places to visit from shimla to manali

32 Best Stops Between Shimla and Manali

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How long is the drive from Shimla to Manali?

The direct drive from Shimla to Manali is 154 mi (247 km) , and should have a drive time of 4 hrs 13 mins in normal traffic.

If you’re going on a road trip from Shimla to Manali, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Manali Tehsil and Chandigarh , as well as top places to visit like Zakir Hussain Rose Garden and Rock Garden of Chandigarh, or the ever-popular Sukhna Lake.

places to visit from shimla to manali

Top cities between Shimla and Manali

Hotel hamta view, best stops along shimla to manali drive, sukhna lake.

places to visit from shimla to manali

Zakir Hussain Rose Garden

places to visit from shimla to manali

Rock Garden of Chandigarh

Manki point, sanjeevni hanuman temple, kasauli, sunset point.

places to visit from shimla to manali

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Plan your trip. Keep your budget organized. Split the cost between tripmates. Wanderlog does it all.

places to visit from shimla to manali

Christ Church, Kasauli

Kalka shimla railway, kufri fun world, shri hanuman mandir jakhoo, viceregal lodge, virasat-e-khalsa, jalori pass, sri harmandir sahib.

places to visit from shimla to manali

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places to visit from shimla to manali

Rewalsar Lake

Tirthan valley rd, national highway 21, parashar lake, ghatasani-barot rd, kheerganga trek, gurudwara sahib manikaran, sobha singh art gallery, shri baijnath temple, jana waterfall, jana gaon.

places to visit from shimla to manali

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places to visit from shimla to manali

Beas River Tributaries

Van vihar national park, hadimba devi temple, kund bath for ladies, solang nala, top searches in manali, other popular road trips from shimla, explore nearby places.

  • Manali Tehsil
  • Joginder Nagar
  • Baijnath Tehsil
  • McLeod Ganj

All related maps of Manali

  • Map of Manali
  • Map of Burwa
  • Map of Naggar
  • Map of Manali Tehsil
  • Map of Raison
  • Map of Manikaran
  • Map of Kasol
  • Map of Sissu
  • Map of Kullu
  • Map of Bhuntar
  • Map of Keylong
  • Map of Gushal
  • Map of Bajaura
  • Map of Joginder Nagar
  • Map of Kufri
  • Map of Baijnath
  • Map of Baijnath Tehsil
  • Map of Palampur
  • Map of Mandi
  • Map of Bharmour
  • Map of Banjar
  • Map of Sharchi
  • Map of Jibhi
  • Map of Rewalsar
  • Map of Bhagsu Nag
  • Map of Dharamkot
  • Map of Dharamsala
  • Map of McLeod Ganj
  • Map of Naddi
  • Map of Kaza

Manali throughout the year

  • Manali in January
  • Manali in February
  • Manali in March
  • Manali in April
  • Manali in May
  • Manali in June
  • Manali in July
  • Manali in August
  • Manali in September
  • Manali in October
  • Manali in November
  • Manali in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Manali?

Get inspired for your trip to Manali with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

  • 1-Day Manali Itinerary
  • 2-Day Manali Itinerary
  • 3-Day Manali Itinerary
  • 4-Day Manali Itinerary
  • 5-Day Manali Itinerary

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i drive from shimla to manali.

Yes! You can drive from Shimla to Manali.

How far is Manali from Shimla by car?

The drive from Shimla to Manali is 154 miles (247 km).

How long does it take to drive from Shimla to Manali?

Driving from Shimla to Manali should take you 4 hrs 13 mins in normal traffic.

How much would gas cost from Shimla to Manali?

Gas from Shimla to Manali would cost around $13 to $31 , depending on your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

Where should I stop on the way from Shimla to Manali?

You could check out Zakir Hussain Rose Garden and Rock Garden of Chandigarh, or the always popular Sukhna Lake!

What are the best cities to visit between Shimla and Manali?

People love visiting Manali Tehsil and Chandigarh, among others.

What's the weather like in Shimla?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Shimla in January
  • Weather in Shimla in February
  • Weather in Shimla in March
  • Weather in Shimla in April
  • Weather in Shimla in May
  • Weather in Shimla in June
  • Weather in Shimla in July
  • Weather in Shimla in August
  • Weather in Shimla in September
  • Weather in Shimla in October
  • Weather in Shimla in November
  • Weather in Shimla in December

What are some other road trips from Shimla?

There are plenty! Below you'll find links to all the road trips we've assembled for Shimla.

  • Shimla to New Delhi drive
  • Shimla to Jaipur drive
  • Shimla to Agra drive
  • Shimla to Manali Tehsil drive
  • Shimla to Chandigarh drive
  • Shimla to Mumbai drive
  • Shimla to Amritsar drive
  • Shimla to Udaipur drive
  • Shimla to Dharamsala drive
  • Shimla to Kathmandu drive
  • Shimla to Mussoorie drive
  • Shimla to Leh drive
  • Shimla to Srinagar drive
  • Shimla to Jodhpur drive
  • Shimla to Rishikesh drive
  • Shimla to Hyderabad drive
  • Shimla to Bengaluru drive
  • Shimla to Varanasi drive
  • Shimla to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
  • Shimla to Jaisalmer drive
  • Shimla to Manali drive
  • Shimla to Ahmedabad drive
  • Shimla to Nainital drive
  • Shimla to Pune drive
  • Shimla to Pokhara drive
  • Shimla to Amer drive
  • Shimla to Chennai (Madras) drive
  • Shimla to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
  • Shimla to Gangtok drive

places to visit from shimla to manali

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Vargis Khan

Shimla Manali Trip Itinerary – How to Plan Your Journey

shimla manali trip itinerary

Continuing from the previous two articles where I talked about how you can plan a trip to Shimla and Manali separately; in this article, I will talk about a Shimla Manali Trip Itinerary covering both the places in the same trip. I will first draft an itinerary that I recommend, followed by a few other variations. If you wanted to draft your own plan and had questions, you may ask them in the comments section towards the end of this page.

Together, Shimla and Manali are probably the most visited towns in all of Himachal and make up for a perfect family holiday. There are several reasons behind this, like safety and connectivity. But the biggest reason in my opinion is that Shimla and Manali have something to offer for everyone.

It does not matter if you are planning a quick outing with your friends or a proper vacation with your family; you know that heading towards either of these places will not end in disappointment. How can you plan your itinerary for Shimla and Manali is what I will be discussing in this article.

If you have about 7 to 8 days, you can easily explore both Shimla and Manali in a relaxed manner without rushing on any day. For the sake of this article, I will assume that you are traveling from Delhi. If you were however traveling from a different place, only the plan for first and last day will change. The rest of the itinerary will still remain the same.

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Shimla Manali Trip Itinerary

I will suggest an itinerary according to 9 days of travel which will include two weekends and one entire week. It will be starting on a Saturday and ending on Sunday of the next week. If you were short on time then you can easily take days out from this itinerary.

  • Delhi to Shimla: Day 1
  • Sightseeing in Shimla: Day 2
  • Sightseeing in Shimla: Day 3
  • Shimla to Manali: Day 4
  • Manali: Day 5
  • Manali to Keylong: Day 6
  • Keylong to Manali: Day 7
  • Manali: Day 8
  • Manali to Delhi: Day 9

A more detailed explanation of this itinerary is as mentioned below where I have explained what all places you can cover during your stay in Shimla and Manali.

I have kept only 2 days of stay in Shimla because, in my opinion, that is sufficient to cover the major tourist attractions here. Manali has slightly more to offer to tourists than Shimla does.

The plan above can be completed by both a private vehicle and public transport. Traveling by your own vehicle of course will be better and more convenient.

shimla manali trip itinerary

  • Delhi to Shimla – Day 1

Not much to talk about on this day except for a long journey. From Delhi, take NH1 and then take the road towards Shimla from Chandigarh via Himalayan Expressway. There is currently some road widening work going on between Chandigarh and Shimla so the entire journey can easily take up to 10-11 hours.

The total distance covered would be about 350 kilometers. There are regular HRTC buses from ISBT Delhi which you can board if you were traveling by public transport.

Another fun thing to do would be to reach Kalka by Bus and then board the famous Toy train to reach Shimla. For more details, please read How to Plan a Trip by Shimla Kala Toy Train .

Shimla – Day 2

Now there are multiple ways that you can spend Day 2 and 3. There are several places to see in Shimla of which,  Mall Road, Christ Church, Scandal Point, Jakhu Hill, Shimla State Museum are the most famous ones. Some of the nearby hill stations that are very scenic are Chail , Kufri, Mashobra , and Narkanda . For a complete list, please take a look at Places of Tourist Interest in Shimla .

If you were traveling by your own vehicle, I would recommend spending Day 2 in Shimla itself.  You can take a walk on The Ridge, the area near Jhaku Hill, and the Observatory. This is the place where Shimla’s fairs, festivals, and functions are held. Tourists come here to see several colonial-style buildings, a church, a library, and a statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

You can also trek to Jhaku Hill, which at a height of 2,455 meters. It offers a mesmerizing view of Shimla and the entire Shivalik range around. It is a fun trek of about 30 minutes to the top through lush forest terrain. There is also a 108 feet tall statue of Lord Hanuman at top of Jhaku Hill.

shimla manali trip itinerary

Drive to Narkanda – Day 3

On Day 3, take a drive to the nearby town of Narkanda via Kufri. At Narkanda, drive all the way till Sutlej point and then have lunch there. After lunch, pay a short visit to Hatu Peak and then return to Shimla by evening. This entire drive is very scenic and definitely worth it. For more details, please take a look at What to See in Narkanda .

If you were traveling by public transport, my advice would be to spend these two days visiting places within Shimla city itself. Going to Narkanda by public transport and coming back to Shimla may be a bit of a hassle and to be honest, won’t be that much fun either.

Shimla to Manali – Day 4

Most of this day will be spent traveling from Manali to Shimla. You can take the route via Tattapani. The drive can be a bit long but is a scenic one and you will enjoy it.

Manali – Day 5

Spend this day in Manali itself. The first important thing you need to do is to get your permit for Rohtang Pass. This can take an entire day where you will first submit your documents in the first half of the day. You will then return to the DC office to collect the permit in the afternoon.

Another and easier way around this is to apply for the permit online. Please read How to get a Permit for Rohtang Pass for step by step details.

Apart from getting the permits, the rest of the day will be spent on local sightseeing and walking around in Manali. There are several places you can visit of which Hadimba Temple, Nehru Kund, Vashist Hot Water Springs, Museum Of Himachal Culture And Folk Art, Manu Maharishi Temple, Gauri Shankar Temple, Jagatipatt Temple, Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery are to name a few. For more details, please take a look at Places of Tourist Interest in Manali .

mall road manali

Manali to Keylong – Day 6

Today you will take the most scenic drive of your entire journey. Drive up to Rohtang Pass and then descend down on the other side into Lahaul valley. There are plenty of hotels in Keylong where you can spend the night. Or you can drive further 25 kilometers to Jispa and stay there at any of the campsites.

This part of the journey is highly recommended. People advising you for Manali will not add this to the itinerary but this actually is a must part of your trip. You will love the entire drive from Manali to Lahaul valley .

Keylong to Manali – Day 7

On this day, start early from Keylong and reach Jispa. Have breakfast there and from Jispa, climb up to see Baralacha La top , and drive all the way till Suraj Taal. From there, then backtrack to Jispa and Keylong and then return to Manali via Rohtang Pass.

Manali – Day 8

Last day of the trip before you return home to Delhi. There are 3 ways that you can spend this day. Either you can just relax in Manali and shop around a bit at Mall road. Or you can trek to Bhrigu Lake which a 6 kilometers hike from Gulaba. You can also plan a day visit to Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib.

An alternate way to plan this day is to go to Kasol in Parvati Valley and spend the day there.

Manali to Delhi – Day 9

Nothing to write about this day except that it will be a long journey home to Delhi via Chandigarh. Total distance covered will be about 550 kilometers so an early start from Manali is recommended.

motorcycling in manali

Itinerary for Shimla and Manali

A few other ways that the journey can be planned are as mentioned below.

Itinerary 1

  • Shimla Local Sightseeing and Kufri – Day 2
  • Shimla to Manikaran to Manali – Day 3
  • Rohtang Pass – Day 4
  • Local Sightseeing in Manali – Day 5
  • Manali to Kullu to Delhi – Day 6

Itinerary 2

  • Local Sightseeing in Shimla – Day 2
  • Shimla to Narkana to Sarahan – Day 3
  • Sarahan to Kalpa – Day 4
  • Kalpa to Chitkul – Day 5
  • Chitkul to Shimla – Day 6
  • Shimla to Manali – Day 7
  • Manali Local Sightseeing – Day 8
  • Rohtang Pass – Day 9
  • Manali to Delhi – Day 10

Accommodation in Shimla and Manali

Shimla and Manali are very popular tourist destinations and always have people visiting here. Due to this, hotels in both these cities are ample in number in quite a wide range of budgets. You will easily be able to find cheap stays as well as luxurious hotels and resorts.

I personally do not prefer booking hotels in advance as I like to first arrive, check the place out and then negotiate an on the spot deal. It is however more of a personal choice. In peak tourist season, it is definitely an added benefit and peace of mind if you have your accommodation booked and confirmed.

Winter Trip to Shimla and Manali

If you were visiting Shimla and Manali in winter, you can still follow this itinerary with an exception of Lahaul valley. That part cannot be explored as Rohtang pass remains closed between November and April. In that case, you can use these two days to explore more areas like Manikaran Sahib or nearby places like Parvati Valley .

In peak winters, it can snow heavily at both Shimla and Manali in which case, I will recommend that you be careful while driving around. If possible, hire a local taxi here who can take you for sightseeing safely.

You will also have to be careful while packing clothes. Pack a few pairs of thermals and pack all your heavy woolens. Do keep in mind though that there is a huge tourist rush here around Christmas and new year.

snowfall in manali

Road Conditions in Shimla and Manali

The road between Delhi to Shimla and Manali to Delhi is a mix of good and average. There are some bad sections in between but it is mostly a smooth run.

So is the road at most of the other places with an exception of the stretch at Rohtang Pass. The road towards the top of the pass and then at some places towards Lahaul valley can get a little bad. In monsoon, there is also a lot of slushes here and if it rained too much it can also cause landslides in between.

Another bad section of the road is towards Manikaran Sahib. Between Shimla and Manali, the road via Tattapani is about average, a mix of good and bad. The annoying part of the journey will however be the long line of trucks traveling between Mandi and Chandigarh.

Clothes for Shimla and Manali

For a summer visit, your regular cotton clothes will do but you may want to pack a jacket as well if you kept Lahaul valley as part of your itinerary. During monsoon season, make sure you are carrying proper rain gear along with your cottons. For winter trips, your heavy woolens, thermals, gloves, and jackets are a must.

Also Read: How to Plan a Trip to Sangla Valley

Shimla and Manali Trip

Final question is, why to visit Shimla and Manali at all. There are numerous other hill stations in Himachal and Uttarakhand that you can go to so why these two places? The answer to this question is actually in the form of three major reasons.

The first one is that both these places are very well connected to all nearby cities. Road connectivity remains open throughout the year and you can either drive on your own or catch an overnight bus.

The second reason is in terms of safety. When you are out vacationing with family, you cannot really afford to go completely remote; places where no one goes. You would rather visit destinations that are filled with tourists so you can have fun as well as peace of mind. Shimla and Manali both are perfect destinations in this aspect.

The third reason is of availability of facilities like accommodation, phone reception, data connectivity; public transport, taxis, eateries, etc, and both these places again come out as winners here as well.

Shimla Manali Trip Itinerary – Conclusion

I hope the information above was of help. If you have any other questions; or need any further details; please feel free to ask in the comments section below; or at our Community forum ; and I will be glad to answer. If you have visited Shimla and Manali and have a few other tips that can be added to the article above, please be so kind to mention it in comments and I will add to the post.

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Vargis.Khan

Not much to write about me really except for that I love to travel around whenever I can and to wherever I can. This blog is just a small attempt to share my travel experiences with the world. Hope you like it !!!

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Hi Vargis, Which trip would you recommend for this winter to see snowfall Dehradun to Shimla via kinnaur or Shimla to manali via tirthan valley.

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Both routes are scenic. Although the jalori pass will be closed if you have to go to tirthan valley in the winter from Shimla.

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  • Best Places To Visit In Shimla And Manali

Best Places to Visit in Shimla And Manali

04 Jan 2021 by Swati Mamgain

places to visit from shimla to manali

Top Places to visit in Shimla and Manali

Shimla is popularly known as the “Queen of Hill Station” offers its visitors snow-capped mountains, alluring lakes, a pleasant climate, rich greenery to explore. There is truly magic in Shimla's air that makes everyone fall in love with it. It is the most visited tourist destination in India. Manali also amazes its tourists with the most captivating sceneries of the ravishing mountains, verdant valleys, and with most thrilling activities. So whether you are looking for some inner peace or want to go for an adventurous ride Shimla and Manali will never disappoint you. Here are some magical places to explore in Shimla and Manali !!

1. Jakhoo Hill

Jakhoo Hill is considered to be the highest peak in Shimla. It is 8000 feet high and is one of the prominent tourist attractions in Shimla. The temple here which is the Jakhu Temple is a paradise for all nature lovers. There is a historic 108 feet tall Hanuman Statue at the Jakhu Temple. It is indeed a haven for adventure seekers as it offers a short trek which makes it a more interesting and superb place in Shimla. The month of February is considered to be the aptest time to explore this beautiful place in Shimla.

2. The Scandal Point, Ridge

Scandal Point is a flat and spacious platform that is one of the favorite spots of tourists in Shimla. It is a treat for all-mountain lovers as it offers mesmerizing views of the pretty valley and snow-capped mountains surrounding Shimla. This Scandal Point hosts the Shimla summer festival which is held annually. It is a paradise for all sunset and sunrise lovers. One can also explore the famed Tudor library at Scandal Point. It is one of the most loved places in Shimla.

3. Chadwick Falls

Chadwick Falls falls from an altitude of 1586 meters and is a major tourist attraction of Shimla . The view it offers is enthralling as the dense forests, lush deodar, and pine tree surround it so well. Monsoon makes it more beautiful and the prettiest with its sparkling water as the water level of the falls increases. It is truly a treat to one’s eyes with its unmatchable beauty and ambiance. It is ideal for photography and peace seekers. It is a paradise for trekkers and hikers too.

4. Mall Road

Mall Road is one of the popular tourist places in Shimla among tourists and is known to be the best hangout point and shopping center in Shimla.  It is a paradise for shopaholics from warm woolens to exquisite handicrafts, one can find everything here at a reasonable price. This place is apt for purchasing handicrafts, handwoven woolens, and for having famous cuisines of Himachal. Mall road is connected to Ridge at the Scandal point where the statue of the nationalist leader Lala Lajpat Rai has been built.

5. Himalayan Bird Park

Himalayan Bird Park or The Himalayan Aviary is an ideal, tourist spot in Shimla. It is to the opposite side of the Viceregal Lodge.  It is a haven for nature and bird lovers. It is opened only during summer. Tourists can witness several varieties of exotic native birds over here like- peafowl, pheasants, the Himalayan Monal, peacocks, and many more birds too. This place is best for photography and mature admirers. It is one of the loved places in Shimla.

6. Tara Devi Temple

Tara Devi Temple is one of the famed temples in Shimla. It is located atop a hill. One can reach this temple via the Kalka – Shimla highway. It is truly a great place for rejuvenating one’s mind, body, and soul. It is believed that the Goddess Tara Devi came from Bengal to Himachal Pradesh and that is why this pretty temple is devoted to the goddess of stars. It is situated 11kms away from the Shimla Bus stand and is positioned amid a thick forest of Oak and Rhododendron and offers scenic views of the lofty Himalayas surrounding the town.

7. Green Valley

Green Valley is considered to be the most exotic viewpoint in Shimla. This valley has been featured in a few Bollywood films. This valley has gained much fame in recent years and is one of the tranquil places to explore in Shimla.  This valley is surrounded by verdant hills that are covered with thick forests of pine and deodar. One can witness the rare animals like- Yaks wandering and gazing here in this valley. It is a package of absolute blissful scenery around this natural paradise. It is a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.

8. Kiala Forest

Kiala Forest is nestled in the Kothai region of Shimla. The lush green and densely forest area is a must-visit for adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. Tourists can enjoy some good time in the wilderness along with spectacular views of the city from the top. It is truly a fantastic spot to explore. March to October months are the perfect time to explore this awesome place. One can find the resorts located here who wish to stay a little longer. So plan a trip to this gorgeous place and make your trip memorable.

9. Kuthar Fort

Formerly known as Kishangarh Fort. Kuthar Fort is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas amidst the exquisite beauty of mature. It is one of the awesome historical places to explore in Shimla. The Kuthar Fort covers an area of 52.8 sq km, surrounded by pretty pine trees, and mountains. It has astounding pools and wonderful gardens. It was built by Gurkha Kings. It was once the residence of the royal family in Kuthar. The interiors of this majestic fort are filled with an exclusive collection of paintings. The key highlight of this fort is the extensive use of wooden carvings to its overall architecture. It is indeed a must-visit attraction in Shimla.

10. Hawa Ghar

Hawa Ghar is situated at a distance of 2 km from the Shimla railway station. It is one of the most interesting spots in Shimla. From HawaGhar, one can witness the exotic views of the hill-station Shimla. This place is a part of Lakkar Bazar and is located at a good height. HawaGhar is labeled as Mall View Balcony. It is heaven for photographers and nature lovers as it offers a spectacular panoramic view of the vale of snow and Himalayan mountain ranges, lush greenery, numerous heritage buildings, and beautiful temples in Shimla. 

11. Hidimba Devi Temple

Hidimba Devi Temple is one of the popular tourist attractions in Manali. This temple is an ancient 15th-century temple. It is devoted to Goddess Hidimba-wife of Bheem, one of the Pandavas. This temple is of  Pagoda style and is set on a rock. It has a superb architecture of a cone-shaped roof and intricately carved wooden walls and doors. It is surrounded by a lush thicket of cedar trees and offers picturesque views of lofty snow-capped mountains in the background. It is an oasis of serenity and tranquillity amidst pretty nature. Plan a trip to this wonderful place after the monsoon that is in mid - September or the pleasant summer months of March till June. 

12. Solang Valley

Solang Valley is nestled 13kms from Manali. It is situated between the Beas Kund and Solang village. This valley is loved for its mind-blowing views of snow-capped mountains and beautiful glaciers that attract ski fanatics from all over the world. The beauty of the Solang valley is unmatchable. Tourists explore this valley every year just to enjoy its pristine snow-white magnificence. The winter season covers the whole place with fluffy milky white snow. Apart from picturesque landscapes Solang Valley also offers several winter sports. One can go for quad biking, Zorbing, paragliding , and snowmobiling in Solang valley. If one wants to get a full dose of the beauty of this valley camp here amidst its lush green meadows.

13. Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is known for its unmatchable natural beauty and is one of the loved spots in the Manali region. It is situated at about 50kms away from the main town and is easily accessible by road. The key highlights of this Rohtang pass are that it is one of the highest passes in the Himalayas. It is nestled at a staggering height of 3978 meters above sea level. It truly offers some picturesque views of the Himalayas. The spellbound beauty of the route and the pass is so spectacular that is has been featured in some Bollywood movies – Jab we meet, Yeh jawanihaiDeewani. If one wants to take a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and wants to curl up with a cup of tea in the middle of the unmatchable serene nature, then Rohtang Pass is a great option.

14. Manu Temple

Manu Temple is a historic Hindu temple devoted to Sage Manu. It is a place of great religious significance to Hindus. There are several folk tales related to the establishment of this magnificent temple which one can get to know when one visits this splendid place. It is located in old Manali. The pilgrims and tourists in several numbers flock into this beautiful temple all around the year. It is famed for its religious significance, ancient pretty architecture, and wooden carving. The tranquil atmosphere of this place is pleasant. The best time considered to explore this place is between May and June.

15. Manali Sanctuary

A trip to Manali is incomplete without exploring this splendid Manali sanctuary. This sanctuary offers one to explore native mountain wildlife and hundreds of varieties of plants and trees. It is a major part of the protected northwest Himalayan biogeographic Zone. One can witness the various animals and birds – barking deer, flying fox, Kashmir flying squirrel, Himalayan black bear, snow pigeons, Chakor, tree creepers, and a lot more other species too. Apart from witnessing animals and birds grab a chance to witness the dense thickets of trees – poplar, willows, horse chestnut, deodars, and thickets of blazing red rhododendron. This sanctuary amongst the landmark sites to explore in Manali edges on the scenic banks of the Manalsu Nullah with high peaks in the background.

16. Gadhan The Chokling Gompa Monastery

GadhanThe Chokling Gompa Monastery is among the most famous tourist places in Manali. It was built in the year 1960s by Tibetian refugees. This monastery is famed for its beige and rust architecture frilled by bright golden colour. Explore this shrine that is devoted to Lord Budha and get a chance to witness the murals and carvings that beautifully showcase his life and teachings. One can indulge in meeting the friendly monks, can meditate, and also can indulge in spiritual discourses which will surely be going to enhance the tranquil experience.

17. Mall Road

Mall Road is among the charming places to explore in Manali. This market is lined up with hundreds of shops. There are great guest houses, German bakeries, souvenir shops, local cuisine outlets, bookshops, and beautiful handmade woolens sold by Tibetian people. One can sit on the benches and get a beautiful view of the mountains in the background. One can even explore the underground market –Hong kong market, dragon shopping complex, and the snow lion for some kitschy apparel and, Jewelry. So do not miss to experience the local cuisines, sights, and sounds of this beautiful region.

18. Old Manali

If one wants to witness the other side of Manali then just take a walk across the Manalsu river bridge and cross over into the part of Manali, popularly known as Old Manali. The idyllic village setting makes tourists feel like one walked into the happy and hippie 1960s. The pathways are lined with pretty swaying eucalyptus trees. The calmness of the surrounding and the gush of the river Kullu creates a tranquil environment. The Old Manali has somehow carved out a niche of its own and has managed to retain the old world charm.

19. Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art

The Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art was built in the year 1998 to exhibit the cultural and folk art and antiques of Himachal Pradesh. It is situated at a very short distance from the popular Hidimba Devi Temple of Manali. This museum is housed with an interesting and superb collection of antique articles and some other items also that reflects the culture and heritage of the state Himachal Pradesh. One not only gets to witness here the traditional Himachali dresses or Himachali Kitchenware but also the traditional ornaments. One having a keen interest in Himachali culture then this place is very much apt for one to explore.

20. Van Vihar National Park

Van Vihar National Park is one of the places to explore in Manali. This park is home to several deodar trees that provides shade to the whole area. For the convenience of the tourists concrete as well as wooden benches are there in this splendid national park. It is worth visiting as one can enjoy picnics here and spend some beautiful moments with their loved ones. It has well-laid paths that are ideal for a long and refreshing stroll around lush greenery. Tourists can also enjoy boat rides in the park’s small pond.

21. Jogini Falls

Jogini Falls is 160feet tall and is one of the major attractions in Manali. The lush greenery that surrounds this pretty waterfall and the tranquil nature makes this places the most loved tourist spot among the visitors. One can spend some time here listening to the sounds of water, sipping cups of tea, and enjoying bowls of magi from the nearby food outlets. Trekkers can trek to this splendid place and witness the serene views of orchards, streams, meadows, and peaks of Rohtang.

22. Cafe 1947

Cafe 1947 is one of the oldest and best-known cafes in old Manali and is considered to be one of the most loved tourist places. It was first a music cafe. It is on the banks of the gushing water of the ManalsuRiver. Enjoy a live music Jam happening at one of the booths and at the same time enjoy the delicious servings of the world, Indian and European cuisine. The most famous dishes at this café are the burger of Bodom, Vegeta, UFO, the slayer pizza, and the Metallica pasta. It is a heaven for the foodies. The cafe also hosts several live gigs at regular intervals.

23. Beas River

Beas River- known as Vipasha in Sanskrit is one of the most important holy rivers that flows through the states of Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. It is indeed a stunning attraction in Manali. It is such a waterbody that flows all year round and provides drinking and usable water to the people of Kullu and Manali .  Enjoy the view of crystal clear waters backdropped by snow-capped mountains and lush pine thickets. It is a paradise for adventure junkies as they can raft in grade II and III rapids of the Pirdi stretch in Beas. It has ravishing camping spots which are perfect for night camping. One can even leisurely walk along the lush riversides.  

24. Summer Hills

Summer Hills is also known as Potter hill. In the olden days, the potters made pottery at this place so therefore it was called Potter hill. It is truly one of the best places to explore in Shimla. It is a picturesque town and is situated 5km from the popular ridge of Shimla. It is carpeted by rich greenery that offers astonishing views from the top. Summer hill is part of 7 hills that make the tour one of the loved places in Shimla. One can enjoy the view of a beautiful sunrise. It is also great for trekking and nature walks. One coming to this splendid place can witness here the popular building Manorville Mansion where Mahatma Gandhi stayed during his Shimla visit. Summer hill is visited for its natural beauty and tranquillity.

25. Annandale

Annandale is situated 3 km away from the Ridge. It is one of the most visited tourist places in Shimla and now Annandale has been developed as the playground of the city- Shimla .  During the British rule, it was home to several adventure sports including racing, cricket but now this place is most apt for golf lovers as the racecourse has been converted to a mini-golf course which also serves as a helipad. It also offers pretty sceneries of its meadows. It also provides an astounding view of Shimla city. It is quite famous among visitors as it hosts parades, sports, and Dussehra celebrations. This place is also visited for picnic parties, birthday balls, fetes, races, and polo matches. Annandale is surely a treat to one’s senses.

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A Complete Guide For Shimla to Manali Road Trip

If you are an adventure enthusiast, there is nothing more exciting than embarking on a road trip. And when it comes to road trips in India, one of the most popular and breathtaking routes is from Shimla to Manali. This road trip offers mesmerizing scenic beauty, charming villages, and thrilling experiences that will leave you spellbound. So, buckle up and get ready for a complete guide for your Shimla to Manali road trip.

Route and Distance

The distance from Shimla to Manali is approximately 250 kilometers, and the most preferred route is via NH3. The journey takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the traffic and weather conditions. The route is filled with picturesque landscapes, lush green valleys, and snow-capped mountains, making it a dream road trip for nature lovers.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to plan your Shimla to Manali road trip is during the summer months of April to June and the autumn months of September and October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and you can witness the beautiful apple orchards, blooming flowers, and clear skies. Winter months from November to February are also popular as you can experience snowfall and enjoy winter sports activities.

Places to Visit Along the Way

1. Kufri: Located just 16 kilometers from Shimla, Kufri is a popular hill station known for its panoramic views and adventure activities like skiing, horse riding, and trekking.

2. Narkanda: Situated at an altitude of 2,708 meters, Narkanda offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Himalayan ranges. It is famous for its apple orchards and skiing slopes.

3. Pandoh Dam: As you approach Manali, make a stop at the Pandoh Dam. It is a beautiful spot on the Beas River and offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding mountains.

4. Solang Valley: Located at a distance of 13 kilometers from Manali, Solang Valley is a paradise for adventure enthusiasts. You can try your hand at activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing.

Where to Stay

There are plenty of accommodation options available along the Shimla to Manali route. You can choose from budget hotels, guesthouses, homestays, and luxury resorts. Some popular options include The Oberoi Cecil, Wildflower Hall, Marigold Sarovar Portico, and The Himalayan Resort & Spa.

Things to Do

1. Visit the Mall Road: Both Shimla and Manali have vibrant Mall roads offering a range of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Enjoy a leisurely stroll, shop for souvenirs, and savor local delicacies.

2. Explore Hadimba Devi Temple: Located in Manali, this ancient temple is dedicated to Goddess Hadimba and is surrounded by cedar forests. It is known for its unique architecture and tranquil surroundings.

3. Rohtang Pass: If you are visiting Manali during summer, include a trip to Rohtang Pass in your itinerary. It offers breathtaking views of the snow-clad mountains and is a popular spot for snow activities.

4. Enjoy River Rafting: Indulge in the thrill of river rafting in the Beas River. You can experience the adrenaline rush and enjoy the beautiful landscapes while rafting.

Important Tips

1. Carry warm clothing, especially if you are visiting during winter months, as the weather can get extremely cold.

2. Check the road conditions and weather forecast before starting your journey to avoid any inconvenience.

3. Take breaks at regular intervals to rest and enjoy the scenic beauty along the way.

4. Carry essential documents such as identification proof, driving license, and vehicle documents.

The Shimla to Manali road trip is an unforgettable journey filled with natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. From the charming hill stations to the snow-capped mountains and thrilling activities, this road trip has something for everyone. So, pack your bags, fuel up your vehicle, and get ready to create memories that will last a lifetime. Don't forget to share your road trip experiences and photographs with your friends and family!

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places to visit from shimla to manali

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Which places do you want to explore in Himachal?

Approx trip start date, trip duration, i will book holiday in, how many people are traveling, your travel plan is ready for himachal kindly share your following details to get pdf of quotation within 30 seconds.

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World Travel Packages

When you are travelling to some international destination, you must have a planned tour package crafted by Holiday Experts specially for you, keeping in mind what you like to experience. Holiday experts at World Travel Packages are well traveled and documented their experiences. So that they can serve better way.

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Shimla to Manali – A most beautiful road trip of 237 Kilometres

Do you love Road Trips?

Road trip from Shimla to Manali should be on top of your bucket list. Distance from Shimla to Manali is approximately 237 kilometres , this distance is quite long in hills but the landscape you will find along the way is just amazing.

You won’t feel like getting bored at any point of time when you start from Shimla to Manali.

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Directions from Shimla to Manali

Shimla to Manali directions

This mesmerising road trip from Shimla to Manali takes approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes minimum, sometime you may drive for long hours depending upon the traffic and season. In the Rainy season it’s quite difficult to drive on such hilly roads of Himachal, in fact, it’s not recommended. In Apple harvesting season, this highway has a traffic of trucks carrying fruits to North India’s market markets like Delhi/NCR.

The road on this highway is quite very good; if you’re confident in your driving, you can definitely drive yourself to Manali from Shimla. Or instead, you can book a cab or take the bus from Shimla.

Destinations shouldn’t be missed out while driving from Shimla to Manali

Since the duo Shimla and Manali are in Himachal the most beautiful land in India, there are many mesmerising and attractive places one can see while travelling from Shimla to Manali by road.

While you are in Shimla, I consider you’ve already seen its major attractions like Jakhu Temple, Naldera, Mashobra, Fagu, Narkanda, and many more are there. You can visit attractions in Shimla to know more about them.

Let’s start from Shimla itself,

Bhararighat, Himachal Pradesh – 56 km from Shimla

On the way to Manali from Shimla, Bhararighat is around 55 kilometres from the Shimla bus stand. In earlier days when most people used to take HRTC buses from Shimla to Manali, this place was so popular halt for food and snacks. Since there are many small villages like Shalaghat, Darlaghat, etc nearby this place, many local people have opened small dhabas on the Highway.

One can witness some major cement plants in these ghats like Ambuja Cement and Ultratech Cement.

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Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh – 86 km from Shimla

Next major halt one can take at Bilaspur while you are enjoying your drive from Shimla to Manali. I’m sure you know about Bhakra Nangal Dam, but there is something you should know about a man-made lake. Yes, there is a man-made lake created by Bhakra Nangal Dam, it is called as Govind Sagar Lake . You should definitely spend some time here to admire the mad made creations.

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By the way, you can avoid travelling to Bilaspur on the route to Manali and take a diversion from Brahampukhar vis Zukhala and reach Ghaghas. Now you can follow the beautiful view of River Beas along the way to Manali on NH 154 which connects Shimla to Manali.

On this road trip to Manali, you can witness another major Cement plant of ACC.

Sundar Nagar, Himachal Pradesh – 130 km from Shimla

Now you have reached almost half the distance of your long journey from Queen of Hills Shimla to Manali, the distance travelled is around 130 kilometres. From Sundar Nagar along the road you can find a beautiful landscape of the Bhakra Nangal Dam Project Canal.

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Mandi, Himachal Pradesh – 155 kms from Shimla

Distance from Shimla to Manali is bit long on this hill side highway, you might want to take a halt. Mandi is one of the most famous hill station of Himachal Pradesh. The place can leave an unforgettable memory, since this place has everything from adventure activities to religious sites.

Famous attractions in Mandi,

  • Rewalsar Lake
  • Panchvaktra Temple
  • Sunken Garden
  • Tarna Temple

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Bhuntar, Himachal Pradesh – 210 kms from Shimla

Bhuntar  is a town located in the district of Kullu in Himachal Pradesh. There are not many places to visit or things to do in  Bhuntar , but this place in the route from Shimla to Manali is typically used as a getaway to the towns of Kullu, Manali, Kasol and Manikaran. It is incredibly picturesque.

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Kullu, Himachal Pradesh – 230 km from Shimla

On the way to Manali from Shimla, Kullu could be your halt to experience adventure sports. Kullu is also known as the ‘Valley of Gods’ since Kullu is a cluster of beautiful valleys in Himachal Pradesh. Mostly Kullu is clubbed with Manali as Kullu-Manali and is quite a favourite among tourists, especially honeymooners.

As I mentioned Kullu is a hot spot for adventure activities, while in the midst of your drive from Shimla to Manali, you may experience adventure activities like trekking, river rafting, mountaineering, paragliding and hiking over the Himalayan glaciers.

You can in fact indulge yourself with angling on the shore of Beas river.

Some of the tourists prefer to stay in Kullu instead of Manali, if you’re one of those then cottages are available for rent in the hills as they are quite cheap and also comfortable. Most of the hotels in Kullu are located at the foothills.

They do have some luxury resorts too which would cost anywhere from Rs 4,000 per day. Budget and mid-range hotels are also available at pocket-friendly prices.

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Manali, Himachal Pradesh – 250 km from Shimla

Last but not least, Manali is the destination we headed from Shimla.

Solang Valley - World Travel Packages

Ridhima Wadhwani

Ridhima Wadhwani is a travel expert with 15+ years of experience in curating international and domestic holiday packages. Her expertise and attention to detail make her a trusted resource for travelers seeking exceptional vacations. With her passion for travel and commitment to delivering exceptional customer service, Ridhima creates customized itineraries that exceed her client’s expectations.

Which one is better Shimla or Manali in Himachal Pradesh?

Both Shimla and Manali have there own beauty and quite similar in nature. To know more about which one is better you can this beautifully written blog Shimla vs Manali

Do we have tolls on the road from Shimla to Manali?

Yes we do have some tolls on this route to Manali from Shimla, which cost you around Rs. 450-500

Will there be any difference in temperature when traveling from Shimla to Manali?

There will not be much difference in temperature just 1-2 °C , being at higher altitude you may feel lower temperature in Manali.

Is the road from Shimla to Manali safe for self drive?

Yes roads are safe if you follow the rules, never overtake in hilly roads, stay on your left and avoid planning such road trips in Monsoon. These mountains are prone to land slide.

Is there any train from Shimla to Manali, like we have toy train from Kalka to Shimla?

There is no direct train to Manali, as we don’t have any railway station in Manali. The last railway station is at Jonginder Nagar which is around 140 kms from Manali. You’ll have to anyhow take the cab or bus, so cab or bus would be the best choice.

How much it cost in HRTC bus from Shimla to Manali?

It cost around Rs. 800 per person.

How much it cost in cab/taxi from Shimla to Manali?

Cab can cost you around Rs. 5000 minimum.

How much a Shimla to Manali tour package will cost including accommodation?

You can contact us for such packages, on an average 6 days Delhi-Shimla-Manali-Delhi by Volvo cost around Rs. 15,000

This includes all Volvo tickets, stay in 3 star property with breakfast and dinner.

Do you sell Shimla Manali Honeymoon Packages?

Yes we do sell Shimla Kullu Manali Honeymoon Packages. Think honeymoon packages , Think World Travel Packages !

What is the frequency of buses from Shimla to Manali?

There are almost 5 operators on this route to Manali from Shimla, and earliest bus departs around 8:30 AM and the last to leave Shimla depot is around 6:20 PM.

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To share our love for travel….countless soul enriching experiences

Manali Snow

One week trip to Shimla and Manali

We did a one week trip to Shimla and Manali in November 2015. Although a week is not enough to explore both Shimla and Manali, half of us had been there previously. So, rather than hopping from one site seeing destination to another, we were looking for a relaxing getaway from the daily hustle and bustle of life. Also, we planned this one week trip to Shimla and Manali as a big family group. So, it was as much of a family gathering as a trip. And we also listed down our preferred places to visit in Shimla and Manali before starting on our one week trip to Shimla and Manali. Finally, due to the slow indulgence we spent a very nice and memorable time with our family.

Table of Contents

Initial planning

Best time to visit shimla and manali.

Although, Shimla and Manali can be visited all through the year. The best time to visit Shimla and Manali depends on what you want from these destinations. If you want to visit here as an escape from the summer that rest of India faces, then, visit in the months of March – May. And if you want to really enjoy the chilling cold and snowfall (well, I do!), then visit in the winter months of late October – February. You can avoid visiting here in the monsoon months of June – September because of the possibilities of landslides.

Commute for a one week Shimla and Manali trip

We planned our one week trip to Shimla and Manali almost 3-3.5 months in advance. Once we decided that we wanted to head on a one week trip to Shimla and Manali, the first thing we did was to book our flight tickets. So, next we booked flight tickets from Bangalore to Chandigarh. From Chandigarh, we booked 2 cabs for the whole week. These cabs were supposed to take us on a round trip journey of Chandigarh -> Shimla and Manali -> Chandigarh. You can also take AC volvo buses from Delhi to Shimla and also buses from Manali back to Delhi if you prefer. And for local sightseeing you can take local taxis.

Where to stay in Shimla and Manali

Then, the next thing was to find a nice accommodation at both the places However, this took some time and considerable research. Although this was the start of winter holiday season, the places were getting booked fast.We compared the quote and the facilities and decided on the one we actually wanted to book. Here’s a shortlist of   our recommendation of stay in Shimla  that we came up with while searching for our hotel here.We highly recommend that if you are planning a trip to Shimla and Manali, do book your stay in advance by checking out the variety of options available at booking.com or agoda.com . As, these websites give us options of discounts and free cancellation till last moment etc.

booking Shimla hotels & homestays

booking Manali hotels & homestays

Agoda Shimla hotels & homestays

Agoda Manali hotels & homestays

Actually, we got a nice resort in Manali , before we finalized where to stay in Shimla. Because there was a little less rush in Manali compared to Shimla. (Manali is located at higher altitude due to which, many tourists go to Shimla and return from there rather than extending their journey till Manali. As a result, at least in off peak season and starting of the tourist season, there is far less rush in Manali compared to Shimla). Actually. we had almost given up the hopes of finding a place in Shimla that would be able to accommodate all our requirements and suit our budget as well, when we finally stumbled upon this homestay and booked it. Finally, we were done with all our bookings for our one week Shimla and Manali trip almost 2 months in advance of the travel.

ManaliHotel2

Finally the journey starts

Day1 : bangalore – chandigarh – shimla.

Finally, the day of the tour arrived (Oh my! How we counted days since the tour was finalized and the bookings done 🙂 ) We booked early morning flight to Chandigarh. As a result, we reached Chandigarh early in the morning. The rest of our family joined us from Delhi at the Chandigarh domestic terminal. (Delhi to Chandigarh has very good road as well as rail connectivity. Our family chose to travel by the morning Shatabdi express train that took them just 3 hours to arrive at Chandigarh).  From here, we started straight for our journey to Shimla. The cabs were ready as soon as we exited the Chandigarh airport. We hopped into the cabs and were already on our way to Shimla. The road from Chandigarh to Shimla is very scenic. We took a halt in between for lunch.

Finally, we arrived at our homestay in Shimla by 7 in the evening. The host generously showed us around the whole place (we had booked the complete homestay). After an exploratory walk around the whole place, we chose our rooms and settled down. After getting fresh we had a nice home cooked dinner which the host himself served. Over the dinner, we talked to him and saught his opinion to decide upon our next day’s itinerary. He was generous enough to fill us in with lots of information on what to see and where to go. Post dinner, we had little chit chat and finally we retired for the day.

Tips:  We were constrained by time, so we choose the shortest path to Shimla. If you can, we would highly recommend to take the kalka – shimla toy train to reach shimla. Checkout this post to get all the information on how to book, when to book and anything else you need to know about the toy train journey.

Day2 : Naldehra, Ridge and Mall

Naldehra trek.

The next day, we started our day with home cooked breakfast. Then we spent some time relaxing on the huge terrace of the homestay where sunlight was abundant and the soft and warm feeling in the winter month was adorable. Next we started on exploring the town. We had been to most of the main attractions of Shimla before. So, we went straight to Naldehra trekking path on the recommendation of our cab drivers. While we walked through the whole trekking path, our parents boarded the ponies available at the start of the trek. We walked slowly, syncing in the natural beauty that surrounded us, taking breaks and relaxing through the trek.

Naldehra Trek 7

Finally we arrived at the narrow stream of water and then the golf course ahead. From here, we returned back through the same path and by the time we reached back at the starting point, it was lunch time. We had lunch at a nice small restaurant nearby. The view of surrounding hills from here was awesome. By the time we left the spot, it was already well into the afternoon. I guess it was around 3pm. So, we decided to head next to the ridge and the mall road area.

Ridge and Mall

From the Naldehra trek, we headed to the ridge post lunch. Upon reaching the ridge, we relaxed for some time, sitting on the rustic benches and talking merrily. Post that, we had some pretty photo sessions done right on the ridge. We had evening snacks here, some had hot momos and some had ice creams. (It’s always a delight to enjoy an icecream in the chilling cold weather..isn’t it? The ice cream doesn’t create a mess by melting away in your hands when the weather around is cold 😀 )

ShimaChristChurch-min

From here, we started strolling down the mall road, stopping at the shops in between to pick some little souvenirs here and there. We walked our way till the government installed lift. (The lift is located at one end of the mall road. You can easily get to the lift by walking straight across the mall road. You can also take direction from locals and the shopkeepers. There is a board near the lift that would point you in the right direction) By the time we made it to the lift, it had turned dark and from the way towards the lift we could see the whole town dazzling in red and yellow lights. After taking the lift, we arrived down at the lower bazar. Our cabs were waiting here for us. From here, we headed back to our home stay.

