Ultimate 10-Day Road Trip Itinerary to Manali, India

Day 1: Charming Chandigarh

Chandigarh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café JC's

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at Café JC's featuring local delicacies and fresh juices to fuel your journey ahead.
Located in Sector 32, easy to reach from hotels in Chandigarh.
INR500, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Rock Garden

Explore the famed Rock Garden, a masterpiece created from industrial waste, symbolizing creativity and resourcefulness in art.
Short 15-minute drive from the café.
INR50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Indian Coffee House

Relish a classic North Indian meal with charming retro decor vibe at this iconic coffee house.
15-minute drive from the Rock Garden.
INR600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Drive to Manali

Embark on a scenic 7-hour drive to Manali with stunning views of the hills while you navigate the NH3.
Follow NH3 directly to Manali.
INR2000 (fuel and tolls), 7 hours

9:00PM

Dinner at The Johnson Lodge & Spa

Unwind with dinner at The Johnson Lodge overlooking beautiful landscapes with delicious multi-cuisine options.
Located in the center of Manali.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Thriving in Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Casa Bella Vista

Start your day off right with a sumptuous breakfast at this Italian-themed café offering breathtaking mountain views.
Centrally located in Manali, just 10 minutes from hotels.
INR700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hadimba Temple

Explore the serene Hadimba Temple surrounded by cedar trees, rich in local mythology and craftsmanship.
About 15 minutes drive from the café.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Solang Valley Adventure

Head to Solang Valley for a thrilling day filled with paragliding, zorbing, and other adventure sports.
45-minute drive from Hadimba Temple.
INR3500 (varies by activity), Half-day

4:00PM

Return to Manali

After an adventurous day, drive back to Manali to relax.
Drive back the same route.
Free, 45 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Trippy Trippy

Enjoy local Himachali dishes for dinner in a cozy and vibrant atmosphere.
A short walk from central hotels.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Rohtang Pass Excursion

Manali, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Lazy Dog

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast featuring various international cuisines before the day's adventure.
Nearby your accommodation.
INR600, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Rohtang Pass

Leave for the stunning Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass offering breathtaking views and snow activities.
A 1.5-hour drive from Manali.
Free (excluding travel fees), 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Enjoy a traditional Punjabi meal at a local dhaba, savoring the flavors of North India in the high mountains.
Choose any local spot at Rohtang Pass.
INR400, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Rohtang Pass

Spend time at Rohtang Pass engaging in snow activities like sledding or just enjoying the majestic surroundings.
Free movement throughout the area.
INR1000 (for activities), 4 hours

5:00PM

Return to Manali

Drive back to Manali for a relaxing evening post-adventure.
The return journey takes about 1.5 hours.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Dham Dham

Savor authentic Himachali cuisine for dinner in a rustic setting that's perfect for relaxation.
Central Manali location.
INR700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Kullu Valley Wonders

Kullu, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Manali Inn

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at Manali Inn, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients and great coffee.
5 minutes from your hotel.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kullu

Make your way to the enchanting Kullu Valley, famous for its greenery and rivers.
30-minute drive via NH3.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Visit Kullu Shawl Factory

Discover the art of shawl weaving and shop for beautifully crafted authentic shawls directly from the source.
Located a few minutes from Kullu town.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Himalayan Grill

Enjoy a meal with a view at this restaurant, serving fresh and delicious foods with local flavors.
A short drive from the factory.
INR800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Kullu Valley

Take time for a leisurely walk along the Beas River and enjoy the picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.
Free walking exploration.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Drive back to Manali

Return to Manali to unwind after a day of exploration.
30-minute drive back.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Evening Tea at Café 1947

Relax and enjoy some evening tea at a quaint riverside café with a warm atmosphere.
In central Manali.
INR400, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Café

Delight in delicious Italian and continental food in a lively ambiance to end your day.
Central location in Manali.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Manikaran Journey

Manikaran, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Valley View

Indulge in a hearty breakfast buffet featuring local and continental dishes before heading to Manikaran.
Located nearby in Manali.
INR700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Manikaran

Travel to the holy town of Manikaran known for its hot springs and religious significance.
A scenic 2-hour drive via NH3 and Kullu.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara

Experience the peacefulness of this sacred Gurudwara and partake in Langar (community meal).
Located within Manikaran.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhabas

Enjoy traditional Punjabi food in local eateries serving warm and freshly cooked meals.
Various local options in Manikaran.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Hot Springs

Soak in the healing hot springs, known for their temperature and medicinal properties.
Short walk from Gurudwara.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Return to Manali

Enjoy a nice drive back to Manali after a day of spiritual experiences.
2-hour return drive.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Evergreen

Savor an exquisite meal featuring Indo-Chinese dishes in the heart of Manali.
Located centrally in Manali.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Kasol Delight

