10-Day Shoestring Budget Rail Trip: Chandigarh, Golden Temple, Wagah Border, Shimla, Kasol, and Manali

Day 1: Explore Chandigarh

Chandigarh, India on January 20, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Start your day with a hearty South Indian breakfast at the iconic Indian Coffee House, famous for its filter coffee.
Navigate by local bus or rickshaw towards Sector 17.
INR200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rock Garden

Explore the unique and creatively designed Rock Garden, an artistic masterpiece made from discarded materials.
Walk to Rock Garden, around 15 minutes from the coffee house.
INR30, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Sukhna Lake

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Sukhna Lake while soaking in the scenic beauty and fresh air.
Take a local bus or rickshaw to Sukhna Lake, about 10 minutes.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pal Dhaba

Savor delicious North Indian cuisine at Pal Dhaba, well-known for its chole bhature.
Take a rickshaw from Sukhna Lake to Pal Dhaba, approximately 20 minutes.
INR300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Rose Garden

Wander through the beautiful Zakir Hussain Rose Garden with thousands of rose varieties blooming.
Take a local bus or rickshaw, about 15 minutes from the restaurant.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Shopping at Sector 17 Plaza

Explore the local shops and enjoy some time souvinerring before heading to Amritsar.
Walk back to Sector 17 Plaza, around 10 minutes.
Varies, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Bikanervala

Cap off your day with delicious vegetarian fast food at Bikanervala.
Take a local bus or rickshaw back to the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour
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Day 2: Travel to Amritsar

Chandigarh, India on January 21, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Dera Chicken

Enjoy a filling breakfast of traditional Punjabi parathas and lassi.
Take a local rickshaw to the restaurant.
INR300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Train to Amritsar

Board the train to Amritsar and enjoy the scenic view during the journey.
Chandigarh Railway Station (Book tickets in advance).
INR150, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Brothers Dhaba

Once in Amritsar, try the authentic Amritsari cuisine at Brothers Dhaba.
Take a rickshaw from the station to the dhaba.
INR500, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Golden Temple Visit

Visit the stunning Golden Temple, the spiritual heart of Amritsar, and partake in the community kitchen offering free meals.
Walk to the Golden Temple, about 15 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Wagah Border Ceremony

Experience the lively and patriotic Beating Retreat ceremony at Wagah Border.
Take a local bus or rickshaw, approximately 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Kesar Da Dhaba

Indulge in some traditional Punjabi dishes at Kesar Da Dhaba known for its dal makhani.
Return to Amritsar center via rickshaw.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Further Exploration in Amritsar

Amritsar, India on January 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ahuja Lassi

Start the day with a refreshing glass of famous Amritsari lassi and local bread.
Walk to Ahuja Lassi, about 10 minutes.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jallianwala Bagh

Explore the memorial park and learn about the historic massacre that took place here.
Walk to Jallianwala Bagh, only 5 minutes away.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Partition Museum

Visit this poignant museum dedicated to the history of the Partition of India.
Walk to the museum, about 10 minutes.
INR20, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Amritsar Kitchen

Enjoy tasty vegetarian lunch options in a cozy setting in the heart of the city.
Take a rickshaw to Amritsar Kitchen.
INR400, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore local markets

Take some time to stroll through the bustling markets to shop for handicrafts and spices.
Walk to the markets, about 10 minutes.
Varies, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Prakash Kulcha

Taste the famous Amritsari Kulchas served with chole at this local favorite.
Take a rickshaw back to Prakash Kulcha.
INR300, 1 hour
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Day 4: Travel to Shimla

Amritsar, India on January 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kesar Da Dhaba

Enjoy a final breakfast at Kesar Da Dhaba for their famous parathas.
Walk to the dhaba, about 5 minutes.
INR300, 1 hour

9:00AM

Train to Shimla

Depart for Shimla via a scenic toy train ride, unraveling the breathtaking landscapes.
Amritsar Railway Station (Check train schedule in advance).
INR600, 6 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Ashiana & Goofa

Dine with a view at Ashiana and Goofa, experiencing local Himachali cuisine.
Take a taxi or bus to the restaurant, approximately 15 minutes from Shimla Station.
INR400, 1 hour

4:30PM

Mall Road Stroll

Stroll down the famous Mall Road, soaking in the charming colonial architecture.
Walk back to Mall Road, approximately 15 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Cafe Simla Times

Enjoy delicious continental food with a lively ambiance at Cafe Simla Times.
Take a short walk down the Mall Road, about 10 minutes.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Explore Shimla

Shimla, India on January 24, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Wake & Bake Cafe

Start your day with aromatic coffee and a delicious breakfast at this cozy cafe.
Walk to The Wake & Bake, about 15 minutes.
INR250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Embark on the hike to Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic views of Shimla.
Walk or take a rickshaw to the base of the temple, about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Himachali Rasoi

Savor traditional Himachali dishes at this popular restaurant.
Rode a rickshaw back down to restaurant, around 15 minutes.
INR350, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Viceregal Lodge

Explore the historical heritage of the Viceregal Lodge with its stunning gardens.
Walk to the lodge from the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
INR50, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Shopping at Lakkar Bazar

Browse through the wooden handicrafts and souvenirs at Lakkar Bazar.
Walk to Lakkar Bazar, around 15 minutes.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sita Ram & Sons

Try the local chole bhature at this well-known eatery.
Take a rickshaw from Lakkar Bazar to the restaurant, about 15 minutes.
INR300, 1 hour
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Day 6: Travel to Kasol

Shimla, India on January 25, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Sol?

