Shimla- Kullu- Manali Tour Plan

Manali was our last destination and we returned back to Shimla. Most travellers opt for going directly to Kalka or Chandigarh but we were concerned about long journeys with the baby so we decided to go back to Shimla. Let me summarise the complete itinerary we followed:

• Day 1: Kolkata -Delhi—(Read)
• Day 2: Delhi – Kalka – Shimla—(Read)
• Day 3: Shimla (A day’s Break)
• Day 4: Shimla – Manali—(Read)
• Day 5: Rohtang Pass & Solang Valley—(Read)
• Day 6: Manali City Tour—(Read)
• Day 7: Manali – Shimla
• Day 8: Shimla (A Day’s Break)—(Read)
• Day 9: Shimla City Tour—(Read)
• Day 10: Shimla – Delhi – Kolkata

You can read the details of the day’s trips by clicking on the Links above.

The itinerary was bit too spread but it was needed to give the kid breaks in between – He did absolutely fine but it was just a concern 🙂 Generally for a common traveller, the Trip can be of 7 days – 2 Days in Shimla, 2 Days in Manali, 1 Day in Rohtang & Solang and 2 days in transit between Shimla & Manali. If is it possible you can add a day in Kullu.

How much could be the cost?

The accommodation is completely your choice. You can get them really cheap if you are planning in advance. Trivago.com can be a real help – I was benefitted from their comparatives. Always look for good ratings and its proximity from the city centre. Try to opt for the scheme that includes breakfast.
Generally what we found that – in Peak Season, Rs. 1500/- – Rs. 2000/- per night could be the cost of decent hotels in good location & condition.

Travel between Shimla & Manali may come a bit costly. As per our experience, if you book a taxi for reaching Manali, Sightseeing there & return that costs about Rs. 12000/-. However, if you take HPTDC Volvo bus for Shimla to Manali journey and again take their bus for Rohtang, the total cost will be around Rs. 2000/- per head. You have to add another Rs. 500/- for local sightseeing in Manali. So if you are a group of 3/4 people, a taxi will be cheaper and more flexible option.

Shacke Pak – 4 Set Packing Cubes – Travel Organizers with Laundry Bag

For your meals, you should keep a budget for Rs. 1000/- per day per head for the entire trip. This should cover your lunch, dinner, snacks and waters. It’s best to include breakfast in the room package.

As per my experience, I would say the travel from Delhi/Chandigarh/Kalka and return should cost you between Rs.25000/- to Rs.30000/- per head if you travelling with family.

What is the best time to visit?

Ideally, Late October or March-June is the best time to visit if you are planning to visit Rohtang. If you want to stay in Shimla, Kullu & Manali only, December  – February will be the time you can expect to feel the snow. Otherwise rest of the year you can expect pleasant weather which can give you relief from the heat. Try to avoid the peak and late monsoon because recently there have been a lot of incidents of landslides.

What are to be careful about?

The Monkeys in Shimla: Be careful about them to avoid an unnecessary attack from them. Don’t carry foods in hand or small packets which look like food.

Porters: There is fixed rate chart for the porters at every railway station. Fix their rates before handing them the luggage. For any dispute, contact the railway police counters. Also be close to them when they are carrying the luggage.

Long Walk: Be prepared to walk a long distance and climb steep slopes when in Shimla. The Mall Road, Its centre, is no car zone and you have to walk a lot.

Sparoo Sellers: When you visit Vashisht temple in Manali, you are sure to come across rows of shops selling Sparoo. They will offer you lucrative schemes. Don’t fall into the trap. It’s completely fake.

Rohtang Pass Permit: Get it a day in advance. Contact your driver and arrange for the permit.

Strong Wind in Rohtang: whenever you visit Rohtang, expect strong cold wind. Be prepared for that unless you accustomed to the similar weather.

Taxi Fare: There is no fixed rate for the taxis. Be prepared for bargaining and if possible compare between two-three operators.

Safety During Adventure Sports: Locally enquire about the adventure sports and choose the best one. There are plenty of such agents who are not trained and might hurt you.

🙂 Happy Travelling 🙂