4-Day Family Trip from Varanasi to Shimla: Culture, Nature, and Relaxation

Day 1: Travel & Relax

Varanasi to Shimla, India on May 19, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Open Hand Cafe, Varanasi

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fresh juices and Indian-style omelets to fuel up for the travel day. Open from 7am to 11am.
INR300, 1h0m

8:30am

Depart from Varanasi Railway Station

Board the Sampark Kranti Express or book a morning flight to Shimla via Delhi to begin your journey.
INR1500-4000 per person, 15h0m approx (train) or 5h0m approx (flight + layover)

4:00pm

Arrive at Shimla

Check into your hotel and relax after the journey. Suggested family-friendly hotel: The Oberoi Cecil known for excellent hospitality.
INR6000/night, Rest of day

6:30pm

Dinner at Ashiana & Goofa, Shimla

Savor traditional Himachali dishes in a cozy atmosphere. Open from 12pm to 10pm.
INR1000 approx for family, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Shimla Sightseeing

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh on May 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Try the classic South Indian breakfast items like idli, dosa paired with filter coffee. Opens at 8am.
INR200 per person, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk on The Mall Road

Explore the lively Mall Road filled with shops, cafes, and colonial buildings. Enjoy street snacks and pick souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Located atop Jakhoo Hill, this temple dedicated to Hanuman offers panoramic views of Shimla. Be cautious of monkeys nearby.
Free, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Simla Times

Taste delicious continental and Indian fusion meals in this charming cafe. Open 10am to 10pm.
INR800 approx for family, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Viceregal Lodge

Tour the historic Viceregal Lodge, a majestic colonial-era building with beautiful gardens. Open 10am to 5pm.
INR30 per adult, children free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Hotel

Rest and prepare for next day's outing.
Included, Rest of evening

7:30pm

Dinner at Balzi’s Restaurant

Enjoy a mix of Indian, Chinese and continental dishes in a family-friendly setting. Open until 11pm.
INR1200 approx, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Kufri Excursion

Shimla and Kufri, Himachal Pradesh on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Start early with a wholesome breakfast provided by the hotel to get ready for a day of adventure.
Included, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Kufri

Take a scenic 30-min drive to Kufri, known for its adventure sports and beautiful nature trails.
Transport approx INR1500 return, 0h30m

9:00am

Visit Kufri Fun World

Enjoy amusement park rides, go-carting, and horse riding — great for children and adults alike. Open 9am to 6pm.
INR300 per person, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Restaurant in Kufri

Grab a meal with views overlooking the valley and enjoy local Himachali cuisine.
INR700 approx, 1h0m

2:00pm

Short Nature Walk to Himalayan Nature Park

Explore flora and fauna native to the region in this nature park with easy trails suitable for families.
INR20 per adult, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to Shimla

Relax during the drive back to Shimla in time for dinner and rest.
Included in transport, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cafe Sol, Shimla

Wind down with pizzas, pastas and Indian dishes in a relaxed open-air setting. Open till 11pm.
INR1200 approx, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Leisure & Return

Shimla to Varanasi, India on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack up your belongings before checkout.
Included, 1h0m

9:30am

Stroll at Ridge Ground

Take a final peaceful walk at the Ridge, the town’s cultural hub with great views and fresh mountain air. Free and open all day.
Free, 1h0m

11:00am

Check-out and depart Shimla

Head back to Varanasi by booked transport or flight via Delhi. Consider midday flights for convenience.
INR1500-4000 per person, 5-15h depending on transport

7:00pm

Dinner en route or upon arrival in Varanasi

If arriving late, stop at a trusted restaurant near Varanasi railway or airport to enjoy local flavors.
INR500 approx, Flexible
View Hotel Availability