Shimla-Manali

Tips: There are several attractions in Shimla, many of them are near the ridge and mall road. We would strongly recommend you visit some of them as per your liking. You can also take a heritage walk along the ridge-mall road area, that would cover many buildings and sites of historical importance. Checkout: 11 must see places in Shimla

Day3: Tara Devi temple and Sankat Mochan Temple

Today, post breakfast, on the owner’s recommendation, we started off to Sankat Mochan Temple . We spent some good time here, offering our prayers to different dieties. We also rested in the huge courtyard of the temple, marveling the magnificent views beyond.

Sankat Mochan 3

From here we headed to Tara Devi temple. Tara Devi temple is at more elevation compared to the rest of Shimla. By the time we reached here, weather had changed and it was turning cloudy. We offered our prayers here, spent some time relaxing and then decided to call it a day and head back to our home stay. It seemed that the clouds were going to get denser and at some point it was going to rain.

Tara Devi Shimla

We had lunch en-route and by the time we reached back, it was around 4pm. I went straight to the roof of the homestay. It was a delight to see the black dark clouds hovering over the mountains. (Many call this kind of weather gloomy but I have a special love for the hovering clouds, particularly when amidst nature) The next day, we had to start quiet early for Manali. Because of this reason also, we thought to let our parents and kid relax for the day. Sitting on the terrace, we enjoyed witnessing the formation of black clouds over the mountains until it started raining. Then we headed back to our rooms to enjoy some fresh hot coffee. Tips: If you are headed to Shimla for the first time, we would highly recommend to stay for a few more days. There are several other places of interest to cover in and around Shimla, and many activities to do, all of which we didn’t cover in this trip. You might be interested in including some of them in your list. Check out these post links for further details: 11 must see places in Shimla 10 offbeat indulgence in Shimla

Day4: Shimla to Manali road trip

The next day we started quiet early in the morning to Manali, since the Shimla to Manali road trip takes around 7-8 hrs. You would be forced to go slow, not only because of the steep climbs and hairpin turns but because the whole drive is so scenic, you would want to indulge into the natural beauty by stopping several times in between and driving slow through the extra scenic patches. Read the details of our drive from Shimla to Manali here . No doubt, it is one of the most scenic road trips that we have taken in India. At Kullu, we stopped near the government emporium to browse their collection of shawls and woolen garments. The collection was nice. Thus, some of us bought a few things. From here, we started straight to our hotel. Finally, we arrived at our hotel by evening 5pm. Then we checked-in, got fresh, had dinner and slept.

balancing travel with a day job

Day5: Hidimba Temple, Manu temple, Mall Road, Monastery & Club house

Hidimba temple.

Our resort was located quiet close to Hidimba Devi temple. Morning post breakfast, we headed straight to the temple. Adjoining this temple is the Manu temple. We offered our prayers at both these temples. The temple premise is quiet huge. We around the temple premises for quiet some time. There are green fields extending all around the temple, with tall deodar trees. Fresh air greets you in whichever direction you decide to head. Beautiful small shops offering Puja material line up the entrance of the temple. The temple is very ancient and beautiful. We spent some time here. Then we headed to our next destination – the Mall road of Manali.

Mall Road & Monastery

Next we went to Mall road, Manali. This is the main commercial hub of the town of Manali. After strolling from one end to another, looking on the offerings, we settled for lunch at one of the restaurant. Post lunch, we headed to the monastery adjacent to the mall road. This is a beautiful , colorful small monastery right next to the Mall road of Manali. You can ask locals for direction to the Monastery. As you reach near it, you will see threads of wire. Several colorful papers are hanging on these threads, marking the presence of a Monastery. After visiting this Monastery we crossed the mall road once again to head towards the Manali club house. On our way, we peeked into some of the shops. The woolen garments and dress materials in this market seem to be really worth a buy. The cost of material is very reasonable while the quality seems good.

Manali Monastery-min

Next, we headed to the Manali club house which is located at the banks of the river Beas. The club house houses a shopping complex and offers seating adjacent to the river bank. Most of our time was spent here exploring the grounds, and some doing a little shopping in the complex. However, to be honest, I was quiet disapponted on the commercialization of this club house. I had been here almost 15 years back with my parents. The place was so much more charming then. You could go right upto the bank of the majestic river flowing near it and sit on the stones. However, now the river is reduced to a meager stream and there is no way one can go upto its bank. There are vendors all around and overall the place looks like a huge shopping complex cum ratery than anything else.

Finally, from here, we returned back to our resort as it had started to drizzle a little. We decided to gather in one of our parents room and order coffee as it was getting cold.

Turn of weather and back to Hotel

The resort had an excellent view of snow clad mountain peaks through the full glass window of each room. While we were chatting, we observed that slowly it was actually snowing on the upper slopes of the hills. Steadily the whole area was getting covered in a fresh blanket of snow. It was such a delight to watch. Tonight it had turned quiet chilled in Manali, there were cold waves blowing and rainfall steadily happening all through the night.

Day6: Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass

The weather again took it’s turn this morning and we were greeted with fresh sunshine and clear weather. We headed to Solang Valley today. The way to the valley is stunningly beautiful, with snow clad mountains visible all around. As they had received a good dose of snow last night, they looked even more beautiful. The valley looks mesmerizing surrounded by green mountains wearing white caps. We walked around, and rested here, taking snaps, admiring the beauty of nature and just sitting, doing nothing. I couldn’t help picturing this vast expanse in winter months of December and January. The valley seems to get a good dose of snow at that time. Thus it becomes a hub for snow sports, attracting tourists from far and wide.

Manali Snow

From here, we wanted to head to Rohtang Pass. Alas, because of the snow the day before, it was not possible to go to Rohtang Pass. We went uphill till the point the roads were clear of snow. Finally we reached Gulaba, the highest point accessible, and it was totally worth it. Fresh snow from the night before covered the area, forming a soft fleece all over the grass. We played in the snow, walked around enjoying every bit of it and snapped some beautiful pictures. (however our 1.5 years old was concerned, looking at the snow and thinking there was tons of milk spilled around!! :D) . We returned from here back to our hotel by afternoon and then relaxed for the day as next day we had full day journey back to Chandigarh.

If you have more days at hand, we highly recommend a road trip to Ladakh from Manali. It can also be done from Srinagar, and on your way back, you can land in Manali.

Manali Snow

Tips: one of my fondest memories of Manali is picking fresh apples from orchards, when I had been here with my parents long long back. We also visited an apple sorting unit and picked delightfully fresh apples from here. If you happen to visit around September mid, that would be the time of apple plucking and sorting in Manali. Do visit an apple orchard. The locals will be very happy to show you around. They will tell you about the huge volume of apple harvest, different varieties and other relevant details. If they are happy enough, they might as well gift you a basket of apples – for free!! To enjoy while you walk across the roads of Manali.

Day7: Manali to Chandigarh

Finally arrived the last day of our awesome trip. Today we started quiet early in the morning for our trip back to Chandigarh. We had breakfast on our way after crossing Kullu in one of the road side dhabas (small restaurants). And we are going to remember this breakfast for long. Since here we had the most amazing aalloo paraths, tea, coffee and toast. Then we drove and drove, descending one mountain and ascending another, capturing memories of incredible natural beauty around. Until we reached Chandigarh at 4 in the evening. From Chandigarh, we had our train back to Delhi around 6 in the evening. We reached Delhi by 10 at night.

In Conclusion to our one week trip to Shimla and Manali

In conclusion, our Shimla-Manali trip was one of the most memorable trips and quiet close to our hearts. Since, our complete family was with us on this trip. Hence, we hope to do more such trips in future and bring informative and interesting stories to you.Thanks for reading. If you are planning a trip to Shimla-Manali and have any queries, feel free to contact us or leave a comment for us, we will get back to you as soon as possible.

PS: Some of our links are affiliated, this means we will earn a commission when you buy a service or product by clicking those links. However, this will have no extra cost for you.

93 thoughts on “One week trip to Shimla and Manali”

Just returned from a one-week trip to Shimla and Manali, and it was nothing short of magical. From the charming streets of Shimla to the snow-capped peaks of Manali, every moment was filled with adventure and beauty.

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Manali to Shimla by Road – Distance, Time and Useful Travel Information

As the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is one of the oldest and the most popular hill stations in Northern India. With stunning views of the Himalayan peaks, alpine forests, and an undeniable colonial charm; Shimla is truly the Queen of the Himalayas. The bustling Himalayan town of Shimla is the perfect order among chaos, albeit with breathtaking views of mountains and valleys. From the golden sunshine in the summers to the charming, white wonderland of the winters, every season paints a different picture.

With our customizable trip plans and itineraries, you can do more than just a regular road trip from Manali to Shimla , and enjoy a comfortable ride, while making your journey interesting at the same time

Table of Contents

Why travel from manali to shimla, travelling from manali to shimla by car, best time to take a road trip from manali to shimla by car.

  • Popular routes to travel from Manali to Shimla
  • How to Reach Shimla By Train
  • How to Reach Shimla By Flight
  • Attractions in Shimla for Sightseeing

Savaari recommends – Popular places to eat in Shimla

Hotels and resorts – accommodation in shimla.

The route between Manali and Shimla is certainly one of the most popular ones in North India, for a quick road trip or a weekend getaway. And by booking a Manali cab with Savaari , you also get the chance to customize your whole trip, including the itinerary, so you can make it an incredible travel experience!

manali to shimla by road

From one mountain locale to another, a Shimla trip from Manali by car is the best way to travel and makes the experience wonderful. It is also a popular route in the state for road trips.

When you book Manali to Shimla trip packages from Savaari, you can certainly have a great time driving down the serpentine highways, flanked by pine forests, hilly hamlets, and picture-perfect views of the great Himalayas. And thus, your Shimla trip from Manali will become a delightful experience.

Like any other Himalayan region in India, Manali also enjoys alpine weather, making it cold and frosty in the winter and pleasant in the summer. The rainy season, however, is not recommended to travel around this region.

Therefore, depending upon your season preference, you can choose to visit in the colder months and experience its snow views (if it snows) and New Year festivities.

But if you want to experience the place in full bloom and greener cover, the summer months are the best time to visit Manali to Shimla by car. It is during this time the landscape is at its cheery best. The warmer months are also great for driving down from Shimla and enjoying the ride without the windchill. 

Popular Routes from Manali to Shimla

Manali to shimla via nh3 and nh205 .

The Manali to Shimla distance is approximately 250 KM and takes nearly 8 hours to travel. You can most probably expect regular Manali to Shimla traffic, but certainly no severe congestion. Before you travel, always check for traffic updates and use live maps to get real-time information on Manali to Shimla road conditions. 

Here’s a basic Manali to Shimla road map for this route:

manali to shimla via NH43

Popular sights/monuments that you will encounter along this route:

The route between Shimla and Manali is as scenic as it can get. Therefore, you can stop at any of these places and experience what each pit stop has to offer. 

  • Naggar Castle, Naggar – This ancient castle is a must-see on the Shimla-Manali route. Made with stones and solid timber, the 15th-century castle boasts ethnic architecture. Although now it’s a heritage hotel, the main castle is kept intact for visitors to explore.; 
  • Chandrakhani Pass, Kullu – One of the best highlights of Kullu district has to be a lush enclave of alpine forests and gurgling streams. 
  • Pandoh Dam, Mandi – A little outside Mandi town, you will find this beautiful dam. However, it requires a short trek up a small hill to get a complete view of the dam and the surrounding landscape.
  • Prashar Lake, Mandi – A few miles off the highway at Mandi, you will land at the crystal clear lake atop 9000 feet. This is also a popular base for long treks to the upper ranges of Himalayas. Do not forget to capture stunning views of Dhauladhar, Pir Panjal, and Kinnaur mountain ranges from the lakeside.
  • Great Himalayan National Park, Tirthan Valley – Known for its rich biodiversity with exotic Himalayan flora and fauna, this is one of the most popular wildlife sanctuaries of Himachal. To reach there, one has to take the road towards Shoja from Mandi. You can also stop overnight and camp in the forests or try a day trek, for which you can plan your itinerary ahead. 
  • Aut – A lesser-known village on the banks of the Beas River, Aut is a cozy little hamlet. Enjoy your time here driving through the long, tunneled roads, grab a cup of tea along the way, or just admire the views.
  • Gobind Sagar Lake, Bilaspur – You will have to take a detour from Bilaspur junction to reach the water body. The lake is also the catchment area of the Bhakra-Nangal dam, which can be best seen from the other side at Nangal. You can spend some time at the tranquil lakeside and enjoy the natural beauty along with some cool air. 

Naggar Castle

Places to eat along this route:

  • Chawla’s, Mandi – one of the oldest eateries on this highway offering Punjabi delicacies and is certainly popular among travelers.
  • Bahadur/Bhadure Ka Dhaba, Bilaspur – popular local eatery, offering traditional meals and quick bites. 
  • Café Madana, Sundernagar – casual local eatery serving all meals, all day, and good for big groups and kid-friendly.
  • Musician Dhaba, Shalaghat – local eatery serving authentic Himachali food, and a good place to stop for breakfast, tea, and in-between snacking.

Manali to Shimla Road Condition Via NH3 and NH205

NH3 and NH205 is the only route recommended by Google maps. Regular travelers also take this route, since the Manali to Shimla road traffic here is also light, but you can expect high traffic during peak tourist season (March to May or December).

Before you travel, always check for live traffic updates or real-time maps to get a better understanding of the Manali to Shimla road condition.

Savaari travel magazine

Other means of traveling from Manali to Shimla

You can also travel from Manali to Shimla by train or flight. 

How to reach Shimla by Train

There are no direct trains from Manali to Shimla. There is only one train route to and from Shimla, which is via Kalka. You can take a train to reach Kalka from nearby cities. But from Manali, you will have to take a car or a bus to reach Shimla.

You should always check with Indian Railways for updated train timings from Kalka. 

How to reach Shimla by Flight

The nearest airport from both the towns is Kullu Airport (KUU). You can take a Kullu airport taxi to reach Shimla. 

Attractions in Shimla for sightseeing

One can spend an entire week exploring the town but Shimla is not just about the Mall Road or sitting at the Ridge. For a perfect Shimla tour, you have to explore beyond the town and head to the quaint villages and hilly hamlets that dot this region. Make the most of your Shimla trip with our tips and suggestions. You can always book a tempo traveller in Shimla in case you are travelling in a large group.

  • Some of the most popular and prominent places for Shimla sightseeing are Jakhoo Temple, Kali Bari Temple, Christ Church, The Ridge, and Himachal State Museum.
  • You can also visit the meadows of Annandale which also houses a golf course and offers scenic mountain views. 
  • Shimla tourism also offers scenic treks to Chadwick Falls and Summer Hills near the town.
  • Go for a tour of Naldehra for the ultimate mountain holiday experience.
  • If you are traveling in summer, then do visit the Shimla Reserve Forest Sanctuary and experience Himalayan wildlife.
  • Sita Ram and Sons, Lakkad Market
  • Café Shimla Times, Hotel Willow Banks,
  • Cecil Restaurant, The Mall, Mall Road.
  • Himachali Rasoi, Middle Bazar, Mall Road.
  • Café Sol, Mall Road.
  • Ashiana Grand, Ridge, Mall Road.
  • Hideout Café, Adjacent to the fire station, The Mall.
  • Eighteen 71 Cookhouse & Bar, Near Tourism Lift Hotel Willow Banks.

Nearby Roadtrip from Shimla

Highway news :.

  • Heavy rain persisted in various parts of the country including Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana
  • Road in Kokunala   collapsed in Shimla amid heavy rain
  • 39 km Parwanoo-Solan stretch on Shimla highway opened
  • Fly in chopper from Pinjore to Shimla, Kullu soon
  • Tourist arrivals likely to touch pre-Covid level in Himachal

Download our Savaari taxi booking app for a smooth and pleasant journey from Manali to Shimla.

+91 906 907 8181

[email protected].

Trisoj

Top 15 Best Tourist Places to Visit in Shimla Kullu Manali to Explore the Enchanting Beauty

Places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali

  • Post author: TRISOJ
  • Post category: Himachal Pradesh
  • Reading time: 25 mins read

When it comes to breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and serene escapades, there are many tourist places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali is an unbeatable destination. Nestled in the heart of the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, this trio offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. These destinations offer a harmonious blend of picturesque landscapes, adventure-filled escapades, and serene spiritual experiences. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast or a nature lover. Let’s embark on a virtual journey through these captivating destinations! Now explore these beautiful Places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali one by one. 

Shimla: The Queen of Hills

1. the ridge – where history meets modernity.

The Ridge

This place is the heart of Shimla and serves as a hub of cultural and social activities. This open space offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and a charming mix of colonial-era architecture. It’s a popular gathering spot for both locals and tourists, making it an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, shopping for souvenirs, or enjoying local street food. This sightseeing is counted as one of the best places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali exploration.

Entry fee: No Entry cost

Time taken to visit: 3 to 7 hours

Opening and closing hours: open 24 hours

2. Mall Road – Shopping and More

Mall Road

There are many things that you can do in Shimla and Mall Road is lined with shops, cafes, and boutiques. It’s a paradise for shoppers seeking local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. A leisurely walk along the Mall Road, especially during the evening when the street is illuminated, offers an unforgettable experience. Whether it’s sampling delectable street food, indulging in shopping sprees for local crafts, or simply relishing the scenic views of the surrounding hills, Mall Road promises an unforgettable journey into the soul of Shimla’s bustling elegance.

Time taken to visit: 2 to 5 hours

3. Jakhoo Temple – Seek Blessings and Serenity

Jakhoo Temple

For those seeking spirituality and temples in Shimla, Jakhoo Temple place for you and is the most visited place during Shimla Kullu and Manali Tour . Jakhoo Hill is located on the top and it requires a short trekking to reach there and temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman which offers panoramic views of the town below. The journey to the temple involves a scenic trek, which adds an element of adventure to the spiritual experience. As the gentle breeze rustles through the trees, and the temple bells chime softly, Jakhoo Temple beckons those in search of inner peace, stunning vistas, and a touch of spiritual solace amidst the Himalayan serenity.

Opening and closing hours: 7 am to 8 pm

4. Kufri – A Winter Wonderland

Kufri

One of the best tourist places near Shimla which is located just a short drive from Shimla is Kufri, a picturesque hill station known for its captivating beauty and adventure activities. During the winter months, Kufri transforms into a winter wonderland with opportunities for skiing and snowboarding. In the warmer months, visitors can enjoy horse riding, hiking, and exploring the lush green landscapes. The picturesque landscapes, with their rolling hills and dense forests, provide a serene backdrop for those seeking a respite from the chaos of city life making this destination must be visited during your exploration of Kullu Manali and Shimla.

Time taken to visit: 2 to 5 days

Opening and closing hours: open 24 hours 

5. Indian Institute of Advanced Study – Resplendent Wisdom

Indian Institute of Advanced Study

This place is a gem in Shimla for tourists and every traveller likes to visit this sightseeing, you also can consider this sightseeing in your Kullu Manali and Shimla Travel Itinerary . Shimla is a captivating testament to intellectual pursuit and architectural splendour. Nestled amidst the serene surroundings of Shimla, this historic institution stands as a symbol of higher learning and scholarly discourse. Housed within the former Viceregal Lodge, a structure that seamlessly blends colonial elegance with Indian aesthetics, the institute offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the rich history and academic legacy of the region.

Entry fee: 40 INR for Indians and 80 INR for foreigners (free for students)

Opening and closing hours: 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Kullu: A Haven of Natural Beauty and Adventure

1. naggar – where history meets serenity.

Naggar

With rich historical significance, Naggar is a place that seamlessly blends culture with natural beauty. The Naggar Castle, an ancient fort converted into a heritage hotel, offers panoramic views of the Kullu Valley. The Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, showcasing the works of the famous Russian artist, is another attraction that art aficionados will appreciate. Naggar is a place where history comes alive, and tranquillity meets the grandeur of the Himalayas which makes this sightseeing one of the best places to visit in Shimla Kullu Manali during your trip to these beautiful destinations.

Time taken to visit: 6 to 10 hours

2. Solang Valley – Thrills Amidst Solitude

Solang Valley

A short drive from Kullu, Solang Valley is a haven for adventure lovers and it is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and lush greenery that makes it one of the Best Places To Visit in Kullu . There are many activities you can enjoy in this valley such as zorbing, skiing, and ropeway rides. The snow-covered expenses during winters and the lush meadows during summers provide an ideal backdrop for both adventure and relaxation. Whether you’re seeking the rush of adrenaline or a moment of tranquil contemplation amidst nature’s beauty.

Entry fee: Activities are chargeable

Time taken to visit: 3 – 7 hours

Opening and closing hours: 10 am to 6 pm

3. Kasol – Tranquility by the Parvati River

Kasol

Nestled along the banks of the Parvati River, this is the best Kullu tourist spot because it is famous for its laid-back vibe and captivating landscapes for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. Kasol serves as a base for treks to destinations like Kheerganga and Tosh. The Israeli influence is also evident in the local cuisine and the numerous cafes that dot the village.

Time taken to visit: 3 to 7 days

4. Great Himalayan National Park – A Biodiversity Hotspot

Great Himalayan National Park

This Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sanctuary of natural diversity and breathtaking beauty. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, it is the best destination in Himachal because this park is a haven for both adventure enthusiasts and nature lovers. With its dense forests, alpine meadows, and rugged terrain, it offers an array of trekking trails that lead to hidden lakes, majestic peaks, and pristine landscapes. The park’s rich biodiversity includes numerous species of flora and fauna, some of which are rare and endemic to the region.

Entry fee: 50 INR for Indians and 200 INR for Foreigners 

Opening and closing hours: 10 am to 5 pm

5. Malana – Exploring the Isolated Paradise

Malana

Tucked away in the remote valleys of Himachal Pradesh, Malana stands as a captivating testament to a world untouched by time. This ancient village, veiled by myths and mysteries, is the best sightseeing spot in Kullu because it offers a journey into a culture that is as enigmatic as it is unique. Malana offers stone houses, intricate woodwork, and fiercely guarded traditions which transports visitors to a realm where modern influences have yet to make their mark. Amidst the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas, this hidden gem beckons adventurers to explore its trails, immerse themselves in its rituals and forge connections with a community that has chosen to keep its heritage alive against the tide of change.

Manali : A Place Filled With Peace and Joy

1. hadimba devi temple – seek blessings and serenity.

Hadimba Devi Temple

Embark on a spiritual journey at the Hadimba Devi Temple , a wooden structure dedicated to the goddess Hidimba. Surrounded by towering deodar trees and lush greenery, the temple’s intricate craftsmanship and serene surroundings offer a sense of tranquillity and devotion. The annual Hadimba Devi Fair is a vibrant celebration that draws locals and tourists alike. For visitors seeking a connection to spirituality amidst nature’s grandeur, the Hadimba Devi Temple is a must-visit destination that encapsulates the essence of Manali’s spiritual heritage.

