Epic 20-Day Hyderabad to Ladakh Road Trip via Shimla: Scenic Drives and Cultural Wonders

Day 1: Start Journey

Hyderabad, Telangana, India on April 20, 2025

7:00am

Departure from Hyderabad

Start early to cover distance and avoid city traffic. First leg towards Nagpur to break the journey.
INR0, 8h0m

10:00am

Breakfast at Swathi Tiffins, Hyderabad

Enjoy traditional South Indian breakfast to fuel up for the drive. Highly rated for dosas and idlis.
INR300, 0h45m

4:00pm

Reach Nagpur - Overnight Stay

Rest after a long day's drive. Nagpur is a great halfway point with many hotel options.
Varies, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Barbeque Nation, Nagpur

Treat yourself to an indulgent live grill experience perfect after a day on the road.
INR800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Drive to Delhi

Nagpur to Delhi, India on April 21, 2025

6:30am

Depart Nagpur

Early start recommended to cover maximum distance comfortably.
INR0, 10h30m

9:00am

Breakfast at Sagar Ratna, Nagpur

Popular South Indian chain for a hearty breakfast before the long drive.
INR300, 0h45m

8:00pm

Arrive Delhi and check-in

Rest overnight in Delhi. Strategic stop before heading to Shimla.
Varies, Overnight

9:00pm

Dinner at Karim’s, Old Delhi

Experience authentic Mughlai cuisine near Jama Masjid, perfect for dinner.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 3: Delhi to Shimla Drive

Delhi to Shimla, Himachal Pradesh on April 22, 2025

7:00am

Start Drive to Shimla

Scenic mountainous drive through the foothills of Himalayas. Approx 7-8 hours drive.
INR0, 7h30m

9:30am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House, Connaught Place, Delhi

Enjoy classic Indian coffee and snacks before leaving the city.
INR250, 0h45m

3:30pm

Arrive Shimla and check-in

Relax after the drive and prepare for sightseeing in the next days.
Varies, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Wake & Bake, Shimla

Casual dining with great variety of pizzas and local flavors.
INR600, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Explore Shimla

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop, Hotel Willow Banks

Best spot for fresh breakfast in Shimla with great mountain views.
INR400, 0h45m

9:00am

The Ridge Walk

Stroll along Shimla's most famous open space with panoramic views and historic buildings. https://goo.gl/maps/TheRidgeShimla
Free, 1h30m

10:30am

Christ Church

Visit the second oldest church in North India, famous for its neo-Gothic architecture. https://goo.gl/maps/ChristChurchShimla
Free, 0h30m

11:15am

Jakhoo Hill & Temple

Hike or drive to Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla with a famous Hanuman temple. https://goo.gl/maps/JakhooTempleShimla
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Simla Times

Enjoy delicious Himachali and continental dishes known for ambiance and quality. https://goo.gl/maps/CafeSimlaTimes
INR700, 1h

2:30pm

Shimla State Museum

Explore Himachal's rich culture and history through artifacts and exhibits. https://goo.gl/maps/ShimlaStateMuseum
INR30, 1h

4:00pm

Mall Road Shopping

Browse local crafts, woollens and souvenirs along this bustling pedestrian street. https://goo.gl/maps/MallRoadShimla
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Himachali Rasoi

Savor authentic regional food in a cozy setting, especially popular for Dham. https://goo.gl/maps/HimachaliRasoiShimla
INR600, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Rest & Local Leisure

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh on April 24, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House, Shimla

Known for nostalgia and simple Indian-style breakfast classics. https://goo.gl/maps/IndianCoffeeHouseShimla
INR200, 0h45m

10:00am

Explore Annandale Ground & Mini Zoo

Leisurely visit to this picnic spot and small zoo, great for relaxation and nature. https://goo.gl/maps/AnnandaleShimla
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Baljees Restaurant

Popular for Indian and Chinese quick bites, good for visitors and locals. https://goo.gl/maps/BaljeesShimla
INR500, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Kufri

A short 30-minute drive from Shimla, known for Himalayan nature park and adventure activities. https://goo.gl/maps/KufriShimla
INR60, 3h

7:30pm

Dinner at Café Sol, Kufri

Cozy café with local dishes and stunning mountain views. https://goo.gl/maps/CafeSolKufri
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 6: Shimla to Manali Drive

