6-Day Shimla and Manali Itinerary

1. Day 1: Explore Shimla
   0 minutes from Shimla Bus Stand
   Estimated time: Full Day
   Estimated distance: 0 miles

   Start your day with a visit to the famous Jakhu Temple, located on top of Jakhu Hill, which offers breathtaking views of the city. After visiting the temple, head to the Ridge, a popular open space in the heart of the city that offers stunning views of the mountains. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Mall Road for shopping and dining options. End your day with a visit to Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India, which looks beautiful when lit up at night.

2. Day 2: Kufri and Chail
   1 hour (16 miles) from Shimla
   Estimated time: Full Day
   Estimated distance: 32 miles

   Start your day with a visit to Kufri, a beautiful hill station known for its scenic beauty. Visit the Himalayan Nature Park, which houses a variety of animal species, including the elusive snow leopard. After lunch, head to Chail, a picturesque hill station known for its stunning views of the Himalayas. Visit the Chail Palace, which has now been converted into a hotel, and explore the nearby Kali Temple. End your day with a leisurely walk around the charming town of Chail.

3. Day 3: Manali
   7 hours (250 miles) from Chail
   Estimated time: Full Day
   Estimated distance: 250 miles

   Take a scenic drive to Manali, a popular hill station known for its adventure sports, scenic beauty, and vibrant culture. Visit Hadimba Temple, a beautiful temple situated amidst lush green forests, and the Manu Temple, which is dedicated to the sage Manu, who is believed to be the creator of the world. Spend the evening exploring the bustling Mall Road, which offers a variety of shopping and dining options.

4. Day 4: Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley
   2 hours (51 miles) from Manali
   Estimated time: Full Day
   Estimated distance: 102 miles

   Start your day early and head to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass that offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy adventure activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling at the nearby Solang Valley. After lunch, head back to Manali and spend the evening at leisure.

5. Day 5: Naggar Castle and Manikaran Sahib
   2 hours (50 miles) from Manali
   Estimated time: Full Day
   Estimated distance: 100 miles

   Visit the Naggar Castle, a beautiful medieval castle that has now been converted into a heritage hotel and art gallery. Explore the castle and its surroundings, which offer beautiful views of the Kullu Valley. After lunch, head to Manikaran Sahib, a town famous for its hot springs and the Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran, which is visited by Sikh pilgrims from all over the world. Spend the evening exploring the charming town of Manikaran Sahib.

6. Day 6: Return to Shimla
   8 hours (248 miles) from Manikaran Sahib
   Estimated time: Full Day
   Estimated distance: 248 miles

   Take a leisurely drive back to Shimla, stopping at scenic spots along the way. Spend the evening exploring the town and shopping for souvenirs.

Recommendations

Don't miss the opportunity to go on a trek in the beautiful Great Himalayan National Park, located about 50 miles from Kullu. You can also visit the famous Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan, about 100 miles from Shimla. For an offbeat experience, consider visiting Tirthan Valley, a beautiful destination located about 75 miles from Kullu, which is known for its trout fishing and trekking trails.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Jakhu Temple (2 hours, free)
• Ridge (1 hour, free)
• Christ Church (1 hour, free)
• Himalayan Nature Park (2 hours, INR 40)
• Chail Palace (2 hours, INR 100)
• Hadimba Temple (2 hours, INR 50)
• Manu Temple (1 hour, free)
• Rohtang Pass (4 hours, INR 550)
• Solang Valley (2 hours, INR 1000 for adventure activities)
• Naggar Castle (2 hours, INR 50)
• Gurudwara Sahib Manikaran (2 hours, free)
• Great Himalayan National Park (1 day trek, INR 1000)
• Bhimakali Temple (2 hours, INR 50)
• Tirthan Valley (1 day trek, INR 1500)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 3,540 / USD 47.28