10-Day Solo Trip to North India's Chilly Highlands in May End

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Shimla, India on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wake & Bake Cafe

Start your day with a delicious continental breakfast at Wake & Bake Cafe, known for its freshly brewed coffee and wood-fired bakery items.
INR400, 1h

10:00am

Visit The Mall Road

Take a leisurely walk along Mall Road, the vibrant heart of Shimla, lined with shops, cafes, and colonial architecture, perfect to immerse yourself in local culture.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant Ashiana & Goofa

Enjoy local Himachali and North Indian cuisine with scenic views of the hills at this popular restaurant.
INR700, 1.5h

3:00pm

Explore Jakhoo Temple

Visit the Jakhoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, situated on Jakhoo Hill offering panoramic views of Shimla and surrounding valleys.
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at The Oberoi Cecil

Dine at the elegant Oberoi Cecil’s restaurant, relishing refined Indian and international cuisine in a heritage setting.
INR1500, 2h
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Day 2: Nature and Culture

Shimla, India on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Sol

Enjoy a cozy breakfast with fresh juices, eggs, and breads in this rustic café beloved by locals.
INR350, 1h

9:00am

Visit Viceregal Lodge

Tour the historic Viceregal Lodge, an architectural marvel that was once the residence of British Viceroys, with beautifully maintained gardens.
INR50, 2h

12:00pm

Travel to Manali

Begin your 7-hour scenic drive to Manali, passing through picturesque valleys and riverbanks.
INR1500 (Taxi), 7h

7:30pm

Dinner at Johnson’s Cafe, Manali

A cozy spot to enjoy Himachali dishes and continental favorites after a long day of travel.
INR800, 1.5h
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Day 3: Manali Adventures

Manali, India on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café 1947

Riverfront dining with Italian breakfast specialties and beautiful views of the Beas River.
INR500, 1h

9:30am

Visit Hadimba Temple and Cedar Forest

Explore the serene Hadimba Temple surrounded by ancient cedar trees, ideal for a peaceful morning walk.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Lazy Dog Lounge

Taste delicious fusion cuisine in a relaxed ambience with comfy seating and great service.
INR900, 1.5h

2:00pm

Solang Valley Activities

Indulge in adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, or take a cable car ride to enjoy stunning views of snow-capped peaks. Open till 6pm; perfect for the afternoon.
INR1500 onwards, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Café Amigos

Enjoy casual Mexican and continental dishes perfect after a day full of excitement.
INR700, 1.5h
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Day 4: Local Culture and Relaxation

Manali, India on May 23, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Johnson’s Cafe

Hearty breakfast with a mix of local and international options.
INR600, 1h

10:00am

Visit Manu Temple and Old Manali

Explore the sacred Manu Temple, then stroll around Old Manali’s quaint lanes filled with shops and cafes.
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Corner House

Enjoy authentic Himachali cuisine made with fresh local ingredients.
INR700, 1.5h

3:30pm

Travel to Dharamshala

Drive for approximately 7 hours to reach Dharamshala, enjoying beautiful mountain views along the way.
INR1600 (Taxi), 7h

10:30pm

Dinner at Hotel Dhaam

Simple, late dinner option offering North Indian delicacies to close your travel day.
INR500, 1h
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Day 5: Spiritual and Scenic

Dharamshala, India on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Illiterati Café

Enjoy a quiet morning with great coffee and organic breakfast options in this artistic cafe.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Visit Dalai Lama Temple Complex

Experience the spiritual ambiance and Tibetan culture at the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Explore Bhagsu Waterfall and Temple

A short trek to the beautiful waterfall and visit the ancient Bhagsunath Temple, perfect for nature lovers.
Free, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Dhaba on the Way

Taste authentic Himachali thali and other local delicacies in this rustic eatery.
INR600, 1.5h

4:30pm

Stroll through McLeod Ganj Market

Shop for Tibetan handicrafts, souvenirs, and enjoy local tea shops.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Tibet Kitchen

Delight in Tibetan dishes, especially momos and thukpa, in a cozy atmosphere.
INR700, 1.5h
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Day 6: Day Trip Excursion

Dharamshala, India on May 25, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast before heading out for a day trip.
INR400 (approx.), 1h

8:00am

Day Trip to Triund Hill

Enjoy a scenic hike to Triund, offering spectacular views of the Dhauladhar range. The trek usually takes 4-5 hours one way, so start early and carry water and snacks.
Free, 8h

5:00pm

Return and Dinner at Nick’s Italian Kitchen

Relax with Italian cuisine featuring wood-fired pizzas and fresh pastas after your adventurous day.
INR900, 1.5h
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Day 7: Heritage and Leisure

Dharamshala to Dalhousie, India on May 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Illiterati Café

Start your day with coffee and light breakfast options.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Travel to Dalhousie

Leave Dharamshala for the 4-hour drive to the colonial hill station of Dalhousie, known for its old-world charm.
INR1200 (Taxi), 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Kwality Restaurant, Dalhousie

Enjoy local and North Indian dishes in an inviting setting.
INR700, 1.5h

4:00pm

Walk around Gandhi Chowk and Subhash Baoli

Explore Dalhousie’s quaint market area and relax by the scenic Subhash Baoli park.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Café Dalhousie

An intimate café with excellent continental and Indian fare.
INR800, 1.5h
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Day 8: Explore Nature

Dalhousie, India on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely morning breakfast with views of the hills.
Included in stay, 1h

9:00am

Visit Khajjiar

Drive 22 kms to Khajjiar, known as the 'Mini Switzerland of India,' for a day amid lush meadows, a small lake, and adventurous activities like zorbing.
INR300 (Entry & activities), 5h

3:00pm

Return to Dalhousie and tea at Erra

Relax with a warm cup of local tea at this popular café.
INR150, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mrs. Verma’s Tibetan Kitchen

Try authentic Tibetan food like momos and thukpa to end your day pleasantly.
INR600, 1.5h
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Day 9: Relax and Explore

Dalhousie, India on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Dalhousie

Start your day with fresh pastries and coffee.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Trek to Dainkund Peak

Enjoy a moderate 3-4 hour trek to Dainkund Peak, offering stunning views of the valleys and mountains.
Free, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Pine View Restaurant

Sample hearty North Indian meals with a great mountain view.
INR750, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit St. John’s Church

Explore this well-preserved colonial-era church built in the 19th century.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Café Dalhousie or Hotel restaurant

Choose your preferred cuisine to savor your last evening meal in the hills.
INR700, 1.5h
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Day 10: Departure

Dalhousie, India on May 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast and Pack-up

Enjoy your final breakfast in the hills, preparing for your journey back home or onward travel.
Included in stay, 1h

9:30am

Travel back to nearest transport hub

Make your way to Pathankot railway station or airport for onward journeys from Dalhousie.
Dependent on mode, 3-4h
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