5-Day Eco-Friendly Family Road Trip Itinerary: Shimla and Manali

Day 1: Explore Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Sol

Start your day with a cozy breakfast at Cafe Sol, known for its delicious pancakes and warm coffee.
Located near the Ridge, great start for your exploration.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Ridge

Walking around the Ridge offers spectacular views of the mountains and the iconic Christ Church.
The Ridge is a short walk from Cafe Sol.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Mall Road

Stroll along the Mall Road, indulging in local shopping and tasting street food.
Just off the Ridge, it's easy to navigate.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Indian Coffee House

Enjoy a simple yet satisfying lunch at the classic Indian Coffee House.
Follow Mall Road; it's nearby.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Embark on a scenic hike up to Jakhoo Temple, famous for its giant Hanuman statue and panoramic views.
Take the trail from the Ridge, it's a pleasant walk.
Free (optional donation), 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Lakkar Bazaar

Explore Lakkar Bazaar for local handicrafts and wood work, perfect for souvenirs.
A short walk from Jakhoo Temple.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Qube Cafe

Conclude your day with a family dinner at Qube Cafe, which offers a variety of vegetarian dishes and local cuisine.
Located in the Mall Road area.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Nature & Volunteering

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Simla Times

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring local Himachali dishes and fresh fruit juices.
Situated in the heart of Shimla.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Volunteer at Shimla Nature Park

Spend your morning volunteering in the beautiful Shimla Nature Park, helping with conservation efforts.
Nearby to the Cafe; just a short drive.
Free (volunteer), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Tranquil Lounge

After a fulfilling morning, recharge with lunch at this quaint spot known for healthy options.
A short drive from the nature park.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Kufri

Head to Kufri to enjoy fun family activities such as horse riding and enjoy the scenic beauty.
Approximately 30 minutes from Shimla.
INR 300 (horse riding), 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Shimla and relax

Spend some time unwinding at your hotel or a local park, absorbing the beautiful mountain air.
Road travel from Kufri is straightforward.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Restaurant

Enjoy a warm dinner featuring a variety of local delights in a cozy atmosphere.
Easily accessible from major tourist spots.
INR 600, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Travel to Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel before heading out.
Back to your hotel for breakfast.
Included in accommodation, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Manali

Set off early for Manali, soaking in the stunning mountain vistas along the way.
Follow NH5 and NH3 for a scenic drive.
Fuel cost: INR 1,500, 8 hours (with breaks)

5:00PM

Check-in at Manali

Arrive in Manali and check into your eco-friendly accommodation.
Look for green lodges near Vashisht.
INR 3,000 (for family), 1 hour

6:00PM

Explore Vashisht Village

Take a stroll through the charming Vashisht Village known for its hot springs.
Short distance from your lodging; walk or drive.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Lazy Dog

Enjoy a delightful family dinner with a view of the river.
Located a few minutes from Vashisht.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature Adventures and Local Experiences

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Savor a fresh breakfast at your hotel, featuring local ingredients.
Back at your eco-lodge for breakfast.
Included in accommodations, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Solang Valley

Spend your morning at Solang Valley indulging in outdoor activities like paragliding or zorbing.
Drive to Solang Valley; about 13 km from Manali.
INR 1,200 for family activities, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cafe 1947

Head to Cafe 1947, known for its pasta and pleasant riverside seating.
After enjoying the valley, it's a short drive to the cafe.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Manali Market

Wander around the bustling Manali market, perfect for local shopping and snacks.
Easily accessible from Cafe 1947.
Free (various costs for shopping), 2 hours

4:00PM

Local Sightseeing: Hadimba Temple

Visit Hadimba Temple, surrounded by cedar forests and rich in mythological significance.
A short distance from the market.
INR 30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Return to Hotel

Unwind and relax at your eco-lodge after a day full of activities.
Straight drive back to hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Himalayan Cafe

Enjoy dinner with a focus on organic and locally sourced ingredients.
Just a few minutes from your lodge.
INR 700, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your last breakfast in Manali at the eco-lodge.
Back at your lodging.
Included in accommodations, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to Shimla

Head back to Shimla, taking in the breathtaking scenery one last time.
Take the same scenic route back.
Fuel cost: INR 1,500, 8 hours (with breaks)

5:00PM

Check-in and Relax

Unwind at your Shimla accommodations after a long day of travel.
Arrive back in Shimla and check into your hotel.
INR 2,500, 1 hour

6:00PM

Explore Mall Road (again)

Experience the evening ambiance on Mall Road, perfect for last-minute shopping.
The same stroll from Day 1.
Free (shopping costs extra), 2 hours

8:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Himachali Rasoi

Enjoy a farewell dinner featuring authentic Himachali cuisine to conclude the trip.
Located on Mall Road; easy access.
INR 800, 1.5 hours
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