7-Day Family-Friendly Eco Road Trip in Himachal Pradesh

Day 1: Exploring Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Indian Coffee House

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of masala dosa and filter coffee at this charming coffee house known for its vintage vibe.
Located near Mall Road.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit The Ridge

Stroll through The Ridge, the heart of Shimla, surrounded by magnificent views of the mountains and colonial architecture.
Walk from Indian Coffee House to The Ridge; it's about 1.5 km.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Exploring Christ Church

Admire the beautiful stained glass windows of Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India.
Short walk from The Ridge.
Free, 30 minutes

12:00PM

Lunch at Wake & Bake Cafe

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch here, with delicious wood-fired pizzas and local Himachali dishes.
Located on the Mall Road.
INR 1000, 1 hour

1:30PM

Shimla State Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Himachal Pradesh through its well-curated exhibits.
Take a short taxi ride uphill.
INR 200, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Mall Road Shopping

Spend some family time shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs on the bustling Mall Road.
Walk back to Mall Road.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sita Ram And Sons

A perfect ending with a meal of traditional North Indian cuisine that suits all ages and preferences.
Located in the heart of Shimla.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 2: Adventure at Kufri

Kufri, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Baljees Regency

The buffet breakfast with stunning views of the mountains is an excellent start to the day.
Drive 16 km from Shimla to Kufri.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kufri Fun World

Enjoy a day of fun at one of the highest amusement parks in the world, featuring thrilling rides and a joyful atmosphere.
Located within Kufri.
INR 500 per person, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Apple Orchard Restaurant

Savour local Himachali dishes with an eco-friendly twist to your meal.
Walking distance from Kufri Fun World.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Nature Walk in Mahasu Peak

Take a gentle trek to Mahasu Peak to enjoy panoramic views and breathe in pure mountain air.
Short drive to the base camp.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit to the Himalayan Nature Park

Explore the diverse flora and fauna uniquely found in this region, a perfect educational trip for kids.
Drive to the park entrance.
INR 50, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Open Air Cafe

Unwind with a delicious meal of barbecue and refreshments amidst nature.
Next to Himalayan Nature Park.
INR 900, 1 hour
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Day 3: Discovering Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 1947

Enjoy Italian breakfast dishes with fresh ingredients and river views to start your day right.
Drive 40 km to Manali.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hadimba Temple

Visit this serene temple surrounded by cedar forests, a perfect spot for some family photographs.
Short drive/walk from the cafe.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Manu Temple

A delightful walkthrough of this ancient temple dedicated to the sage Manu, full of cultural significance.
Drive to Manu Temple.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Lazy Dog

Relish some delectable Tibetan and local dishes in a relaxed setting with a garden view.
Short drive from Manu Temple.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Solang Valley

Indulge in adventure activities such as paragliding and zorbing that the whole family can enjoy.
Drive about 14 km from Manali.
Costs vary depending on activity, 3 hours

4:30PM

Return to Manali

Take a peaceful drive back to your hotel, soaking in the scenery.
Drive back to Manali.
Free, 30 minutes

5:30PM

Dinner at the Mount View Hotel

A buffet dinner featuring local delicacies in a family-friendly environment.
Within Manali.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventure at Solang Valley

Solang Valley, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel Johnson Lodge

Start bright and early with a satisfying meal in this cozy lodge, known for its good service and quality.
At the base of Solang Valley.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:00AM

Enjoy Snow Activities

Spend your day engaging in snow sports like snowboarding and skiing in this winter wonderland.
Within Solang Valley.
Costs vary depending on activity, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Solang Valley Resort

Enjoy a buffet lunch featuring local and international cuisine surrounded by stunning views.
Resort within Solang Valley.
INR 1000, 1 hour

2:30PM

Horse Riding

Explore the beautiful landscapes on horseback, a delightful activity for the whole family.
Available at various points in Solang.
INR 500 per person, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit the Solang Valley Park

Take a leisurely walk or enjoy a picnic in this serene park nestled in the valley.
Short drive from the main activities.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Winter Valley

Enjoy a lovely meal featuring freshly prepared Himachali cuisine before heading back to Manali.
On the way back to Manali.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 5: Excursion to Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner House

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast in this popular local haunt before your day trip.
Drive 51 km to Rohtang Pass.
INR 600, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Rohtang Pass

Enjoy the scenic drive with breathtaking views as you approach the magnificent Rohtang Pass.
Drive via the Manali - Keylong highway.
Free, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Exploring Rohtang Pass

Discover the stunning landscapes and partake in fun activities like sledding or building snowmen.
At the Rohtang Pass site.
INR 100 per vehicle (entry fee), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba

Relish authentic Punjabi dishes in this mountain-side dhaba offering a cozy atmosphere.
Various dhabas at Rohtang.
INR 500, 1 hour

2:00PM

Return to Manali

Enjoy the drive back through the scenic valleys and picturesque landscapes.
Retracing the route back.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Rest and Relax at Hotel

Unwind at your hotel after a full day of adventure, taking time to refresh.
Back at your hotel in Manali.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Manali Cafe

Wrap up the day with delicious international and Himachali cuisine in a laid-back atmosphere.
Near Old Manali.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Exploration in Kullu

Kullu, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Manali Vaishali Restaurant

Start your day with breakfast featuring a mix of South Indian and North Indian dishes in a friendly eatery.
Drive 43 km from Manali to Kullu.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kullu Shawl Factory

Learn about the traditional art of shawl weaving while shopping for unique souvenirs.
Short drive to the factory.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Kullu Dussehra Exhibition

If your trip coincides with Dussehra, experience this vibrant local festival showcasing cultural crafts.
Could be held at various locations.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Kullu Kitchen

Delight in authentic Himachali food served in a comfortable dining space.
Near the bus stand.
INR 800, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Bijli Mahadev Temple

Embark on a short trek to this sacred temple perched on a hilltop with stunning views of the valleys.
Drive to the base and trek up.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit to Kullu River

Spend some relaxing time enjoying the rippling waters or simply refreshing your feet in the cool river.
20-minute drive from Bijli Mahadev.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at Himalayan Riverside Restaurant

End your day with a hearty meal while listening to the tranquil sounds of the river.
Located riverside.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Cultural Retreat in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at McLeod Ganj Cafe

Enjoy organic vegetarian dishes with local flair at this eco-friendly cafe.
Drive 75 km to Dharamshala.
INR 600, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the vibrant cultural centre and residence of the Dalai Lama, filled with monasteries and shops.
Short drive from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Bhagsu Waterfall

Take a fun hike to this picturesque waterfall, perfect for family photos and a refreshing dip.
Short drive and a hike to reach the fall.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Norbulingka Institute

Enjoy a meal at this beautiful institute dedicated to Tibetan culture, with locally sourced ingredients.
Drive to the institute.
INR 800, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Tibetan Museum

Learn about Tibetan heritage and culture through fascinating exhibits and displays.
Short drive from Norbulingka Institute.
INR 100, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit Kangra Fort

Explore this ancient fort with a rich history and stunning views of the surrounding valleys.
Drive about 20 km from Dharamshala.
INR 100 per person, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Woeser’s Kitchen

Conclude your trip with delicious Tibetan food in a cozy and welcoming environment.
Back to McLeod Ganj.
INR 900, 1.5 hours
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