5-Day Adventure Itinerary: Banaras, Rishikesh, Kulu, and Manali

1. Day 1: Banaras
   20 minutes (5.6 miles) from Varanasi Airport

   In the morning, explore the ghats along the Ganges River, including the famous Manikarnika Ghat, where Hindu cremations take place. Afternoon, visit the ancient Kashi Vishwanath Temple and take a guided walk around the old city to see the markets, palaces, and mosques. In the evening, enjoy a boat ride along the Ganges River to witness the mesmerising Ganga Aarti ceremony.

2. Day 2: Rishikesh
   10 hours (264 miles) from Banaras

   Start the day with a sunrise yoga session on the banks of the Ganges River. After breakfast, take a thrilling white water rafting trip on the Ganges. In the afternoon, visit the Beatles Ashram and explore the stunning Neer Garh Waterfall. In the evening, attend the Ganga Aarti ceremony at Parmarth Niketan Ashram.

3. Day 3: Kulu
   9 hours (223 miles) from Rishikesh

   In the morning, take a scenic drive to Kulu. Afternoon, go paragliding over the beautiful Himalayan mountains. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Himachali dinner and cultural performance at a local restaurant.

4. Day 4: Manali
   1 hour (30 miles) from Kulu

   Start the day with a hike to the Jogini Waterfall. In the afternoon, go skiing or snowboarding at the Solang Valley Ski Resort. In the evening, soak in the hot springs at Vashisht Village and visit the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple.

5. Day 5: Manali
   No travel today

   In the morning, take a scenic drive to the Rohtang Pass and enjoy the winter wonderland scenery. In the afternoon, explore the local markets and cafes in Old Manali. In the evening, attend a traditional Kullu Natti dance performance.

Recommendations

Consider taking a day trip to the nearby Kheerganga Trek, known for its hot springs and scenic views. For an adrenaline rush, try bungee jumping or ziplining at Jumpin Heights in Rishikesh. To maximize your fun, pack warm clothing and gear, especially for winter sports in Kulu and Manali.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Banaras Ghats (2-3 hours, Free)
• Kashi Vishwanath Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
• Guided Walk in Banaras (2-3 hours, INR 500-1000)
• Boat Ride on the Ganges (1 hour, INR 300-500)
• White Water Rafting in Rishikesh (3-4 hours, INR 1200-2000)
• Beatles Ashram (1-2 hours, INR 600-1000)
• Neer Garh Waterfall (2-3 hours, Free)
• Paragliding in Kulu (1-2 hours, INR 3000-5000)
• Skiing/Snowboarding in Manali (3-4 hours, INR 2000-3000)
• Jogini Waterfall Hike (2-3 hours, Free)
• Solang Valley Ski Resort (2-3 hours, INR 1000-2000)
• Hot Springs in Vashisht Village (1-2 hours, INR 50-100)
• Hadimba Devi Temple (1-2 hours, Free)
• Rohtang Pass (4-5 hours, INR 2000-3000)
• Old Manali Markets and Cafes (2-3 hours, INR 500-1000)
• Kullu Natti Dance Performance (1-2 hours, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 13,950-25,100 (approx. £140-250)