Enchanting Himachal Pradesh: A 12-Day Autumn Journey through Spiti Valley, Chail, Kasol, Jibhi, Bir Billing, Chitkul, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Shimla, and Manali

Day 1: Arrival and Acclimatisation

Shimla, India on September 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Sol

Enjoy a delightful breakfast of local Himachali dishes and freshly brewed coffee in the heart of Shimla, setting the tone for your mountainous journey.
INR300, 1h0m

10:00am

Walk along The Ridge

Stroll through Shimla’s famous Ridge offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and visit landmarks like Christ Church.
Free, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Café Simla Times

Savour North Indian and Himachali cuisine in a cozy setting to experience authentic local flavours.
INR500, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Visit this serene hilltop temple dedicated to Hanuman with beautiful views and playful monkeys.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Oberoi Wildflower Hall

Dine with a luxurious setting offering gourmet cuisine and Himalayan vistas, perfect for unwinding after the day.
INR1500, 1h30m
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Day 2: Exploring Chail

Chail, India on September 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café Breeze Inn

Start the day with a wholesome Himachali breakfast and freshly baked bread in charming Chail.
INR250, 1h0m

9:00am

Chail Palace Visit

Explore the historic Chail Palace featuring colonial architecture and lush gardens, giving insight into the region's royal past.
INR200, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at HPTDC Skylark Restaurant

Relish local delicacies and panoramic views from this popular hill restaurant.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Chail Cricket Ground

Visit the world’s highest cricket ground regarded for its unique setting amid pine forests.
Free, 1h0m

4:00pm

Nature Walk & Sunset Point

Enjoy a tranquil walk through the forest trails leading to a viewpoint perfect for watching the sunset.
Free, 2h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Hotel Grand View

Indulge in traditional Himachali cuisine and warmth of local hospitality.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 3: Dharamshala Highlights

Dharamshala, India on September 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Illiterati Café

Enjoy fresh organic breakfast items in this library-themed café popular with locals and travellers alike.
INR350, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the residence of the Dalai Lama including the Namgyal Monastery and Tibet Museum to understand Tibetan culture.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nick’s Italian Kitchen

Relish delicious pizzas and pastas in a cosy setting in McLeod Ganj.
INR500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Bhagsunath Waterfall and Temple

A short hike to the waterfall and ancient temple offers spiritual respite and natural beauty.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Stroll in Tibetan Market

Explore local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food in the bustling market area.
Variable, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tibet Kitchen

Sample authentic Tibetan dishes such as momos and thukpa in this popular spot.
INR400, 1h0m
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Day 4: Bir Billing Adventure

Bir Billing, India on September 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Café 1997

Start early with a hearty breakfast featuring continental options amidst a serene atmosphere.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Paragliding at Billing

Experience world-famous paragliding at Billing, renowned as one of the best flying sites globally, offering spectacular views of the Dhauladhar range.
INR3500, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Sanctuary Café

Enjoy fresh organic meals and vegan options in this peaceful eco-friendly café.
INR450, 1h0m

3:00pm

Visit Deer Park Institute

Explore this place dedicated to the study and practice of classical Indian wisdom and meditation.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Karma Café

A vibrant café offering spiritual ambience with diverse global cuisine.
INR500, 1h0m
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Day 5: Jibhi Serenity

Jibhi, India on September 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Old House Café

Savour fresh pastries and local organic produce in a beautiful rural setting.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Jibhi Waterfall and Wildlife Sanctuary

Nature walk to serene waterfalls followed by exploring the sanctuary filled with diverse flora and fauna.
Free, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Bridge Café

Relax by the river and enjoy a meal with freshly cooked Himachali and Indian dishes.
INR400, 1h0m

3:00pm

Explore Local Villages

Walk or cycle to nearby traditional villages to experience local culture and handicrafts.
Free, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Mountain Inn

End the day with warm Himachali cuisine in a cosy mountain inn setting.
INR500, 1h30m
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Day 6: Kasol & Parvati Valley

Kasol, India on September 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Evergreen Café

Enjoy breakfast with a view of the Parvati River while sampling freshly roasted coffee.
INR350, 1h0m

9:30am

Trek to Chalal Village

A gentle 2km trek alongside the river to the quaint village of Chalal, known for hippie culture and stunning scenery.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Buddha Place

Try Israeli and Indian fusion dishes in this popular local hangout.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara

Explore this holy site known for its hot springs and spiritual significance for Sikhs and Hindus alike.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Cafe Hopping in Kasol

Relax in Kasol’s vibrant cafés, sampling local teas and snacks.
Variable, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Jim Morrison Café

