Himachal Pradesh Adventure from Delhi: Manali, Kullu, Dharamshala & Shimla with Iconic Toy Train Experience

Day 1: Delhi to Manali

Delhi to Manali, India on April 20, 2025

6:00am

Depart Delhi for Manali

Start early from Delhi and embark on a scenic approximately 12-14 hour drive or take an overnight Volvo bus for comfort and scenic vistas of the mountains ahead.
INR 800-1500 (bus/train fare) or additional fuel/taxi cost, 12-14h

7:30pm

Arrival and Dinner in Manali

Check into your hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant such as Falak Open Air Restaurant, famous for Himachali cuisine in a pleasant open environment.
INR 500, 1h

Day 2: Manali Adventure

Manali, India on April 21, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Mount View Noodles

Fuel up with authentic Tibetan-style breakfast noodles, a Manali speciality, in a well-loved local eatery.
INR 300, 1h

9:30am

Paragliding at Solang Valley

Experience exhilarating paragliding with certified operators, flying over the Solang Valley's vivid natural beauty. Open from 8am to 5pm daily.
INR 2500, 2h

12:00pm

Visit Hadimba Temple

Visit this iconic wooden temple set in a peaceful cedar forest, known for its unique design and connection to local mythology.
INR 10, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Falak Open Air Restaurant

Savour delicious Himachali and North Indian dishes with views of the mountains in open-air seating.
INR 500, 1h

3:00pm

Vashisht Hot Springs

Relax in natural sulphur hot springs with reputed healing properties at Vashisht village, accessible throughout the day.
Free, 1.5h

5:00pm

Shopping and strolling Mall Road

Shop for handicrafts, souvenirs, and local woollens, and experience the lively atmosphere of Manali’s main commercial street.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Evergreen Kasol

Indulge in authentic Himachali cuisine at this popular restaurant known for its warm ambiance and quality dishes.
INR 600, 1h

Day 3: Kullu Temples & Travel

Kullu, India on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Local Eatery

Start your day with local Himachali staples and freshly brewed tea to energise for day’s exploration.
INR 200, 1h

9:00am

Raghunath Temple Visit

Marvel at Raghunath Temple’s exquisite wooden architecture and enjoy the spiritual serenity of this revered temple in Kullu.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Bijli Mahadev Temple Visit

Travel to the hilltop temple known for the lightning rod on its spire, offering panoramic views of Kullu valley and nearby mountains.
Free, 2h

12:45pm

Lunch at Himachali Rasoi

Enjoy authentic, home-style Himachali cuisine in a cozy setting that highlights local flavours and spices.
INR 450, 1h

2:00pm

Travel to Dharamshala

Begin your 3-4 hour drive to Dharamshala, an important cultural and spiritual hub nestled in the Dhauladhar mountains.
Transport fare, 3.5h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Northern Cafe Bir (Dharamshala)

Relax and enjoy a range of organic, wholesome dishes and aromatic coffee in this charming cafe.
INR 500, 1h

Day 4: Dharamshala & Mcleodganj

Dharamshala & Mcleodganj, India on April 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Northern Cafe Bir

Start with coffee and varied breakfast options in the cafe renowned for its organic and fresh fare.
INR 350, 1h

9:30am

Dalai Lama Temple Visit

Visit the serene Tsuglagkhang Complex, spiritual home of the Dalai Lama, absorbing peaceful vibes and beautiful courtyard views. Open daily 9am-6pm.
Free, 1.5h

11:30am

Tibetan Museum

Delve into Tibetan history and culture via informative exhibits that give insight into the journey and struggles of the Tibetan community.
INR 100, 1h

12:45pm

Lunch at Local Eatery in Mcleodganj

Relish simple but delicious Tibetan dishes like momos and thukpa in a popular local café.
INR 400, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Tea Gardens near Dharamshala

Enjoy peaceful walks through lush tea plantations, experiencing hill station serenity and spectacular nature.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Mcleodganj Market

Stroll through colourful shops and stalls selling handicrafts, Tibetan artefacts and souvenirs until evening.
Varies, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Evergreen Kasol (Optional)

If traveling in this direction, enjoy another opportunity to taste delightful Himachali cuisine at this well-regarded restaurant.
INR 600, 1h

Day 5: Shimla & Toy Train

Shimla, India on April 24, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Cafe Simla Times

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with fresh baked goods and coffee overlooking Shimla’s lively Mall Road.
INR 350, 1h

8:30am

Board Shimla-Kalka Toy Train

Embark on the UNESCO-listed Kalka-Shimla narrow-gauge railway, a picturesque journey through 103 tunnels and 864 bridges with panoramic mountain and forest views. The train journey lasts about 5-6 hours with multiple daily departures — verify schedule and book in advance for preferred times and classes.
INR 600-1500 (varies by class and seat), 5-6h

2:30pm

Leisure time at The Ridge, Shimla

Relax and soak in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains from this famous open space and cultural hub in Shimla town.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Explore Mall Road Shimla

Shop for local crafts, woollens and souvenirs, and enjoy the colonial-era architecture and cafes until early evening closing around 8pm.
Varies, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Brew Estate

Dine on freshly brewed beers paired with continental and Indian dishes in this stylish and popular Shimla restaurant.
INR 700, 1h

Day 6: Kasauli Highlights

Kasauli, India on April 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Local Café

Begin with local Himachali tea and breads in a quaint hill station café setting.
INR 200, 1h

9:30am

Monkey Point Hike

Hike to Monkey Point, famous for its panoramic views and a shrine dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perfect for nature lovers and spiritual seekers.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Hanuman Temple Visit

Visit the serene Hanuman Temple near Monkey Point, a place of worship and quiet reflection with lovely surroundings.
Free, 1h

1:15pm

Lunch at Local Restaurant

Taste authentic Himachali dishes in a well-recommended local eatery.
INR 400, 1h

3:00pm

Sunset Point Visit

Relax at Sunset Point to admire wonderful views of the Himalayan foothills and enjoy a peaceful end to the day.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Leisure / Departure

Spend the rest of the day at leisure or prepare for onward travel or return to Delhi.
Varies, Varies