Manali to Shimla: A Culinary and Scenic Road Trip

Day 1: Explore Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Johnson's Lodge

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of pancakes and fresh fruit at Johnson's Lodge, famous for its mountain views.
Located on Circuit House Road, just a short drive from your accommodation.
INR500, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hadimba Devi Temple

Explore the iconic Hadimba Devi Temple surrounded by cedar trees, a must-see for its tranquil atmosphere and beautiful architecture.
Located about 2 km from the lodge; a 10-minute drive.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Stroll in Old Manali

Wander through Old Manali's charming streets filled with vibrant cafes and shops, perfect for soaking in the local culture.
A short 10-minute drive from Hadimba Temple.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe 1947

Enjoy a scenic lunch by the river at Cafe 1947, known for its Italian cuisine and cozy atmosphere.
Located in Old Manali, easily walkable.
INR800, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Manu Temple

Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu; the trek to this site provides stunning views of the valley.
Approximately a 15-minute drive from Cafe 1947.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax at Vashisht Hot Springs

End your day by soaking in the natural hot springs of Vashisht, famous for their healing properties.
A quick 10-minute drive from Manu Temple.
INR50, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Chef

Savor delectable local Himachali dishes at The Chef, a hidden gem known for its authentic flavors.
A short drive back to Manali town.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventures in Solang Valley

Solang Valley, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner House

Fuel up for your adventure with a delicious breakfast of parathas and chai at The Corner House.
Located conveniently in Manali town.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Solang Valley

Take a scenic 14 km drive to Solang Valley, famed for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure sports.
Follow the Manali-Keylong Road.
Free, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Paragliding in Solang

Experience an adrenaline rush while paragliding over the magnificent valley—an unforgettable experience.
Booking available on-site.
INR3000, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch Picnic in Solang

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning backdrop of the mountains.
You can prepare this in advance or buy from local shops.
INR500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Solang Ropeway

Take the ropeway for panoramic views of the valley and the surrounding peaks—a perfect photo opportunity.
Nearby the paragliding site.
INR800, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Glacier

Take a short hike to the nearby glacier for a taste of the snow and stunning views.
A 15-minute trek from the top of the ropeway.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Return to Manali

Head back to Manali to relax after an adventurous day.
Drive back the same way; keep your camera ready for views!
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The SStudio

Indulge in fusion cuisine and unique cocktails at The SStudio, known for its creative dishes.
Located in Manali, easy to reach.
INR1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Kullu Day Trip

Kullu, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Krishna

Enjoy a traditional breakfast of aloo poori and chai at Cafe Krishna before heading to Kullu.
Located in Manali, a quick drive away.
INR400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Kullu

Set out on a 40 km drive to Kullu, known for its lush landscapes and cultural richness.
Travel along the riverbank for stunning views.
Free, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Kullu Valley Viewpoint

Get a panoramic view of the Kullu valley, an excellent spot for photography.
Approximately a 10-minute drive from Kullu town.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Jagannathi Temple

Visit the historic Jagannathi Temple, a fascinating site known for its stunning architecture.
20-minute drive from the viewpoint.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at The Himalayan Cafe

Relish local Himachali delicacies such as siddu and chana madra at The Himalayan Cafe.
Back in Kullu town, easily reachable.
INR700, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Rafting on River Beas

Experience thrilling white-water rafting on the Beas River amidst stunning landscapes.
Available from multiple operators in Kullu.
INR2000, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Kullu Shawl Handloom

Explore the local arts and crafts at Kullu Shawl Handloom, where you can purchase authentic shawls.
Located in Kullu town.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Chaat Bhavan

Enjoy delicious street food like chaat and pakoras at Chaat Bhavan, a popular local spot.
Located in Kullu town, a short drive.
INR250, 1 hour
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Day 4: Scenic Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wake and Bake

Enjoy freshly baked goods and a coffee at The Wake and Bake, perfect for starting your journey to Shimla.
Located in Kullu, suitable for your drive to Shimla.
INR400, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Shimla

Take the 60 km drive to Shimla, enjoying scenic mountain views along the way.
Follow the NH5 road for optimal travel.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Stroll the Mall Road

Explore Shimla's mall road, lined with shops, cafes, and beautiful colonial architecture.
Start at the Mall Road entrance near the Ridge.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Simla Times

Dine at Cafe Simla Times, known for its varied cuisine and fabulous views of the hills.
Located on the Mall Road.
INR800, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Explore the Jakhoo Temple, famed for its giant Hanuman statue and stunning views of the city.
A short drive but also reachable by foot with a 30-minute hike.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Shimla Ridge

Visit the Ridge, an open space in the heart of Shimla, perfect for relaxation and people-watching.
Short stroll from Jakhoo Temple.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The 45 Rooftop

Indulge in a delightful dining experience with panoramic views at The 45 Rooftop.
Easily accessible by walking back to the Mall Road.
INR1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Narkanda Nature Experience

Narkanda, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Woodville Palace

Start your day with a royal breakfast at The Woodville Palace, rich in heritage and offering a range of delicacies.
Located in Shimla, easy to access.
INR600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Narkanda

Set out on a 60 km drive to Narkanda, known for its apple orchards and stunning mountain views.
Take the NH5 road for convenient travel.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Hatu Peak

Hike to Hatu Peak, offering breathtaking views that make the trek worth it.
The trail starts near the Narkanda market.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Right Angle

Recharge with delicious local fare at Right Angle, known for its cozy ambiance and friendly service.
Back in Narkanda town.
INR600, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Apple Orchard

Visit a local apple orchard for a guided tour, and learn about the apple farming process.
Several orchards are available; check locally.
INR300, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Narkanda Temple

Check out the charming local temple at Narkanda, offering a glimpse into local architecture and spirituality.
Easily located in the town center.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Drive Back to Shimla

Head back to Shimla, reflecting on the amazing road trip and nature experiences.
Return via the same route, enjoy scenic views.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Baljees Restaurant

Finish your trip with a delightful dinner at Baljees, famous for its local Himachali cuisine.
Back in Shimla, close to your accommodation.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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