Exploring Himachal Pradesh: A 7-Day Itinerary

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Day 1: Shimla Exploration

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

9:00AM

Visit The Ridge

Start your day by visiting The Ridge, a large open space in the heart of Shimla offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Enjoy the colonial architecture and bustling atmosphere.
The Ridge is located in the centre of Shimla and can be easily reached by walking or taking a short taxi ride from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Himachali Rasoi

Head to Himachali Rasoi for an authentic Himachali meal. Try local delicacies like Sidu, Dham, and Chha Gosht.
Himachali Rasoi is a popular restaurant in Shimla and can be reached by a short walk or taxi ride from The Ridge.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Jakhu Temple

Visit Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman and located atop Jakhu Hill. Enjoy the scenic views and don't miss the giant statue of Lord Hanuman.
Jakhu Temple is a short drive or walk from the city centre.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Baljees

End your day with dinner at Baljees, a popular restaurant known for its great food and cosy ambiance.
Baljees is centrally located in Shimla and can be reached easily from Jakhu Temple.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Manali Adventure

Manali, Himachal Pradesh

9:00AM

Solang Valley

Start your day with a visit to Solang Valley, known for its picturesque views and adventure activities like paragliding and zorbing.
Solang Valley is located about 14 km from Manali and can be reached by a taxi or local bus.
INR 500 (for activities), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Johnson's Cafe

Head to Johnson's Cafe for a delicious meal with stunning views of the valley. Try their wood-fired pizzas and pastas.
Johnson's Cafe is a popular spot in Solang Valley and can be reached by a short walk.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Old Manali Exploration

Explore the charming streets of Old Manali, lined with cafes, shops, and guesthouses. Don't miss the Manu Temple and the Manali Club House.
Old Manali is a short drive or walk from Solang Valley.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Cafe 1947

Enjoy dinner at Cafe 1947, a popular hangout spot in Old Manali known for its great music, food, and ambience.
Cafe 1947 is centrally located in Old Manali and can be reached easily from the Manu Temple.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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Day 3: Dharamshala Serenity

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh

9:00AM

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Start your day by visiting the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which houses the residence of the Dalai Lama, the Namgyal Monastery, and the Tibet Museum.
The Tsuglagkhang Complex is located in McLeod Ganj and can be reached by a taxi or local bus from Manali.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lhamo's Kitchen

Head to Lhamo's Kitchen for a Tibetan meal with a view. Try their momos, thukpa, and butter tea.
Lhamo's Kitchen is a popular restaurant overlooking the mountains and can be reached by a short walk from the Tsuglagkhang Complex.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Bhagsu Waterfall Trek

Embark on a trek to Bhagsu Waterfall, a peaceful spot surrounded by lush greenery. Enjoy the sound of cascading water and the serene atmosphere.
The trek to Bhagsu Waterfall starts from the Bhagsu Nag Temple and is a moderate hike suitable for beginners.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Illiterati Books & Coffee

End your day with dinner at Illiterati Books & Coffee, a cosy cafe with a great collection of books and delicious food.
Illiterati is located in McLeod Ganj and can be reached by a short walk from Bhagsu Waterfall.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Dalhousie Tranquility

Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh

9:00AM

Khajjiar Lake

Visit Khajjiar Lake, often referred to as 'Mini Switzerland of India', for its picturesque beauty and serene surroundings. Enjoy a boat ride or horseback riding.
Khajjiar Lake is located about 22 km from Dalhousie and can be reached by a taxi or local bus.
INR 300 (for activities), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Kwality Restaurant

Head to Kwality Restaurant for a hearty meal with a view of the mountains. Try their Indian and Chinese dishes.
Kwality Restaurant is a popular dining spot near Khajjiar Lake and can be reached by a short walk.
INR 700, 1 hour

3:00PM

Panchpula Waterfalls

Explore the Panchpula Waterfalls, a scenic spot known for its natural beauty and refreshing ambiance. Take a leisurely walk around the falls.
Panchpula Waterfalls are located about 3 km from Dalhousie and can be reached by a short drive or hike.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Moti Mahal

End your day with dinner at Moti Mahal, a restaurant known for its delicious North Indian cuisine and warm hospitality.
Moti Mahal is centrally located in Dalhousie and can be reached easily from Panchpula Waterfalls.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Chamba Heritage

Chamba, Himachal Pradesh

9:00AM

Chamba Palace

Begin your day with a visit to Chamba Palace, a historical monument showcasing the rich heritage and architecture of the region.
Chamba Palace is located in the heart of Chamba town and can be reached by a short walk from your accommodation.
INR 100, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Iravati Rooftop Restaurant

Head to Iravati Rooftop Restaurant for a meal with a view of the Chamba Valley. Try their traditional Himachali thali.
Iravati Rooftop Restaurant is a popular dining spot near Chamba Palace.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Rang Mahal

Visit Rang Mahal, a historical building with beautifully painted walls depicting the stories of Hindu mythology. Admire the intricate craftsmanship.
Rang Mahal is a short walk from Chamba Palace and offers insights into the artistic heritage of the region.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Mehak Restaurant

End your day with dinner at Mehak Restaurant, known for its delicious Indian and Mughlai dishes.
Mehak Restaurant is centrally located in Chamba and offers a range of culinary delights.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Spiti Valley Expedition

Spiti Valley, Himachal Pradesh

9:00AM

Key Monastery

Start your day with a visit to Key Monastery, a Tibetan Buddhist monastery located atop a hill with stunning views of the Spiti Valley.
Key Monastery is located near Kaza in the Spiti Valley and can be reached by a hired taxi or local transport.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Himalayan Kitchen

Head to Himalayan Kitchen for a traditional Tibetan meal. Try their thukpa, momos, and butter tea.
Himalayan Kitchen is a popular eatery near Key Monastery and offers authentic Tibetan cuisine.
INR 500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Chandratal Lake

Visit Chandratal Lake, a high-altitude lake known for its pristine beauty and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Chandratal Lake is located about 6 hours drive from Key Monastery and offers a serene environment for relaxation.
INR 200 (entry fee), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner under the Stars

End your day with a hearty dinner under the stars, enjoying the tranquillity of Spiti Valley and the clear night sky.
Choose a camping site near Chandratal Lake for a unique dining experience in the lap of nature.
INR 1000, 2 hours
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Day 7: Back to Shimla

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh

9:00AM

Mall Road Shopping

Spend your morning exploring Mall Road, Shimla's famous shopping street lined with shops selling local handicrafts, souvenirs, and woolens.
Mall Road is centrally located in Shimla and can be reached by walking or taking a short taxi ride from your accommodation.
Variable, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hide Out Cafe

Enjoy lunch at Hide Out Cafe, a cosy eatery known for its delicious sandwiches, pancakes, and coffee.
Hide Out Cafe is a popular spot on Mall Road and offers a relaxing ambiance for a mid-day meal.
INR 600, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Kufri

Take a short trip to Kufri, a small hill station near Shimla known for its scenic beauty and adventure activities like horse riding and hiking.
Kufri is located about 13 km from Shimla and can be reached by a short drive or local bus.
INR 300 (for activities), 3 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Cecil Restaurant

End your Himachal Pradesh adventure with a farewell dinner at Cecil Restaurant, known for its fine dining experience and colonial charm.
Cecil Restaurant is located in the historic Oberoi Cecil Hotel in Shimla and offers a luxurious setting for your last meal in the region.
INR 1500, 2 hours
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Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed