Scenic Shimla to Manali: A Delightful Himachal Pradesh Journey

Day 1: Shimla Exploration

Shimla, India on May 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wake & Bake Café

Enjoy fresh bakery items and strong coffee at Wake & Bake Café, a popular spot offering great views and cozy ambiance. Open from 8:00am to 9:00pm.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

The Ridge

Stroll around The Ridge, Shimla’s cultural hub with panoramic views of the Himalayas and vibrant local markets. It’s a perfect spot for photography and soaking in the town’s charm.
Free, 1h0m

10:45am

Christ Church

Visit Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India, noted for its striking stained-glass windows and neo-Gothic architecture. It opens from 8:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 0h30m

11:30am

Mall Road Shimla

Explore Mall Road for local shopping, quaint cafes, and street food. It’s the perfect place to buy souvenirs and enjoy the relaxed ambiance of Shimla.
Free, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Ashiana & Goofa

Relish traditional Himachali cuisine and North Indian dishes in a garden setting with beautiful mountain views. Open 11:30am to 10:00pm.
INR600, 1h0m

3:00pm

Jakhoo Temple

Visit Jakhoo Temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, perched on Jakhoo Hill, the highest peak in Shimla offering sweeping views. Open 7:00am to 6:00pm. Moderate trek or short cab ride required.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at hotel / Leisure walk

Return to your hotel for some rest or take an evening stroll around Shimla for local ambience and peaceful views.
Varies, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Café Sol

Enjoy a cozy dinner with contemporary Indian and continental dishes at Café Sol, located on Mall Road. Open from 11:00am to 10:30pm.
INR700, 1h0m
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Day 2: Travel to Manali

Shimla to Manali, India on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel to prepare for the scenic 7-hour drive to Manali.
Included in stay, 0h45m

7:45am

Drive from Shimla to Manali

Travel via NH205, a picturesque journey through mountainous terrain, valleys, and rivers. Stopover options include Sundernagar and Mandi for refreshments and short breaks.
Varies (car rental approx INR4000), 7h0m

2:45pm

Check-in and relax in Manali hotel

Rest and refresh after the journey in your pre-booked hotel in Manali.
Varies, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Mall Road Manali

Explore the vibrant Mall Road in Manali with local shops, cafes, and handicrafts. Great for souvenir shopping and people-watching.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Johnson’s Café

Popular café serving excellent continental and Indian dishes with a lively ambiance. Open 9:00am to 10:00pm.
INR600, 1h0m
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Day 3: Manali Sightseeing

Manali, India on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café 1947

Enjoy breakfast by the Beas River, known for fresh ingredients and Italian dishes. Open 8:00am to 9:30pm.
INR350, 1h0m

9:30am

Hadimba Devi Temple

Visit this ancient cedar wood temple set amidst tall pine trees, famous for its unique architecture and serene location. Open 7:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 1h0m

10:45am

Manu Temple

Dedicated to the sage Manu, this temple is a significant spiritual site, offering insight into local beliefs and culture. Open from 9:00am to 6:30pm.
Free, 0h30m

11:30am

Vashisht Hot Springs

Relax in the natural hot springs known for their medicinal properties, located about 3 km from Manali center.
INR50, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Drifter’s Café

Taste healthy and tasty North Indian dishes and sandwiches in a cozy garden location. Open 10:00am to 8:00pm.
INR500, 1h0m

2:30pm

Solang Valley

Head to Solang Valley for adventure sports such as paragliding, zorbing, or simply enjoying the splendid valley views. Best to visit early afternoon; open year-round.
Activity costs vary (paragliding approx INR2000), 3h0m

6:00pm

Return to Manali town and relax

After an active day, unwind at your accommodation or stroll through the town to enjoy the fresh mountain air.
Varies, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at The Lazy Dog Lounge

Experience casual Himalayan dining with wood-fired pizzas and hearty meals. Open 12:00pm to 11:00pm.
INR700, 1h0m
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Day 4: Naggar & Departure

Naggar, near Manali, India on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading out to explore Naggar, a picturesque village near Manali.
Included, 0h45m

9:00am

Naggar Castle

Explore this beautiful medieval castle turned heritage hotel, known for its architecture, history, and breathtaking views of the Kullu Valley. Open 8:00am to 6:00pm.
INR50, 1h15m

10:30am

Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery

Visit the gallery dedicated to the Russian painter Nicholas Roerich showcasing Himalayan-themed artwork and artifacts.
INR30, 0h45m

11:30am

Local Village Walk

Take a guided walk around Naggar’s rustic villages and apple orchards to experience local culture and traditional Himachali lifestyle.
Free or nominal guide fee, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Cats & Dogs Café

Enjoy homestyle Himachali and continental dishes in a pet-friendly café located in Naggar. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
INR450, 1h0m

2:30pm

Return to Manali / Departure

Head back towards Manali for your onward journey or departure. The drive takes about 30–40 minutes.
Varies, 0h40m
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