Efficient 5-Day Trip: Chennai to Chandigarh with Kullu, Manali, and Shimla Exploration

Day 1: Arrival & Transfer

Chandigarh to Kullu, India on May 26, 2025

6:00pm

Arrival at Chandigarh Airport/Railway Station

Arrive in Chandigarh by evening and prepare for onward travel to Kullu.
INR0, 0h30m

7:00pm

Drive Chandigarh to Kullu

Begin your scenic road journey from Chandigarh to Kullu (approx. 5-6 hours), enjoying the Himalayan foothills.
INR1500, 6h0m

1:00am

Check-in Hotel in Kullu

Rest at your hotel in Kullu after the overnight journey in preparation for a full day ahead.
Varies by hotel, Rest
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Day 2: Kullu & Move to Manali

Kullu and Manali, India on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Himalayan Cafe, Kullu

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with local Himachali dishes and fresh coffee to start your day.
INR300, 1h

9:00am

Visit Raghunath Temple

Explore this ancient temple which is an important spiritual site for locals and showcases beautiful architecture.
Free, 1h

10:30am

Visit Bijli Mahadev Temple

Drive to this hilltop temple famous for stunning views and its ancient Shiva Linga struck by lightning.
INR50, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Johnson's Cafe, Kullu

Savor Himachali and North Indian cuisine at this cozy and well-rated eatery.
INR500, 1h

2:00pm

Drive from Kullu to Manali

Short drive of approx. 1 hour taking you deeper into the mountains and arriving to Manali.
INR300, 1h

3:00pm

Check-in Hotel in Manali

Relax and freshen up after the road journey, prepare for sightseeing in Manali.
Varies by hotel, Rest

4:00pm

Visit Hadimba Devi Temple

Explore this unique wooden temple set amidst cedar forests, known for its serene setting and architecture.
Free, 1h

5:30pm

Stroll through Old Manali Market

Explore the local markets for handicrafts, souvenirs, and experience the vibrant local culture.
Free to browse, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Cafe 1947

End your day with Italian and continental dishes by the river in a charming ambiance.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 3: Manali Exploration

Manali, India on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Greens

Enjoy wholesome and fresh breakfast options including local Himachali dishes and continental options.
INR350, 1h

9:30am

Visit Solang Valley

Spend the morning at Solang Valley engaged in adventure activities such as paragliding, zorbing, or simply savoring the alpine views.
Varies (starting INR500), 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Johnson's Cafe, Manali

Enjoy delicious North Indian specialties with great mountain views.
INR600, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Manu Temple

Explore the historic Manu Temple dedicated to sage Manu, set in peaceful surroundings.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Vashisht Hot Water Springs

Relax at the natural sulphur springs famous for their therapeutic properties.
INR50, 1h

6:00pm

Leisure time or optional local cafes

Explore local cafes or relax in hotel after full day of sightseeing.
Varies, Rest

8:00pm

Dinner at The Lazy Dog Lounge

Experience cozy dining and international cuisine with lovely mountain views.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 4: Travel to Shimla & Sightseeing

Manali to Shimla, India on May 29, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Start with a quick and energizing breakfast before the road journey.
Included in hotel, 1h

8:30am

Drive Manali to Shimla

Prepare for a scenic 7-hour drive crossing beautiful landscapes through the mountains.
INR2000, 7h

3:30pm

Check-in Hotel in Shimla

Rest and prepare to explore Shimla town in the late afternoon.
Varies by hotel, Rest

4:30pm

Walk on The Mall Road

Enjoy a pleasant stroll on Shimla’s famous Mall Road, shop souvenirs, and see colonial architecture.
Free to explore, 2h

6:30pm

Visit Christ Church

Admire the iconic Gothic-style church, one of the oldest in North India.
Free, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Cafe Sol

Dine on delicious continental and Indian dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 5: Shimla & Departure

Shimla to Chandigarh, India on May 30, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House, Shimla

Enjoy a classic breakfast at this heritage eatery serving old-school Indian dishes.
INR200, 1h

8:30am

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Visit this hilltop temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic views over Shimla.
Free, 1h30m

10:30am

Visit Viceregal Lodge

Explore the historic British-era mansion showcasing colonial history and beautiful gardens.
INR50, 1h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Wake & Bake Cafe

Casual cafe with great food and views, perfect for a leisurely lunch before departure.
INR500, 1h

1:30pm

Drive from Shimla to Chandigarh Airport/Railway Station

Leave Shimla and drive back to Chandigarh to catch your evening flight or train home.
INR1800, 4h

5:30pm

Arrival at Chandigarh Airport/Railway Station

Reach Chandigarh with enough time to board your onward journey back to Chennai.
INR0, End
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