5-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Himachal Pradesh, India

Day 1: Explore Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Johnson's Lodge

Start your day with a budget friendly yet delightful breakfast at Johnson's Lodge, known for its rustic ambiance.
Walking distance from the main market.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hadimba Temple

Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Hadimba Temple, surrounded by cedar forests.
Take a local bus or walk; it's 2km from the market.
INR50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Stroll through Van Vihar Park

Take a leisurely walk in Van Vihar Park, enjoying the natural beauty along the banks of the Beas River.
A short walk from Hadimba Temple.
INR20, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Chopsticks

Savor a delectable lunch at Chopsticks, famous for its Tibetan momos and noodle dishes.
Located in the Mall road area.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Old Manali

Wander through the charming streets of Old Manali, discovering quaint cafes and local culture.
Walk further up from the main market.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Manali Mall Road

Enjoy shopping and interacting with locals on bustling Mall Road, the heart of Manali.
Easily accessible by foot.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Lazy Dog

Wind down your day with a warm dinner at The Lazy Dog, enjoying their lively atmosphere and international cuisine.
Located on the river bank.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Solang Valley

Solang Valley, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner House

Fuel up with a hearty Indian breakfast at The Corner House, a popular local spot.
Located near the bus station.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Solang Valley

Catch a local bus to Solang Valley for breathtaking views and adventure activities.
Take a bus from Manali bus station, about 14km away.
INR50, 1 hour

11:00AM

Paragliding or Zorbing

Experience the thrill of paragliding or zorbing in Solang Valley, while surrounded by magnificent landscapes.
Book at local adventure shops.
INR2500, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Himalayan Cafe

Recharge with a delicious lunch at The Himalayan Cafe, offering scenic views and tasty meals.
Located at Solang Valley.
INR350, 1 hour

2:30PM

Nature Walks

Take a refreshing nature walk and appreciate the stunning beauty of the mountains and valley.
Free access throughout the valley.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Manali

Head back to Manali in the evening enjoying the picturesque views on your way.
Catch a local bus back to Manali.
INR50, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Café 1947

End your day with a cozy dinner at The Café 1947, known for its Italian cuisine and warm ambiance.
In Old Manali.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Chill at Kasol

Kasol, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's Italian Restaurant

Enjoy a tasty breakfast at Mama's Italian Restaurant, where a slice of pizza can also be a breakfast choice.
Easily accessible in Kasol.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kasol from Manali

Take a local bus to Kasol, known for its stunning landscapes and backpacker vibe.
Buses run frequently from Manali.
INR150, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Kasol Village

Stroll through the vibrant streets of Kasol and enjoy its unique shops and cafes.
Walk around in the village freely.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Evergreen

Enjoy authentic Israeli cuisine for lunch at The Evergreen, famous for its flavorful dishes.
Located in downtown Kasol.
INR350, 1 hour

3:00PM

Hike to Chalal Village

Take an invigorating hike to Chalal Village, enjoying stunning views of the Parvati Valley.
Follow the trail beside the Parvati River.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Bistro

Refuel after your hike with a comforting dinner at The Bistro, known for its relaxed ambiance.
Located near the river.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Discover Dharamkot

Dharamkot, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Mantra

Start your day at Café Mantra with organic and wholesome breakfast options.
In Dharamkot.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Dharamkot from Kasol

Take a local bus to Dharamkot, a serene village with a peaceful vibe.
Buses connect Kasol to McLeod Ganj; Dharamkot is a short hike from there.
INR150, 2 hours

12:00PM

Nature Walk to Bhagsu Waterfall

Hike to Bhagsu Waterfall, enjoying the stunning sights and sounds of nature.
Follow the marked path from Dharamkot.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Bhagsu Cafe

Stop for lunch at The Bhagsu Cafe, offering delicious snacks and local coffee.
Near Bhagsu Waterfall.
INR300, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax and Meditate

Spend some time relaxing and meditating in the peaceful surroundings of Dharamkot.
Find a quiet spot around the village.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Local Markets

Explore the local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs before dinner.
Easily accessible by foot.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Dharamkot Café

End your day with a comforting dinner at Dharamkot Café, known for its cozy atmosphere and good food.
In the village.
INR350, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: McLeod Ganj and Dalai Lama Temple

McLeod Ganj, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Tibet

Begin your last day with Tibetan breakfast specialties at Café Tibet, a local favorite.
In McLeod Ganj.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dalai Lama Temple

Explore the tranquil Dalai Lama Temple and absorb the peaceful surroundings.
Located in the main part of McLeod Ganj.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Stroll the Local Streets

Wander the vibrant local streets filled with shops, art, and local culture.
Easily accessible by foot.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Norling Restaurant

Enjoy a tasty lunch at Norling Restaurant, popular for its Tibetan dishes.
In McLeod Ganj.
INR350, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore this cultural complex, the center of Tibetan culture outside Tibet.
Just a short walk from the temple.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Shopping for Souvenirs

Spend some time shopping in McLeod Ganj for handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Easily walkable from the main market.
Cost depends on purchases, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lhamo's Croissant

Conclude your journey with a delightful meal at Lhamo's Croissant, loved for its croissants and unique dishes.
In the heart of McLeod Ganj.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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