Himachal Pradesh
Shimla Manali- 6D|5N Trip
Duration: 6 Days/ 5 Nights
Starts/Ends: Chandigarh
Places: Shimla 2 Nights, Manali 3 Nights
Overview
Embark on a scenic journey through Himachal Pradesh with this captivating itinerary. Begin in Chandigarh, where a picturesque drive leads you to Shimla, famous for its mild climate and adventure activities. Enjoy an excursion to Kufri, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and exhilarating adventure sports. Explore Shimla’s Mall Road and visit local attractions such as Scandal Point and Jhakoo Temple. Travel to Manali, a popular hill station by the Beas River, celebrated for its stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities. Discover Solang Valley, an adrenaline hotspot, and take a trip to the Atal Tunnel. Enjoy local sightseeing in Manali, visiting the Hadimba Devi Temple, a Buddhist Monastery, and Vashist Kund. Conclude your trip with a return to Chandigarh, appreciating its planned architecture before departing home with cherished memories of Himachal Pradesh.
Highlights
- 5 nights of accommodation in both locations
- Daily breakfast and dinner included
- Private transfers as outlined in the itinerary
- Excursion to Kufri
- Local sightseeing in Shimla
- Day trip to Solang Valley
- Full Day Manali Local Sightseeing
Itinerary
Arrival in Chandigarh – Transfer to Shimla
Upon your arrival at Chandigarh Airport, you will embark on a drive to Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. This charming hill resort, once the summer capital of the British, is one of India’s top tourist destinations, renowned for its mild climate, winding streets, and snow-capped mountains. Often called the “Queen of Hill Stations,” Shimla is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters above sea level.
In addition to its stunning natural beauty, the area attracts many tourists with opportunities for adventure activities such as trekking, mountaineering, and skiing. Upon reaching Shimla, complete the check-in process at your hotel and take some time to relax. Enjoy an overnight stay at the hotel.
Kufri Excursion – Shimla Local Sightseeing
After a delicious breakfast this morning, prepare to explore Kufri, a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its panoramic views of the Himalayas, steep hikes, adventure sports, and numerous interesting attractions, Kufri is the perfect spot to unwind.
Popular among trekkers, Kufri’s splendid weather and breathtaking natural beauty make it an ideal summer retreat. Additionally, it hosts an annual winter sports festival every February and is renowned for having the oldest skiing slopes in Himachal Pradesh. The nearby Himalayan Nature Park is home to over 180 species of fauna.
Following your Kufri adventure, visit the famous Mall Road in Shimla. Be sure to check out the charming Scandal Point and Jhakoo Temple. After a day of exploration, return to your hotel for a delightful dinner and enjoy an overnight stay in Shimla.
Notes:
- Private vehicles do not have access to Jhakoo Temple due to its location. Guests can take a shared taxi available on Mall Road to visit the temple. It’s advisable to visit the temple before dark, so consider visiting it first before spending time on Mall Road.
Transfer from Shimla to Manali
After breakfast, prepare for your drive to Manali, one of India’s most popular hill stations, located at an elevation of 6,260 feet above sea level. The picturesque River Beas flows through the town, creating a stunning landscape against the majestic peaks of the valley. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax in your beautiful surroundings. The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
Manali, a blend of ancient charm and modern amenities, is a fairyland filled with attractions such as Rohtang Pass (at an additional cost) and the nearby Solang Valley. It is a favored destination for honeymooners and families throughout the year and is quickly becoming known as an adventure hotspot, offering activities like zorbing, paragliding, and white-water rafting. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel in Manali.
Notes:
- Rohtang Pass is closed from mid-October to mid-May/June, depending on weather conditions at the time of travel.
- A permit is required for Rohtang Pass, along with transfers in a union vehicle, which incurs an additional cost.
- Temporary closure: Now until June 15 and October 15, 2024, due to winter conditions.
Day Excursion to Solang Valley (Atal Tunnel at Own Cost)
After breakfast, prepare for an exciting excursion to Solang Valley. Situated at an elevation of 8,500 feet, Solang Valley is the premier destination for adventure activities in Himachal Pradesh, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers. You can opt for activities such as paragliding, parachuting, skating, or zorbing (all at your own expense). The area’s lush forests, apple orchards, snow-capped peaks, and flowing rivers also draw many visitors.
Take a moment to stop at Nehru Kund before continuing to the Atal Tunnel. This impressive tunnel begins in Solang and stretches 17 kilometers one way, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to traverse. It ends at a location called Sissu. On your way back, you can enjoy more activities in Solang Valley.
By evening, return to your hotel in Manali for a lovely dinner. Enjoy your overnight stay at the hotel.
Notes:
- The Atal Tunnel is not included in the package cost and will incur an additional charge, payable directly.
