OVERVIEW
The Shimla–Manali circuit is the most popular mountain holiday in India — a journey from the gracious colonial hill station of Shimla through the fruit-orchards of Kullu Valley to Manali, where the Beas River rushes past snow-capped summits. This four-day tour offers the very best of both destinations: the heritage buildings and Mall Road of Shimla, and the adventure sports, apple orchards, and Tibetan culture of Manali. Together, they represent the quintessential Himachal experience.
Tour Highlights
Kalka–Shimla Toy Train
Kalka–Shimla UNESCO Toy Train option
Jakhu Temple & Viceregal Lodge
Jakhu Temple and Viceregal Lodge in Shimla
Rohtang Pass / Solang Valley
Rohtang Pass or Solang Valley snowfields
Hadimba Devi Temple
Hadimba Devi Temple in ancient cedar forest
Old Manali
Old Manali Tibetan cafes and culture
Kullu Valley
Kullu Valley fruit orchards and Beas River scenery
Itinerary
DAY-WISE ITINERARY
Inclusions
- Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout
- Professional English-speaking guide
- 3 nights accommodation (Shimla 1N, Manali 2N)
- All toll, parking & driver allowances
- Bottled water throughout
Exclusions
- Meals and beverages
- Toy Train ticket (optional extra)
- Adventure activities at Solang Valley
- Rohtang Pass permit (extra cost)
- Tips for guide and driver
BEST TIME TO VISIT
October to November (clear views, autumn colours) and March to June (accessible and pleasant). December to February for snow.
THINGS TO CARRY
- Warm layers and windproof jacket
- Snow boots or waterproof shoes for Rohtang
- Sunscreen with high SPF
- Cash for shawl shopping in Kullu
- Motion sickness tablets for mountain roads
- Camera for mountain landscapes
IMPORTANT NOTES
- Rohtang Pass requires a permit obtained through our office — we handle this.
- Kullu shawls (Kullu patti) are the finest handwoven woollen textiles from Himachal.
- Delhi return from Manali is a very long drive; overnight Volvo bus is an alternative.
- Mobile connectivity can be limited between Shimla and Manali in certain areas.
- Both cities have excellent fresh fruit — apples, apricots, and plums in season.