Shimla and Manali in one trip: a first-timer's plan

Shimla

Shimla is the former summer capital, with the Mall Road, the Ridge and Christ Church. A day trip to Kufri adds views and snow in winter. Most of our Shimla plans give it two nights.

The drive from Shimla to Manali

Expect a full day on the road: about 260 km and roughly 8 hours in our itineraries, following the Beas river through Kullu. Break the journey for lunch and a stop at Kullu's shawl factories if you like.

Manali

Manali has Hadimba temple, Old Manali, the Vashisht hot springs and the Mall. From here, Solang Valley offers snow and adventure activities for much of the year, and Rohtang Pass is a popular high excursion when it is open.

Rohtang needs a permit and daily vehicle numbers are limited, and it closes for part of the year. We check availability for your date; if Rohtang is not possible, Solang or Atal Tunnel towards Sissu are good alternatives.

How many days

• 5 nights: 2 in Shimla, 3 in Manali (our Shimla Manali tour).
• 7–8 nights: add Dharamshala, Dalhousie or Amritsar.
• Weekend from Delhi: Manali alone by overnight Volvo bus.

When to go

March to June is pleasant and popular. December to February brings snow, especially in Manali, with some road closures. July and August are monsoon months, when landslides can delay drives.