3-Day Budget Itinerary Exploring Manali and Surroundings in Himachal Pradesh

Day 0: Travel to Manali

Starting point to Manali, India on May 20, 2025

9:00PM

Overnight bus/train to Manali

Take an overnight Volvo bus or train from your city to Manali to save daytime for sightseeing and reduce accommodation costs. Arrival early morning on Day 1.
INR1200, 10h0m

Day 1: Manali Local Exploration

Manali, Himachal Pradesh, India on May 21, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 1947

Start your day with a riverside breakfast at Café 1947 serving Italian and continental dishes in a charming setting.
INR250, 1h0m

9:30AM

Visit Hadimba Devi Temple

Explore this ancient cedar wood temple dedicated to goddess Hadimba surrounded by forests, open 6 AM to 6 PM.
Free, 1h0m

11:00AM

Walk through Old Manali Market

Stroll through Old Manali market filled with shops selling handicrafts, woollens, and souvenirs.
Free, 2h0m

1:00PM

Lunch at Drifter’s Café

Enjoy affordable local and continental meal in a cozy café with a relaxed vibe.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30PM

Visit Vashisht Hot Springs

Relax in the natural hot springs located in Vashisht village, believed to possess medicinal qualities, open all day.
INR50, 2h0m

5:00PM

Evening at Mall Road

Explore the bustling Mall Road with shops, cafés and street food stalls to soak up local culture.
Free, 2h0m

7:30PM

Dinner at Café Lounge 78

End your day with budget-friendly diverse meal options at Café Lounge 78 with mountain views.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 2: Nature and Adventure

Manali Region, Himachal Pradesh, India on May 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at hotel/guesthouse

Have a simple and budget-friendly breakfast included in your accommodation or nearby eatery.
INR150, 1h0m

9:00AM

Solang Valley Excursion

Visit Solang Valley, 14 km from Manali, for adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, or just enjoy splendid views. Open 8 AM to 6 PM.
INR300-700 (activity dependent), 4h0m

1:30PM

Lunch at Solang Valley food stalls

Try local Himachali snacks and fresh momos from food stalls within the valley.
INR200, 1h0m

3:00PM

Visit Naggar Castle

Explore the historical Naggar Castle and enjoy views of the Kullu Valley, located about 20 km from Manali. Open 9 AM to 6 PM.
INR30, 2h0m

6:00PM

Return and relax at Manali

Spend a relaxed evening in Manali enjoying local cafés or resting after adventure day.
Free, 2h0m

7:30PM

Dinner at Johnson’s Café

Have an economical yet delicious dinner with Himachali and international dishes popular among travelers.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 3: Culture and Scenic Views

Manali Region, Himachal Pradesh, India on May 23, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at local eatery

Enjoy a light, affordable breakfast at a local café to begin your last day.
INR150, 1h0m

9:00AM

Jogini Waterfall Trek

Embark on an easy 3 km trek to Jogini Waterfall near Vashisht village, famous for its scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 3h0m

12:30PM

Lunch at Johnson's Café

Refuel with a tasty and budget-friendly meal featuring local and continental cuisine.
INR350, 1h0m

2:00PM

Visit Manu Temple

Explore the temple dedicated to sage Manu situated in Old Manali, providing spiritual and cultural insight.
Free, 1h0m

3:30PM

Relax by Beas River

Spend a peaceful late afternoon walking or sitting by the Beas River banks, soaking in nature.
Free, 2h0m

6:00PM

Early Dinner at Café 1947

Enjoy your final meal in Manali with delicious yet budget-conscious food close to the river.
INR400, 1h0m

Day 4: Return Travel

Manali to Starting Point on May 24, 2025

6:00AM

Start return journey

Take early morning transport back to your original city by bus or train, concluding your Himachal trip.
INR1200, 10h0m