5-Day Adventure Itinerary in Shimla & Manali in July 2023

1. Day 1: Shimla
   Shimla Railway Station to The Ridge: 5 minutes (1.1 km)

   In the morning, explore the vibrant culture of Shimla by visiting The Ridge, a famous open-air plaza, and take a stroll around the nearby Mall Road for some souvenir shopping. In the afternoon, take a 30-minute scenic drive to Kufri for some adventure activities like trekking, horse riding, and skiing. End your day with a visit to the Jakhu Temple, located on the Jakhu Hill overlooking the city.

2. Day 2: Manali
   Shimla to Manali: 7 hours (250 km)

   Start your day early and take a scenic drive from Shimla to Manali. After arrival, head to the Solang Valley, 14 km from Manali, and indulge in adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing. In the evening, take a relaxing stroll around the Manali Bazaar and visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, located amidst a serene cedar forest.

3. Day 3: Manali
   Manali to Rafting Point: 30 minutes (12 km)

   Start your day with an early morning trek to the Jogini Waterfall, a picturesque waterfall located amidst thick deodar forests. Afternoon is the perfect time to indulge in some adrenaline-pumping river rafting in the Beas River. End your day with a visit to the Vashisht Temple and take a relaxing dip in the nearby hot springs.

4. Day 4: Manali
   Manali to Rohtang Pass: 2 hours (51 km)

   Embark on a scenic drive to Rohtang Pass, located at an elevation of 3978 meters above sea level. Spend your day exploring the various adventure activities like skiing and snowboarding. On the way back, visit the Naggar Castle, a medieval castle that showcases traditional Himachali architecture. End your day with a visit to the Manu Temple, a famous temple dedicated to the sage Manu.

5. Day 5: Manali
   Manali to Old Manali: 15 minutes (2.2 km)

   Start your day by taking a relaxing stroll around the picturesque Old Manali, known for its scenic apple orchards and peaceful atmosphere. You can also visit the Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, located nearby, and explore the rich flora and fauna of the region. End your trip with a visit to the Van Vihar National Park, situated on the banks of the Beas River, and take a boat ride in the serene waters.

Recommendations

If you have more time, you can visit the Pin Valley National Park, a scenic wildlife reserve known for its snow leopards and Himalayan ibex. You can also take a day trip to the nearby town of Kasol, known for its scenic trekking routes and vibrant cafes.

Time and Costs Estimates

• The Ridge (1 hour, free)
• Kufri Adventure Activities (4 hours, INR 1500 per person)
• Jakhu Temple (1 hour, free)
• Solang Valley Adventure Activities (4 hours, INR 2000 per person)
• Hadimba Devi Temple (1 hour, free)
• Jogini Waterfall Trek (2 hours, INR 500 per person)
• River Rafting (3 hours, INR 1500 per person)
• Rohtang Pass (8 hours, INR 2500 per person)
• Naggar Castle (1 hour, INR 50 per person)
• Manu Temple (1 hour, free)
• Old Manali (2 hours, free)
• Manali Wildlife Sanctuary (2 hours, free)
• Van Vihar National Park (1 hour, INR 20 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 8000 per person