Experience live music and a cozy vibe paired with good food and drinks.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 7: Chitkul & Spiti Valley

Chitkul, India on September 7, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Local Homestay

Enjoy a traditional Himachali breakfast made from farm-fresh ingredients before heading into the Spiti region.
INR250, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Chitkul

Travel to the last inhabited village on the India-China border, famed for its breathtaking valley views and wooden architecture.
Transport cost approx., 4h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Village Café

Sample hearty local fare in a welcoming village café, perfect for replenishing energy.
INR350, 1h0m

2:30pm

Walk Along Baspa River

Stroll beside the pristine Baspa River surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner and Overnight at Guesthouse

Experience local hospitality with Himachali dishes prepared by the guesthouse family.
INR500, 1h30m
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Day 8: Spiti Valley Exploration

Spiti Valley, India on September 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Local Eatery

Fill up on energy with simple but wholesome Himachali dishes before a day of exploring.
INR250, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Ki Monastery

Explore one of the largest and oldest monasteries in Spiti, famous for its ancient murals and meditation caves.
Free, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch in Kaza

Try local Tibetan-inspired delicacies such as thukpa and momos at a guesthouse in Kaza town.
INR400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore Kibber Village

Visit one of the highest motorable villages in the world, known for its wildlife sanctuary and quaint homes.
Free, 2h0m

5:00pm

Sunset at Langza

Enjoy mystical views of the Himalayan peaks and fossil-rich fields at sunset in the village of Langza.
Free, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Kaza Guesthouse

Warm up with local stews and fresh bread in rustic comfort after a day of exploration.
INR500, 1h30m
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Day 9: Return towards Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India on September 9, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Guesthouse

Early wholesome breakfast to prepare for the scenic drive back to Dalhousie.
INR250, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Dalhousie

Scenic drive passing through mountain ranges and forested landscapes to the hill station of Dalhousie.
Transport cost approx., 7h0m

4:00pm

Check-in and Rest

After arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy some rest.
Variable, 2h0m

6:00pm

Walk on Gandhi Chowk

Explore the bustling market square with shops selling local handicrafts, spices, and snacks.
Free, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Café Dalhousie

Dine on multi-cuisine dishes made with fresh local produce in a warm setting.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 10: Dalhousie Sightseeing

Dalhousie, India on September 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Dakota's Café

Enjoy fresh bakery items and coffee in a vintage ambiance.
INR300, 1h0m

9:30am

Khajjiar Visit

Drive 22 km to Khajjiar, also known as the 'Mini Switzerland of India', for its lush meadows and lake surrounded by deodar forests.
INR100 for entry, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Apple Valley Restaurant

Dine on local dishes with views of the surrounding apple orchards.
INR450, 1h0m

3:30pm

St. John's Church Visit

Visit this historic Gothic-style church known for its stained glass windows and peaceful grounds.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Hotel

Unwind and enjoy the amenities of your accommodation.
Variable, Rest of the evening

7:30pm

Dinner at Mughalzan Dalhousie

Experience aromatic North Indian cuisine in a comfortable setting.
INR600, 1h30m
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Day 11: Return to Manali

Manali, India on September 11, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your transfer to Manali.
Included with stay, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Manali

Travel approximately 6 hours south through beautiful mountain landscapes to Manali.
Transport cost approx., 6h0m

3:00pm

Check-in and Rest

Check into your accommodation in Manali and relax.
Variable, 2h0m

5:30pm

Visit Mall Road

Stroll the bustling Mall Road with shops, cafés, and street food vendors.
Free, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Johnson's Café

Enjoy Tibetan and Himachali dishes in a welcoming setting; try the trout fish specialty.
INR700, 1h30m
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Day 12: Manali Highlights

Manali, India on September 12, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café 1947

Have Italian-style breakfast alongside the Beas River in this scenic café.
INR400, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Hadimba Temple

Explore this ancient wooden temple surrounded by cedar woods, a peaceful spiritual spot with beautiful architecture.
INR30, 1h0m

11:00am

Solang Valley Visit

Visit Solang Valley for optional activities such as ropeway rides, zorbing, or simply enjoying mountain views.
INR300-500 for activities, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Drifters’ Inn & Café

Enjoy hearty Western and Indian dishes in a relaxed atmosphere.
INR500, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit Manu Temple

See this temple dedicated to the sage Manu, an important figure in Hindu mythology.
Free, 30m

5:00pm

Shopping for Souvenirs

Explore local markets for woollens, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Variable, 1h0m

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Café Tantra

End your tour with an eclectic menu featuring global dishes and a lively ambience.
INR700, 1h30m
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