Shimla to Manali, Himachal Pradesh on April 25, 2025

7:00am

Depart Shimla

Early start for the approx 7-hour scenic drive to Manali via NH205 and NH3.
INR0, 7h

9:00am

Breakfast at Café Shonar Bangla, Shimla

Taste authentic Bengali style breakfast with a mountain twist. https://goo.gl/maps/CafeShonarBanglaShimla
INR400, 0h45m

2:00pm

Lunch at Sainik Rest House, Mandi

Ideal stopover for food and refreshments on way to Manali. https://goo.gl/maps/SainikRestHouseMandi
INR500, 1h

4:00pm

Arrive Manali - Check-in

Settle in after the drive and prepare for sightseeing.
Varies, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Johnson’s Café, Manali

A famous spot offering international cuisine and cozy ambiance. https://goo.gl/maps/JohnsonsCafeManali
INR800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Manali Sightseeing

Manali, Himachal Pradesh on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café 1947

Rustic riverside café with authentic Italian and continental breakfast. https://goo.gl/maps/Cafe1947Manali
INR500, 1h

9:00am

Hadimba Devi Temple

Ancient wooden temple surrounded by cedar forest - a spiritual must-see. https://goo.gl/maps/HadimbaTempleManali
Free, 1h

10:30am

Manu Temple

Explore this historic temple dedicated to sage Manu, located in Old Manali. https://goo.gl/maps/ManuTempleManali
Free, 0h45m

11:30am

Vashisht Hot Springs

Relax in natural hot springs set in beautiful village surroundings. https://goo.gl/maps/VashishtHotSpringsManali
INR30, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Café Nirvana

Enjoy organic and healthy food options in a calming garden setting. https://goo.gl/maps/CafeNirvanaManali
INR600, 1h

3:00pm

Old Manali Walk & Shopping

Explore quaint markets for handicrafts, woollens, and cafes soaking local culture. https://goo.gl/maps/OldManaliMarket
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Drifters' Inn & Café

Live music venue and café with a casual vibe and good food. https://goo.gl/maps/DriftersInnManali
INR800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Rest & Local Exploring

Manali, Himachal Pradesh on April 27, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Johnson’s Café

Another hearty breakfast at this renowned café to fuel the day.
INR500, 1h

10:00am

Solang Valley

Visit this beautiful valley known for adventure sports and stunning views. https://goo.gl/maps/SolangValleyManali
Free, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Café 1947

Enjoy riverside lunch with Italian specialties and refreshing breezes.
INR600, 1h

3:00pm

Tajurant Falls

Short trek to scenic waterfall, a peaceful nature spot just outside Manali. https://goo.gl/maps/TajurantFalls
Free, 2h

6:00pm

Spa and Relaxation

Book an Ayurvedic spa session or massage at local wellness center for rest.
INR1500, 1h30m

8:00pm

Dinner at Café Green

Great multi-cuisine spot with relaxing ambience and good food variety. https://goo.gl/maps/CafeGreenManali
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 9: Manali to Keylong Drive

Manali to Keylong, Himachal Pradesh on April 28, 2025

7:00am

Start Drive from Manali to Keylong

Scenic mountainous drive on Manali-Leh highway approx 6 hours. Keylong is the district headquarters of Lahaul.
INR0, 6h

9:00am

Breakfast at Café 1947, Manali

Famous riverside café offering fresh breakfast options before heading out. https://goo.gl/maps/Cafe1947Manali
INR500, 0h45m

1:30pm

Lunch at Local dhaba, near Rohtang Pass

Simple North Indian food to recharge on route across the famous high mountain pass.
INR300, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Kardang Monastery, near Keylong

One of the largest monasteries in Lahaul, offers cultural insight and tranquil surroundings. https://goo.gl/maps/KardangMonastery
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Check-in to guesthouse in Keylong

Rest and acclimate for further high altitude drive.
Varies, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at hotel restaurant

Simple wholesome food appropriate for altitude and rest.
INR600, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Keylong to Sarchu Drive

Keylong to Sarchu via Baralacha La Pass on April 29, 2025

7:00am

Depart Keylong for Sarchu

Drive through scenic mountain passes including Baralacha La. Distance approximately 90km, 4-5 hours driving.
INR0, 5h

