5-Day Scenic Himachal Pradesh Adventure: Nature, Culture, and Cuisine

Day 1: Shimla Sightseeing

Shimla, India on May 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wake & Bake Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with freshly brewed coffee and baked goodies at this cozy cafe famous for its relaxed ambiance and tasty food.
INR300, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Ridge

Explore The Ridge, Shimla’s central open space offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and colonial-era architecture, perfect for a morning stroll.
Free, 1h

10:45am

Christ Church Tour

Tour the historic Christ Church, famous for its stained glass windows and neo-Gothic architecture, an iconic Shimla landmark.
INR20, 30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Cafe Sol

Dine at Cafe Sol offering authentic Himachali dishes and international cuisine, great for experiencing local flavors.
INR500, 1h

1:30pm

Jakhoo Temple Visit

Hike or take a taxi to Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, with spectacular views of Shimla and a lively atmosphere with monkeys nearby.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Mall Road Walk & Shopping

Stroll along the bustling Mall Road for shopping local handicrafts, souvenirs, and enjoying street treats.
Varies, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Himachali Rasoi

Savor traditional Himachali cuisine in a warm setting, featuring dishes like Chha Gosht and Babru.
INR600, 1.5h

Day 2: Travel to Manali & Local Tour

Manali, India on May 24, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at The Lazy Dog Lounge

Enjoy a filling breakfast with eggs, pancakes, and fresh juices to start your day before traveling.
INR400, 1h

8:00am

Drive Shimla to Manali

Embark on a scenic 7-hour drive through winding mountain roads passing beautiful valleys and tea gardens.
INR2000 (taxi fare approx.), 7h

3:30pm

Check-in and Refresh

Rest and freshen up at your hotel in Manali before heading out to explore the town.
Varies, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Hidimba Devi Temple

Visit this ancient and unique temple surrounded by cedar forests, known for its distinct wooden carvings.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Shopping and Walk at Old Manali

Explore Old Manali’s charming streets, small shops, cafes, and enjoy the relaxed vibe.
Free, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Johnson’s Cafe

Have dinner at this popular cafe known for Tibetan and continental dishes with a warm ambiance.
INR700, 1.5h

Day 3: Rohtang Pass & Solang Valley

Manali, India on May 25, 2025

6:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Have an early breakfast to prepare for a full day adventure to Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley.
Included in hotel stay, 30m

7:00am

Drive to Rohtang Pass

Take a guided trip to Rohtang Pass (subject to permit availability), famous for spectacular snow-capped views and snow activities.
INR550 (permit), INR1500 (tour guide/transport approx.), 3h

10:00am

Snow Activities at Rohtang Pass

Enjoy snow activities like sledding, snowball fights, and photography in the pristine mountain snow.
Varies by activity, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Dhaba near Rohtang

Relish local North Indian and Himachali dishes in a roadside dhaba atmosphere.
INR350, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Solang Valley

Explore the scenic Solang Valley for paragliding, zip-lining, and gentle walks amidst alpine meadows.
Paragliding INR2000 approx., 3h

6:00pm

Return to Manali

Drive back to Manali to rest and refresh.
Included, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Drifters’ Cafe

End the day with continental and Indian fusion cuisine in a cozy, artsy cafe in Old Manali.
INR600, 1.5h

Day 4: Travel to Dharamshala & Exploration

Dharamshala, India on May 26, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Cafe 1947

Have an early breakfast by the river with Italian delicacies at this charming cafe in Old Manali.
INR450, 1h

8:00am

Drive Manali to Dharamshala

A scenic 7-hour drive through the Dhauladhar range offering splendid views and forested landscapes.
INR2200 (taxi fare approx.), 7h

3:30pm

Check-in and Rest

Settle into your Dharamshala accommodation and take a break to refresh.
Varies, 1h

4:30pm

Visit Dalai Lama Temple Complex

Explore the spiritual center with beautiful Tibetan architecture, prayer halls, and peaceful gardens.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Tibet Kitchen

Enjoy authentic Tibetan cuisine including momos and thukpa at this cozy and acclaimed restaurant.
INR500, 1.5h

Day 5: McLeod Ganj Cultural Day

McLeod Ganj, India on May 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Nick’s Italian Kitchen

Start your day with a variety of breakfast options including fresh pastries and coffee in a relaxing setting.
INR400, 1h

9:30am

Visit Bhagsu Waterfall and Temple

Walk to the scenic Bhagsu Waterfall and visit the ancient temple nearby, a serene place of worship.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen

Enjoy quality Italian cuisine such as wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta in a cozy atmosphere.
INR600, 1.5h

2:00pm

Explore Tibetan Museum

Discover the rich history and culture of Tibet and the Tibetan exile community through exhibits and artifacts.
INR100, 1.5h

4:00pm

Shopping in McLeod Ganj

Browse local markets for Tibetan handicrafts, prayer flags, and souvenirs.
Varies, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Illiterati Café

Relax with tasty fusion dishes and craft coffee in an artistic vibe, a perfect way to end your trip.
INR550, 1.5h