Manali, Himachal Pradesh – Five Day Relaxation Trip
Manali is one of those places that instantly feels like a getaway from the chaos of life. Nestled in the heart of Himachal Pradesh, it offers a combination of jaw-dropping natural beauty, adventure sports, and a laid-back atmosphere that makes you want to stay longer. Whether you’re the type who enjoys snow-covered mountains and adrenaline-filled adventures or someone who prefers to kick back with a cup of coffee while gazing at the hills, Manali has a little something for everyone. Here’s a travel plan to help you make the most of your trip.
Day 1: Arriving in Manali – Ease into the Local Vibe
Getting to Manali
A scenic, relaxing and reenergizing drive in mountains
If you’re coming from Delhi or Chandigarh, the scenic drive is part of the fun. The curvy roads, the towering pines, and the Beas River flowing alongside will set the mood for your Manali trip. If you prefer to fly, Bhuntar Airport (50 km from Manali) is your best bet, though flights are limited.
After arriving, settle in and get ready for a relaxed day of exploring.
Mall Road
Start your exploration with Mall Road, the busy hub of Manali where everyone ends up at some point. It’s full of shops selling local handicrafts, shawls, and quirky souvenirs. The street is lined with cafes, restaurants, and small bakeries where you can get everything from local delicacies to continental fare.
Must-do on Mall Road:
- Browse the shops for woolens, souvenirs, and local handicrafts.
- Enjoy shopping at Tibetan Market.
- Try local dishes like Siddu and Chana Madra.
- Relax at a café with views of the bustling streets or distant mountains.
Hadimba Temple
Hadimba Temple in Old Manali
Next, take a short walk to the famous Hadimba Devi Temple, a tranquil spot surrounded by tall cedar trees. This centuries-old wooden temple is dedicated to Hadimba, a figure from the Mahabharata, and its unique architecture makes it stand out.
What makes it special:
- The peaceful setting in a dense forest.
- Traditional pagoda-style architecture that is perfect for photos.
- A great spot for a quiet moment away from the crowd.
Old Manali
From the temple, it’s a short ride to Old Manali, the more relaxed, bohemian part of town. Old Manali is known for its artsy cafes, boutique guesthouses, and apple orchards. It’s a great place to unwind and take a slow walk through quaint streets.
What to do in Old Manali:
- Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the first man in Hindu mythology.
- Explore small cafes and shops that sell handmade crafts and jewelry.
- Enjoy a meal at Cafe 1947, a riverside café known for its great vibe and live music.
Day 2: Adventure Awaits – Solang Valley and More
Solang Valley
Kickstart your day with an adventure-packed visit to Solang Valley, about
13 km from Manali. Solang is famous for its adventure sports—whether it’s summer or winter, you’ll find plenty to do here.
One must experience paragliding in Solang.
What’s on offer:
Paragliding: Soar over the valley with an aerial view of snow-capped peaks.
Zorbing: Roll downhill inside a giant plastic ball—super fun!
Skiing: In winter, you can try skiing, and it’s great for beginners.
ATV rides: Race through the valley on an all-terrain vehicle.
Even if you’re not into extreme sports, Solang’s scenic beauty alone makes it worth the trip. It’s the perfect spot for sitting back and taking in the views. You can also drive ahead of Solang towards Atal Tunnel and Lahaul Valley. It requires another day trip to travel.
Rohtang Pass (Seasonal)
Once the highway, now a tourist spot – Rohtang Pass
If you’re visiting Manali between May and October, a trip to Rohtang Pass is a must. About 51 km from Manali, this pass offers incredible views of snow even in the summer.
Why go to Rohtang:
- Play in the snow, even during the hottest months.
- Try snow-related activities like sledding and snow scooters.
- Get epic panoramic views of the Himalayan range.
Just remember, for self-driven vehicles you’ll need a special permit to visit Rohtang, It can be obtained using vehicle registration and driving license so it’s a good idea to book in advance.
Vashisht Hot Springs
After an action-packed day, head over to Vashisht Village, just 3 km from Manali, to soak in the natural hot springs. Known for their therapeutic properties, the hot springs are perfect for unwinding.
What else to see:
The Vashisht Temple, dedicated to sage Vashisht, is worth a quick visit.
Take a peaceful walk around the village and maybe enjoy a cup of tea at a local café.
Day 3: Culture, Castles, and Waterfalls
Naggar Castle
For a change of scenery, drive to Naggar, a quaint town about 20 km from Manali. The highlight here is the beautiful Naggar Castle, which once served as the royal residence of Kullu’s kings.
Why visit:
The castle offers stunning views of the Kullu Valley.
Inside, you’ll find an art gallery dedicated to Russian painter Nicholas Roerich, who made Naggar his home.
The architecture of the castle is a lovely blend of traditional Himachali style and European influences.
Jogini Waterfall
In the afternoon, lace up your walking shoes and trek to Jogini Waterfall, located about 3 km from Vashisht Village. The trek takes you through apple orchards and offers stunning views along the way.
Why Jogini:
It’s a peaceful and scenic trek.
The waterfall is the perfect spot for a picnic or some quiet time.
You can also continue trekking further up for even better views.
Manali Gompa
End the day with a visit to the Manali Gompa, a peaceful Tibetan Buddhist monastery located near the town center. The monastery offers a quiet retreat with its colorful walls, prayer wheels, and serene Buddha statues.
What makes it special:
- A calm and spiritual atmosphere.
- Tibetan handicrafts for sale at the nearby stalls.
Day 4: Hidden Gems – Shanag Village Stay and Kasol
Stay in Shanag Village
For a peaceful retreat away from the bustle of old Manali, I highly recommend staying in Shanag Village, located just opposite Nehru Kund. It’s a quiet village surrounded by apple orchards and offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget stays to luxurious hotels.
Manali is a Mountain Town To Visit in All Seasons
We stayed at Mountain Route, A budget hotel offering great views and service. The experience was fantastic, thanks to our friendly host Sahil. If you’re looking for something luxurious, check out Highland Park, a hotel on the banks of the Beas River. It’s an idyllic place for anyone wanting to enjoy luxury while still being close to nature.
Why Shanag?
- You get to experience peaceful, scenic surroundings without the noise of Old Manali.
- There’s a wide range of stay options, from cozy homestays to luxurious hotels.
- It’s a great base for exploring nearby spots like Solang Valley.
Kasol and Manikaran
Manikaran Sahib in famous Parvati Valley
If you have an extra day, take a day trip to Kasol, a village known for its vibrant backpacker culture and stunning riverside views. While you’re there, visit Manikaran Sahib, a famous Gurudwara (Sikh Temple of worship) known for its hot springs.
Why visit:
- Kasol has a relaxed, bohemian vibe with charming cafes offering delicious Israeli food.
- Manikaran Sahib offers spiritual peace and a free meal (langar) to all visitors.
- Enjoy a walk by the Parvati River or shop at the local flea markets.
Day 5: Departure and Last-Minute Shopping
Before heading back, take some time to revisit Mall Road for last-minute shopping. You can pick up souvenirs like woolen shawls, Himachali caps, or Tibetan handicrafts.
Departure
When it’s time to say goodbye, you’ll either hit the road back to Delhi or Chandigarh or take a flight from Bhuntar Airport, carrying memories of the peaceful mountains and friendly locals.
When to Visit Manali
Summer (March to June): Perfect for trekking, sightseeing, and adventure sports.
Winter (October to February): Ideal for snow lovers and those looking to experience skiing.
Monsoon (July to September): It’s better to avoid this season due to landslides.