8:30am

Breakfast at local café, Keylong

Early light breakfast with local dishes and tea.
INR250, 0h30m

1:00pm

Lunch stop at camps around Baralacha La

Picnic style or dhaba-like lunch amid breathtaking mountain scenery.
INR400, 0h45m

3:00pm

Arrive Sarchu - Settle in at camp

Basic camp accommodation to prepare for next day’s higher altitude journey. Important to rest and hydrate.
Varies, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at camp

Simple nutritious meals provided to aid acclimatization.
Included with camp stay, 1h
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Sarchu to Leh Drive

Sarchu to Leh, Ladakh on April 30, 2025

7:00am

Depart Sarchu early to Leh

Approximately 250 km over rough terrain including famous passes like Lachulung La and Taglang La; 8-9 hours drive.
INR0, 9h

7:30am

Breakfast at camp

Early bolstering meal before challenging drive.
Included with camp stay, 0h30m

12:30pm

Picnic lunch en route

Food packed from camp or roadhouse stops, important to maintain energy.
INR300, 0h30m

4:00pm

Arrive Leh and check-in

Settle into accommodation in Leh, rest and acclimate further for sightseeing.
Varies, Overnight

7:00pm

Dinner at Bon Appetit Cafe, Leh

Well known café for excellent continental dishes and cozy ambiance. https://goo.gl/maps/BonAppetitCafeLeh
INR700, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Leh Monastery Tour

Leh, Ladakh on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gesmo Café Leh

Comforting breakfast spot with local and international choices. https://goo.gl/maps/GesmoCafeLeh
INR450, 0h45m

9:00am

Thiksey Monastery

Monastery resembling Potala Palace of Lhasa, iconic spiritual and cultural site. https://goo.gl/maps/ThikseyMonasteryLeh
Free, 2h

11:30am

Shey Palace & Monastery

Former royal summer capital of Ladakh with beautiful monastery and views. https://goo.gl/maps/SheyPalaceLeh
INR30, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Lamayuru Restaurant, Leh

Tibetan and Ladakhi specialties in a friendly setting. https://goo.gl/maps/LamayuruRestaurantLeh
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Leh Palace

Explore this 17th-century royal palace with stunning architecture and city views. https://goo.gl/maps/LehPalace
INR50, 1h30m

4:30pm

Shanti Stupa

Visit the white dome Buddhist stupa on a hill with panoramic views of Leh. https://goo.gl/maps/ShantiStupaLeh
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Tibetan Kitchen

Enjoy authentic Tibetan cuisine especially momos and thukpa. https://goo.gl/maps/TibetanKitchenLeh
INR700, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 13: Nubra Valley Excursion

Leh to Nubra Valley, Ladakh on May 2, 2025

7:30am

Depart Leh for Nubra Valley

Enjoy 2-3 hours drive crossing Khardung La, the highest motorable pass, to reach Nubra Valley.
Toll/Permits INR500, 4h

9:00am

Breakfast en route

Enjoy breakfast stop at roadside cafés near the pass preparations.
INR300, 0h45m

11:30am

Diskit Monastery

Visit the largest monastery in Nubra Valley with impressive Buddha statue. https://goo.gl/maps/DiskitMonasteryLadakh
INR20, 1h

12:30pm

Hunder Sand Dunes

Experience double-humped Bactrian camel rides and picturesque dunes. https://goo.gl/maps/HunderSandDunes
Camel Ride INR400, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at local guest house

Savor authentic Ladakhi dishes prepared fresh at guest houses.
INR500, 1h

4:00pm

Return to Leh

Drive back to Leh with stops for photos and refreshments.
INR0, 4h

8:00pm

Dinner at Bon Appetit Cafe, Leh

Relax with well-loved continental dining after day trip.
INR700, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 14: Pangong Lake Day Trip

Leh to Pangong Lake, Ladakh on May 3, 2025

6:30am

Early departure to Pangong Lake

6-hour drive with stunning views en route to this famous blue lake near the border.
INR0, 6h

8:00am

Breakfast packed or en route

Carry packed breakfast or stop at military canteen or roadhouse near Chang La pass.
INR300, 0h30m

12:30pm

Explore Pangong Lake

Walk along the lake shore, photography, and relax taking in breathtaking landscapes. https://goo.gl/maps/PangongLake
INR50, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at camp or dhaba near lake