Kasol, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Manali

Kickstart your day with a scrumptious breakfast at Café Manali with organic ingredients and serene views.
In Manali, just a short walk away.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kasol

Travel to the enchanting village of Kasol, known for its stunning landscapes.
A 1-hour drive via Kullu.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Parvati River

Stroll along the banks of the Parvati River, enjoying the breathtaking natural surroundings.
Explore on foot along the riverbank.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Jim Morrison Café

Indulge in delicious food inspired by the legendary rock musician at this quirky café.
A few minutes' walk from the river.
INR600, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Tosh Village

Take a short trek to Tosh village, where you can soak in traditional Himachali culture amidst stunning mountain views.
A 30-minute drive followed by a 1-hour trek.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Kasol

Drive back to Kasol and enjoy the evening exploring local shops.
Drive back the same route.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Village Rooftop

Conclude your day with dinner at a rooftop restaurant featuring local delicacies and a cozy atmosphere.
Located in Kasol.
INR700, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Adventurous Dharmshala

Dharmshala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Morgan's Place

Fuel up with an energizing breakfast at Morgan's Place, known for its scrumptious breakfast bowls and smoothies.
Located in Kasol.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Dharmshala

Head to Dharmshala, famous for its Tibetan culture and breathtaking scenery.
A scenic 2-hour drive through beautiful landscapes.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Dalai Lama Temple

Discover the serene environment of the Dalai Lama Temple and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Located in McLeod Ganj, a suburb of Dharmshala.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Tibetan Kitchen

Relish delicious Tibetan cuisine, including momos and Thukpa, in a tranquil setting.
Short drive from the temple.
INR700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Bhagsu Waterfall

Enjoy the scenic hike to Bhagsu waterfall, a natural wonder that's perfect for relaxation and photography.
Short trek from the café.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to McLeod Ganj

Head back to McLeod Ganj to explore local shops and art galleries.
Return by the same route.
Free, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at Nick's Italian Kitchen

Indulge in a delightful dinner with Italian dishes in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Located in McLeod Ganj.
INR800, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Cultural Insights

Mcleod Ganj, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cliff

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at The Cliff, featuring local and continental options.
Located in McLeod Ganj.
INR600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tibetan Museum

Explore the Tibetan Museum to understand more about Tibetan culture and history.
Short walk from the café.
INR100, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit St. John in the Wilderness

Visit this charming church, known for its Gothic architecture and tranquil surroundings.
A 10-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Lung Ta

Savor delicious Tibetan food at Lung Ta, renowned for its ambiance and flavorful dishes.
Only a few minutes from the church.
INR700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Norbulingka Institute

Explore the Norbulingka Institute dedicated to preserving Tibetan culture through arts and crafts.
A short 20-minute drive from McLeod Ganj.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to McLeod Ganj

Return to McLeod Ganj for a leisurely evening stroll.
Drive back via the same route.
Free, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Evening Snack at Café Tashi

Treat yourself to vegetarian snacks and teas in a beautiful garden setting.
In McLeod Ganj.
INR500, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Dharamshala Café

Enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local Himachali cuisine with an ending view of the sunset.
Located centrally in McLeod Ganj.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Relaxation Day

Dharamshala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Green Restaurant

Start your day with a healthy breakfast consisting of organic ingredients and fresh juices.
A short walk in Dharamshala.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Yoga Session

Join a morning yoga session in the serene hills, achieving peace and tranquility amid nature.
Nearby yoga center.
INR800, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Spa Treatment

Pamper yourself with a relaxing spa treatment at a wellness center in Dharamshala.
Locate a nearby spa for a rejuvenating experience.
INR1500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Roadhouse

Indulge in a wholesome lunch featuring a range of vegetarian dishes in a laid-back atmosphere.
Different locations in Dharamshala.
INR700, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tea Gardens

Explore the beautiful tea gardens around Dharamshala, learning about tea planting and harvesting.
Short trip to the outskirts.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel for a peaceful evening.
A 15-minute drive back.
Free, 15 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Chickpea

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner featuring international cuisines and locally sourced ingredients.
Centrally located in Dharamshala.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Return to Chandigarh

Chandigarh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a traditional breakfast at your hotel before starting your journey back.
Choose your hotel’s dining option.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Chandigarh

Commence the scenic drive back to Chandigarh, reflecting on a mesmerizing trip through the mountains.
Head back via NH3.
Free, 7 hours

4:30PM

Lunch at Barbeque Nation

Dine at Barbeque Nation for an incredible all-you-can-eat buffet with tasty grilled dishes.
Located in Chandigarh.
INR1800, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Visit Sukhna Lake

Wrap up your trip with a peaceful evening at Sukhna Lake, enjoying the sunset view.
A short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Pasta Bowl Company

Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Italian cuisine at this popular local spot.
Located in Chandigarh.
INR900, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability