5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in Shimla & Manali

Day 1: Explore Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wake & Bake

Start your day with delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee at this cozy café, perfect for families.
Located near the Mall Road, just a 10-minute walk from your hotel.
INR 1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Mall Road

Stroll along the bustling Mall Road, where kids can enjoy local snacks and shop for souvenirs.
Continue walking along Mall Road.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Indian Coffee House

Enjoy a hearty lunch with a menu boasting an array of traditional Indian dishes.
Located adjacent to Mall Road.
INR 1500, 1 hour

1:30PM

Jakhu Temple Visit

Visit the Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Shimla.
Take a local taxi to the temple base, and a short trek will lead you up the hill.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Toy Train Ride

Experience a unique heritage ride on the Shimla-Kalka toy train through beautiful landscapes.
Board the train from Shimla Railway Station.
INR 800, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hungry Hill

Savor Italian and Indian cuisine with spectacular mountain views, a lovely family-friendly restaurant.
Easily accessible by a local taxi or a short stroll.
INR 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Adventure in Shimla

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Simla Times

Start the day with refreshing smoothies and tasty sandwiches at this vibrant eatery.
A short walk from your hotel.
INR 1200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Kufri

Head to Kufri for a day of outdoor fun, exploring the adventure park and enjoying pony rides.
Book a cab for a 30-minute drive to Kufri.
INR 500 (entry fee), 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Royal Cafe

Have a relaxed lunch with an array of local Himachali dishes and North Indian cuisine.
On your way back from Kufri to Shimla.
INR 1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Lakkar Bazaar Shopping

Explore Lakkar Bazaar for wooden handicrafts and souvenirs that represent local culture.
Conveniently located near Mall Road.
Free (shopping is optional), 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Christ Church

Discover the architectural beauty of one of the oldest churches in North India.
A short stroll from Lakkar Bazaar.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Himachali Rasoi

Try authentic Himachali thali served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Easily accessible within the main city.
INR 1500, 1 hour
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Day 3: Journey to Manali

Manali, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner House

Enjoy freshly baked bread and ethnic Himachali breakfast fare before leaving Shimla.
Located near your hotel.
INR 1000, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Manali

Embark on a scenic 7-hour drive through gorgeous hills and valleys, with occasional stops for photography.
Transfer via a private cab arranged the day before.
INR 2500 (cab fare), 7 hours

3:00PM

Check-in and Relax

Arrive in Manali and check in to your family-friendly hotel, unwind and freshen up.
Located a short drive from the main market.
Accommodation cost varies., 1 hour

4:00PM

Window Shopping at Mall Road, Manali

Explore Mall Road in Manali for unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Easily walkable from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Johnson Lodge & Spa

Feeling hungry? Enjoy a delightful dinner at this charming hotel known for its ambiance and good food.
Located on the Mall Road.
INR 1800, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Manali

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 1947

Start your day with a meal at this riverside café, renowned for its warm ambiance and delicious breakfast options.
A short walk from your hotel.
INR 1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Solang Valley

Spend the morning enjoying adventure activities such as paragliding and zorbing at Solang Valley.
Take a taxi; it's about 13 km from Manali.
INR 1000 (activities range), INR 500 (entry fee), 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Lazy Dog

Refuel with a post-adventure lunch at this quirky café offering an eclectic menu.
On your way back to Manali, conveniently located.
INR 1500, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit Hadimba Temple

Explore this serene temple surrounded by cedar forests, perfect for a family photo opportunity.
A quick taxi ride from lunch spot.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Mountain View

End your day with traditional Himachali cuisine, including delicious local breads and curries.
Close to your hotel.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Leisure Day

Manali, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Drifter's Cafe

Start your day at this laid-back café known for its breakfast bowls and smoothies tailored for families.
Short walking distance from your hotel.
INR 1200, 1 hour

10:00AM

Free Exploration or Day at Beas River

Spend your morning relaxing by Beas River; enjoy picnics or strolls along its banks.
Easily accessible from Manali market.
Free (picnic supplies optional), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Evergreen

Indulge in a delightful lunch featuring Tibetan and Asian cuisine amidst a rustic setting.
On your way from the river, within Manali.
INR 1500, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Vashisht Village

Head to Vashisht for a hot spring bath, a calming experience for the family after days of adventure.
Take a local cab; it’s about 3 km from Manali.
INR 200 (entry fee), 2 hours

5:30PM

Casual Dinner at The Himalayan Bistro

End your trip with a relaxed dinner offering diverse cuisines in a family-friendly environment.
Located near your hotel.
INR 1500, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Pack and Prepare for Departure

Prepare for your journey back home while reminiscing about your wonderful trip.
Return to your hotel room.
Free, 1 hour
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