Affordable Family-Friendly Nature Retreat: Manali, Kasol, Shimla

Day 1: Explore Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 1947

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of Indian-style pancakes and fresh fruit at this lovely café by the river.
Located just a 10-minute walk from the city center.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hadimba Temple

Explore this ancient wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests, and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Take a local bus (5 INR) or a short taxi ride (30 INR) from Café 1947.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Relax at Manu Temple

This tranquil temple is a great spot for a peaceful picnic while enjoying mountain views.
Take a local bus or taxi (15 INR) to the temple which is about 3 km away.
Free, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Johnson's Lodge

Enjoy a budget-friendly thali meal in the beautiful garden during lunchtime.
Head back to the main market via local bus (10 INR).
INR400, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Walk along Mall Road

Stroll through Mall Road, shopping for local handicrafts or sitting at a café with a view.
Easily accessible from Johnson’s Lodge on foot.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Sunset View at Solang Valley

Catch a breathtaking sunset amidst the snow-capped peaks, perfect for family photos.
Take a local bus (30 INR) to Solang Valley (about 14 km).
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Lazy Dog

Savor a simple yet delectable pizza while enjoying the welcoming atmosphere.
Return to Manali by local bus (30 INR).
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure and Leisure

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner House

Grab a quick breakfast of parathas and chai before heading out for the day.
Located a short walk from your accommodation.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Vashisht Hot Springs

Enjoy a morning of relaxation at these natural hot springs, believed to have therapeutic properties.
Take a local bus or taxi (20 INR) to Vashisht, 3 km away.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Vashisht Village

Enjoy a traditional meal at a local eatery after your hot springs soak.
Choose a local restaurant within the village.
INR350, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Nature Trails

Hike on nearby trails for stunning views and fresh air, a perfect nature experience for the family.
Start from Vashisht, mapping your way on local trails.
Free, 3 hours

4:30PM

Visit Old Manali

Explore the quaint streets of Old Manali, packed with shops and a laid-back vibe.
You can walk back approximately 3 km or take a shared taxi (20 INR).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Sunset by the River Beas

End your day by the river, enjoying a peaceful moment with your family.
Easily accessible on foot from Old Manali.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The German Bakery

Have a family-friendly meal of pasta and dessert in a warm atmosphere.
Conclude your day from the riverfront back toward the Old Manali area.
INR450, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Journey to Kasol

Kasol, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Manali

Enjoy a classic Indian breakfast of aloo paratha and curd to fuel up for the day.
Located 10 minutes from your accommodation in Manali.
INR300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Travel to Kasol

Take a bus to Kasol, a beautiful village situated riverside, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Board the bus from the Manali bus station (Cost: 70 INR).
INR70, 1 hour

10:30AM

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle into a budget-friendly guest house in Kasol surrounded by nature.
Choose an accommodation near the market.
INR1000 (for family), 1 hour

11:30AM

Explore the local market

Wander through the quaint market, picking up local crafts and souvenirs.
Explore on foot from your accommodation.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Jim Morrison Café

Have a delicious pasta or sandwich amidst a bohemian vibe, perfect for families.
Easily reachable on foot from the market.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Parvati River

Spend the afternoon by the scenic Parvati River, ideal for relaxation and family bonding.
Walk down from the café to the riverbank.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Short Hike to Kheerganga

Embark on an easy hike to Kheerganga, best known for its hot springs and stunning views.
Local transport available for about 100 INR to start if needed.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Evergreen Café

Wrap up the day with a flavorful meal of curry and naan by the riverside.
Head back toward the town area from Kheerganga.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Guesthouse

Enjoy a quick breakfast set up by your guesthouse before heading out.
Simple options are available at most budget accommodations.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Shimla

Catch a bus from Kasol to Shimla to experience the scenic ride.
Bus from Kasol bus station (Cost: 100 INR).
INR100, 3 hours

12:00PM

Check-in at Accommodation

Settle in for a night at a budget hotel in Shimla.
Choose accommodations near Mall Road.
INR1000 (family room), 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at The Indian Coffee House

Sample local dishes like dosa and filter coffee for a true Shimla experience.
Just a short walk from your accommodation.
INR350, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Mall Road and Ridge

Stroll through the Mall Road, explore cafes, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Easily reachable on foot.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Hike or take a cab to this hilltop temple for panoramic views of Shimla.
Local transport or a hike can take you up to Jakhoo.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Sunset at Scandal Point

Enjoy a picturesque sunset while relaxing at this popular viewpoint.
Walking distance from Jakhoo Temple back to Mall Road area.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Himachali Rasoi

Delight in authentic dish options like siddu or chana madra — a local favorite.
Head back to Mall Road for dinner.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Final Day in Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Café

Start your day with simple toast and omelette before a packed day.
Available easily near your hotel.
INR200, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the Viceregal Lodge

Visit this historical site with beautiful gardens and architecture that represents India's colonial past.
Taxi or bus (20 INR) from the Mall road area.
INR50, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Walk in the Gardens

Relax in the lovely gardens of the lodge, perfect for a family photo shoot.
Enjoy the garden spaces as you walk around.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Ashiana & Goofa

Taste traditional Indian sizzlers or biryani in this cozy, budget-friendly restaurant.
Walk back towards the Mall Road from the lodge.
INR400, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Shimla Heritage Museum

Step back in time as you explore the artifacts and history of the region.
Only a few blocks away, easily reachable on foot.
INR20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Leisure time on Mall Road

Enjoy some free time to shop, relax, or grab a snack while browsing local shops.
Stay around Mall Road at your own pace.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Departure Preparations

Pack your bags and prepare for your onward journey, savoring the memories you've created as a family.
At your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour
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