12-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie

Day 1: Arrival in Shimla

Shimla, India on November 3, 2024

10:00AM

Check-in to Hotel

Settle into the family-friendly Radisson Hotel Shimla, which offers beautiful views and comfortable amenities.
Drive towards the hotel from the Kufri area.
INR 5000, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Antony Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious traditional Himachali lunch that the whole family will love.
Easy walk from the hotel, around 1 km.
INR 1200, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Mall Road

Stroll on Mall Road, visiting shops and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of Shimla.
Walk through the charming streets toward Mall Road.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Christ Church

Admire the stunning architecture and history of one of India’s oldest churches.
A short walk from Mall Road.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Evening Tea at The Grand Hotel

Indulge in some hot tea and snacks while enjoying beautiful views from the terrace.
About a 10-minute drive from the city center.
INR 800, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Adventure Day in Shimla

Shimla, India on November 4, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast to energize for the adventure day.
Hotel dining area.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Kufri Fun World

Head to Kufri to enjoy amusement park rides and fun activities for kids.
35-minute drive to Kufri (16 km).
INR 1200 (family ticket), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Apple Blossom

Dine on a mix of Indian and Continental cuisine with fresh, local ingredients.
Return drive to Shimla (35 minutes).
INR 1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Hike to the temple that offers panoramic views of Shimla and see the famous Hanuman statue.
A short drive to the base of Jakhoo Hill and then a hike.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return & Relax at Hotel

Spend the evening relaxing at the hotel, possibly enjoying the pool or spa.
Back to the hotel (10 minutes drive).
NA, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Devicos Restaurant

Enjoy North Indian specialties in a cozy, family-friendly environment.
10-minute drive from the hotel.
INR 1400, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Cultural Exploration in Shimla

Shimla, India on November 5, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a diverse breakfast buffet at the hotel.
On-site at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit The Ridge

Take a leisurely stroll in this popular open space, perfect for family photos.
Short walk from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore State Museum

Discover Himachali history and culture within the museum’s fascinating exhibits.
A 15-minute drive from The Ridge.
INR 50, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Sita Ram And Sons

Savor delicious Indian vegetarian meals beloved by both locals and tourists.
10-minute walk from the museum.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Shopping at Mall Road

Purchase local handicrafts, woollen clothes, and souvenirs to take home.
Return to Mall Road (15-minute walk).
Free (shopping costs vary), 3 hours

5:30PM

Evening at Scandal Point

Relax and take in the mountain views at this famous scenic point.
A 10-minute walk from Mall Road.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Collins

Enjoy family-style dining with a variety of North Indian & Chinese dishes.
Walk back toward the hotel (30 minutes).
INR 1500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Travel to Manali

Manali, India on November 6, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before departure.
In the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Manali

Enjoy the scenic journey to Manali, admiring the beautiful hills and valleys.
Start driving for approximately 8-9 hours.
INR 5000 (private vehicle), 9 hours

1:00PM

Lunch Break at Dhaba

Stop at a roadside Dhaba for authentic North Indian cuisine.
On the way.
INR 700, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive at Manali and check-in to the family-friendly Johnson Lodge & Spa.
Hotel is within Manali town.
INR 6000, 1 hour

6:30PM

Evening Walk to Hidimba Temple

Visit the famous Hidimba Temple surrounded by cedar forests and enjoy a leisurely walk.
Short drive to the temple from the hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Lazy Dog

End the day with a relaxing dinner at this cozy restaurant with warm ambiance.
Walking distance from the temple.
INR 1200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Adventure in Manali

Manali, India on November 7, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a rich breakfast spread.
Enjoy in the dining area.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Solang Valley Adventure

Engage in exciting activities such as paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding.
A 30-minute drive to Solang Valley.
INR 4000 (for family activities), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch in Solang Valley Cafeteria

Refuel with light snacks and local dishes at the on-site cafeteria.
Walk to the cafeteria in Solang Valley.
INR 1200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Vashisht Village

Explore Vashisht’s hot springs and quaint village atmosphere.
Drive back and head to Vashisht (30 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return & Relax at Hotel

Come back to the hotel and relax or take a dip in the indoor pool.
Back to the hotel (30 minutes drive).
NA, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Casa Bella Vista

Enjoy delicious Italian dishes and wood-fired pizzas in a warm ambiance.
Short drive from the hotel.
INR 1500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Historical Day in Manali

Manali, India on November 8, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Another hearty breakfast at the hotel before exploring more.
Dining at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Manu Temple

See the beautiful Manu Temple and learn about its cultural importance.
Quick drive to the temple.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Old Manali

Wander through the charming streets, visiting local shops and cafes.
Short drive or walk to Old Manali (30 minutes).
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Johnson Lodge Restaurant

Grab a delicious meal at the lodge’s restaurant with a cozy vibe.
Return to the lodge (15 minutes).
INR 1500, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Tibetan Monastery

