5-Night Majestic Shimla and Manali Itinerary for 3 Adults | Scenic Himalayan Escape

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Shimla, India on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wake & Bake Cafe

Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and delicious continental breakfast in this charming cafe, opening from 8 AM.
INR500, 1h

9:30am

Viceregal Lodge Visit

Explore the historic Viceregal Lodge, the former summer residence of the British Viceroy with stunning Edwardian architecture and museum exhibits, open 9:30 AM – 5 PM.
INR20, 2h

12:00pm

Mall Road Walk and Lunch

Stroll along Shimla’s famous Mall Road, enjoy local shops and eateries. Have lunch at Café Sol, known for North Indian cuisine.
INR600, 1.5h

2:00pm

The Ridge and Christ Church

Visit the scenic Ridge ground and admire the Gothic Revival Christ Church, open throughout the day and great for photography.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Jakhoo Temple Trek

Trek or take a taxi to Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offers panoramic views of Shimla. Open all day.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Eighteen71 Courtyard

Enjoy a cozy dinner with Himachali and international dishes in a beautiful heritage setting.
INR1000, 1.5h

Day 2: Nature & Culture

Shimla, India on May 18, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Classic breakfast with south Indian staples served at a nostalgic café on Mall Road from early morning.
INR200, 1h

9:30am

Kufri Day Trip

Head to Kufri, 16 km from Shimla, famous for hiking, horse riding, and nature walks. Visit the Himalayan Zoo en route, open 9 AM – 5 PM.
INR50 for zoo entry, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Himalayan

Dine in a cozy eatery in Kufri that serves local dishes with fantastic mountain views.
INR700, 1h

3:00pm

Return to Shimla and Explore Scandal Point

Relax and enjoy tea at Scandal Point, the bustling junction and popular hangout spot.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Cafe Simla Times

Enjoy contemporary cuisines with a rustic ambiance, open till 10 PM.
INR900, 1.5h

Day 3: Travel to Manali & Leisure

Manali, India on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast and Checkout

Have a quick breakfast at the hotel, then prepare for your approximately 8-hour scenic drive to Manali.
INR400, 1h

8:00am

Drive Shimla to Manali

Enjoy beautiful landscapes along the winding Himalayan roads on your transfer to Manali. Keep light snacks handy.
INR4000 (taxi fare approx.), 8h

4:30pm

Check-in and Relax

Check into your hotel in Manali. Rest and freshen up after your journey.
Varies by hotel, 1.5h

6:00pm

Evening Walk on Mall Road, Manali

Stroll around the vibrant Mall Road for shopping and local snacks.
Free, 1.5h

7:30pm

Dinner at Johnson’s Cafe

Popular for trout fish and diverse Himachali and continental dishes.
INR1200, 1.5h

Day 4: Manali Sightseeing

Manali, India on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to fuel a day of sightseeing.
Usually included with stay, 1h

9:00am

Visit Hadimba Devi Temple

Explore this ancient cedar wood temple surrounded by cedar forest, open from early morning to sunset.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Vashisht Hot Springs

Head to the hot springs for a relaxing soak and visit the traditional village nearby. Open all day.
INR100, 1.5h

12:30pm

Lunch at Café 1947

Enjoy riverside dining with Italian cuisine and fresh wood-fired pizzas.
INR900, 1h

2:00pm

Naggar Castle and Art Tour

Visit Naggar Castle and the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery 22 km from Manali, open 9 AM – 6 PM.
INR50, 3h

6:30pm

Return and Dinner at The Corner House

Casual dining spot popular for local and multi-cuisine fare in Manali.
INR800, 1.5h

Day 5: Adventure & Departure Preparation

Manali, India on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Cafe Coffee Day

A quick breakfast to start an adventurous day with beverages and light snacks.
INR300, 1h

8:30am

Rohtang Pass Excursion

Drive to Rohtang Pass (subject to permit and weather conditions), popular for snow activities and spectacular views. Opens early morning till 6 PM.
INR550 per permit, 6h

3:00pm

Return and Rest

Return to Manali, relax at your hotel after a packed day of adventure.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Drifters’ Cafe

Enjoy a memorable dinner with Tibetan and local Himachali dishes in a friendly atmosphere.
INR1000, 1.5h