Start your day with a filling breakfast at Cafe Sol, known for its stunning views.
Walk to Cafe Sol, about 15 minutes.
INR300, 1 hour

8:30AM

Bus to Kasol

Catch an early morning bus to Kasol, experiencing the beautiful landscapes.
Shimla Bus Station.
INR100, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Evergreen Cafe

Enjoy a meal at this charming café known for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food.
Walk to The Evergreen Cafe from the bus stop, about 10 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Kasol

Spend the afternoon exploring the picturesque village, along the Parvati river.
Walk around the village.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Visit Parvati River

Take in the serene vibes by the stunning Parvati River, capturing the beauty of nature.
Continue walking along the river.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Baba Café

Dine at The Baba Café, popular for its amazing pizzas and friendly ambiance.
Walk back to The Baba Café, approximately 15 minutes.
INR450, 1 hour
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Day 7: Adventure in Kasol

Kasol, India on January 26, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at a local eatery

Start the day with some local pastries and fresh coffee from a nearby local eatery.
Walk to the local eatery, about 5 minutes.
INR150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Kheerganga Trek

Embark on the thrilling trek to Kheerganga, enjoying scenic landscapes over the next few hours.
Take a shared taxi to Kheerganga base, about 30 minutes.
INR350, 6 hours

4:00PM

Return from Kheerganga

After enjoying the breathtaking views, return from your trekking adventure.
Travel back to Kasol by shared taxi.
INR350, 1 hour

5:30PM

Relax at Kasol café

Unwind at a local café, sipping on delicious herbal tea to relax from your trek.
Walk to Cafe in Kasol.
INR200, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Little Italy

End your day with a lovely Italian meal, trying their delicious pasta dishes.
Take a rickshaw or walk to the café.
INR500, 1 hour
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Day 8: Travel to Manali

Kasol, India on January 27, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at the Bakery

Grab some fresh bakery goods and coffee to fuel your journey.
Walk to the local bakery, about 5 minutes.
INR150, 1 hour

8:00AM

Bus to Manali

Take a local bus to the stunning hill station of Manali, with breathtaking views on the way.
Kasol Bus Stand.
INR200, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Check-in at hostel

Arrive in Manali and check-in at your budget hostel, ready to explore.
Walk to a nearby hostel which you can find online in advance.
INR800, 30 minutes

11:30AM

Lunch at Drifters' Cafe

Enjoy a hearty lunch at Drifters' Cafe, famous for its warm vibe and vibrant menu.
Walk from your hostel, about 10 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Old Manali

Take the time to wander through the quaint streets of Old Manali, discovering charming cafes and shops.
Walk to Old Manali, located around 15 minutes from Drifters' Cafe.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Manu Temple

Make your way to the Manu Temple, an ancient temple providing stunning views of the mountains.
About 15 minutes walk from Old Manali.
INR20, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Café 1947

Enjoy a delightful meal at Café 1947, known for their delectable Italian dishes.
Take a short walk from Manu Temple.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Explore Manali

Manali, India on January 28, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Johnson's Lodge

Kick start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Johnson's Lodge, praised for its views.
Walk to Johnson's Lodge, about 10 minutes.
INR350, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Solang Valley

Prepare for some adventure with a day trip to the breathtaking Solang Valley, perfect for winter sports.
Catch a local taxi or bus to Solang Valley (30 minutes).
INR600, 7 hours

5:30PM

Return to Manali

After a fun-filled day in Solang Valley, head back to your accommodation in Manali.
Catch a local taxi or bus back to Manali.
INR150, 30 minutes

6:30PM

Dinner at The Lazy Dog

Relax at The Lazy Dog and enjoy a selection of delectable dishes.
Walk to The Lazy Dog, around 15 minutes.
INR500, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Final Day in Manali

Manali, India on January 29, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 1947

Indulge in another delightful breakfast at Cafe 1947, enjoying the cozy atmosphere.
Walk to Cafe 1947, about 10 minutes.
INR400, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hadimba Temple

Explore the beautiful Hadimba Temple, surrounded by towering cedar trees.
Take a rickshaw to the temple, approximately 15 minutes.
INR20, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Vashisht Village

Visit the quaint Vashisht Village famed for its hot springs and relaxed atmosphere.
Take a local bus or rickshaw from Hadimba Temple, about 30 minutes.
INR50, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch in Vashisht Cafe

Enjoy a comforting meal at the popular Vashisht Cafe, trying their signature momos.
Walk from the springs to Vashisht Cafe.
INR300, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the local markets

Spend some time shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs in Manali town.
Walk back to Manali town, about 20 minutes.
Varies, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Drifters' Cafe

End your journey with a final meal at Drifters' Cafe, reminiscing over your adventure.
Head back to Drifters' Cafe, about 10 minutes.
INR400, 1.5 hours
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