Time taken to visit: 1 to 3 hours

2. Rohtang Pass – Gateway to the Snow Desert

Rohtang Pass

At an altitude of 3,978 meters, is a gateway to the snow desert that separates the Kullu Valley from the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. The breathtaking drive to Rohtang is an adventure in itself, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the Chandra River. The pass remains covered in snow for a major part of the year and serves as a playground for snow activities like skiing and snowmobiling. If you are planning your trip in Summer time in Kullu Manali then you can consider this sightseeing in your tour.

Entry fee: 550 INR per person

Time taken to visit: 1 to 3 hours

Opening and closing hours:  6 am to 12 noon for vehicles going towards Leh, and 12 noon to 6 pm for vehicles coming back from Leh

3. Old Manali – A Bohemian Retreat

Old Manali

A charming and nostalgic part of the larger Manali town in Himachal Pradesh and considered the Best Places to visit in Kullu Manali Shimla Trip they exude a unique atmosphere that captures the essence of the past while blending seamlessly with the present. The narrow lanes lined with traditional wooden houses, quaint cafes, and local shops create an enchanting ambience that transports visitors to a bygone era. This part of town retains its rustic charm while also offering a diverse range of experiences, from exploring the Manu Temple and the Manali Club House to engaging in adventure activities and soaking in the vibrant nightlife.

Time taken to visit: 3 to 8 hours

4. Manuallaya Spa Resort – A lap of luxury

Manuallaya Spa Resort

Nestled in the heart of Manali amidst the stunning landscapes of the Himalayas, is a luxurious haven that offers an unforgettable retreat. Boasting a seamless blend of contemporary comfort and traditional charm, the resort presents a captivating escape for travellers seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. With its elegant accommodations, world-class amenities, and breathtaking views, Manuallaya provides a serene sanctuary for guests to unwind and connect with nature. The resort’s spa facilities offer a range of holistic treatments, adding to the sense of indulgence and well-being.

Entry fee: 2000 INR to 5000 INR for one day

Time taken to visit: 1 day

5. Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs – A holy place  

Vashisht Hot Water Springs and Temple

This Hot Spring water lake is located near Manali and is a serene and spiritual destination that draws visitors seeking both relaxation and cultural enrichment. Vashisht Temple , dedicated to the sage Vashisht, boasts intricate architecture and a tranquil ambience that invites contemplation. The temple is renowned for its unique design, featuring intricate wood carvings and traditional Himachali style. Adjacent to the temple, the natural hot springs offer a therapeutic experience, known for their mineral-rich waters believed to possess healing properties. So these are the reasons, this is an adventurous Manali tourist spot.

Opening and closing hours: 7 am to 10 pm

Frequently Asked Questions?

A. There are many places to visit in Shimla, Kullu, and Manali including Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hidimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, Old Manali, Manuallaya Spa Resort, and Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs.

A. The best time to witness snowfall in Shimla is during the winter months, from December to February.

A. The Mall Road in Shimla is a popular shopping destination, offering a variety of shops selling handicrafts, woollens, and local artefacts.

A. Kullu Manali offers a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to luxury resorts, ensuring a comfortable stay for every type of traveller.

A. Shimla’s summer weather is pleasant and mild, making it a popular hill station getaway to escape the heat.

A. To complete the Shimla Kullu Manali trip, it is recommended to spend at least 5 to 6 days. In Shimla, you can visit places like Kufri and Mall Road, while in Manali, you can explore Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, and other attractions. It’s important to note that the duration can be customized based on personal preferences and interests.

Final Thought !!

Kullu-Manali and Shimla beckon travellers with their natural beauty, adventure offerings, and cultural richness. These destinations are blessed with awesome things whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature lover, or someone seeking tranquillity, these destinations promise an unforgettable journey. So what are you waiting for drop your enquiry or book Travel packages for Shimla Kullu Manali with us. We have a wide range of travel packages for Shimla, Kullu, and Manali with different categories like honeymoon packages for Shimla, family packages for Kullu Manali and Couple Packages for Shimla. So book a travel package and embark on a memorable escapade to these enchanting hill stations. Happy travels!

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About TRISOJ

places to visit from shimla to manali

We are committed to serving customized and fixed travel packages with a guaranteed and dedicated support system for domestic & international destinations.....

Our services, travel packages, informative, phone no. +91 906 907 8181, email: [email protected], registered address: plot no.4, near bl foundry pvt ltd, paper mill, piou maniyari, kundli - sonipar, haryana - india  .

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Manali Volvo Tour Package - Excursion to Solang Valley

Manali shimla honeymoon package tour duration 5 nights 6 days, 4 night 5 days shimla manali package, manali tour package with amritsar & dalhousie - excursion to solang valley, kullu manali kasol honeymoon package, manali tour package with shimla & dalhousie, 1. shimla to manali by bus.

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How to Plan a trip to Shimla and Manali?

Dheeraj Sharma

Every year thousands of tourists plan a trip to Shimla and Manali with their families and loved ones. I too get loads of questions regarding planning the trip to Shimla and Manali on this blog. No wonder why as both Shimla being known as “Queen of Hills” and Manali popularly-known as a “ Honeymoon Destination “, are the most popular tourist destinations in Himachal Pradesh.

Are you planning a Shimla and Manali trip?

Personally speaking, Shimla now being converted to nothing but a concrete jungle still offer around a few peaceful places. Manali, on the other hand, has much more natural offerings.

Today, I am going to make the lives of tourists looking forward to making a plan for a trip to Shimla and Manali easier. In this article today, I will be sharing the most common itinerary for a trip to Shimla and Manali.

Let's quickly dive into the details:

Should I spend more time in Shimla or Manali?

I am going to suggest the plan in such a way that you spend more time in Manali than in/around Shimla. Manali has a lot more to offer than Shimla, so it is better to spend more time in Manali. The river element in Manali adds more charm to the missing beauty of Shimla.

While Shimla may appeal more to people close to architecture, Manali is more to people who are close to nature. In the past, I did write a detailed travel guide to Manali which can be referenced for more details, in case required.

Both Shimla and Manali are well connected to Delhi / Chandigarh by Volvo buses. I always prefer taking an HPTDC or HRTC Volvo, which can be booked by their official websites. It is a fair warning that you should avoid private Volvos when both HRTC and HPTDC have an excellent fleet on offer. Otherwise, for reaching Shimla, you can also enjoy the toy train ride from Kalka to Shimla.

Beautiful roads in Manali

Road Conditions in Shimla and Manali

Well, the road conditions to Shimla from Delhi are excellent in shape. Now, with operational Himalayan Expressway that bypasses the messed up traffic of Kalka, the journey to Shimla and ahead to Kinnaur & Spiti Valley is so much smoother and faster.

On the other hand, though the majority of road conditions between Delhi and Shimla are excellent, the section between Swarghat to Bilaspur/Sunder Nagar makes you feel frustrated. You need to get past this section patiently and rest all is a breeze on Delhi to Manali route 🙂

Planning a trip to Shimla and Manali?

8 Day Plan for a trip to Shimla and Manali

Given below is an 8-day plan for a trip to Shimla and Manali, which you can follow and have a good time with your family. The trip is balanced and comfortable for people of all ages, including kids and adults.

Hence, your family will enjoy the balance of both Shimla and Manali while you collect those memories to be cherished forever. Feel free to shoot any questions or doubts you may have in the comments section of the article below.

Day 1 | Delhi to Shimla

Reach Shimla from by overnight Volvo from the previous night or by toy train. Check-in and rest at the hotel. In the second half, explore local Shimla, including Shimla Ridge, Mall Road, Lakkar Bazaar, Back to Hotel By Evening. You can even plan to stay at Mashobra .

Day 2 | Shimla Local Sightseeing

Around Shimla, a relaxing day. Jakhoo Temple, State Museum, Mall Road, Ridge, etc. as you like or maybe you can visit Kufri in the first half of the day and all this in the second half of the day.

Day 3 | Shimla to Narkanda & Hatu Peak

Shimla – Narkanda – Hatu Peak – Narkanda – Shimla (a bit long day) or you can do Shimla – Kufri – Chail – Shimla (Little less hectic :)). You can of course club it with Kufri as well. However, spending time around Narkanda – Thanedar – Hatu Peak will be worth the time. Also, if you plan to go Manali over Jalori Pass, then it makes more sense to stay overnight at Narkanda.

Day 4 | Shimla to Manali

This day will be used by mostly traveling from Shimla to Manali. You can plan to either travel from the Jalori Pass route. There is also a route that goes via Tattapani – Chindi – Rohanda. Or, you can also plan the regular route via Bilaspur.

Day 5 | Manali Local Sightseeing

Manali Local sightseeing which includes Hadimba Temple, Manu Temple, Mall Road, Local Monastery, Vashisth Hot Water Springs (never found it interesting), etc. You can plan to spend some time by the riverside as well or take some trekking trails in the woods near Old Manali.

Day 6 | Manali to Solang Valley or Rohtang Pass

Manali – Snow Point either at Solang Valley or Marhi/Gulaba on the way to Rohtang Pass. Enjoy the snow, and come back to Manali. In summers, you can go up to Rohtang Pass as well. You can also plan to spend the night at Solang Valley , which is less touristy in comparison to the Manali crowd.

I am sure in winter, this day will be most exciting as you are looking forward to visiting snow points near Solang Valley or Rohtang Pass. Make sure you leave early to avoid traffic jams toward Rohtang Pass .

Day 7 | Manali to Jagatsukh to Naggar Castle

On this day you can travel from Manali to Jagatsukh and then further to Naggar Castle. Jagatsukh is one of the offbeat places in Himachal Pradesh whereas Naggar Castle is one of the romantic places in Himachal.

You should stay at Naggar and enjoy the place. It is very romantic with great views and food. Visit Roerich Museum, Art Gallery and do not miss the hike to ancient Krishna Temple at the top.

Day 8 | Naggar Castle – Manali – Delhi

Today you can checkout from Naggar Castle by noon and travel back home. Since the Volvo to Delhi will be around 5.30 PM types, so either you can spend a sometime hanging around Naggar only and after lunch leave for Manali or you have the option to come back to Manali and hang around on Mall road and finally take the return bus.

Or, you can also coordinate with bus HPTDC guys so that the bus picks you from the nearest pickup point for Naggar on the way to Delhi. Naggar Castle guys will arrange the taxi for the drop there.

** if you have time then try, Manali Sanctuary can also be covered as it is just about 2-3 km from Manali town and there is a trail which starts from Manali Log Huts or Dhungri temple that leads you into the woods.

A beautiful morning in Shimla

Where to stay in Shimla and Manali?

There are a lot of hotel options available in Shimla and Manali with a wide range of budgets. Hence, all type of accommodation options exists in both Shimla and Manali, ranging from high-end five-figure per night luxurious rooms to economic to cheap budget rooms as well in Old Manali. There are many hotels that also offer honeymoon packages for Shimla and Manali as well.

Hence, it will be no trouble for you to find a hotel in Shimla and Manali, which is suitable to your budget even after reaching the place. You may also browse our hotel’s section in DwD Community: Hotels, Guest Houses & Home Stays in the Himalayas.

Where to eat in Manali?

  • Johnson’s, located near Circuit House is very famous for its cuisines. A meal here is a must for us whenever we go to Manali.
  • Chopsticks , located at Mall road, has a great variety of Chinese dishes topped with great taste.
  • Grozy , located just at the start of Mall road shops is also quite good in food quality. In fact, one of the trip we just had our meal in this restaurant only.
  • IL Forno is by far the best place for Pizzas in Manali. If you love Pizzas then do not forget to check this awesome place.
  • Sher-e-Punjab or Shan – e -Punjab (the original one) is also a good food joint.

You should always carry your water bottle and refill it as many times as you need water. It will not only keep you hydrated always, but you will also help in saving the Himalayas from plastic garbage. Remember, every tiny step counts and your step in this direction can help save the Himalayas too !! 🙂 🙂

Are you planning a winter trip to Shimla and Manali?

  • Do take heavy woolens with you especially a heavy woolen jacket.
  • Do take 2-3 pairs of inner thermals cots.
  • Do take woolen long socks. Airtight shoes would be perfect for helping you avoid freezing feet.
  • Do not exert yourself too much and try to keep your body hydrated on the day when visiting snow points.
  • Take at least one full day rest in Manali before venturing further heights. i.e., snow points in Solang or Gulaba. DO NOT go to snow points on the very first day you reach Manali region.
  • In winter, you will find plenty of discounts in most stay options of Himachal . (except Christmas – new year week) HPTDC runs about 30% off-season discounts [also valid for Naggar Castle]if you like to stay in their hotels. All other private hotels can offer as much as 40-50%. Keep in mind that X-mas and New Year week is the costliest week of the year in Manali and Shimla.
  • Do not forget to check this list of things to carry for the Shimla – Manali trip .

A beautiful view from Shimla's Mall Road

I am sure that the above article will help you plan a memorable trip to Shimla and Manali or at least act as a starting point for it. Please feel free to share any thoughts or questions or doubts you may have in the comment section of this article or the DwD Community | Itinerary Advice forum for Himachal Pradesh. We can discuss or help planning your upcoming trip to Shimla and Manali to be a memorable one 🙂

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I am Dheeraj Sharma - a traveler, techie, and Himalayan lover. Since 2009, I have been helping thousands of travelers every year plan memorable & budget-friendly trips to the Himalayas - Smartly, Safely, and responsibly.

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Hello Dheeraj

You mention using bus to travel to Shimla from Delhi. Are there no flights to Shimla? I remember reading that there is an airport at Jubbarhati or something.

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Yes, there are flights to Jubbalhatti airport from Delhi. As it is not commonly used by folks, I did not recommend in the article plus it is costly than Volvo 🙂

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Can you plan a trip for me from mumbai to Amritsar Golden temple + KulluManali + Shimla + Dharamshala + Dalhousie Travelling Time 10 days Ending of February

Skip, Shimla, for rest

Day 1: Delhi to Manali Day 2: Rest in Manali and do local sightseeing in Manali Day 3: Manali – Snow Point towards Rohtang Pass (Marhi / Gulaba) Day 4: Manali – Naggar Castle Day 5: Naggar Castle – Dharamshala – Mcleod Ganj  Day 6: Mcleod Ganj and around Day 7: Mcleod Ganj – Dalhousie – Chamba Day 8: Chamba – Gete (17 Km) – Jot (12 KM) – Gete (12 KM) – Khajjiar (7 KM) Day 9: Khajjiar – Dalhousie – Amritsar

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Manali happens to be one of the most loved hill stations of the entire range of the Himalayas in the state of Himachal Pradesh.

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I m planin to go shimla and manali from delhi in the ending week of december want to kno the best time to visit these places since i would like to see snow. And if i book this trip 4 month in advance can i get some discount.

I m the family of 4 .

Rizwan, the majority of the times by end of December it snows around Manali and Shimla but for snow mid of January of the best time. I will suggest if possible keep the plan flexible and as soon as it snows or has predictions of snow, go for it.

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Even I am planning for a holiday in manali in December end for 5 days. we are a family of 4. Due to children school restriants, it would not be possible to postpone it to January. We want to see snow. We are reaching manali on 20.12.2017 & leaving on 26.12.2017 then proceeding to Narkhanda on 26.12.2017 & leaving from there on 28.12.2017. Please advise the possibility of Snow and what kind of clothing would be required to be carried. Also suggest a Taxi owner who can be with us 8 days. Chandigarh to Chandigarh. Hope the travel would not be a nightmare during that time. Thanks.

Hey Alpesh,

You can check tips for carrying clothes on your Manali trip at the link: Delhi to Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Travel Guide . Also, this will give an idea as well in detail: Tips for Carrying Clothes for Himalayan Trip

You can get connected directly to some drivers in Himachal or Spiti Valley or Kinnaur Valley at the link: List of Taxi Drivers for Spiti Valley & Kinnaur Valley . These drivers can come and pick you up from Manali / Shimla / Delhi / Chandigarh too, of course with a price of the pickup as well. Otherwise, taxis, in general, are also available on the spot from Shimla or Manali from respective taxi stands. These drivers can help you with finding local stay options too.

You should be able to see snow stock around the snow points of Gulaba/Marhi or Solang Valley whichever is open. So, if snow is the priority then there are no issues but for snowfall best bet is that you keep the plan flexible and keep a check on weather updates on the day you plan to visit. The weather websites of Manali region can be helpful for you in tracking the weather updates of Manali and around. If it says raining in Manali, or rains/snow at Kothi or snows at Rohtang Pass then expect snowfall at nearby snow points of Solang and Marhi/Gulaba etc.

I hope that helps. Please let me know incase you need more details or have some queries or doubts.

If interested in more details on Manali including sightseeing places, accommodation options, food joints, etc you can go through the Manali travel guide available at the link here

Regards Dheeraj Sharma

Wat would be the good option shuld i book a trip with tour agent or directly go to manali bcz i m coming with famil my daughter is 5 and son is 3 . Can u give some tour agent detials who can provide some good plan

If you are looking for competitive and customized tour and packages, you can connect with [email protected] as most of the readers in the past couple of years have had very good feedback about them and especially their transparent policies along with being there with you all the time in need. So, we trust them the most. You can refer my name or DoW to Gaurav, the guy who runs it. He knows us very well and should be able to offer some special rates being a DoW Member. You can just refer him the DwD Community Member Username in such a case or screenshot of this reply here.

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I really liked the way you wrote the articles and the responses. Great job.

I am keen for your guidance for a taxi trip of a family of 4 adults from 21st May till about 28/29 May. I plan to cover Delhi >> Chandigarh(1N) and then Manali and Shimla for about 4N. Most importantly I am keen to explore nature as much as the snow and little of concrete. I am also keen to go budget with tent stays where possible rather than hotels.

Any suggestions will greatly be appreciated.

A plan is mentioned in the article, but if you are not interested int the concrete building then it is better that you plan Manali and Tirthan Valley

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Hi DHEERAJ,

I am planning for Manali and Shimla along with my wife. It is her first trip to Manali. I arrive Manali on 23rd April 2017 and leaving from Shimla on 29th April. Can you give me a plan. Is it possible for me to take a bike in manali and drop it in Shimla. Can I go Kalpa..? Please suggest me.

I will suggest that you follow the plan suggested in the article. Kalpa will be too far to travel in these days after covering Manali and Shimla. So, keep Kinnaur Valley for some other time of the year.

If I skip Manali, How can Is it possible for Shimla to Kaza to Shimla in 7 Days.

7 days will be less but still if you want you may give a shot to any of the below plans of various combinations:

Day 1 : Reach Manali by overnight volvo of and stay overnight at Solang Valley as preferred for acclimatization Day 2 : Manali / Solang – Kaza Day 3 : Kaza – Dhangkar – Tabo Day 4 : Tabo – Pin Valley – Kaza. Do Ki, Kibber in the evening. Day 5 : Kaza – Langza – Komik – Hikkim – Chandratal Day 6 : Chandratal – Manali Day 7 : Reach Delhi by overnight Volvo from Manali

Day 1 | Delhi – Narkanda Day 2 | Narkanda – Kalpa Day 3 | Kalpa – Nako – Tabo Day 4 | Tabo – Dangkar – Pin Valley – Kaza Day 5 | Kaza and around (Ki, kibber, gette, hikkim, komik, langza – Choose whatever you possibly can) Day 6 | Kaza- Kunzum Pass – Manali Day 7 | Manali – Delhi

Day 1 : Reach Manali by overnight volvo of and stay overnight at Solang Valley as preferred for acclimatization Day 2 : Manali / Solang – Chandratal – Kaza. Leave early morning from Manali to see Chandratal too. Day 3 : Kaza – Rest Day. Evening pay a visit to Ki, Kibber Day 4 : Kaza – Langza – Komik – Hikkim – Kaza – Tabo Day 5 : Tabo – Geyu Mummy – Nako – Kalpa Day 6 : Kalpa – Sangla / Chitkul – Sarahan / Rampur Day 7 : Sarahan / Rampur – Delhi, long drive back

Day 1: Delhi – Shimla / Narkanda Day 2: Shimla / Narkanda – Kalpa Day 3: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Tabo Day 4: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza Day 5: Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Komik, Hikkim Day 6: Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Kalpa – Rampur/Jeori (very long day) Day 7: Rampur/Jeori – Delhi (again a long day)

Day 1: Delhi – Sarahan Day 2: Sarahan – Kalpa Day 3: Kalpa – Nako – Nako Lake – Tabo Day 4: Tabo – Dhangkar – Dhangkar Lake – Pin Valley – Kaza Day 5: Kaza – Ki, Kibber, Komik, Langza – Kaza Day 6: Kaza – Tabo – Nako – Sangla / Chitkul Day 7: Sangla / Chitkul – Narkanda / Shimla Day 8: Narkanda / Shimla – Delhi

Hi Dheeraj,

Confirming I am going to visit Manali and Shimla as per you plan here. I am about to visit Kasol for a day and in Shimla planned to go for Chail and Hatu peak. I am looking for Bike rental in manali and shimla. Do you have any contacts ?

In Manali you will get plenty of them. Best advise is to reach there, inspect the bike and then travel on it to ensure there are no issues.

Here what’s my plan for my trip. Give me any change to be done, is Day5 do-able ? I am hiring a cab for the entire trip with a travel agency ?

Day 1: ARRIVAL IN MANALI + LOCAL CITY TOUR (3 – 4 HRS) Day 2: MANALI – SOLANG VALLEY (14 KMS) & Rohtang Snowpoint – MANALI Day 3: MANALI – NAGGAR CASTLE – JANA WATERFALL – Manali Day 4: Kulllu – Manikaran – Kasol (Stay) Day 5: Kasol – Tosh – Kasol – SHIMLA Day 6: SHIMLA – KUFRI – LOCAL S/S – SHIMLA Day 7: SHIMLA – HatuPeak/Chail Day 8: Back to Delhi . Suggest me the Day 5 plan is do-able, if I start the day at 8 AM ?

Except Day 5, things look fine. It does not make any sense to visit Tosh on Day 5 rather you can tweak a bit like

Day 3: MANALI – NAGGAR CASTLE – JANA WATERFALL – Kasol Day 4: Kasol – Tosh – Kasol or chill in Kasol only Day 5: Kasol/Tosh – SHIMLA

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Very Nice & detailed info about Trip plan, really helpful for fellow travellers. Inspiring by your helpful tips and mainly your detailed views, would personally like help on my upcoming trip – for which I give you full details below :

Me and My Family (total 3 adults) are planning Manali and Shimla in 1st week of April’17, starting 7th april. Following is tentative plan :

Day1 : Delhi to Manali volvo (Delhi dep eve 6pm, Manali arr. next day by abt 10am)

Day2 : Check in to hotel, rest for 2 hrs, freshen up, hv lunch. Then Manali Local site seeing covering places like- Hadimba devi temple, Manu Temple, Vashisht Temple & Hot water springs, Tibetian Monastery (Buddha temple) Club House, Van Vihar National Park, Nehru Kund Manali bird sanctury (if not same as van vihar), Night stay at Manali. [Night #1]

Question : 1) If all these places can be covered in 6-8 hrs (12pm to 6/8pm) which are places are nearby to each other / walking distance from mall road ? 2) Good Budget hotel for 3 ppl in the range of 1200 – 2000 max if u can suggest on mall road or even in distance of max 1 ~ 1.5 km of mall road – OR old manali (in that conveyance to/from old manali to mall road would be easily available at early mor / late night ?

Day3: Manali Rohtang Pass up to snow point, Solang Valley & Rahala falls (name to check) eve. return and stay at hotel.[Night #2]

Question : 1) If I am not really doing adventures like skiing and likewise – is it really worhwhile going ON TOP of Rohtang Pass? I suppose for this, your vehicle should obtain NGT permission etc. 2) Do Snow Point and Solang Valley are the same places? Do I get to see & play in snow even at Solang Valley around 10th April ? 3) If you could let me know about different adventure sports at Solang Valley with rough estimate of cost? 4) Rohtang Pass (up to snow point only , Solang Valley (not with too many adventures) and on the return wait for about hf an hour at Rohalla Falls (I think it’s rohalla or jhana falls or some ??? falls) – Can these places be covered in 1 day (leaving from manali by 8am and return back by say 6/7 pm) 5) What will be cab/pvt.car for 3 ppl like indica/alto approx. charges for this day3 trip?

Day4: This i am keeping as “Rest” day [OR can be clubbed to Day-5 if required] – Here, I would like to cover remaining places of Manali [those which are not covered on day2], hv rest of 2-3 hrs at noon and spend eve. for shopping etc at Mall Road. Night Stay at Manali [Night #3]

Day5: Manali – Kullu – Manikaran – Pandoh Dam – BSI Lake – Shawl Factory – Shimla Night Stay at Shimla [Night#4]

Probably this will be totally 12-14 hrs journey – incl. places – upto reaching shimla, I believe

Planning to hire cab/car for this (Again – what can be approx. cost ?) – As bus travel may not be helpful to connect and cover all this places, besides timing adjustments.

NOTE: If this seems to be stretching too much, I can split this between day 4 and day 5 Day 4 can be Manali – Kullu – Manikaran – Manali (+ shopping at mall road at late eve/night) Day 5 – Head from Manali to Shimla enrouting Pandoh dam, BSI lake, Shawl Factory – Shimla

Day6: Shimla – Kufri and Fagu visit Kufri Fun World, Himalay Nature Park, Reserve Forest Sanctury (??? I dont know baout this place access), Fagu Valley Eve. Return to Shimla by evening and spend some time in night at Mall Road / Ridge. Night Stay at Shimla Hotel [Night#5]

Day7: Shimla Local site Seeing , covering places like : Viceregal building, Botanical garden, advance study Christ Church State/Army Museum Scandal Point Summer Hill Glenn (picnic spot) Jakhu Temple Sankat Mochan Hanuman Mandir Potter hill,Chadvick waterfall Shimla railway station The Gaiety Theatre Annadel

I Believe above all places should be coverable in 6-8 hrs (say 9am to 8pm) , even if NOT, I can skip some places like The Gaiety Theatre, Annadel, potter hill etc

Night latest by 9 to 10pm, Return to Delhi by volvo bus (i suppose HRTC/HPRTC/Pvt. buses to delhi should be available till 10pm at least – reaching delhi by noon is OK for me) , reach by 12 noon latest at Delhi Next Day (i.e. Day 8)

**************************************************************** Alternatively, would it make any major difference if I make my route as DELHI –> SHIMLA (Day 1, 2,3) –> MANALI (Day 4,5,6,7) –> DELHI (day 8 reaching delhi) According to me, This would make more sense if I can somehow reach Shimla on Day 1 itself at midnight (delhi to shimla 4pm to 1am/2am), spend that half night at Shimla to get rest so next 2 days full can be utilized for shimla and balance 3 days for manali.

HOWEVER, I DONT KNOW IF I CAN REACH DELHI (dep 4pm) TO SHIMLA (arrive 1am) IN 10 HRS IN ANY BUS, Unless Cab/Car can take us at that cost of about 3 ~ 3.5k and drop us upto hotel in shimla (being mid night)

*******************************************************************

Request if you could let me know budget hotels in MANALI & SHIMLA (rent less than 2k/day for 3 people for b/fast, dinner, taxes) – however clean, neat at having hot water at mor & night for freshen up….. I dont mind it to be at a distance of 1 to 2 km from main mall road area as long as i am able to approach hotel even at night 10pm.

Also, if you could suggest me day wise cab/car approx. rate as per above itinerary – that will be of great help as I can come to know about budget cost…. (which I have considered to be about 22-25k for 3 people delhi to delhi 8 days for hotel + travel site seeing)

Though, stretched in describing above a bit, Could you please take a while in going thro’ above and reply to my queries ASAP as now I am very short of dates ? As, like you, even I am planning to do this on my own rather than package deals – though going there for first time.

Many Many thanks in advance for your time and help dear,

Best Regards, Bharat

Bharat, are you still looking for a reply? It is too much to reply in one comment, can you please split these a bit?

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Hi ! Wonderful tips Dheeraj ! Thank you ! We are a family of 4 planning a holiday with another family of 4 to Manali in Mid April from Delhi. Dates 9-14( 5 nights,6 days ) . Planning to hire an Innova and drive first to Shimla . Stay there just that evening and night and proceed to spend most of the time in Manali. Return could be via Chandigarh. Want to do a little hatke type of a holiday. Heritage hotels , non crowded destinations … The kids are aged 6-8-11-12. Would love your inputs. Thanking you in advance ! Sita

Hello Sita,

I will personally advice to skip Shimla if you plan to spend only one night there because there will be nothing to explore and will add unnecessary travel. I will recommend you spend all nights in Manali and Naggar Castle. Naggar is a heritage hotel and property of HPDTC and is not visited by much tourists. You can read about it: Naggar Castle, Naggar | Hotel Review

Rest couple of nights you can plan to spend in Manali, going over to snow points and solang valley.

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  • 30 Places to Visit Near Manali

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Tourist Places near Manali

Here are some of the best places to visit near manali:, quick navigation.

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Must Visit Places near Manali

Solang valley.

Solang Valley

Top Experiences To Do in Solang Valley

Skiing in Manali at Solang Valley | Book Online & Get 23% off

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass

Considered as the twin city of Manali, Kullu is one of the most-visited tourist places near Manali that is frequented by families, backpackers, mountaineers, and honeymooners. Lying amidst the majestic Dhauladhar mountain ranges, The Kullu Valley looks extremely fascinating with verdant meadows, thick forests of pine and deodar trees, and a never-ending list of tourist spots. Kullu is also a major hotspot for adrenaline rushing activities like river rafting on River Beas, paragliding, trek to Malana Village, Bhrigu Lake trek, trek to KheerGanga, and trek to Chandrakhani Pass. Things to do:  Sightseeing, River Rafting, Paragliding, Trekking, Cycling,  Dip into Manikaran Hot Spring Distance from Manali: 40 km How to reach: Several buses and taxis ply between Kullu and Manali

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Top Experiences To Do in Kullu

Prashar Lake Trek 2022, Himachal | Book @ ₹2449 Only

Shimla is the largest city of Himachal Pradesh. The capital city is a nature’s bounty with lush and thick coniferous trees, scenic views of the Himalayan ranges, and pristine lakes. Shimla was used as the summer capital of India during British rule and this rustic village still retains its colonial heritage. The attractions of Shimla like Jakhoo Temple, Christ Church, Mall Road, and The Ridge make Shimla one of the most alluring places to visit near Manali. During the winter months, the city experiences snowfall and looks completely outlandish. The Mall Road and bazaars of Shimla are a shopaholic’s paradise with rows of shops selling woollen apparel and other souvenirs. Things to do:  Sightseeing,  Shopping Distance from Manali: Approximately 250 km How to reach: A number of buses and taxis run between Shimla and Manali

Read More:  Manali Tour Package From Delhi

Top Experiences To Do in Shimla

Hobbit Styled Cottage Shimla | Staycation

Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass is located in the Pir Panjal region of Himalayas at an altitude of 14000 feet. Apart from the shepherds grazing their cattle in the grasslands, Trekking is the prominent activity in this region. The trail through the Pass from Manali until the Chandratal Lake in Spiti Valley takes one through the virgin beauty of Himachal and the scenery along the route includes glaciers, rivulets, jagged mountains, and meadows. If you are an avid trekker, Hampta Pass is one of the most lauding tourist places to visit near Manali. Things to do:  Trekking Distance from Manali: 15 km How to reach: From Manali, one can take a cab to Jobra, the basecamp for Hampta Pass trek.

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Parvati Valley

Parvati Valley

When it comes to finding a destination that is beautiful, serene, adventurous and available through the year, in Kasol India has already found its favorite spot to travel to. Kasol shot to fame for a plethora of reasons, the prime being the kind of serene beauty that surrounds the city lying in the Parvati Valley as well as the activities you can do here . This quaint little town in Himachal Pradesh is situated on the banks of the Parvati River and has maintained a level of pristine beauty through the years, the kind that attracts people not just from India, but also from many different corners of the world.

Kasol, Himachal Pradesh, is very well known in the travel community for being a haven for backpackers and budget travelers. Replete with experiences that will take away the heart of a lot of travelers, Kasol is more than just a destination. It can easily be proclaimed to be a whole adventure in itself. with a wide number of places to visit in Kasol , it can be called as an ultimate destination. The reason for that is the many adventures that a traveler experiences, be it physical, visual, spiritual, and in some cases, life-changing. Really a small town in the Parvati Valley, Kasol is not just a hotspot for backpacking adventures or a destination set amidst green hills. It is a hub for people looking to just get away from their regular office lives and take to the Himalayas for an experience of a lifetime.

The reason why Kasol is famous amongst such a crowd of travelers is that it caters to everyone. Be it the ones arriving for trekking, camping, rafting, sightseeing, parties, or seeking spiritual awakening, Kasol never disappoints anyone. Starting from the beginning, Kasol is a heaven for the trekking enthusiasts and adventure buffs.

Starting from Kheerganga, Kasol has made this meadow high in the Himalayas their favorite destinations. A 12 km trek that leads through forests of Oak and Rhododendron, trekking on this trail in Parvati Valley is one of the best things to do in Kasol and is one of the favorites too. Beginning from Kasol, the trek passes from Barshaini and Rudra Nag waterfalls, it ends high up on Kheerganga which is a hotspot for campers. Kheerganga is also a location of one of the many hot springs in Kasol with water coming from the earth’s crust naturally warmed up. Popularly known as the Parvati Kund, it is a great spot to relax on top of Kheerganga after a long day of trekking in Kasol. From Kheerganga, the way can either take you back to Kasol or on a majestic detour to the village of Tosh. Nestled in a side valley to the Parvati Valley, and situated in the banks of a small rivulet of the same name, Tosh is an offbeat trekking adventure and a quiet small town. Lesser known and almost uncrowded, the scenes from Tosh of the Dhauladhar range of Himalayas are the best that you can get anywhere in Kasol. Also famous in Tosh are the many small cafes catering to the small tourist crowd that chooses to visit this offbeat green vista of a village.

Another trekking adventure that leads from Kasol is to the secretive village of Malana. The small village in the Himalayas is situated amidst the towering giants of Chanderkhani and Deo Tibba, and is famous for various reasons, the prime one being the self-isolation of the people of the village. This secretive nature, and the fact that Malana is the gateway to the famous Magic Valley is what brings a large crowd of people to take on the trek and pay this majestic little town a visit. The whole experience soothes the eyes and soul of the travelers who take on the Malana and Magic Valley trek and arrive in this green heaven.

And another day hike from Kasol, which is short yet highly adventurous is the trek to Chalal . Situated by the roaring Parvati River in Kasol, Himachal Pradesh, Chalal is also called the Little Amsterdam and for every reason. This place is well-known in the world for the crazy trance and PSYtrance parties that happen here from time to time. But one of the greater reasons for the fame of this tranquil small town is the presence of the River Parvati and the kind of beauty that it brings to the whole place.

And speaking of the River Parvati in Kasol, India, there is no denying the fact that the soothing stream is a landmark of this town in itself. It is the river that created the valley and hence, everything beautiful in Kasol is owed to the presence of Parvati in the region. The sometimes roaring sometimes gurgling river is a great place to just sit back, relax and marvel at the beauty of nature around. Parvati River also makes for a great spot to camp near, on the banks of it, to be precise.

And speaking of camping, Kasol, India has many great spots to enjoy staying out in the lap of nature and under the billions of stars in the night sky that you can see loads and loads of because of the fact that this place is untouched by the modern curses and is still in its pristine state. Some of the best spots for camping in Kasol include the name of Kheerganga. A chance to camp in the meadow seems to be a great option as you will be waking up to one of the best sunrises ever over Kheerganga. Apart from this, Tosh proves to be another great place to set up camp and get an exquisite hilltop view of the entire region as you sit near a bonfire. Malana, in its secluded and cut-off state, is also a gateway to one of the best camping sites in the Himalayas, known as the Magic Valley. And for an offbeat experience of camping amidst towering mountains of the Himalayas and a place where the inhabitants do not keep themselves reserved from talking to outsiders, Grahan will prove to be a great retreat. The trail to Grahan walks beside the river Parvati in Kasol, with the village lying in the midst of towering green hills and a view of the snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar range.

Apart from the adventurous face of Kasol, there is also a spiritual side to this town. And one of the greatest spots of religious importance here is Manikaran. The region built around a cluster of natural hot springs, Manikaran is of great religious significance to the Sikhs and Hindus. The Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara is said to belong to the era of the founder of the Belief, the first religious leader of the Sikhs, Guru Nanak. He is believed to have come here with a disciple, and to cook their food for a public kitchen called ‘Langar’, he asked the disciple to remove a stone. From under the stone came a hot spring, which still resides in Manikaran Sahib and is considered very sacred. People from all over come to cook the offerings to their God in these springs before consuming, and even take a dip in these waters to wash off their sins. The piety of this place is of the utmost level for the believers of Sikhs.

Another legend relates the place with the Hindu Gods, Vishnu, and Parvati. Parvati lost a gem or ‘Mani’ in the torrential waters below, and the story that followed gave this place its name, Manikaran. Also, it is believed that Lord Shiva’s legendary anger is what gave birth to the hot springs in the area. With many temples dotting the place all over, Manikaran is a must visit, especially because it falls on the way to Kullu and Manali.

Speaking of these regions in the valley, Kullu and Manali can be called as the cultural capital of the state. With such close proximity to Kasol, the name of the small town is many a time collectively called along with the other two. Their presence nearby has boosted tourism in the area even more. And that has given a speed boost to the emergence of a number of cafes, guesthouses, and homestays in the area, so the tourists arriving here will feel all in their comfort zone, meeting and greeting other like-minded backpackers arriving in this quaint destination from several corners of the country, sometimes even the world.

Kasol tourism has done everything to ensure that when someone arrives in this city, they feel safe and sound, alongside the conquering feeling of adventure and the serene feeling of calm taking over their self. And so a trip to Kasol will sure be the best budget tour with a fulfilling feeling that you will ever take. Read this guide for all the information you will need for motivating and planning a trip to Kasol.

Top Experiences To Do in Kasol

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Experience the “Once in a lifetime experience” at the Kheerganga trek which is a blend of moderate and difficult terrains. It is undoubtedly a paradise for an adventure buff as this place is jam-packed with an abundance of surprises of nature. The tranquility is interwoven in the aura of the hillocks and is perfect for finding solace in the laps of nature. Things to do: Trekking, Sightseeing etc. Distance from Manali: Situated at a distance of 98 km from Manali. How to reach: You can either hire a private taxi or drive up to Barshaini from where you can hike up to Kheerganga.

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Bhrigu Lake

Bhrigu Lake

When one speaks about a family vacation, the first few things that strike one’s mind are green trees, blue skies, chilly weather, great food and a place where you can forget all your woes and calm down. This holiday destination is among those that fall under the category of delivering this experience to its visitors.

Lying at the foothills of the Himalayas, Dehradun which is the capital of Uttarakhand is known for its beautiful climate and the lovely landscapes it encompasses. One of the most astonishing facts about this place however, is that it is also one of the most important education hubs in the whole of India. How a place so small and petite be able to give a tough competition to other financial sectors of India is truly unimaginable.

Dehradun lies in Doon Valley which is located on a varying height of approximately 410m. The region is especially known for its climate. While one will experience a pleasant cool weather in Dehradun, the city is often times referred to as the ‘Rainy city of India’ due to the continuous rainfalls especially during monsoons.

Dehradun is the capital of Uttarakhand. In the recent years – there was a sense of construction boom that took place wherein endless residential property emerged in the city. Modern buildings have gradually been constructed making up for the good portions of Dehradun.

Top Experiences To Do in Dehradun

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Kunzum Pass

Kunzum Pass

Other Places near Manali

Sethan

Sethan is a quaint and cozy hamlet located at an altitude of 2600 meters. Buddhism is the most prevalent religion in this village and the native people here are those who had migrated from Tibet. One of the best offbeat places to visit near Manali, Sethan gets covered in thick sheets of snow during the winter months attracting snow sport lovers to enjoy their game of skiing, snow-hiking, and snowboarding. During the summer months, this magical land sill has thin layers of snow and the climate is ideal for trekking and camping. Things to do:  Skiing, Snowboarding, Snow-hiking, Camping,  Trekking Distance from Manali: 16 km How to reach: You can hire a taxi from Manali Bus Stand to Sethan and the 45- minute long drive costs about INR 1500 one way. Great Deals Available On  Stedelijk Museum Tickets

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Deo Tibba is a mountain near Manali that is located in the Pir Panjal mountain ranges. The Deo Tibba is one of the most thrilling tourist places to visit near Manali and the Deo Tibba Trek takes one through meadows that are highlighted by the wildflowers, forests that are dense with pine, deodar and oak trees and finally, the actual excitement happens when you witness the snow-covered mountains. The trek usually lasts for about five complete days and is sure to leave one with a soul-stirring experience. Things to do:  Trekking Distance from Manali: 19 km How to reach: Hiring a cab is the easiest way to cover this short distance. Click Here to Book Now:  Madame Tussauds Tickets London

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Patalsu Peak

Patalsu Peak

Patalsu Peak is one of the most popular peaks amongst people looking for adventurous tourist places near Manali. The summit of the Patalsu mountain is located at a staggering height of 4220 meters. The trek from Manali valley to Patalsu peak offers spellbinding views of Beas Kund peaks including Hanuman Tibba. The trekking trail is easy and takes you through diverse landscapes like steep uphills, dramatic meadows and snow at the summit. If you want to take baby steps towards mountaineering, the Patalsu Peak is a highly recommended choice. Things to do:  Trekking Distance from Manali: 36 km How to reach: From Manali, you can trek to Patalsu peak Also Checkout & Book:  Catacombs Paris Tickets

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Undeniably, a lovely segment of the Himalayan Range is Naggar. With several unexplored slices, this quaint town offers stunning natural beauty. This town is a perfect fusion of majestic snow-covered hills and, crystal clear pristine rivers extending beautiful plight. One visiting this place should not miss out on the famous folk art museum and various other spiritual sites. Things to do:  Trekking, Fishing, Visiting Art folk museum, and several other things. Distance from Manali:  It is located at a distance of approx 21 km from Manali. How to reach: One can even travel from an HRTC bus or hire a cab.

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Top Experiences To Do in Naggar

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Great Himalayan National Park

Great Himalayan National Park

Sprawling over 754 square area this splendid National Park houses variant species of flora and fauna. Primarily featuring deodar, pine, chestnut, alpine herbs and a lot more, the Park boasts its 375 unique species of various kinds. Housing abundance of animals, mammals, birds, and reptiles this ecozone is well suited for sightseeing. Things to do: Sightseeing, Trekking Distance from Manali: The National Park is located at a distance of 49 km from Manali. How to reach: There are no concrete rods to the place but one can take the gravel roads to reach the National Park.

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Gulaba

At a stone’s throw away distance from Manali lies the enthralling village of Gulaba. The village is named after Raja Gulab Singh of Kashmir and this tiny wonderland brims with snow-draped Himalayan mountain ranges and grasslands by the Beas river. The lush meadows of Gulaba are one of the most enchanting places to visit near Manali for camping. After soaking in the beauty of Gulaba, one can hike up to the Bhrigu Lake. The myriads of outdoor activities available at the village have transformed it into a hotspot for adventure lovers. Things to do:  Skiing, Trekking, Paragliding, Hiking,  Camping Distance from Manali: 20 km How to reach: One can take a cab or bus to reach Gulab from Manali.

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Day Trek to Prashar Lake

Yet another destination marking its place in one of the best places to visit near Manali is, Manikaran. Located in the Parvati Valley, at an altitude of 1760 m, this beautiful town draws tourists from all the segments. With several pilgrimage sites for Hindus and Sikhs, this site has immense spiritual importance. Moreover the environs of this quaint town are pious and, perfect for peace dwellers. Things to do: Explore hot spring water, Kulant Pith, Harinder Mountain and, pay a visit at Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib, Manikaran temple and several others. Distance from Manali: Located at a distance of almost 80 km from Manali. How to reach: There are no connecting buses or trains, one needs to hire a taxi to reach the destination.

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Malana

Malana is a beautiful little village near Manali and is located at an altitude of 9,938 ft above sea level. The intriguing hills, picturesque landscape and the world-famous Malana Cream have made this cozy little town, one of the best places to visit near Manali. The villagers of Malana are known for their mysterious traditions like living in a no-touching zone with outsiders and poisoning lambs to decide judgement in case of conflict resolution. The attractions at this peculiar village are Jamadagni Temple and the Shrine of Renuka Devi. Things to do:  Trekking, Sightseeing,  Hiking Distance from Manali: 83 km How to reach: Catch a bus/cab from Manali to Kasol. Then, take a cab to Malana

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Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake

Prashar Lake is one of the most arrestingly beautiful tourist places to visit near Manali. This divine lake is located atop a mountain at about 50 km away from Mandi. An ancient pagoda-style temple built on the edge of the lake fills the place with a spiritual aura. The surrounding snow-covered mountains, lush greenery and the calmness around the place make it a great spot to pitch your tent and revel in the beauty of Nature. Things to do:  Nature walk, Trekking,  Camping Distance from Manali: 83 km How to reach: One can hire a cab or board a bus and it usually takes about 3 hours by cab one way to reach the lake.

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The best view comes after the hardest climb

Pandoh Dam And Lake

Pandoh Dam And Lake

Indeed one of the best man-made marvels is, Pandoh Dam and Lake. Diverting the water to river Beas, this eye-opening beauty is a must-visit for an adventure enthusiast. Before the water of this Dam is merged with the Sutlej river, it is used as a major source of power generation for the region This secluded Dam, is a perfect place to dive into the fresh water and, rejuvenate each and every corner of the soul. Distance from Manali:  Located at distance of almost 88 km from Manali. How to reach:  One can reach out to the Dam either by a private taxi or by Local bus operating in the region.

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Tosh Valley

Tosh Valley

Hidden deep in the Parvati Valley, Tosh Valley is one of the out worldly tourist places near Manali that is located at an elevation of about 2,400 meters above mean sea level. It is about 21 km away from Kasol and lures travellers with stunning views of the snow-clad Himalayas, verdant valleys that are lavishly adorned with wildflowers like  Himalayan blue poppies, primulas, irises, marsh marigolds, buttercups, and Himalayan balsam flowers. The apple orchards at Tosh Valley nurture several Himalayan birds and one can spend hours just witnessing the abundant blessings of Mother Nature here. Things to do:  Trekking, Camping,  Nature Walks Distance from Manali: 95 km How to reach: From Manali, take a bus to Bhuntar. From Bhuntar, you will find many HRTC buses to Barshaini. From Barshaini you can trek all the way to Tosh or take a shared cab.

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Jibhi is one of the least explored tourist places near Manali that looks breathtaking with dense pine and cedar forests. However, there are some amazing resorts in Jibhi that let you enjoy a comfortable stay here despite the remoteness of the place. This slow travel destination overflows with natural beauty that one can spend hours listening to the gushing sound of the river and soak in the beauty around. Jibhi is also a good base for hiking, birding, and fishing. Things to do:  Hiking, Nature walks, Birding,  Fishing Distance from Manali: 100 km How to reach: There are many buses and taxis that ply between Manali and Jibhi and it takes about 6 hours to cover the distance by state-run buses.

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The unexploited serene river famous for its hot spring water which flows on the beds of Tattapani. Here you can indulge in swimming across the river or, can just relax in a peaceful environment. The water is said to have exceptional healing powers, but the facts say it is due to the presence of Sulphur. Things to do:  Trekking, Camping, Mountain Biking, River Rafting etc. Distance from Manali:  Located at a distance of almost 262 km from Manali. How to reach:  With a little low road connectivity one can go via bus from Manali to Karnal and then hire a private taxi.

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Rishikesh

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The pristine river flowing through Himachal and Punjab, bears a trail of history. One of the longest flowing rivers in the northern province Beas, passes through the dense pine forests of Manali. With striking backdrops and refreshing aura, this river attracts the adventurists from near and far. Things to do:  Here one can savor the thrill in various adventure sports like rafting, biking, cycling, and trekking.      Distance from Manali:  Located at distance of approximately 265 km from Manali.   How to reach:  There is no direct connectivity to Beas river all you need to do its either drive up to the place or hire a taxi.

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A significant bridge between Manali and neighbouring states, Bhuntar is a charming hamlet enveloped amidst mountains and amongst one of the best places to see in Manali. It is the perfect place for people who want to spend time amidst mountains but away from the hustle-bustle of the touristy places. Bhuntar is an old-worldly place running at its own slow pace.  Distance from Manali:  49 Kms. Best time: October to May. Highlights: Visit the ancient Basheshwar Temple from the time of the Pandavas. Amongst the top Manali tourist places , it is famous for its carved stone architecture. Another great attraction is the 8 th-century Bijli Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. This is most visited during the time of Shivratri festivities. Visit the Jagannath Temple located on the top of a hill. 

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People Also Ask About Manali

Which are the places to visit near manali for couples, which are the places to visit near manali in june, which are the famous places near manali to visit with friends, which are the places to visit near manali in december, which are the places to visit near manali in may, which are the best places near manali to visit with family, which are the best activities to do in manali, what are the best short treks in manali.

Looking for a break from your dreary lifestyle with a short outing in the Himalayas. Check out the list of best short treks in Manali   starting from Rs 1000/-, for a thrilling trekking experience. 1. Trek to Lamadugh with Camp Stay starting from Rs 1,790 2. Trek to Bijli Mahadev starting from Rs 1000 3. Bhrigu Lake Trek starting from Rs 5,299 4. Chanderkhani Pass Trek starting from Rs 9,900

Which is the best place in Manali?

How many days are enough in manali, which is the best time to visit manali, what is famous in manali, is manali safe for tourists, what should i buy from manali, what are the best himachal tour packages that we can book with thrillophilia.

Here is the list of best Himachal tour packages that you can book with Thrillophilia:

  • Himachal Tour Packages From Delhi
  • Himachal Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
  • Himachal Tour Packages From Mumbai
  • Himachal Tour Packages From Chandigarh
  • Himachal Tour Packages From Pune
  • Himachal Pradesh Tour Package From Kolkata
  • Himachal Tour Packages From Bangalore
  • Himachal Tour Package From Chennai
  • Himachal Tour Packages From Surat

What are the best Himachal treks that we can book with Thrillophilia?

  • Kheerganga trek
  • Triund trek
  • Sar pass trek
  • Hampta pass trek
  • Kashmir Great Lakes Trek
  • Everest Base Camp Trek
  • Chadar trek

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Manali Top Attractions

Manali

The Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art in Manali, India, is a captivating institution that offers visitors a glimpse into the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Himachal Pradesh region. Situated amidst the stunning Himalayan mountains, this museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts, handicrafts, and traditional items that showcase the unique lifestyle, customs, and traditions of the local communities.Inside the museum, visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, including ancient religious relics, historical documents, traditional costumes, intricately crafted wooden utensils, and musical instruments used in traditional folk performances. Each display provides valuable insights into the cultural practices and historical significance of the region, making it a fascinating journey through Himachal's vibrant past.The Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art also hosts interactive workshops and demonstrations, allowing visitors to participate in traditional crafts and arts, further enhancing their understanding of the local culture. For those seeking a deeper connection with Himachal's authentic heritage, this museum stands as a testament to the region's captivating history and enduring cultural legacy.

Atal Tunnel

The Atal Tunnel, also known as the Rohtang Tunnel, is an engineering marvel located in the Manali region of Himachal Pradesh, India. Spanning approximately 9.02 kilometers, it is one of the longest road tunnels in the world and holds significant importance for the region's connectivity.Named in honor of the late Prime Minister of India, Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the tunnel was inaugurated in October 2020. It provides an all-weather route, ensuring year-round accessibility between Manali and Lahaul-Spiti Valley, a region that remained cut off from the rest of India during harsh winters due to heavy snowfall and avalanches.The Atal Tunnel has drastically reduced travel time, making it convenient for tourists and locals alike to access this remote and stunning region. It also offers a safer alternative to the treacherous Rohtang Pass route, minimizing accidents and ensuring a smoother journey.The tunnel's construction involved cutting-edge engineering techniques and state-of-the-art technology, with experts overcoming challenging geological conditions at high altitudes. With its strategic significance and remarkable feat of engineering, the Atal Tunnel stands as a testament to India's progress and development, welcoming travelers to explore the scenic beauty of Himachal Pradesh throughout the year.

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11 Relaxing Places to visit on a trip to Shimla Manali

Relaxing Places

Relaxing Places

The last thing you want to do before going on vacation is worry about your schedule. Without worrying about your next move, you should be able to unwind and enjoy yourself. 

That’s why we’ve put together this list of 11 relaxing places to visit on a Shimla Manali tour. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to read a book or a place to take a scenic walk, we’ve got you covered. So sit back and relax—we’ll take care of the planning!

Rohtang Pass

If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Rohtang Pass is the perfect spot. It’s located about 51 kilometers from Manali and is a great place for hiking, skiing, and camping. 

The views are very stunning, and it’s one of the best places in the area to see the stars at night. Just be warned that it can get a bit chilly up there, so make sure you pack appropriately.

Solang Valley

This place is a great choice to visit if you are looking for a location to unwind and enjoy the local natural beauty. It situates halfway between Shimla and Manali and is a great place to stay for a day or two. 

There are many hiking trails to discover, and you can try paragliding and skiing if you feel adventurous. You can also rather unwind and take it easy and soak in one of the natural hot springs.

places to visit from shimla to manali

Chandratal Lake

You can visit this spot to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The most picturesque location in the area is here, and it’s a nice place to spend a day or evening.

What’s best? You can relax and take in the tranquility because it isn’t as busy as some of the other tourist hotspots. However, make sure to bring a sweatshirt because it gets cool up there at night. 

Kunzum Pass

If you’re looking for a place to get away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Kunzum Pass is the place for you. It is a serene spot located at a high altitude in the Himalayas, and it’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy stunning views.

One of the best things about Kunzum Pass is that it’s a good spot for hiking. There are lots of trails to explore, and you can wander for hours and hours without ever seeing another soul. The peace is a refreshing change of pace.

So if you’re planning to visit here while tripping to Shimla Manali, don’t forget to book your  Shimla Manali Tour packages  with us in advance at Viral Yatra. 

places to visit from shimla to manali

Manali Sanctuary

Manali Sanctuary is a place for you to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. It is a serene and peaceful spot, tucked away in the mountains and surrounded by forest.

Here, you can stroll or relax and take it all in. It’s a fantastic location to escape the rush of daily life and an ideal place to restore your energy.

Van Vihar National Park

A visit to the Van Vihar National Park is a must-do on your list of things to do in Shimla. As the name suggests, it is home to various animals, including tigers, lions, and leopards.

It’s a lovely park and an ideal place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of Shimla. The best part is that it’s free to enter, so you can spend as much time as you want without worrying about spending too much money. 

The Great Himalayan National Park

If you’re looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, you should head to the Great Himalayan National Park. One of the most picturesque locations in India, it is a great spot to unwind and enjoy the breathtaking environment. 

The park is a fantastic location for hiking, camping, and bird watching and is home to some of the tallest peaks in the world. You will also find many monasteries and temples in the park, making it a fantastic destination to learn about the religious culture. 

If you’re looking for a bit of peace, the Great Himalayan National Park is worth a visit.

Jogini Falls

If you are searching for a more private area to unwind, try visiting Jogini Falls. You will experience a more tranquil atmosphere because it is less well-known than other locations on the list. 

The falls are just an hour away from Shimla, and you can get there by car or bus. Once you arrive, you can relax and enjoy the scenery by sitting back or swimming in the pool below the falls. 

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the local natural beauty, you should visit Beas Kund. Near Rohtang Pass, it is famous for the crystal clear water that flows through it. 

It’s the perfect place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, and some of the most spectacular mountain views will surround you in the area. If you’re looking for a place to come to peace with yourself, then Beas Kund is worth visiting.

Hidimba Temple

If you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty, you’ll love Hidimba Temple. It resides in the woods & there is a lovely waterfall nearby it. Visit there; it’s worthwhile. 

Vashisht Hot Springs

Nothing beats a day spent at the Vashisht Hot Springs when you want to unwind. These natural hot springs are an ideal place to relax and are only a short stroll from the village of Vashisht.

Situated in a lovely area- it is the perfect place to enjoy the company of friends or family. Even though there is a little entrance fee, it’s well worth it for a day of relaxation. Bring your swimsuit with you because the springs here are worth a swim!

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  • 46 Best Places To Visit In Manali And Its Precincts In 2024

23 Mar 2023

Manali is a popular backpacking and honeymoon destination in India’s northern state of Himachal Pradesh. Set on the banks of the Beas River, it is a gateway to adventure activities in Solang, Gulaba, and Kothi. But there is much more to the town and its popular tourist spots than adventure. Some of these places are always buzzing with tourists, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should give them a miss. In fact, if you are visiting for the first time, such places to visit in Manali must be on your itinerary.

Top 46 Places To Visit In Manali In 2023

If it is like your third or fourth visit to this lovely town, here is the best mix of tourist attractions in Manali and its vicinity. From Hadimba Temple to Manu Temple, and from Tibetan Monasteries to Jogini Falls, explore the best of the city at these sightseeing places in Manali . Reaching these places will hardly take an hour from the main city.

1. Hadimba Temple

The entrance of the Hadimba Temple that is one of the best places to visit in Manali

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Hadimba Temple is one of the famous places in Manali   owing to its serenity and surroundings. This beautiful temple said to be dedicated to Hadimba – the wife of Pandu son Bhima. The most striking feature of this temple is that it is located in the Dhungri Forest and is surrounded by pine trees. The pagoda-shaped Hadimba temple of all Manali tourist places is not only unique in its architecture but is famous for its religious value too. The effigy of Hadimba is made up of brass and is quite awe-inspiring. 

Places to stay:  Hotel Solitaire, Mary’s Cottages, Hotel Mountain Trail Popular tourist attractions:  Manu Temple, Solang Nala Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Hadimba Temple Rd, Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Opening hours: 8 am – 6 pm; throughout the year Things to do : Praying How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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2. Museum Of Himachal Culture And Folk Art

Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art in Manali

A stone’s throw from the Hadimba Temple, the Museum of Himachal Culture and Folk Art allows a walk through time and is a vital part of Manali sightseeing . It houses a unique collection of unknown antiques including religious relics, household objects, weapons, instruments, and scale models, among many other things. This small heritage museum also features various building models that are of great value when it comes to sightseeing in Manali .

Places to stay:  Utopia Resorts and Spa, Mary’s Cottages Popular tourist attractions:  Siyali Mahadev Temple, Ghatotkach Tree Temple Nearby airport: Kullu Manali Airport Location: Utopia Complex, Hadimba Temple Rd, near Hadimba Temple, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Opening hours: 8 am – 8 pm; throughout the year Entry ticket: INR 10 per person per day How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

3. Tibetan Monasteries

One of the famous monasteries in Manali

Manali also boasts of respectable Tibetan population settlement and it is one of the essential Manali travel tips not to miss out on this one. And you must include at least one of them if you are shortlisting the places to visit in Manali in 2 days . The famous Tibetan monasteries – Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa and Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa – draw a large number of tourists, form the core of Manali sightseeing , and are among the most visited and certainly the best places to visit in Manali. Especially the Tibetan art and craft items displayed here deserve a visit.

Places to stay:  Hotel Sunflower, Buddhist Monastry Lodge Rooms Popular tourist attractions:  Lion King Rock, Buddhist Shirne Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Things to do: Meditation and shopping for unique Tibetan art and craft objects Opening hours: Like any other monastery, the Tibetan Monastery in Manali welcomes the guests at any hour of the day and on any day of the year. The main entrance to the shrine, however, is open only from 7 am to 7 pm. How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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4. Manu Temple

Interiors of the famous Manu Temple

Nearly 3 km away from the famous Mall Road of Manali, the famous Manu Temple is among the frequently visited tourist places in Manali. Dedicated to Lord Manu, the temple’s premises offer a sense of peace and serenity to the devotees walking in as it is one of the best tourist places in Manali . It is frequented by religious tourists and foreigners and is among the most popular attractions in Manali.

Places to stay:  Bros Hostel, Compass Cottage Popular tourist attractions:  Hadimba Devi Temple, Rehala Falls Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do: Instead of taking a hired cab, take a trek to the temple to enjoy the greenery and natural beauty of the region. Opening hours: 5 am – 9 pm; throughout the year How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

5. Club House

Many activities that one can undergo at Club House - one of the tourist places in Manali

This is one of the most interesting places to visit in old Manali . The Club House is also one of the tourist places in Manali for adventure activities and indoor games. Located adjacent to the Manalsu Nallah, it has been constructed in the British style of architecture and is managed by Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). The in-house restaurant serves a lot of delicious dishes and snacks.

Places to stay:  Manali Club, Hotel Holiday Home International Popular tourist attractions:  Manu Temple, Old Manali Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Old Manali, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do: Adventure activities available here include table tennis and carrom, skating, river-crossing, boating, and go-karting Opening hours: 10 am to 8 pm; throughout the year How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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6. Vashisht Hot Water Springs

Scenes from the inside and outside of the temple at the Vashisht hot water springs

Almost 3 km away from Manali, the Vashisht Temple is famous for its natural hot water spring. The premises enclose a pyramid-shaped stone temple dedicated to Sage Vashisht, and the water spring, which is said to have medicinal properties, are both of the places to go in Manali . Take a dip in the water to relax your body and mind. Also, there are separate bath areas for men and women, besides a Turkish bath having a shower facility. If you feel that getting to this location can be a hassle during your Manali trip, you can consider staying in any of the homestays in Manali located nearby.

Places to stay:  La Vaca India, Shri Krishna Palace Popular tourist attractions:  Vashishtha Temple, Jogini Falls Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Bashisht, Himachal Pradesh 175103 Things to do: There is no way you can miss taking a dip in the hot water spring Opening hours: 7 am to 1 pm and 2 pm to 10 pm, throughout the year How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

7. Maa Sharvari Temple

The front view of the Maa Sharvari Temple in Manali

Located at the Shaminallah Village on the outskirts of the Manali city, Maa Sharvari Temple houses the idol of Kullu Kings’ Kuldevi (another form of Devi Durga). During the Dussehra festival at Kullu , the idol is beautifully decorated and taken to the temple of Raghunathji. The best time to visit the Maa Sharvari Temple is during the Hindu festival of Dussehra because during this time the festivities are at their best.

Places to stay:  Hotel Park Residency, The Orchard Greens Popular tourist attractions:  Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175101 Things to do: Trek down from the main city to temple with picturesque views of the landscapes in the backdrop Opening hours: 5 am to 12 pm, and 4 pm to  9 pm, throughout the year How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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8. Nehru Kund

The cold waters of the Nehru Kund located very close to Manali

Located on the Leh National Highway, Nehru Kund is another must-visit tourist attraction near Manali. Named After The First Prime Minister of India, it is a natural spring of cold water and this water is believed to have come from the Bhrigu Lake. This lake is located at a height of 4,300 meters and is one of the best parts of sightseeing in Manali . Serene surrounding and lush greenery enthrall the tourists coming here. The spring is so named because Pt Jawahar Lal Nehru, the first Prime Minister of India, used to drink water from the spring during his stay in Manali.

Places to stay:  Hotel Sheetal, Hotel Lifestyle Popular tourist attractions:  Jogini Falls, Manu Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Bashisht, Himachal Pradesh 175103 Things to do: Camping, trekking, hiking Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

9. Jogini Falls

The magnificent view of the Jogini Waterfalls near Manali

The breath-taking Jogini Falls, located a lot beyond Vashisht Hot Springs towards the Vashisht Village, is another major tourist attraction near Manali. Melodious sounds of nature, stunning views, and some sumptuous authentic Himachali delicacies – Jogini Falls have it all for the backpackers and nature lovers. Make sure you wear a pair of comfortable and grippy shoes and follow the regular trek route to stay safe.

Places to stay:  The Whispering Inn, The Sunshine Heritage Popular tourist attractions:  Nehru Kund, Rehala Falls Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Vashist, Himachal Pradesh 175103 Things to do : Taking a bath, photography Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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10. Solang Valley

A tourist tries paragliding in the snow-clad Solang valley

This is one of the best places to visit in Manali for couples . Lying between the famous Beas Kund and Solang Village, this beautiful Solang Valley is among the most popular places to visit near Manali. Among the most charming tourist places in Manali, it lies about 14 km from Manali and is the venue for one of the vibrant Manali festivals of winter skiing festival that is held here every year. People of all age groups love to visit this place during winters to enjoy skiing and other adventure sports in Manali .

Places to stay:  Solang Valley Resorts, Chalet Windflower Popular tourist attractions:  Rohtang La, Hamta Pass Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Manali, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do: Zorbing, paragliding, skiing, parachuting, and horse riding Opening hours: Unlike the Rohtang Valley, Solang is open throughout the year. However, you can try the adventure sports only between 9 am and 5 pm. For skiing, the ideal time is between 10 am and 2 pm. How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

The snow-clad Kothi that is located close to Manali

Kothi is a beautiful village nestled amidst verdant land and forests. It is located on the road going towards the Solang Valley, almost 16 km away from Manali. The rustic charm of villages is pretty evident here. Painters, poets, and writers love to spend time here and unleash their creativity while enjoying breathtaking views around.

Places to stay:  Himalayan Heights, Conifer Home Cottage Popular tourist attractions:  Vashisht Village, Deo Tibba Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Kothi, Himachal Pradesh 175103 Things to do: Trekking to Rohtang Pass , paragliding, and other snow sports Opening hours: 8 am and 6 pm How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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12. Rahala Waterfalls

The magnificent Rahala Waterfalls located near Manali

A famous picnic spot, Rahala waterfalls is nestled Amidst Birch & Deodar Forests and located almost 16 km away from Manali. The source of these magnificent falls is the water melting from the glaciers and precipitous rocks. Thick forest with birch and deodar trees looks truly magnificent. Behind this impressive waterfall, amazing views of snow-clad Himalayan ranges can be seen. While you’re on a spree to explore best things to see in Manali, this should definitely be on your list. 

Places to stay:  Chalet Windflower, Solang Valley Resorts Popular tourist attractions:  Gulaba Tourist Spot, Naag Mandir Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Leh Manali Hwy, Himachal Pradesh 175103 Things to do : Nature spotting Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

Snow-capped hills surrounding the quaint town of Gulaba

Gulaba is an alternate destination to visit during November – May when Rohtang Pass is inaccessible due to heavy snow. During these months, snow activities can be enjoyed at Gulaba. It is less crowded than the valleys of Rohtang & Solang and provides better experiences of the snow activities, making Gulaba one of the best places to visit in Manali.

Places to stay:  Hotel Holiday International, Hotel Golden Tulip Popular tourist attractions:  Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Leh Manali Hwy, Himachal Pradesh 175103 Things to do: Snow activities such as tobogganing & skiing and paragliding Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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14. Naggar Village

The Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery in Naggar Village

At a short drive from Manali, Naggar Village is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Manali . Situated on the left bank of River Beas, the village is only 19 km from the main city of Manali. It boasts of amazing views of the Beas Valley, that makes it one of the best tourist places in Manali. The highlight of this attraction is the famous Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery where paintings of some of the magnificent Himalayan Views have been showcased. Temples like Tripura Sundari and Gauri Shankar are also famous. This is one of the best places to visit in Manali in two days.

Places to stay:  Soham’s Chateau De Naggar, Himalayan Brothers Adventure Popular tourist attractions:  Bhuntar, Manikaran Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Himachal Pradesh 175130 Things to do: Visit the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, Tripura Sundari temple, and Gauri Shankar temple Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

15. Arjun Gufa

The entrance of the temple and the Arjuna Gufa nearby

Arjuna Cave is located near Prini Village where the Pandava Arjuna meditated to earn the powers of Pashupati Astra from Lord Indra. Because of the mythological significance of the place, the cave and the nearby temple have become a popular tourist destination located very close to Manali including the Gauri Shankar Temple, Uruswati Himalayan Folk Art Museum, Arjun Gufa, Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery And Museum, and the Tripura Sundari Temple.

Places to stay:  Arjun Kutir Cottage, Ragini Cottages (Garden Suite) Popular tourist attractions:  Prini Village Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Naggar Castle Rd, Naggar, Himachal Pradesh 175130 Things to do : Admiring history Opening hours : 9 am to 5 pm How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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16. Chandrakhani Pass

Chandrakhani Pass near Manali

If you are looking for places to visit from Manali and trekking is your thing then this extremely beautiful trekking route from Manali to Kasol through Malana will definitely make you fall in love with nature and your life. This trek route is full of raw experiences with rural hill villages, lush green vegetation and the sight of massive mountains all through the way. And the fact that all that natural beauty is absolutely untouched since this is one of the offbeat destinations in Himachal is a cherry on the cake. At the end of this trek, the view of Deo Tibba and Pin Parvati Range is simply breathtaking.

