Welcome to Manali! Begin your adventure by exploring the charming town. In the morning, visit the Hadimba Temple, a peaceful sanctuary dedicated to the goddess Hadimba. Afterward, head to the Manali Nature Park for a leisurely walk amidst beautiful landscapes. In the evening, take a stroll along the Mall Road, lined with shops and eateries, and enjoy a scrumptious dinner at a local restaurant.
Hadimba Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Manali Nature Park: Free, 1-2 hours
Mall Road: Varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Johnson's Cafe where you can enjoy a variety of freshly baked pastries and a cup of strong coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, visit Cafe 1947 which offers a range of mouthwatering sandwiches and burgers. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at The Corner House, known for its delectable Indian cuisine. Don't miss the aromatic biryanis and flavorful curries. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Tuesday, January 2, 2024: Exploring Old Manali
Discover the cultural heritage of Old Manali on this day. Start your morning with a visit to the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu. Next, explore the Manali Gompa, a serene Buddhist monastery nestled amidst stunning surroundings. In the afternoon, take a guided walk through the charming streets of Old Manali, soaking in the local ambiance. End the day with a relaxing evening at the Vashisht Hot Water Springs.
Manu Temple: Free, 1-2 hours
Manali Gompa: Free, 1-2 hours
Guided Walk in Old Manali: Varies, 2-3 hours
Vashisht Hot Water Springs: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Johnson's Cafe: A cozy cafe offering a delicious breakfast menu with options like pancakes, omelettes, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
Il Forno: A popular Italian restaurant known for its wood-fired pizzas and pasta dishes. Enjoy a hearty lunch with an average cost of about $12 per person.
Chopsticks Restaurant: Indulge in a flavorsome dinner at this Chinese restaurant known for its authentic dishes and warm ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Wednesday, January 3, 2024: Solang Valley Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating day trip to Solang Valley, known for its breathtaking views and thrilling activities. Spend the morning enjoying panoramic vistas and participate in adventure sports like paragliding or zorbing. In the afternoon, take a cable car ride to Mount Phatru for stunning views of the snow-covered peaks. On your way back to Manali, visit the picturesque Rahala Falls.
Solang Valley: Varies (depending on activities), 4-6 hours
Mount Phatru Cable Car Ride: INR 500, 1-2 hours
Rahala Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe 1947, located in Manali. This cozy cafe offers a range of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to authentic Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 300 per person.
For lunch, head to Johnson's Cafe and enjoy their delicious international cuisine. With a cozy ambiance and a variety of options, including burgers, pizzas, and pasta, this restaurant is a popular choice for travelers. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at La Plage, a French bistro in Manali. Known for its serene atmosphere and delectable seafood options, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Thursday, January 4, 2024: Naggar Castle and Art Gallery
Explore the historical and artistic side of Manali on this day. Begin by visiting the Naggar Castle, an ancient royal residence offering stunning views of the surrounding valleys. Afterward, delve into the local art scene at the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, housing a collection of artworks by renowned Russian painter Nicholas Roerich. Spend the evening exploring the quaint village of Naggar and sampling local delicacies.
Naggar Castle: INR 30, 1-2 hours
Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery: INR 50, 1-2 hours
Exploring Naggar Village: Varies, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Johnson's Cafe and enjoy their delicious omelettes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about ₹300 per person.
For lunch, try out the Lazy Dog Lounge, a cozy cafe known for its mouthwatering sandwiches and refreshing smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about ₹500 per person.
For dinner, dine at Casa Bella Vista, a charming restaurant offering a wide range of Italian and Indian dishes. Don't miss their wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. Average cost for a meal is about ₹800 per person.
Friday, January 5, 2024: Rohtang Pass Excursion
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Himalayas with a day trip to Rohtang Pass. Depart early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy the scenic drive to this high mountain pass. Spend the day amidst snow-capped peaks, picturesque landscapes, and thrilling snow activities. Remember to dress warmly and carry necessary permits for entry. Return to Manali in the evening and unwind.
Road Trip to Rohtang Pass: INR 2,500 (taxi hire), Full day
Rohtang Pass Entry Permit: INR 500 per vehicle (additional charges may apply), Full day
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe 1947, known for its fresh and delicious continental fare. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Savor a delicious lunch at Johnson's Cafe, offering a variety of cuisines including Indian, Italian, and Chinese. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
For dinner, head to La Plage Restaurant and indulge in their delectable French and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 1,200 INR per person.
Saturday, January 6, 2024: Beas Kund Trek
Embark on a memorable trek to the scenic Beas Kund. Start early in the morning and begin the moderate-level trek from Solang Valley. Explore the beautiful landscape, witness the glacial lake, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Spend the day in the lap of nature and return to Manali in the evening, feeling accomplished and rejuvenated.
Beas Kund Trek: Varies (depending on trekking speed), Full day
Restaurants
Cafe 1947: Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Cafe 1947, located in the heart of Manali. Indulge in their delicious pancakes and omelettes while sipping on a hot cup of coffee. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
Moon Dance Cafe: For a leisurely lunch, head to Moon Dance Cafe, known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable Mediterranean cuisine. Try their falafel wrap or chicken shawarma, and don't forget to sample their refreshing freshly squeezed juices. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
Johnson's Cafe: Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner at Johnson's Cafe, a popular eatery known for its authentic Tibetan cuisine. Treat yourself to their momos and thukpa, and be sure to try their signature yak meat dishes. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 500 per person.
Sunday, January 7, 2024: Day of Leisure and Departure
On your last day in Manali, indulge in some well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and spend the morning exploring the local markets for souvenirs and handicrafts. In the afternoon, take a stroll by the beautiful Beas River or visit the Van Vihar National Park for a peaceful nature retreat. Bid farewell to Manali and depart for your onward journey.
Exploring Local Markets: Varies (depending on shopping), 2-3 hours
Beas River Walk: Free, 1-2 hours
Van Vihar National Park: INR 20, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to Cafe 1947 which offers a variety of options from pancakes to omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For a satisfying lunch, try Johnson's Cafe which serves tasty pizzas and burgers. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a delightful dinner, visit La Plage which specializes in French cuisine and seafood. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Manali, don't miss out on some off the beaten path attractions and local favorites. Visit the picturesque village of Malana to experience its unique culture and architecture. Take a day trip to the peaceful village of Kasol, known for its scenic beauty and hippie culture. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and encounter diverse flora and fauna. For adventure lovers, indulge in thrilling river rafting in the Beas River. These hidden gems will add a touch of exclusivity to your Manali trip.