Experience the serene environment of the monastery and its stunning architecture.
A short drive or walk away.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Evening Visit to Mall Road

Spend your evening leisurely exploring shops and local snacks.
Short drive or walk back to Mall Road.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Everest Kitchen

Indulge in mouthwatering Nepali and Indian dishes perfect for families.
Walk from Mall Road to the restaurant.
INR 1600, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Journey to Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India on November 9, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a nutritious breakfast as you prepare for the journey.
In the hotel dining area.
Included, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Dalhousie

Embark on the picturesque drive to Dalhousie, known for its lush greenery.
Around 8 hours drive covering 120 km.
INR 5000 (private vehicle), 8 hours

1:00PM

Lunch Break at Local Dhaba

Stop en route for lunch at a local dhaba to enjoy authentic delicacies.
Along the route.
INR 600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive and check in to the beautiful hotel, Aamod Dalhousie.
Hotel located centrally in Dalhousie.
INR 5500, 1 hour

6:30PM

Stroll in the Park

Take a pleasant evening stroll through the local parks and breathe in the fresh air.
Nearby the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

8:00PM

Dinner at The Old Lighthouse Restaurant

Savor local and international dishes at this iconic Dalhousie restaurant.
5 minutes drive from the hotel.
INR 1400, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Sightseeing in Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India on November 10, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Convene for a delightful breakfast at the hotel.
At the hotel dining room.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Khajjiar

Experience the mini-Switzerland of India, with lush greenery and the famous Khajjiar Lake.
20-minute drive to Khajjiar.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Khajjiar

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the scenic surroundings.
While enjoying the vistas in Khajjiar.
INR 800 (for packed lunch), 1 hour

1:30PM

Return to Dalhousie

Head back to Dalhousie while taking in the lush landscapes.
20-minute drive back.
Free, 30 minutes

2:00PM

Visit St. John’s Church

Explore the beautiful heritage church known for its stunning architecture.
A short drive or walk to the church.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Shop for souvenirs and enjoy local handicrafts at Dalhousie markets.
Market is nearby the church.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Moti Mahal Delux

Indulge in delectable Mughlai cuisine, perfect for family dining.
5 minutes drive from the market.
INR 1500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Exploration Day in Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India on November 11, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel.
Dining at the hotel.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Dainkund Peak

Trek to Dainkund Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the valley.
30-minute drive to the trekking entry point.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Enjoy a hearty lunch at a nearby Dhaba with local flavors.
Drive back to the dhaba near the hotel (30 minutes).
INR 700, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Bakrota Hill

Explore the peaceful Bakrota Hill and enjoy family-friendly trails.
Drive 10 minutes to the hill.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at the Hotel

Return to the hotel and enjoy leisure activities like games or the swimming pool.
Head back to the hotel (10 minutes drive).
NA, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Gaddi

Enjoy a variety of dishes with local flavors in a warm setting.
10 minutes drive from the hotel.
INR 1300, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Return to Manali

Manali, India on November 12, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast before starting the drive back to Manali.
At the hotel dining area.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive back to Manali

Enjoy the scenic views on the way back to Manali.
Travel is around an 8-hour drive.
INR 5000 (private vehicle), 8 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Dhaba

Stop again at a local dhaba for a delicious meal.
On the way back.
INR 600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel in Manali

Arrive back and check-in at Johnson Lodge & Spa for an overnight stay.
Hotel is centrally located.
INR 6000, 1 hour

6:30PM

Short Evening Walk

Take a gentle evening walk near the canal for fresh air.
Nearby the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at The Fat Plate

Enjoy diverse dishes ranging from Indian to Italian cuisine.
Short drive from the hotel.
INR 1500, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Journey Back to Shimla

Shimla, India on November 13, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have a final breakfast at the hotel before heading back.
In the hotel’s dining area.
Included, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Shimla

Begin the journey back to Shimla, relishing the picturesque views.
A drive of about 7-8 hours.
INR 5000 (private vehicle), 8 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Dhaba

Stop for lunch at a dhaba en route for authentic flavors.
Along the journey.
INR 600, 1 hour

5:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Arrive and check-in at Radisson Hotel Shimla for your final night.
Centrally located.
INR 5000, 1 hour

6:30PM

Spend Evening on Mall Road

Take a last stroll along Mall Road to savor the town one last time.
Short drive or walk from the hotel.
Free, 2 hours

8:30PM

Farewell Dinner at Himachali Rasoi

What better way to end the trip than delicious Himachali dishes?
Located near Mall Road.
INR 1200, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Departure from Shimla

Shimla, India on November 14, 2024

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy your final breakfast amidst the hills before departure.
In the hotel dining area.
Included, 1 hour

10:00AM

Check-out & Departure

Finish off your wonderful trip and check out from the hotel.
Drive to your onward destination.
Free, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability