Exploring Himachal Pradesh in 5 Days

Day 1: Shimla Delights

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Visit The Ridge

Start your day with a visit to The Ridge, a large open space in the heart of Shimla offering panoramic views of the mountains.
The Ridge is centrally located in Shimla and can be reached by walking from most hotels in the city.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Mall Road

Take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial architecture, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Mall Road is adjacent to The Ridge and easily accessible on foot.
Variable, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Baljees Restaurant

Indulge in local Himachali cuisine at Baljees Restaurant known for its delicious food and great ambiance.
Located on Mall Road, a short walk from The Ridge.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Jakhu Temple

Head to Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and enjoy the scenic views of Shimla from the hilltop.
A short drive or hike from Mall Road, with signboards guiding the way.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at The Glen

Unwind amidst nature at The Glen, a peaceful spot with lush greenery and serene surroundings.
Accessible by a short taxi ride from Jakhu Temple.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Himachali Rasoi

End your day with a hearty dinner at Himachali Rasoi, savouring authentic Himachali flavours.
Located near Mall Road, offering a variety of traditional dishes.
£15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Sightseeing in Shimla

Shimla, India

9:00AM

Visit Viceregal Lodge

Explore the Viceregal Lodge, a historic building with beautiful architecture and gardens, showcasing the colonial past of Shimla.
Located a short distance from the city centre, accessible by taxi or local bus.
£5, 2 hours

11:30AM

Experience Himachali Culture at Himachal State Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Himachal Pradesh at the State Museum, housing artefacts and exhibits.
Located near Mall Road, a quick walk from the city centre.
£3, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Devicos Restaurant

Enjoy a sumptuous meal at Devicos Restaurant known for its blend of Indian and international cuisines.
Situated in the city centre, a convenient spot for lunch.
£12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Annandale

Visit Annandale, a picturesque meadow offering breathtaking views and opportunities for outdoor activities like golf and picnics.
Accessible by a short drive from the city centre or local transport.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Lakkar Bazaar

Browse through the vibrant stalls of Lakkar Bazaar, known for wooden handicrafts and souvenirs.
Located near Mall Road, a short walk from the city centre.
Variable, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Cafe Sol

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Cafe Sol, offering a fusion of global cuisines in a cosy setting.
Situated in the city centre, perfect for a relaxing evening meal.
£20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Manali Exploration

Manali, India

9:00AM

Visit Hadimba Devi Temple

Begin your day with a visit to the Hadimba Devi Temple, an ancient cave temple surrounded by cedar forests.
Located in Old Manali, accessible by taxi or local transport.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Manu Temple

Discover the Manu Temple dedicated to Sage Manu, offering tranquillity and spiritual vibes amidst the mountains.
A short distance from Hadimba Devi Temple, can be reached by walking.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Johnson's Cafe

Savour delicious food at Johnson's Cafe, known for its serene ambiance and scenic views of the valley.
Located in Old Manali, a popular spot for tourists.
£15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Vashisht Hot Water Springs

Relax and rejuvenate at Vashisht Hot Water Springs, known for their therapeutic properties and stunning surroundings.
A short drive or hike from Manali town with signboards guiding the way.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Stroll in Old Manali

Explore the charming lanes and cafes of Old Manali, perfect for a leisurely evening walk and shopping.
Located near Johnson's Cafe, ideal for a post-springs stroll.
Variable, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Casa Bella Vista

Indulge in Italian cuisine at Casa Bella Vista, offering a mix of authentic and fusion dishes in a cosy setting.
Situated in Old Manali, great for a relaxing dinner experience.
£25, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature's Bliss in Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Solang Valley Adventure

Embark on an adventure at Solang Valley, known for its thrilling activities like paragliding and zorbing amidst stunning landscapes.
A short drive from Manali town, easily accessible by taxi or local transport.
£30, 4 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe 1947

Enjoy a meal at Cafe 1947, a popular spot offering a variety of cuisines and a laid-back atmosphere.
Located near Solang Valley, ideal for a post-adventure lunch.
£20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Rohtang Pass Excursion

Take a scenic drive to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass offering panoramic views and a chance to play in the snow.
A few hours drive from Solang Valley, best to hire a private car for the journey.
£40, 6 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Chopsticks Restaurant

End your day with a delicious dinner at Chopsticks Restaurant, known for its delectable Chinese and Tibetan dishes.
Located in Manali town, perfect for a relaxing meal after a day of exploration.
£18, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Tranquility in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

9:00AM

Visit Namgyal Monastery

Start your day with a visit to Namgyal Monastery, offering a peaceful atmosphere and insights into Tibetan Buddhism.
Located in McLeod Ganj, a short drive or walk from Dharamshala city centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Bhagsu Waterfall

Hike to Bhagsu Waterfall, a stunning natural wonder surrounded by lush greenery, ideal for photography and relaxation.
Accessible by a short drive or hike from McLeod Ganj, with signboards guiding the way.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Tibet Kitchen

Enjoy a traditional Tibetan meal at Tibet Kitchen, known for its authentic flavours and warm hospitality.
Situated in McLeod Ganj, a popular spot for Tibetan cuisine.
£10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Meditation at Tushita Meditation Centre

Experience tranquillity and inner peace through meditation sessions at Tushita Meditation Centre amidst serene surroundings.
A short drive from McLeod Ganj, offering various meditation courses and retreats.
£5, 2 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Kotwali Bazaar

Explore the vibrant market of Kotwali Bazaar, known for Tibetan handicrafts, souvenirs, and local goods.
Located near McLeod Ganj, a great place for shopping and exploring local culture.
Variable, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Illiterati Books & Coffee

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Illiterati Books & Coffee, a unique cafe offering a blend of literature, art, and delicious food.
Situated in McLeod Ganj, perfect for a cosy evening meal.
£15, 1.5 hours
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