Places to stay:  La Ri Sa Resort, Manu Allaya Resort & Spa Popular tourist attractions:  Hamta Pass, Bhrigu Lake Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Village Rumsu, Post Naggar, Himachal Pradesh 175130 Things to do : Trekking, nature photography Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

17. Old Manali

old manali

If you are looking for interesting and good places to visit in Manali , then you can consider Old Manali. Away from the rush and crowd of any hill station in this area of Old Manali. It is any backpacker’s haven with rustic and charming cafes and hostels for cheap stay options. It is a mere 2-3 km away from the main mall road but seems like an entirely different place. If you are visiting Manali with friends, then you can consider booking accommodation in the Old Manali area. The ambiance is quite lively and energetic in this part of the city.

Places to stay:  Forest Way Cottage, Taara House Popular tourist attractions:  Hadimba Devi Temple, Solang Nala Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do : Sightseeing Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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18. Mall Road

mall road

Mall Road is an unavoidable place to visit at any hill station. Manali too has its Mall road which is a busy part of the city. One can find all the tourists strolling here during the evenings. Enjoy ice cream in the winters or a plate of sizzling momos when here. One can also buy some wooden handicrafts and woolens here. Mall Road has some family restaurants and sweet shops for that craving tasty food. One can also book a stay at one of the hotels here if visiting with family. It is one of the best places to visit in Manali in one day with family and kids.

Places to stay:  Clarks Hotel, Hotel Landmark Popular tourist attractions:  The Ridge, Christ Church Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do : Shopping, eating at restaurants, strolling Opening hours : 8 am to 9 pm How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

19. Van Vihar

van vihar

Manali is known for its deodar trees and scenic beauty. Van Vihar is one such place that is lush and green. It is a nature lover’s paradise. Looked after by the municipal corporation of the city, this is a popular garden, which is another tourist attraction in Manali. In the middle of the Van Vihar, there is a man-made lake too. One can enjoy boating here, at this lake. Evenings are also a great time to spend here, as one can enjoy the beautiful sunset from the lake.

Places to stay:  Hotel Van Vihar View, Snow Valley Resorts Popular tourist attractions:  Van Vihar National Park Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do : Nature walks, wildlife spotting Opening hours : 8 am to 5 pm How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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20. Manali Sanctuary

manali sanctuary

This is a beautiful wildlife sanctuary of Himachal Pradesh. At a walking distance from the center of the town, this sanctuary can be reached easily on foot. One can have a gala time exploring the rich flora and fauna of the mountains. One can also camp here at the sanctuary. For the adventure seekers there are also hiking and trekking trails in the sanctuary. So, what are you waiting for? Head this summer to explore the mountains and spend time at one of the best places to visit in Manali !

Places to stay: The Orchard Greens Hotel, Shingar Regency Hotel Popular tourist attractions:  Hadimba Himachal Park Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Circuit House Marg, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Opening hours: 9 am to 6 pm Entry ticket: INR 10 Things to do : Wildlife spotting How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

21. Rohtang Pass

Rohtang pass view

One of the most famous places to visit in Manali is the Rohtang Pass. It is one of the most beautiful passes in the whole country. It offers picturesque views when covered with snow in the months of winter in Manali. Located at a height of 13,000 ft, it will surely give you goosebumps. Many people from all over India and outside come here for trekking and playing with snow.

Places to stay:  The Orchid Inn, Solang Holiday Inn Popular tourist attractions:  Bhrigu Lake, Hadimba Devi Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Highway to Keylong/Leh, Manali, Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do : Trekking, photography Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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22. Beas Kund Trek

Treks in Manali

If you are thinking of a getaway from Manali, then the Beas Kund trek is one of the most amazing places to go. It offers scenic views of Pir Panjal mountain that will surely leave you mesmerized. You can go hiking to Beas Kund and the end result will make you jump for joy! For a thrilling experience, make sure you add this to your list.

Places to stay:  Apple Country Resort, Snow Valley Resorts Popular tourist attractions:  Jogni Water Fall Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Burwa, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do: Trekking Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

23. Great Himalayan National Park

Great himalayan national park

Great Himalayan National park is for all those who just can’t get enough of watching animals, playing with them and being around them. The national park is newly added to the list of national parks in the country. The park offers n number of flora and fauna that will leave you spellbound and you would not want to leave the place.

Places to stay:  Hotel Nau Nabh Heritage, Bhatknda Wooden Houses Popular tourist attractions:  Pin Valley National Park, Bijli Mahadev Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Forest Office Rd, Shamshi, Himachal Pradesh 175126 Things to do : Spot wildlife Opening hours: 24 hours How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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24. Bhrigu Lake

Bhrigu temple

A very beautiful lake near Manali, Bhrigu lake should be on your list if you want to spike up your adrenaline like never before. The path to the lake goes through scenic meadows that will give you a heart-throbbing experience. Just imagine you trek through an adventurous path and reach a place where you see a blissful sight! Aren’t you excited already?

Places to stay:  Chalet Windflower, The Highland Popular tourist attractions:  Hamta Pass, Kareri Lake Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175101 Things to do: Trekking, witnessing the beauty Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

25. Manikaran Sahib

Best Things To Do In Manikaran

The Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara is the most famous holy shrine in Himachal and is located at a distance of about 4 km from Kasol on the banks of the Parvati river in Himachal Pradesh. This famous pilgrimage destination for Sikhs as well as Hindus is among the most important Manali tourist places that you shouldn’t miss. It constitutes a number of Hindu temples, the main Gurudwara Manikaran Sahib complex, and the hot springs which all form attract a large influx of tourists from around India every month.

Places to stay:  Hotel Shivalik, Hotel Sandhya Popular tourist attractions:  Manikaran Hot Springs Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Hari Har Ghat, Manikaran Rd, Manikaran, Himachal Pradesh 175105 Things to do: Visit the temples, soak in the medicinal hot springs Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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Best kullu resorts

Kullu happens to be a popular tourist destination that is usually coupled with Manali and is famed for its magnificent panoramic views of an open valley filled with deodar and pine trees and snow-covered mountain peaks beyond. Located at an altitude of about 1230 meters, Kullu is every nature lover’s paradise and a great place to explore once you’re done with Manali sightseeing. Offering abundant lush greenery, tranquil river streams, and a blissful climate, Kullu is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Himachal for couples, families, and adventure seekers.

Places to stay:  Sun Park Resorts, Snow Valley Resort Popular tourist attractions:  Tirthan Valley, Hamta Pass Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Himachal Pradesh 175101 Things to do: Temple tours, river rafting, trekking, mountaineering Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

mountaintop of the Himalayas

Hidden away from the eyes of the world, Malana is a solitary village in Malana Nala near Manali that is popular for its strong culture and well established religious beliefs that come from various sentiments embedded in the village’s past. It’s known to be one of the best places to see in the Manali district for those seeking spiritual guidance. But that’s not all. Malana is also a famous stop for adventure seekers owing to a number of trekking trails that pass through it. The two temples in Malana called Jamadagni Temple and the Shrine of Renuka Devi serve as the prime attractions of the village and preserving these spiritual sanctums is of utmost importance to the villagers.

Places to stay:  AYOYA Malana Resort, The Himalayan Village Popular tourist attractions:  Jamlu Devta Temple, Rasol Pass Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175105 Things to do : Explore the village, visit temples, trekking Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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28. Gayatri Temple

woman's hands holding a diya

The revered Gayatri Temple is located just 7 km away from Manali district and is famed mostly for the idol of Goddess Gayatri made out of marble that sits at the center of this shrine. This holy temple has some amazing architectural styles which involve awe-inspiring artistic finesse as well as some of the most intricately carved woodwork. While there are several other temples to check nearby, this one has its own charm and grace that draw people here and make it one of the best Manali tourist places.

Places to stay:  V Resorts Mantra Cottage Manali, Lagom Stay Popular tourist attractions:  Gayatri Temple, Shiv Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: MDR29, Jagatsukh, Himachal Pradesh 175143 Things to do: Seek blessings, check out the architecture Opening hours: 7 am to 8 pm How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

29. Bhuntar

Bhuntar manali

A part of the Kullu district, Bhuntar is more of a getaway to the towns of Manali, Kasol, and Manikaran. It’s called a gateway also because it houses the Kullu Airport which makes it one of the most important Manali visiting places. Other than being a gateway, this quaint little town is famed for its natural beauty that makes it a great choice to stay at if you’re looking for less crowded and cheap places to explore in and near Manali. Bhuntar controls most of the transport in Manali, Kullu, Kasol, and Manikaran since a lot of buses operate to and fro this spot and these towns. Whether you’re looking forward to just trekking or going on something as adventurous as mountaineering in Manali , you’ll be able to find a lot of tourism vendors and agencies here to help you with that.

Places to stay: JJ by Vivaan Resorts, Hotel Sangam Popular tourist attractions:  The Great Himalayan National Park, Bijli Mahadev Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175125 Things to do: Trekking, relaxing Opening hours : Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

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30. Jana Waterfall

Jana Waterfall manali

Jana Waterfall is a pure delight! Tucked in a serene village called Jana in the surreal valley of Manali, this natural waterfall is one of the most popular attractions for Manali sightseeing and is frequented by tourists who wish to have a picnic here with their family or spend some peaceful moments with their partner amidst beauty and serenity. Nestled within a verdant forest, this cascading marvel blooming under clear blue skies is a great place to rejuvenate far away from the chaos of city life.

Places to stay:  The Sonaugi Homestead, Himalayan Kothi Kais Popular tourist attractions:  Rahala Waterfalls Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: HP Village, Jana vpo archand, Jana, Himachal Pradesh 175138 Things to do: Trekking, bird watching, picnicking, swimming Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

31. Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa

Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa manali

A well known religious sanctum for Buddhists and Hindus alike, Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa is a beautiful monastery situated in Manali. It’s one of the most respected Manali visiting places and it is believed that soaking in the divine spiritual vibe of this shrine brings visitors everlasting happiness and success. Other than immersing in the peaceful and holy vibe of the place, you’d also love to explore the bewitching architecture consisting of decorative murals that depict Lord Buddha’s ideas and values. You can also seek such knowledge from the monks that pray here and they’ll be happy to offer wisdom and guide you on the right path of life.

Places to stay:  The Orchard Greens Resort & Spa, Banon Resorts Manali Popular tourist attractions:  Manu Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do: Offer prayer, explore the architecture, meditate Opening hours : 6 am to 8:30 pm How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

14 Best Adventure Sports In Himachal Pradesh For Couples That Will Make Your Heart Skip A Beat

32. Siyali Mahadev Temple

Barot Temple

One of the oldest temples in Manali, the Siyali Mahadev Temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is a popular holy sanctum amongst locals and pilgrims in the north. Just like many temples in Solan , this shrine is very famous for its architectural beauty and is flocked by Shiva devotees in large numbers, especially during the festivals in Manali. It’s a quaint place of worship since not many know about this holy shrine, but it is now starting to catch the attention of travelers owing to its splendid architecture. In fact, the very sight of this temple from afar beguiles passers-by and compels them to pay this shrine a visit.

Places to stay:  Himanshu Resorts, The Himalayan Popular tourist attractions:  Hadimba Devi Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location : Hadimba Temple Rd, Siyal, Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do : Offer prayer, relax amidst the views Opening hours : Early morning How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

33. Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple

Himalaya Nyingmapa Buddhist Temple manali

Himalaya Nyingmapa Gompa is a famed Buddhist monastery situated in Manali. In fact, it is amongst the most famous monasteries in all of northern India. The most iconic feature of this Buddhist shrine is the huge statue of Sakyamuni that sits right in the center of the sanctum in a sitting or meditating posture. Before you get to the statue, you’ll be met with equally charming and countless colorful paintings depicting Buddhism at the entrance itself. You will surely not want to leave the divine and tranquil vibe of this monastery.

Places to stay:  Manali Picnic Spot, View Point Cottage Popular tourist attractions:  International Roerich Memorial Trust (IRMT) Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Pangan Gompa Rd, Pangan, Himachal Pradesh 175143 Things to do: Offer prayer, admire the architecture Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

This Couple Spent 6 Days In Himachal Pradesh And Are Giving Us Major Couple Goals!

34. Gauri Shankar Temple

Gauri Shankar Temple manali

This is another revered Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva that is located in the Naggar village of Manali. The Gauri Shankar Temple is essentially a small structure that has been carved out of stone and holds immense historical importance in the entire Manali district. The temple has been built in the Shikhara style of architecture and has been preserved as a heritage site in Manali, which is what makes it so famous and a major attraction amongst travelers and local pilgrims alike.

Places to stay:  Hotel Gauri Shankar Popular tourist attractions:  Tripura Sundri Temple, Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Naggar Castle Rd, Naggar, Himachal Pradesh 175130 Things to do: Attend festivals, trekking Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

35. Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass

Hampta Pass is one of the most adventurous places to visit in Manali. Lying at a supreme altitude of 4270 m, the pass is located within the Pir Panjal mountain ranges. The pass is a major part of the Manali and Kullu valley. You can discover the unique landscape of the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the region.

Places to stay:  God’s Land Hotel, Himalayan Heights Manali Popular tourist attractions:  Deo Tibba, Pin Parbati Pass Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Kullu, Himachal Pradesh 175101 Things to do: Trekking, mountaineering Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Trekking, bus, cabs

10 Hotels Near Manali That Will Assure You The Best Comfort

36. Jagatsukh

beautiful places around kullu manali

Jagatsukh is an incredible village in Manali known for its temples. It is a quaint but bustling village located on the banks of the river Beas. The village is a favored honeymoon destination offering scenic views of snow-capped mountains, meadows, and fine orchards making it one of the most beautiful places to visit in Manali. Lord Shiva and Goddess Gayatri’s temple are two prime attractions of the village.

Places to stay:  Lagom Stay, Hotel Snow Bliss Popular tourist attractions:  Rani Sui Lake Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Manali, Himachal Pradesh 175131 Things to do: Temple tours, sightseeing, photography Opening hours: Always open How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

places to visit from shimla to manali

Sethan is a small Buddhist village situated at 2,700m above sea level just 12 kilometers out of Manali. If you are looking for a serene suburban destination to get away from the crowd and yet observe a panoramic view of the Dhauladhar ranges, this is the perfect destination to travel to.

Places to stay:  Himalayan Heights Manali, Woodvalley Cottages Popular tourist attractions:  Lama Dugh Point, Manalsu River Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Himachal Pradesh 175136 Things to do : Trekking, Sightseeing Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Bus, cabs, taxi, auto

38. Tirthan Valley

places to visit from shimla to manali

Named after the Tirthan River that flows from Tirth, this destination is perfect for a memorable trekking adventure in the heart of Himachal Pradesh. Located in the Kullu district, the trip to this place offers a splendid view of the mountains, traditional culinary flavors, and a delightful cultural retreat.

Places to stay:  Khem Bharti, Whitestone Cottages Popular tourist attractions:  The Great Himalayan National Park, Serloskar Lake Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Himachal Pradesh 175123 Things to do : Trekking, Mountaineering Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Cab, Trekking

places to visit from shimla to manali

Located near the Parvati Valley, the village of Tosh is an unparalleled reflection of Himachal Pradesh and its culture. Popularly known for its cannabis plantations, the nearby Tosh-Kasol trek is one of the most popular activities to participate in if you are visiting this place.

Places to stay:  Whoopers Hostel, 11:11 Bunker House Popular tourist attractions:  Kasol, Malana Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Parvati Valley, Himachal Pradesh Things to do : Sightseeing, Trekking Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Local Cab, Trekking

Top 12 Hotels In Manali For Honeymoon

places to visit from shimla to manali

If you are looking for a place to disconnect from the hustle and immerse yourself in the serenity and peaceful landscapes of Himachal, Jibhi is the perfect place to unwind and avoid the usual touristy crowd. From pine forest gardens to Victorian-style cottages, this is the place to be for the perfect getaway.

Places to stay:  Jibhi Heaven, The Bluestream Cottage Popular tourist attractions:  Jibhi Waterfall Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Himachal Pradesh 175123 Things to do : Natural expedition, Sightseeing Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Cab, Bus, Trekking

41. Kheerganga

places to visit from shimla to manali

Popularly known as a highly-rated trekking destination, there is more to Kheerganga if you have the time to explore. Located at a height of about 2950 meters, there are enchanted meadows, secluded hot springs, and a landscape that spans across the horizon.

Places to stay:  Shiv Baba Camps, Raasta House Popular tourist attractions:  Kheerganga Waterfall, Chalal Trek Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Kheerganga, Barshaini, Khir Ganga, Himachal Pradesh 175105 Things to do : Trekking, Sightseeing, Camping Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Cab, Walking

42. Parvati Valley

places to visit from shimla to manali

If you are traveling in or around the Kasol region, this detour worthy destination is a must-visit for adventure travelers. This valley is accessible throughout the year and travelers often visit this place during the summer season to appreciate the chill in the air and trek around the lush green meadows.

Places to stay:  Hotel Greenfields, The Rainbow Inn & Cafe Popular tourist attractions:  Pin Parbati Pass, Spiti Valley Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Khir Ganga, Himachal Pradesh 175134 Things to do : Picnic, Natural tour, Sightseeing Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Bus, Cab, Trekking

43. Pandoh Dam

places to visit from shimla to manali

Besides being one of the best picnic spots in Himachal Pradesh, the Pandoh Dam is surrounded by lush green forest areas that make a beautiful panoramic scenery that one must observe. The dam itself is a fascinating piece of architecture that you can marvel at.

Places to stay:  AmPm Resort, Hotel Sally and Restaurant Popular tourist attractions:  Rewalsar Lake, Bhrigu Lake Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh Things to do : Sightseeing Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Bus, Cab, Auto

20 Extreme Adventure Sports In Manali That Will Get Your Heart Racing

44. Chandratal Baralacha Trek

places to visit from shimla to manali

A trek to Chandratal Lake to observe the sunset is a rare and offbeat bucket list activity. Located at an altitude of about 4,300 meters, this trek is perfect for adventure seekers who want to spend a few days surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pine forest shrubs that make for amazing camping locations. A traditional Himachali dinner and stargazing from the tents in recommended.

Places to stay:  Hotel Chandertal, Hotel Trekkers, Chandratala Cottage Popular tourist attractions:  Chandratala Lake Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Himachal Pradesh 175132 Things to do : Trekking, Sightseeing, Picnic, Bonfire Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Trekking, Tour bus, Cabs

45. Parashar Lake

places to visit from shimla to manali

Home to a 13th-century pagoda-style temple, the Parashar lake is popularly known as a landmark destination that many trekkers aim to reach during their adventures in Himachal. It is distant but worth the journey, an Instagram-worthy location that looks extra-delightful when covered with fresh snowfall in winters.

Places to stay:  Meadows Camp, Parashar Lake Krishna Camp, HMRA Luxury Room Camping Popular tourist attractions:  Parashar Rishi Temple Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: D.P.F. Parashar Dhar, Himachal Pradesh 175005 Things to do : Trekking, Camping, Photography Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Trekking, Tourist Vans, Cab

5 Gorgeous Waterfalls In Manali For A Blissful Escapade

46. Patlasu Peak

places to visit from shimla to manali

If you are a first-time trekker who wants to explore the popular terrains of Himachal without venturing too far out in the state, Patlasu peak is the perfect destination for a modest yet adventurous getaway. If you began your journey from Manali and end the trek at the peak of the summit, there is a viewpoint from where you can cherish the sight of the entire Kullu valley and Hanuman Tibba.

Places to stay:  The Mountain Glory, Solang Valley Resorts Popular tourist attractions:  Rahala Waterfalls, Vashisht Kund, Sagoo Falls Nearby airport:  Kullu Manali Airport Location: Old Manali Road, Solang Manali, Burwa, Himachal Pradesh 175103 Things to do : Trekking, Sightseeing, Picnic Opening hours : N/A How to reach : Travel Vans, Cabs, Trekking

With a long list of these famous places to visit in Manali and its precincts, you have several options to explore on your trip to this beautiful town on the banks of the river Beas. So what are you waiting for? Plan a trip to Manali and have the best time of your life with your friends, family or partner. A solo trip to this iconic hill station is also not a bad idea. Hurry, mountains are calling!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places to visit in Manali

Is 2 days enough for Manali?

2 days are not really enough for Manali, you need at least 3-4 days in Manali, in order to cover all the major sightseeing points and visit places.

How can I spend 2 days in Manali?

There are many ways to spend 2 days in Manali, you can explore local sightseeing points like, Mall road, hidimba devi temple, hot water spring, Manikaran Gurudwar, Solang Valley and much more. You can also indulge in activities like paragliding, hiking, mountain biking etc.

What are the Covid travel guidelines to visit Manali?

The following are the guidelines to visit Manali during Covid times: 1. Get yourself tested at least 72 hours before your journey and carry your negative RT PCR report 2. Download Aarogya Setu App 3. Wear proper masks before stepping out and keep sanitizing your hands 4. Maintain social distancing and avoid crowded places 5. Avoid being part of any social or public gathering

What is the best time to visit Manali?

The best time to visit Manali is from April-June if you wish to enjoy the salubrious weather and lush greenery and September-December if you like to enjoy the cold weather and snowfall. So, your best time to visit Manali depends upon what kind of experience you would like to enjoy.

What is famous in Manali?

Manali is famous for a lot of things like adventure activities, picturesque landscapes, handicrafts, food, and shopping. Manali is all famous as the most visited destination in Himachal Pradesh for honeymoon.

What to pack for a Manali trip?

You can never be too prepared when you are traveling to a hill station such as Manali. Here are a few travel tips for Himachal Pradesh: 1. Sunscreen lotion & Moisturising lotion. 2. Warm woolens & socks. 3. Good rubber-soled shoes. 4. Personal Medications (if any) 5. Camera 6. Sunglasses 7. Id Proofs 8. Extra masks 9. Hand sanitizers and disinfectants

What are the things to do in Manali?

Apart from sightseeing, Manali is quite famous for its adventure sports. Some of the most popular adventure sports in Manali are: 1. River Rafting 2. Paragliding 3. Skiing 4. Hiking 5. Mountain Biking 6. Mountaineering 7. Zorbing 8. Jeep Safari

What is the famous street food in Manali?

The most famous street food in Manali is called Mittha, a delicacy commonly available at almost all Manali restaurants and consisting of rice and raisins. The following are the local delicacies that you must surely taste while staying in Manali: 1. Sidu 2. Patande 3. Aktori 4. Chana Madra 5. Babru 6. Kullu Trout 7. Tudkiya Bhat 8. Bhey

places to visit from shimla to manali

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Top 10 Places in Shimla Kullu Manali

places to visit from shimla to manali

There are multiple reasons why Shimla, Kullu, and Manali are a popular tourist destination in India. The snow-covered mountains, lakes, pleasant climate, and alluring climate are only some of the reasons. Shimla, popularly known as the Queen of Hill stations, never ceases to amaze people with its enduring beauty. Kullu is famed as a nature lover’s paradise; that offers travelers with the panoramic views. Manali, on the other hand, is popularly known as backpacking, honeymoon, and adventure paradise. These places are located in the Himalayan range, overflowing with nature, with an abundance of flora and fauna surviving on it. These three places are filled with beautiful vistas and will never fail your expectations.

