Ultimate 5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Himachal Pradesh

Day 1: Explore Shimla

Shimla, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of upma and filter coffee at this iconic spot.
Located at the Ridge, you can walk or take a short auto ride to various attractions afterwards.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Mall Road

Stroll along the Mall Road, soaking in the colonial architecture and local crafts.
Walk along Mall Road which is pedestrian-friendly and connects to many attractions.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Hash House

Enjoy a budget lunch option of chapati and seasonal vegetables at this cozy eatery.
Just a 5-minute walk from Mall Road.
INR 250, 1 hour

1:00PM

Jakhoo Temple

Climb or take a shared taxi to visit Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic views.
It's about 2.5 km from Mall Road, accessible by local bus or taxi.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Shimla Ridge

Relax at the Shimla Ridge, the perfect spot to enjoy sunset views and people-watch.
Walk back to the Ridge from Jakhoo, it's around 1 km.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at the Himachali Rasoi

Savor traditional Himachali cuisine such as chana madra and siddu.
A short walk from the Ridge back to town.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 2: Day Trip to Kufri

Kufri, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Place

Fuel up with pancakes and fresh juice to start your adventure.
This eatery is located just off Mall Road.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Kufri

Take a local bus from Shimla to Kufri for beautiful views along the way.
Buses depart regularly from the Shimla Bus Stand.
INR 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Mahasu Peak

Hike up to Mahasu Peak for stunning panoramic views of the Himalayas.
It's a 2 km hike from Kufri, easy to navigate.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Café

Enjoy a budget-friendly meal of local Himachali thali.
Café is located in the center of Kufri.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Fun at Kufri Fun World

Enjoy a few hours at this amusement park featuring rides and activities.
Just a short walk from the lunch spot.
INR 500, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Shimla

Take a local bus back to Shimla to freshen up.
Buses return frequently.
INR 50, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Wake & Bake Café

End your day with pizza and hot chocolate in this vibrant café.
Located off the Mall Road.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 3: Journey to Manali

Manali, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at your Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast of toast and tea before your journey.
At your lodging in Shimla.
INR 150, 30 mins

8:00AM

Travel to Manali

Catch a local bus from Shimla to Manali, which will take you through gorgeous mountainous roads.
Direct buses can be taken from Shimla Bus Stand.
INR 600, 8 hours

4:00PM

Check into Accommodation

Settle into your budget guesthouse and rest a bit after your journey.
Within walking distance from the bus station.
INR 800, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Old Manali

Wander through the charming streets of Old Manali, discovering artisan shops and cafes.
A short 20-min walk from your guesthouse.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Lazy Dog

Dine on budget-friendly local dishes while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Located in Old Manali.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventure in Solang Valley

Solang Valley, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Café

Savor omelets and freshly brewed coffee to start your day ahead.
Located near your accommodation.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Solang Valley

Take a shared taxi or local bus to the valley, known for its stunning landscapes.
Shared taxis are available right outside your guesthouse.
INR 300, 1 hour

10:00AM

Paragliding at Solang

Experience the thrill of paragliding amidst the breathtaking views.
Reach the paragliding take-off site by a short walk.
INR 1500, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Solang Valley Café

Enjoy hot Maggi noodles and tea at this budget-friendly café.
Located on-site at the valley.
INR 200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Sightseeing in Solang

Explore the valley, take photographs, and enjoy the natural beauty.
Wander freely as no entry fee is required.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return to Manali

Head back to your guesthouse in Manali.
Shared taxis return frequently.
INR 300, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Café Manali

Enjoy some classic North Indian cuisine at an affordable price.
Located in Manali town.
INR 400, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relax in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Guesthouse

Enjoy a simple toast and tea before starting your travel to Dharamshala.
At your accommodation in Manali.
INR 150, 30 mins

7:30AM

Travel to Dharamshala

Take a local bus with stunning views, heading south to Dharamshala.
Buses leave from Manali Bus Stand.
INR 600, 8 hours

3:30PM

Check into Accommodation

Find a budget-friendly room in McLeod Ganj, the heart of Dharamshala.
Within walking distance from the bus station.
INR 800, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Dharamkot

Take a short hike to Dharamkot, enjoying the serene atmosphere and local cafes.
It's an easy 30-minute hike from McLeod Ganj.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Green Restaurant

Finish your trip with a delicious meal featuring authentic Tibetan dishes.
Located in McLeod Ganj.
INR 400, 1 hour
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