Himachal Pradesh
Explore the beauty, culture, and attractions of Himachal Pradesh.
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5 Days in Manali for a Relaxed Getaway
Manali is the perfect place to unwind with its cool mountain air, lush green valleys, and laid-back vibe. This itinerary balances sightseeing with plenty of downtime, letting you soak in the beauty without rushing around. I've included my favorite spots where you can just sit back and enjoy the views, along with some gentle walks and local treats.
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Day 1
Day 1 in Manali
Kick off your Manali trip with its most iconic spots, from the spiritual vibes of Hadimba Temple to the bustling Mall Road and the serene Vashisht Hot Springs.
Activities
Hadimba Temple & Nature Walk
Start your day at the ancient Hadimba Temple, surrounded by cedar forests. The unique wooden architecture and peaceful vibes make it a must-visit. Afterward, take a short nature walk in the nearby Van Vihar Park for some quiet time by the river.
- Dress modestly as it's a religious site
- Try the small stalls outside for fresh fruit or local snacks
Explore Mall Road & Lunch
Head to Mall Road, Manali's lively heart. Browse local shops for woolens, souvenirs, or handmade jewelry. Stop for lunch at a cozy café like Johnson’s or Il Forno for wood-fired pizzas with mountain views.
- Parking is tricky—better to walk or take a cab
- Try the local trout if you're a seafood lover
Vashisht Hot Springs & Village Visit
Wind down at the natural sulfur hot springs in Vashisht village. The warm waters are perfect for relaxation. Explore the village’s narrow lanes and check out the old stone temple dedicated to Sage Vashisht.
- Carry a towel and change of clothes
- The water can be hot—test before dipping fully
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Day 2
Manali Mountains & Local Flavors
A mix of stunning mountain views and authentic local experiences, from cable car rides to cozy cafes.
Activities
Solang Valley & Ropeway Ride
Head to Solang Valley, about 14 km from Manali, for breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks. Take the cable car (ropeway) up for panoramic vistas—best in the morning when skies are clear. If you're visiting in winter, you can try skiing or snowboarding; in summer, paragliding is popular.
- Wear layers—it gets chilly up top.
- Bargain for adventure activity prices if not pre-booked.
Old Manali Cafes & Riverside Stroll
After Solang, unwind in Old Manali’s laid-back vibe. Stop at Drifters’ Cafe or Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted for fresh coffee and homemade food. Walk along the Beas River, where you’ll find quiet spots to sit and soak in the mountain air.
- Try the apple pie—Manali’s apples are famous!
- Cash is king in smaller cafes.
Jogini Waterfall Hike
A gentle 1.5-hour hike from Vashisht village leads to Jogini Falls, a serene spot with cascading water. The trail passes through pine forests and offers glimpses of local life. Less crowded than other spots, it’s ideal for a peaceful evening.
- Wear sturdy shoes—some rocky sections.
- Carry water; no shops on the trail.
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 3
Manali Hidden Gems & Local Flavors
A slower-paced day exploring lesser-known spots in Manali, with a mix of cultural experiences and delicious local food.
Activities
Morning at the Himalayan Nyinmapa Buddhist Temple
Start your day with the peaceful vibes of this stunning Tibetan temple, tucked away from the usual tourist trail. The colorful prayer flags, intricate murals, and the giant golden Buddha statue make it a serene spot. If you're lucky, you might catch the monks chanting in the morning.
- Remove shoes before entering
- Dress modestly
- Try the butter tea at the small stall outside
Brunch at Drifters' Cafe & Book Exchange
A cozy hideout with floor seating and mountain views, this cafe is where locals and long-term travelers hang out. Their fluffy Tibetan bread with honey is legendary, and the book exchange makes for perfect post-meal browsing. The vibe here is what Old Manali used to feel like before it got crowded.
- Try their mint lemonade
- Ask about the daily specials
- Cash preferred
Afternoon at the Manali Heritage Museum & Craft Shopping
This small but fascinating museum showcases Himachali culture through traditional artifacts, household items, and photographs. Afterward, walk down to the nearby Bhuttico woolen showroom for authentic Kullu shawls, or browse the tiny shops near the museum for handmade souvenirs.
- Bargain politely at smaller shops
- Look for the handwoven wool labels at Bhuttico
- Closed on Sundays
Must Try Foods
Transportation
Day 4
Manali Nature & Culture Day
A mix of serene nature spots and cultural experiences, with plenty of time to soak in the local vibe.
Activities
Morning at Nehru Kund & Rohtang Pass Viewpoint
Start your day with a peaceful visit to Nehru Kund, a natural spring named after India's first Prime Minister. The crystal-clear waters and surrounding deodar trees make it a refreshing stop. Then, head up to the Rohtang Pass viewpoint (no need to go all the way to the pass itself) for breathtaking Himalayan vistas without the long drive. The viewpoint offers similar panoramas with far less crowd and hassle.
- Carry warm layers - it's chilly even in summer at the viewpoint
- Stop at the roadside dhabas for sweet, milky chai with mountain views
Afternoon at Manu Temple & Tibetan Market
Visit the ancient Manu Temple, dedicated to the Hindu sage Manu, tucked away in Old Manali's quieter lanes. The stone-carved temple has a mystical atmosphere. Afterwards, browse the colorful Tibetan Market near the mall, where you'll find woolens, handicrafts, and quirky Himalayan souvenirs. Bargain gently - it's part of the experience!
- Remove shoes before entering Manu Temple
- Look for handmade wool socks - they make great gifts
Must Try Foods
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Day 5
Manali Serenity & Farewell
A relaxed final day soaking in Manali's peaceful vibes, with a mix of nature, local flavors, and a memorable farewell to the mountains.
Activities
Morning at Van Vihar Park
Start your day with a quiet stroll through Van Vihar, a serene deodar forest by the Beas River. The park is perfect for slow walks, birdwatching, or just sitting by the river with a book. The tall trees and gentle sounds of the water make it a peaceful escape from the busier parts of Manali.
- Carry a light jacket—it can be chilly near the river.
- Visit the small café inside for a hot cup of chai.
Brunch at Café 1947
Head to Café 1947, a cozy riverside spot known for its laid-back vibe and delicious food. Try their wood-fired pizzas or Himachali thali while listening to live music (on select days). The open seating by the river adds to the charm.
- Ask for a table by the river for the best views.
- Their apple pie is a must-try if you have a sweet tooth.
Sunset at the Club House
Wrap up your trip with a relaxed evening at the Club House, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Try your hand at indoor games like carrom or table tennis, or just enjoy the garden views. The nearby Beas River is perfect for a final sunset photo.
- Wear comfortable shoes—there’s a bit of walking involved.
- Visit the nearby Siyali Mahadev Temple if you have extra time.