Chandigarh - Shimla - Manali Tour

This 6-day road trip covers the most scenic and adventurous locations in Himachal Pradesh. Starting from Chandigarh, the tour takes you through the colonial charm of Shimla, the adventure hub of Manali, and the breathtaking snow-covered landscapes of Solang, Sissu, or Rohtang Pass (depending on weather and road conditions). The return journey uses a new shorter bypass (~270 km, 5-6 hours) for a more comfortable experience.

Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla (110 km / 3-4 hours)

📍 Highlights: Scenic drive, The Ridge, Mall Road

• Pickup from Chandigarh (Airport/Railway Station)
• Drive to Shimla, enjoying views of Shivalik hills
• Check-in at the hotel & freshen up
• Evening sightseeing:
  • The Ridge – A panoramic viewpoint
  • Mall Road – Perfect for shopping & cafes
  • Christ Church – The second oldest church in North India
• Overnight stay: Shimla

Day 2: Shimla Sightseeing & Kufri Excursion

📍 Highlights: Kufri, Jakhoo Temple, Lakkar Bazaar

• Morning: Drive to Kufri (16 km from Shimla)
  • Himalayan Nature Park – Spot rare wildlife
  • Kufri Fun World – Adventure rides & snow activities (seasonal)
• Afternoon: Return to Shimla for more sightseeing:
  • Jakhoo Temple – Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offers panoramic views
  • Lakkar Bazaar – Famous for wooden handicrafts
• Overnight stay: Shimla

Day 3: Shimla to Manali via Kullu (250 km / 7-8 hrs)

📍 Highlights: Scenic drive, River rafting, Kullu shawl factory

• Morning: Depart for Manali, traveling through beautiful valleys
• En route activities:
  • Pandoh Dam – Serene water views
  • Hanogi Mata Temple – A sacred riverside temple
  • Kullu:
    • River rafting on Beas River (optional)
    • Visit a Kullu shawl factory for authentic woolen wear
• Evening: Arrive in Manali & check in
• Overnight stay: Manali

Day 4: Manali Local Sightseeing & Adventure

📍 Highlights: Hadimba Temple, Vashisht hot springs, Mall Road

• Morning: Explore local attractions
  • Hadimba Devi Temple – A 16th-century wooden temple in a cedar forest
  • Manu Temple – Dedicated to Sage Manu, the creator of mankind
  • Vashisht Temple & Hot Springs – Famous for natural hot water baths
• Evening: Explore Mall Road & Old Manali for shopping & cafes
• Overnight stay: Manali

Day 5: Snow Point Excursion – Solang / Sissu / Rohtang

📍 Highlights: Snow activities, stunning landscapes
🔹 Destination depends on weather & road conditions
✅ Solang Valley (if Rohtang is closed) – Best for paragliding, skiing, ATV rides, snow tubing
✅ Sissu & Atal Tunnel (if accessible) – Visit Sissu Lake, waterfalls, and Lahaul Valley
✅ Rohtang Pass (if open) – Majestic Himalayan views & snow play

• Evening: Return to Manali
• Overnight stay: Manali

Day 6: Manali to Chandigarh (270 km / 5-6 hrs via shorter bypass)

📍 Highlights: Scenic drive, quick return

• Morning departure via new shorter bypass (reduces travel time)
• Reach Chandigarh by afternoon/evening for drop-off

Best Time to Visit

🌸 March – June – Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing
❄ November – February – Snowfall in Shimla, Manali, and Solang Valley
🌧 July – September – Monsoon, lush green landscapes but risk of landslides