Full Day Manali Local Sightseeing
After breakfast, take a leisurely walk through Manali town, visiting the newly constructed Buddhist Monastery and the handicraft center. Next, explore the 450-year-old Hadimba Devi Temple, along with the nearby Jagatsukh and Vashisht Kund.
Hadimba Devi Temple is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, the wife of Bhima, a character from the Indian epic Mahābhārata. Nestled in a serene cedar forest at the foot of the Himalayas, this temple offers a tranquil atmosphere.
Continue to Vashisht, a picturesque village perched on a steep hillside. En route, stop at the Vashisht hot baths, where a natural sulfur spring flows into a modern bathhouse, providing a unique relaxation experience.
Return to your hotel by late afternoon. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.
Departure from Manali to Chandigarh
After breakfast, check out and embark on your journey to Chandigarh by road, renowned as the best-planned city in India. This clean and green city is an architectural marvel. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the airport or railway station to catch your flight or train home. Your memorable trip in Himachal Pradesh comes to a close—let the memories begin!
Inclusions
Road Transport
- AC Sedan for transportation from Chandigarh, covering Shimla and Manali as per the itinerary.
- All taxes, tolls, parking charges, and driver expenses are included.
Accommodation Details
Hotel Shimla (2 Nights)
- Stay for 2 nights at Snow Lotus Hotel
- Room Type: 1 x Deluxe Room
- Meals:
– Breakfast: Included for 2 days
– Lunch: Not included
– Dinner: Included for 2 days
Hotel Manali (3 Nights)
- Stay for 3 nights at Hotel Manali Grand
- Room Type: 1 x Super Deluxe Room
- Meals:
– Breakfast: Included for 3 days
– Lunch: Not included
– Dinner: Included for 3 days
Exclusions
Exclusions
- Optional enhancements such as room or flight upgrades, and local camera or video fees
- Additional sightseeing, activities, and experiences not included in the itinerary
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless specified)
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) not specified in the itinerary
- Any international or domestic flights not explicitly mentioned as included
- Excess baggage charges, and any baggage not covered in your fare
- Tips for services and experiences
- Please refer to the useful information and terms for details on inclusions and exclusions.
Important Points
Important Notes
- Heater Services: Hotels may not offer free heater services. Heaters can be arranged at an additional charge (between ₹400 and ₹1000) based on hotel policy and availability. Please confirm with the hotel at check-in to avoid any inconvenience.
- Vehicle Provision: The vehicle specified in your booking will be provided. Extra charges will apply if an additional or upgraded vehicle is needed due to oversized luggage.
- Vehicle Hours: The vehicle is available for use until 8 PM (as per itinerary). Keeping the vehicle later will incur night charges, payable directly on the ground.
- Rohtang Pass Access: Tourist vehicles are only permitted to go up to Gulaba Checkpost. From there, you must hire a local union taxi to reach Rohtang Pass. Note that Rohtang Pass is closed on Tuesdays for maintenance by the Border Road Organization.
- Permits for Rohtang Pass: A permit is required to visit Rohtang Pass. Daily limits apply: 750 permits for local HP registered vehicles and 250 for tourist vehicles.
- Driving Conditions: Driving in hilly areas is different from regular driving, with a speed limit of 30 km/h.
- AC in Hill Areas: Even if you opt for an AC vehicle, air conditioning may be turned off in hill stations to prevent vehicle breakdowns. Additionally, commercial vehicles are prohibited from playing music to enhance safety.
- Unforeseen Events: Any costs arising from unforeseen events (e.g., landslides, road blockages, political disturbances) will be the guest’s responsibility. We will assist in making alternate arrangements but will not be liable for any refund claims.
- Monastery Access: All Tibetan Monasteries in Himachal are closed until further notice.
- Alternate Routes: In the event of roadblocks, the vehicle may need to take an alternate route, which may incur additional charges payable directly on the ground.
- Accommodation Standards: Many 2-star and 3-star hotels in Himachal provide only mattresses, not extra beds.
- AC Cabs: If booking an AC cab, note that the AC will be turned off while driving in hilly areas.
- Heater Charges: Hotels in Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Dalhousie do not provide free heaters. If you require one, the cost will be charged directly at the hotel.
- Check-in Deposits: At check-in, hotels may request an advance/security deposit (amount varies by hotel policy). This will be refunded at checkout, minus any charges for mini-bar items or damages.
- Attraction Tickets: Entry tickets to attractions, museums, trains, cable cars, ferries, rides, and safaris are not included unless explicitly stated.
- Cancellation Policy: For questions regarding cancellations and refunds, please refer to our Cancellation Policy.
- Refund Rights: We reserve the right to issue a full refund if we determine that we are unable to provide the services due to technical reasons.
Want to Customize Package?
Contact us to explore more and customize the package as per your requirements.