Now let’s see the top 10 places in Shimla Kullu Manali

Summer hills-.

Summer hill is one of the best places to visit in Shimla; it is a picturesque town located 5 km away from the famous ridge of Shimla. From the top, it offers a breathtaking view of the hill carpeted by rich greenery. Watching sunrise and sunset here shouldn’t be missed.

Annandale is a must-visit; it should be on top of the list for places to visit in Shimla. This place is perfect for golf-lovers, which also serves as a helipad; it used to be home to several adventurous activities during British rule. It offers incredible scenery of the meadows and is a historical place.

Pabbar Valley-

This place is located not far from Shimla and can be reached through the town of Theog. It is famous for its lush greenery, apple orchids, and perennial streams. Trekking here will be adventurous. It is also great for leisure walks and will be relaxing for your mind and body.

Great Himalayan National Park-

The Great Himalayan National park is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is one of the main tourist attractions featuring four valleys, all famous for natural and scenic beauty. The park is home to more than 375 species of fauna, 31 species of mammal, and 181 species of birds.

Friendship Peak-

This trek will take you through Solang valley, alpine meadows, thick forests, colorful orchards, and streams. While climbing, you will be stunned with the beauty it has to offer; it will also be a thrilling journey climbing such a steep altitude over the snow-covered mountains.

Bhrigu Lake-

It is one of the most famous Indian lakes; the sight is pleasing to the eye with the blue color water amidst the white snow. It is one of the most popular tourist places in Kullu; this place offers an amazing view of the valley covered with snow in winter.

Solang Valley-

The beautiful Solang valley is one of the most popular places to visit near Manali. This place is famous for adventurous activities, such as paragliding, horse riding, zorbing, skiing, and parachuting. It is the perfect destination for adventure enthusiasts, couples, or family vacationers.

Kothi is a beautiful village nestled amidst green lands and forests; it is located on the road going towards Solang valley. This village has a rustic charm, painters, poets, and writers, love spending time here to find creativity while enjoying the breathtaking view of the valley surrounding it.

Rohtang Pass-

Rohtang pass is one of the most famous places to visit in Manali and is one of the most beautiful passes. Many tourists visit this place to enjoy the view and trek. During winter, it is covered in snow, and the other time, you will it is green with patches of snow and wildflowers.

Old Manali-

Old Manali is completely different from New Manali or any other hill station. It is situated away from the rush and crowd of the tourists and is a heaven for backpackers with charming cafes and hotels for cheap stay option.

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places to visit from shimla to manali

MOUNTAINS & MAHALS

View of Shimla from the distance with colorful buildings interspersed with rolling green hills with evergreen trees.

Shimla or Manali: Which Is Better To Visit?

places to visit from shimla to manali

Are you planning a trip to Himachal Pradesh and wondering if you should visit Shimla or Manali? I’ve got you covered!

If you’re thinking of exploring the Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh, you’ve probably heard of two iconic towns: Shimla and Manali . If you’re caught between which place to visit, my recommendation on which one is better depends on what you’re looking to do on your trip.

I visited Himachal Pradesh when checking out wedding venues in the mountains because my partner and I love the natural beauty of the Himalayan landscape. I can happily report that the scenic views did not disappoint!

Best things to do in Shimla

If you are looking for more of a nature getaway I wouldn’t stay directly in town in Shimla, but the area has plenty of nature around to explore and enjoy.

Ride the Toy Train

The Kalka-Shimla railway is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, passing through tunnels, bridges, and picturesque hill stations.

Wander The Ridge and Mall Road

Here you’ll get a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains. Adjoining Mall Road is filled with shops, cafes, and colonial structures. No vehicles are allowed here so enjoy your stroll without the usual pulse of Indian traffic.

View of Shimla from Mall Road with buildings in the distance and evergreen trees in the hills. An India flag flies in the wind to the right of the view.

Visit Kufri

A hill station that’s a quick drive away with hiking trails and parks to enjoy the serene nature.

How to reach Shimla

It’s easier to reach Shimla than Manali. So if you don’t have as much time for your trip it may be easier to stay around Shimla.

✈️ +🚗: The nearest airport is in Chandigarh . From there, it’s a scenic 4 hour drive.

✈️ +🚂: Fly into Chandigarh Airport and take the toy train up to Shimla (about 5-6 hours).

When is the best time to visit Shimla?

Summer (April-June) : Mild temperatures make it ideal for sightseeing.

Monsoon (July-September) : Expect heavy rainfall. So not the best for outdoor activities.

Winter (December-February) : Snow lovers, this time is for you.

Best place to stay in Shimla

📍 Taj Theog Resort : While a bit outside of Shimla I’d highly recommend staying at here. It offers a unique luxury experience and our stay was unforgettable. Beyond the impeccable Taj service, the property is set up on a mountain ridge and provides gorgeous views in all directions.

View from balcony of a room at Taj Theog with an empty chair and the Himalaya mountain peaks in the back.

📍 Wildflower Hall, an Oberoi Resort is another beautiful luxury property I visited in Shimla that delivers an incredible and peaceful stay.

Outdoor deck at Oberoi Wildflower Hall hotel with colorful umbrellas and rattan chairs around empty tables and the mountains in the distance.

Best things to do in Manali

Manali is paradise for a nature lover! If you are an adventure traveler, you’ll definitely want to plan a trip to Manali.

Great Himalayan National Park

You will need a permit to enter this UNESCO World Heritage site. The park is a paradise for nature lovers; you can trek, bird watch, and even camp overnight.

Hampta Pass Trek

This four to five day trek, connecting the Kullu Valley to Lahaul’s Chandra Valley, is for the more experienced hikers. The best time to take on this challenging but beautiful hike is from June to September.

Trek to Bhrigu Lake

This moderate trek is appropriate for beginner hikers. If you don’t want to undertake Hampta Pass, consider this alternative which will take you to Bhrigu Lake, known for its reflections of the surroundings mountain peaks.

Manikaran is famous for its hot springs, believed to have healing properties. It’s also a sacred site for Sikhs and Hindus.

Solang Valley

Solang Valley is known for its paragliding. If you are an adventure traveler, get your adrenaline fix here.

How to reach Manali

✈️ : Bhuntar Airport is the closest, but the small airport only has sporadic slights.

🚌 : You can take a bus from Delhi or Chandigarh . From Delhi, it’s a 14 hour drive and there is a sleeper bus that runs overnight. From Chandigarh, it’s an 8 hour drive.

🚗 : If you are comfortable driving in India, you can take a scenic drive yourself from Chandigarh. It’s about an 8-9 hour journey.

When is the best time to visit Manali?

  • Summer (March-June) : Best time for trekking, paragliding, and mountain adventures.
  • Monsoon (July-August) : Heavy rainfall might lead to landslides, so I’d avoid this time of year.
  • Winter (October-February) : Perfect for snow sports.

Learn more about what destinations to visit in India based on the seasons here .

Best place to stay in Manali

📍 T he Manali Castle : A boutique hotel in the heart of Manali. The perfect spot to stay after your days filled with action and adventure.

Shimla vs. Manali FAQs

Here’s some more information to help you plan your trip to Himachal Pradesh.

How many days should I spend in Shimla or Manali?

If the trip you’re planning is 3 days or less, Shimla is more realistic for your schedule. If you have a trip of 4+ days, then I’d recommend making the journey to Manali .

What is the distance between Shimla and Manali?

It’s about 250 kms (155 miles) between Shimla and Manali by road and will take you about six hours to drive.

TL;DR: Shimla or Manali: Which is better to visit?

Both are Shimla and Manali are Himalayan travel destinations worth visiting. Which one you pick just depends on your mood. Shimla offers a mix of colonial heritage and natural beauty, while Manali is more about wild nature and adventure.

For other nature getaways in India, consider a trip to the beautiful Northeast of India, including the abode of the clouds, Meghalaya .

Check out my customized itinerary services if you need more help planning your trip.

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7 Places To Visit in Shimla and Manali

Places To Visit in Shimla and Manali

Looking for places to visit in Shimla and Manali? Check this guide to find out.

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The state of Himachal Pradesh, in the foothills of the Himalayas, has Shimla as its capital. The Kalka-Shimla Railway, which was finished in 1903, still terminates there. It was once the summer capital of British India. The Lakkar Bazaar, a market known for its wooden toys and crafts, and the handicraft stores lining the pedestrian-only The Mall are also well-known.

Shimla has been designated as India’s summer capital. Shimla has been endowed with all of nature’s bounty.

From March to June, when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities, Shimla experiences its busiest travel season. The temperature, which ranges from 15 to 30 degrees Celsius, is pleasant. The ideal time to try paragliding, trekking, camping, and rafting is if you enjoy adventure sports.

Let’s look at the top three destinations in the lovely city.

The Ridge

The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla, is located in the center of a sizable open area called The Ridge Road.

The Ridge Road is a large open space in the heart of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh’s capital city. Shimla’s cultural activities are centered on The Ridge. It is located on Mall Road, Shimla’s well-known shopping district.

The Ridge is home to three historical statues of Mahatma Gandhi, Indira Gandhi, and Y.S. Parmar, Himachal Pradesh’s first chief minister. In 1910, a library in the Tudor-Bethan style was established.

The Ridge is well-known for hosting various government functions and fairs. The majority of these occasions and celebrations take place there. The Summer Festival is the Ridge’s most well-known festival.

In addition to the Ridge’s natural beauty, you can partake in a variety of leisure activities like walking, horseback riding, shopping, and sightseeing.

It is a wonderful place for families to spend time jointly while enjoying the beauty of nature and the cold climate.

Mall Road

Shimla’s Mall Road is a popular hangout and shopping destination in Himachal Pradesh, India. The Mall road is situated below The Ridge and was constructed when Britain was still a colony.

The municipal corporation, fire department, and police headquarters are all located here. Shimla Mall Road is home to several fine-dining restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops, making it ideal for both couples and families.

Despite Manali been a stunning hill town that welcomes travelers from all over the nation, It is well-known not only for its breathtaking beauty, but also for its popular shopping district, Mall Road. The street shopping in this area is well-known, and there is a flurry of activity during the day.

There are numerous activities to keep you occupied throughout your trip on Manali’s Mall Road, which is popular for its street shopping adventures and bustling with activity.

Kufri

Kufri is an attractive hill station in the Shimla district of India. It is located 20 kilometers from Shimla on National Highway No. 22. Look for boutiques and restaurants along with Indian-style hotels and gift shops on Kufri Avenue, the main thoroughfare.

The renowned Golden Triangle of Himachal Pradesh is comprised of Kufri, Chail, and Shimla.. In February, a yearly winter sports festival is held here, which is a major draw for tourists.

Rock climbing is a popular Kufri activity that is available throughout the year in various seasons. Tourists will have the opportunity to explore a completely new dimension to the adventurous activity-inclusive challenges in Kufri.

Due to its beautiful scenery and abundance of recreational opportunities, Kufri is considered by many as one of the most beautiful hill stations in the country.

Kufri’s top tourist destinations include Kufri Fun World, Kufri Skiing, Horse Ride to Mahasu Peak, The Himalayan National Park, and Mahasu Peak.  

Manali is a high-altitude Himalayan resort town in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is well-known as a backpacking and honeymoon destination. It is situated on the banks of the Beas River and serves as a starting point for skiing in the Solang Valley and trekking in the Parvati Valley.

It’s also a jumping-off point for paragliding, rafting, and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal range, which includes the 4,000-meter-high Rohtang Pass. It’s also a starting point for paragliding, rafting, and mountaineering in the Pir Panjal range, which includes the 4,000m-high Rohtang Pass.

It is a rustic enclave known for its cool climate and snow-capped mountains, providing tourists with a respite from the scorching heat of the plains. Manali’s tourism industry only began to boom in the early twentieth century, owing primarily to its natural bounty and pleasant climate.

From the end of December to the beginning of January, you can enjoy snowfall and the spectacular scenic white views of the surrounding mountains, making it a popular honeymoon destination. This is an excellent season for those looking for an adventure to go skiing.

Manali is well-known for its woolen sweaters, shawls, and wood handicrafts. There are numerous types of gift items available here.

Let’s utilize a peek at the finest three places for exploring in Manali.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass is a high pass in the Himalayas on the eastern end of the Himalayan Pir Panjal Range, approximately 51 kilometers from Manali in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It connects the Kullu Valley to the Himachal Pradesh valleys of Lahaul and Spiti.

Because the Rohtang Pass is only open for 6 to 7 months of the year (April, May, and October), this is the only and best time to visit.

Even though the distance is only 20 kilometers (both ways), you must exercise caution when walking on dry and fresh snow. It’s best to stick close to the locals who are walking with you. The pass’s summit is too windy to spend much time there.

The Rohtang Pass, located at an elevation of 13,050 feet, is named after the local word for “pile of corpses.” In the summer, it provides breathtaking views. Rohtang means “pile of corpses” in the hill people’s language. But don’t be put off; here’s how it got its name.

It is a gateway to the beautiful Spiti Valley, which is home to the famous Pin Valley National Park and many Buddhist monasteries. The pass is inaccessible during the winter, but visitors are permitted during the summer if they obtain a valid permit.

Hadimba Temple

Hadimba Temple

Hidimba Devi Temple, also known as Dhungari Temple and variously as the Hadimba Temple, is located in Manali, a hill station in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh.

The temple was built around a cave where Devi Hidimba meditated. It is a prehistoric cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, the wife of Bhima, a character in the Indian epic Mahabharata. A cedar woodland surrounds the temple.

It is a good place to learn about Manali’s culture and style.

Solang Valley

Solang Valley

Solang Valley gets its name from the words Solang and Nallah. It is a side valley at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, India, 14 kilometers northwest of the resort town of Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass, and is well-known for its summer and winter sports opportunities.

Solang Valley is best visited during the post-monsoon season, which runs from September to October.

Solang Valley, also known as the “Snow Valley,” is well-known among tourists for the variety of adventure activities available. Some adventure sports include skiing, trekking, mountaineering, and paragliding.

Beas Kund

Beas Kund, also known as Beas Lake, is the headwaters of the Beas River in Himachal Pradesh, near Manali. It is a high alpine lake that can be reached by easy to moderate hiking. Solang Nallah is the starting point for the Beas Kund trek.

Beas Kund in Manali is the location where the River Beas originates, making it a sacred site. It’s a great place to camp for a while and take in the views of nearby mountains like Hanuman Tibba, Shitidhar, Ladakhi, and Friendship Peak.

With this Beas Kund Trek, you can embark on an exciting trekking expedition through lush green grasslands and high peaks.  

Both Manali and Shimla are in Himachal Pradesh. The road distance between Shimla and Manali is 248 kilometers. Both of these locations are fantastic places to visit and participate in activities. Both these locations are well-known for their scenic beauty.

Contact Travelco to book Shimla Manali tour package from Sri Lanka .

places to visit from shimla to manali

Editorial Staff at Travelco are experts in Global Tourism.

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Backpacking Nomad

Is Shimla better or Manali: Let’s Find Out!

by Swapnil Sanghavi | Oct 20, 2020 | Himachal , Manali , Shimla | 0 comments

Is Shimla better or Manali? Somehow, I have been asked this question time and again, mostly from people who have limited time and can’t decide which place to pick.

Although both Shimla and Manali are very popular Himachal towns, both have a completely different character. I will help you in choosing one of the two for your next trip. 

Choosing between the two is not as simple as it sounds. Your choice of the destination would depend on your preferences as an individual. So, I suggest you stay with me till the end of the blog to get your answer to is Shimla better or Manali.

Is Shimla better or Manali_

Is Shimla Better or Manali: Consider These 9 Points Before Making Your Pick 

To find out which one’s a better destination: Shimla or Manali, you will have to evaluate it based of several factors. Below I have compared the two Himachali towns on the basis of nine factors.

Take a look at these comparisons, see what you value more and make a pick between Shimla or Manali

1. Which is more Accessible: Shimla or Manali?

Let’s talk about accessibility first. When it comes to accessibility, Both Shimla and Manali can be reached easily from any major Indian City. You can drive to both places easily and also, use public transport.

Reaching Shimla 

Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and hence, very well connected. Reaching Shimla is fairly easy and you can reach the city by a combination of road and rail/plane.

Reaching Manali 

Manali is again one of the most famous travel destinations in Himachal. Therefore, just like Shimla, it is also easily accessible.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali, when it comes to accessibility, I would say both are accessible but Shimla can be reached in fewer hours from the neighbouring cities. 

2. Which Has Better/ More Sightseeing Options: Shimla or Manali?

Shimla and Manali both have some beautiful places and spots to cover. What you choose for your next trip depends on what you are looking to do on your next holiday.

Best Places to Visit in Shimla 

Shimla was the summer capital of the British Empire in India. The influence of the colonial past is clearly visible in every aspect of Shimla. If you are someone interest in architecture, I would suggest you visit Shimla. Some of the places that every architecture buff must visit in Himachal are – Heritage Walk, Gaiety Theatre, Christ Church, IIAS, State Library, etc.

Shimla is also blessed with natural beauty, but over the years, the city has seen a lot of commercialization. Construction all over the city has reduced the charm of the clean and green hill station.

Best Places to Visit in Manali

Manali is one of the most beautiful places in Himachal. The whole setting of the town is ravishing. The tall mountains, the Parvati river, and pine trees make this an apt destination to get lost in the beauty of nature. Although Manali is also slowly getting crowded, you can still find a quiet spot to contemplate and admire nature’s bounty.

When you talk about sightseeing options, there are monasteries, ancient temples and waterfalls, trekking trails, etc that you many explore.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali, for sightseeing? Well, If you are interested in Colonial Architecture, Shimla is the place to visit, if you want to explore old Himachal routes and scenic beauty, Manali is a much better choice.

3. Where Should Adventure Lovers Go: Shimla or Manali?

When it comes to choosing a destination for adventure, I would say you pick Manali. Although some places near Shimla do offer some adventure Sports including rock climbing, campingGolfing, Skiing, etc, Manali has many more options and better ones.

In Manali, you can go for white water rafting, paragliding, rock climbing, rappelling, camping, trekking, etc. However, whether you are in Shimla or in Manali, make sure that you choose a certified professional for your activity.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali, for adventurers, Manali definitely wins hands down. There plenty of adventure activities you can indulge in and near Manali. 

4. Talking About Safety, Which One’s Safer – Shimla or Manali?

Himachal is a preferred destination among solo travellers and backpackers, because of its safety. I would say both these Himachali towns fare equally well when it comes to safety.

Having said that, I would warn against taking any misadventures or roaming alone at nights, especially in Manali because of the dangers of wild animals. So, if you just take the basic precautions, you will be fine.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali, both these Himachal towns are equally safe. 

5. Is Shimla Better or Manali for Budget Travellers

That is a difficult question to answer as a lot would depend on your personal choices as a traveller. I am a backpacker and from my experience, I can say that Manali is comparatively cheaper than Shimla for backpackers.

If we talk about accommodation, in Manali you will find many backpacker hostels and guest houses when compared to Shimla. In Shimla, the budget accommodations are located far off from the main city, while in Manali, you will find the hostels right near the central location.

Another major factor that contributes to cost is internal transport. In Shimla, local buses are the cheapest way of travelling between attractions. In Manali, you have to hire a cab or a self-driven bike to move around places, which is more expensive than local buses.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali, for budget travellers, I would say Manali is a slightly cheaper option for backpackers. 

6. Shimla or Manali: What’s the Better Destination For Foodies?

Food is an important part of the whole travel experience. Both Shimla and Manali have a great food culture. You will find several cafes, local eateries, restaurants, street food, etc. in both these places.

In both these places, you can not only try a number of cuisines including the local Himachali food and national and international cuisines. If you are a non-vegetarian do try the trout fish in Manali, I hear it is something not to be missed!

So, Is Shimla better or Manali for foodies, I would say both are equally good when it comes to their food culture. 

7. Which has better Connectivity: Shimla or Manali?

Another major issue while travelling is connectivity or internal transport. In both places, Shimla and Manali, internal transport if fairly decent.

In Shimla, local buses are the cheapest means of travelling within the city and are easily available. You can also find taxis easily. In Manali, you cannot depend on local buses, you will have to either hike to most attractions or hire a cab or a bike to move between different places. You can also sometimes get shared cabs from one place to another.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali in terms of better internal connectivity, I would say both are fairly well connected.

8. Shimla or Manali, Based on the Duration of Stay

Both Shimla and Manali are great options if you are looking to spend some time in the mountains. However, if you have less time (2-3 days), I would suggest you choose Shimla.

If you are looking to spend a longer vacation, I would recommend Manali as the better pick. You can just relax amidst nature, go on hikes, treks or visit nearby attractions. There are many things that will keep you occupied in and near Manali.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali, if you are going for a long vacation? I would say choose Manali if you are going for a longer vacation. 

9. Shimla Or Manali: Which has Better Attractions Around It?

If you wish to explore more than just one place, both these towns offer many wonderful getaways.

From Shimla, you can easily travel to places such as Chail, Kufri, Fagu, Mashobra and Naldera. All these places are good for a day trip from Shimla.

There are many places that can be explored near Manali, especially some amazing treks. These include Naggar, Jagatsukh, Bear Kund, Kothi, etc.

So, Is Shimla better or Manali when it comes to having more attractions nearby, in my opinion, both have some fantastic attractions to explore. 

So, I hope my blog helped you choose between the two destinations- Shimla & Manali. However, if you have more time on your hands, I would suggest that you visit both these destinations.

places to visit from shimla to manali

Manali to Nainital-7 must visit hill stations in India

W hen the Sun gets uncomfortable, visiting India's quiet mountain places is the best choice. Check out the list of must-see hill stations in India.

When the Sun gets uncomfortable, visiting India's quiet mountain places is the best choice. Check out the list of must-see hill stations in India.

Manali is the most popular mountain getaway, located among the majestic Himalayas. Manali provides pleasant weather, snow-capped peaks, and lush green valleys.

Darjeeling is a scenic hill station in West Bengal noted for its tea plantations and the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Shimla, the state capital, is a traditional mountain retreat. It is a famous tourist destination due to its colonial-era buildings, beautiful forests, and warm weather. 

You will see a lovely fusion of Tibetan and British traditions here. The nightlife is also worth checking out.

Munnar is a picturesque hill resort in Kerala's Western Ghats known for its sprawling tea plantations, misty slopes, and cascading waterfalls. 

Nainital is a popular hill station in Uttarakhand around a beautiful lake. Lush green hills surround this stunning location, providing boating opportunities and panoramic views.

Srinagar, also known as Paradise on Earth, Venice of the East, and the City of Lakes, is, without a doubt, India's most picturesque hill station.

Manali to Nainital-7 must visit hill stations in India

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    June 15, 2016 by Abhishek. A Shimla to Manali road trip is one of the most picturesque ones that we have taken in our life. The distance between Shimla and Manali is about 250 kms. And, theShimla to Manali road trip winds through the mighly Himalayas. So, it takes 7-8 hours to reach Manali from Shimla covering this distance.

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  25. Happy to explore my India @brijmohannishad #poonamsanasb #shimla

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