive to Simla. After arriving in Simla, check-in to your hotel and spend the evening exploring Mall Road, known for its shops, cafes, and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

• Flight from Kolkata to Chandigarh: Cost depends on availability, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Drive from Chandigarh to Simla: Estimated cost - INR 1500, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Tuesday, January 2: Simla

Wake up in Simla and get ready for a day of adventure. Start your morning with a visit to Jakhu Temple, located atop Jakhu Hill, offering panoramic views of the city. In the afternoon, head to Kufri, a nearby hill station, and indulge in activities like horse riding and skiing. End the day with a visit to the Shimla Ridge, a popular viewpoint offering breathtaking vistas.

• Jakhu Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2 hours
• Kufri: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Shimla Ridge: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, January 3: Simla to Manali

Leave Simla behind and embark on a scenic drive to Manali, known for its stunning landscapes and adventure activities. Spend the morning enjoying the picturesque views along the way. Upon reaching Manali, check-in to your hotel and spend the evening exploring the vibrant Mall Road, where you can shop for local handicrafts and delicious food.

• Drive from Simla to Manali: Estimated cost - INR 2500, Estimated time spent - 7-8 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Thursday, January 4: Manali

Get ready for an adventurous day in Manali. Start your morning with a visit to Solang Valley, where you can indulge in activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (subject to availability). In the afternoon, explore the Hadimba Devi Temple, known for its unique architecture and peaceful surroundings. Spend the evening relaxing by the Beas River and enjoying the scenic beauty.

• Solang Valley: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Hadimba Devi Temple: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Beas River: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Friday, January 5: Manali

Explore more of Manali's natural beauty on this day. Take a morning excursion to Rohtang Pass, situated at an altitude of 3,979 meters. Enjoy the snow-capped mountains, breathtaking landscapes, and engage in activities like snowboarding and snowball fights. In the afternoon, visit the Tibetan Monastery in Manali to experience the serene ambiance and learn about the local culture.

• Rohtang Pass: Estimated cost - INR 3000 (including permit), Estimated time spent - 6-7 hours
• Tibetan Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Saturday, January 6: Departure from Manali

On the last day of your adventure, bid farewell to Manali. Spend the morning exploring the local markets and picking up souvenirs to take back home. In the afternoon, catch your flight from Kullu-Manali Airport back to Kolkata, where you can reminisce about the amazing time you had in Simla and Manali.

• Shopping in Manali: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Flight from Kullu-Manali Airport to Kolkata: Cost depends on availability, Estimated time spent - 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Simla and Manali, don't miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful Tattapani Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in natural hot water. Additionally, immerse yourself in the local culture by trying traditional Himachali cuisine, such as Madra and Siddu, at local restaurants like Johnson's Cafe in Manali.

For hotel and flight bookings, you can check the prices on Kayak.