6-Day Adventure Itinerary in Shimla and Manali on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Exploring Shimla

Shimla, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Indian Coffee House, famous for its filter coffee and chilly omelette.
Located on the Mall Road, a short walk from your accommodation.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Ridge

Stroll around the Ridge, the central park of Shimla, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountain range.
Just a 10-minute walk from the coffee house.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Mall Road

Wander through the Mall Road for street shopping and local snacks.
Easily accessible from the Ridge.
Free (shopping excluded), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sitaram & Sons

Enjoy a budget-friendly homemade meal with mouth-watering North Indian cuisine.
Located on the Mall Road, within walking distance.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Trek to Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for its giant statue and panoramic city views.
Take a local cab or opt for a 30-minute trek from the Mall.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening tea at The Oberoi Cecil

Relax and enjoy some affordable yet delightful tea with fantastic views.
A 10-minute drive or a longer leisurely walk.
INR 250, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Jass Restaurant

Savour delicious local dishes like Chole Bhature and Kadai Paneer.
Near the Mall Road, easy walk from The Oberoi.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventure Day in Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Sol

Indulge in a fulfilling breakfast with lively atmospheres, known for its pancakes.
Located on Mall Road.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Himalayan Bird Park

Visit this park to spot various avian species and enjoy a peaceful walk.
A 15-minute walk from Cafe Sol.
INR 20, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit Christ Church

Explore the second oldest church in North India known for its beautiful architecture.
20-minute walk from the Bird Park.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Magic View Cafe

Enjoy a budget-friendly meal while soaking in majestic views.
A bit of a trek from Christ Church, or take a taxi.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Kufri

Head to Kufri, known for its adventure park and magnificent views.
Board a local bus or share a taxi from Shimla (30 minutes).
INR 500 (bus) + entry fee, 4 hours

6:30PM

Return to Shimla

Head back to Shimla and refresh at your accommodation.
Using the same mode of transportation.
INR 100 (bus), 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Baljees

Enjoy delightful North Indian fare like Daal Makhani and Chicken Biryani.
Located conveniently near the Mall.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 3: Travel to Manali

Manali, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Grab a quick breakfast before heading out for the journey.
Easy access from your hotel.
INR 100, 30 minutes

8:00AM

Bus to Manali

Catch a state-run bus to Manali, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Bus departs from Shimla ISBT.
INR 600, 7 hours

3:00PM

Check-In at Budget Hotel

Arrive and rest at an economical homestay in Manali.
A short walk from the bus station.
INR 800 (per night), 30 minutes

4:00PM

Explore Manali Mall

Stroll through the local market, immerse yourself in the culture.
Nearby your accommodation, easy walking distance.
Free (shopping excluded), 2 hours

6:30PM

Evening tea at Drifter's Cafe

Enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with delicious snacks and teas.
Located on the Mall Road.
INR 200, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at Chopsticks

Savour an affordable mix of Tibetan and Chinese cuisine including Momos.
Close to the Manali Mall.
INR 300, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventure in Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 1947

Start your day with good coffee and pancakes while seated near the river.
Just a short walk from your hotel.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Solang Valley Adventure

Take a local bus to Solang Valley for paragliding or zorbing experience.
Local buses are frequent from Manali to Solang (30 minutes).
INR 100 (bus) + activity fees, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Bacon's Chocolate

Relish a unique lunch experience with scrumptious burgers and hot chocolate.
Return to Manali and head to the cafe.
INR 400, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Manu Temple

Explore the ancient Manu Temple, a serene place to appreciate the local culture.
Easily reachable by local auto or shared taxi.
INR 30, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return to Hotel

Head back to your accommodation for some downtime.
Similar route to the temple.
INR 30, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Lazy Dog

Enjoy a relaxed dinner with unique dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
A nice walk from your hotel.
INR 350, 1 hour
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Day 5: Explore Manali

Manali, India

8:30AM

Breakfast at Johnson Lodge

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at this popular cafe with delightful views.
Within a 10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Hadimba Temple

Discover the picturesque Hadimba Temple surrounded by cedar forests.
Short hike or a local taxi ride from town.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Manu Chulha

Taste authentic Himachali dishes in a rustic setting.
Easily accessible from Hadimba Temple.
INR 350, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Vashisht Village

Spend the afternoon in Vashisht known for its hot springs and scenic beauty.
A short bus or shared taxi ride from Manali.
INR 50, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Manali

Head back to relax or explore local shops in Manali.
Use the same mode of transportation for the return.
INR 50, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Himalayan

End your day with a flavourful dinner featuring local and continental cuisine.
Located near the Mall.
INR 400, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Departure

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy the last breakfast in Manali, soaking in the mountain vibes.
At your accommodation.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Pack and Check Out

Prepare for departure as you pack your bags and check out of your hotel.
Check to ensure all belongings are in order.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last-minute Shopping

Take a final stroll around Manali Mall for souvenirs and local crafts.
A short distance from your hotel.
Free (shopping excluded), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe 1947

Taste some farewell treats at this cafe before the journey back.
Near the Mall.
INR 250, 1 hour

1:00PM

Depart for Chandigarh

Start your journey back to Chandigarh for further connections.
Catch a bus from Manali ISBT.
INR 800, 8 hours
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