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

7-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary: Manali and Shimla

Viewed by 76 travelers

Trip Date: January 17-23, 2024

Day 1: Wednesday, January 17 - Arrival in Manali

Start your trip by arriving in Manali, a popular hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. In the morning, explore the peaceful and serene Jogini Falls, located amidst lush greenery. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the famous Hadimba Temple, known for its unique architecture and serene surroundings. In the evening, take a leisurely walk along the Mall Road, lined with shops and restaurants offering local delicacies.

  • Jogini Falls: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Hadimba Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Mall Road: Estimated Cost - Variable (Shopping & Dining), Time Spent - 2 hours
Day 2: Thursday, January 18 - Snow Activities in Solang Valley

Embark on an exciting day trip to Solang Valley, known for its snow-capped peaks and adventure activities. In the morning, indulge in thrilling snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing. Afternoon is a great time for a scenic cable car ride offering panoramic views of the stunning landscape. As the evening approaches, make sure to try paragliding for an adrenaline rush.

  • Snow Activities in Solang Valley: Estimated Cost - ₹1000-₹3000, Time Spent - 6 hours
  • Cable Car Ride: Estimated Cost - ₹700, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Paragliding: Estimated Cost - ₹2500-₹4000, Time Spent - Variable
Day 3: Friday, January 19 - Explore Shimla

Today, embark on a scenic road journey from Manali to Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Upon arrival, in the morning, visit the Jakhu Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Take a short hike to the hilltop temple for breathtaking views. In the afternoon, explore The Ridge, a spacious open-air platform offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. As the evening sets in, visit the famous Mall Road and indulge in shopping and local cuisine.

  • Jakhu Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • The Ridge: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Mall Road: Estimated Cost - Variable (Shopping & Dining), Time Spent - 2 hours
Day 4: Saturday, January 20 - Kufri and Himalayan Nature Park

Embark on a day trip to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla. In the morning, visit the Himalayan Nature Park, home to various indigenous species including snow leopards and musk deer. Enjoy a guided tour and interact with the abundant wildlife. Afternoon is the perfect time for adventure enthusiasts to go horseback riding or indulge in yak rides. In the evening, explore the enchanting Green Valley, surrounded by beautiful hills.

  • Himalayan Nature Park: Estimated Cost - ₹20 (Entrance fee), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Kufri Adventure Activities: Estimated Cost - ₹600-₹1200, Time Spent - Variable
  • Green Valley: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Day 5: Sunday, January 21 - Narkanda and Hatu Peak

Take a day trip to Narkanda, located approximately 60 kilometers from Shimla. In the morning, visit the Hatu Peak, offering panoramic views of snow-covered mountains. Explore the ancient Hatu Mata Temple and take a peaceful stroll in the picturesque surroundings. Afternoon is a great time for snow activities like building snowmen or simply enjoying the pristine beauty of the place. In the evening, head back to Shimla and relax at your hotel.

  • Hatu Peak: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Hatu Mata Temple: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Snow Activities in Narkanda: Estimated Cost - Variable (Depending on activities chosen), Time Spent - Variable
Day 6: Monday, January 22 - Local Sightseeing in Shimla

Spend the day exploring the local attractions in Shimla. In the morning, visit the Viceregal Lodge, a heritage building showcasing British colonial architecture. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the history of the region. Afternoon is the perfect time to visit the Shimla State Museum, housing a vast collection of artifacts related to the art, culture, and history of Himachal Pradesh. As the evening sets in, enjoy a leisurely walk along the charming Annandale.

  • Viceregal Lodge: Estimated Cost - ₹20 (Entrance fee), Time Spent - 2 hours
  • Shimla State Museum: Estimated Cost - ₹20 (Entrance fee), Time Spent - 1 hour
  • Annandale: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1 hour
Day 7: Tuesday, January 23 - Departure from Shimla

On your last day, bid farewell to Shimla as you depart for your onward journey. Take some time in the morning to enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and soak in the final views of the majestic mountains. If time permits, explore the local markets for souvenirs before heading to the airport or railway station for your departure.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While enjoying your trip to Manali and Shimla, make sure to explore the hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the serene Solang Valley and indulge in snow activities like ice skating and sledging. Explore the lesser-known Tani-Jubber Lake in Shimla, surrounded by lush greenery and offering a peaceful atmosphere. And for a taste of authentic local cuisine, head to one of the small local eateries in Manali or Shimla, where you can savor lip-smacking Himachali dishes.

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

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