A week is the sweet spot for a first Himachal trip — enough to cover Shimla, Kullu, and Manali without rushing the hill roads. Here is a day-by-day Shimla Manali itinerary you can adapt to your dates.
At a glance
The classic route runs Shimla → Kullu → Manali, often starting from Chandigarh or Delhi, with a private vehicle and hill-experienced driver throughout. Every day below is customizable.
Day 1 & 2 — Shimla
Settle into Shimla and explore the Mall Road, the Ridge, and Christ Church, with a half-day to Kufri for views and the ride up.
Day 3 — Shimla to Manali
A scenic drive to Manali through the Kullu valley along the Beas river, with stops for river views and, if you like, a rafting session at Kullu.
Day 4 — Manali & Solang Valley
Visit Solang Valley for snow in winter or paragliding and the ropeway in season, plus Hadimba Temple and Old Manali.
Day 5 — Manali to Atal Tunnel / Sissu
Drive through the Atal Tunnel toward Sissu and the Lahaul valley for dramatic high-mountain scenery (subject to weather).
Day 6 — Return
Drive back toward Chandigarh or Delhi for your onward journey — or extend to Dharamshala and McLeodganj.
Make it yours
We tailor pace and stops to your group. See our Shimla Manali tour packages, check the best time to visit Manali, or tell us your dates.