Simple and tasty meals available near lakeside camps.
INR600, 1h

3:30pm

Return to Leh

Drive back to Leh same route, arriving by evening.
INR0, 6h

9:30pm

Light Dinner or Late Snack in Leh

Opt for light meals at the hotel or nearby cafés due to late arrival.
INR400, 0h45m
View Hotel Availability

Day 15: Hemis & Local Markets

Leh, Ladakh on May 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Gesmo Café

Hearty breakfast to start your last explorations.
INR450, 0h45m

9:00am

Hemis Monastery

Largest and wealthiest monastery in Ladakh, famous for annual festival and artifacts. https://goo.gl/maps/HemisMonastery
INR50, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Ladakh Kitchen

Enjoy delicious traditional Ladakhi and Tibetan dishes. https://goo.gl/maps/LadakhKitchenLeh
INR650, 1h

1:30pm

Shopping at Leh Main Bazaar

Browse for souvenirs including pashmina, handicrafts and prayer flags. https://goo.gl/maps/LehMainBazaar
Free to browse, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Stok Palace Museum

Discover Ladakhi royal heritage and cultural artifacts in this compelling museum. https://goo.gl/maps/StokPalace
INR100, 1h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at The Tibetan Kitchen

Conclude Ladakh stay with favorite Tibetan cuisine in cozy ambiance.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 16: Rest & Prepare Return

Leh, Ladakh on May 5, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed morning with hotel breakfast, packing for journey ahead.
Included, 1h

11:00am

Light local sightseeing or market stroll

Calm walk around Leh for any last sightseeing or shopping.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Ladakh Kitchen

Casual meal with favorites before departure.
INR600, 1h

3:00pm

Rest and vehicle check

Ensure vehicle condition for long drive back starts tomorrow.
INR0, Rest of day

7:00pm

Dinner at hotel

Early dinner to rest well before return.
Included or INR600, 1h30m
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Day 17: Leh to Manali Return

Leh to Manali, Himachal Pradesh on May 6, 2025

7:00am

Depart for Manali

Long drive approx 10-11 hours across high mountain passes. Start early for daylight travel.
INR0, 10h

8:00am

Breakfast at Leh

Early light breakfast at hotel or packed for the road.
INR300, 0h30m

2:00pm

Lunch stop at Keylong

Rest and refuel with local cuisine before continuing descent. https://goo.gl/maps/Keylong
INR500, 1h

6:00pm

Arrive Manali and check-in

Relax after long day, prepare for next day rest.
Varies, Overnight

7:30pm

Dinner at Johnson’s Café, Manali

Comforting and familiar eatery with variety options.
INR800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 18: Rest Day Manali

Manali, Himachal Pradesh on May 7, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Central Perk Coffee

Relaxed breakfast to enjoy the mountain ambiance.
INR350, 1h

10:00am

Spa or leisurely walk

Take rest with spa treatments or walk along river Beas.
INR1500, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Nirvana

Fresh and wholesome meal in garden setting.
INR600, 1h

3:00pm

Shopping and local market visit

Pick up souvenirs and enjoy local fare or chai.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Drifters' Inn & Café

Live music and good food to end rest day relaxing.
INR800, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 19: Begin Return to Hyderabad

Manali to Delhi on May 8, 2025

7:00am

Depart Manali for Delhi

Long drive approx 12-13 hours to Delhi; start early and plan for stops.
INR0, 13h

9:00am

Breakfast at café in Mandi

Quick breakfast break at popular café in Mandi town.
INR350, 0h30m

2:00pm

Lunch at highway dhaba

Roadside rest and quick meal to recharge.
INR400, 0h45m

8:00pm

Arrive Delhi & Overnight stay

Rest after extensive day’s drive, prepare for last stretch home.
Varies, Overnight

9:00pm

Dinner at Connaught Place food court

Wide variety of cuisines for relaxing end to day.
INR600, 1h
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Day 20: Delhi to Hyderabad

Delhi to Hyderabad, India on May 9, 2025

7:00am

Depart early from Delhi

Final leg home, approx 19 hours driving or consider resting halfway at Nagpur.
INR0, 19h

9:00am

Breakfast at local Delhi café

Light breakfast to keep energy for drive.
INR300, 0h45m

2:00pm

Lunch stop at Nagpur

Quick meal and refresh before night driving.
INR400, 0h45m

10:00pm

Arrive Hyderabad

Conclude 20-day epic road trip with memories and stories to share.
INR0, Trip End
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