Shimla Manali 3 days: How to Reach and What to DO

Nestled in the Himalayan foothills, Shimla and Manali are two of India’s famous hill stations. A Shimla Manali 3 days trip is perfect for those who have short time. They draw tourists from across the world for their charming scenery, cool climate, and various activities.

No worries if you have short time, say three days. Then only, you will meanwhile have enough time to catch the highlights of them. Further, here’s a 3 days Manali package deal on how to reach these places. Above all, it tells how to make the most out of your short yet pleasant stay.

Day 1: Reaching Shimla and Exploring the Town

Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh, is well connected by road, rail, and air. The most scenic way to get to Shimla is by taking the Kalka Shimla toy train. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its winding tracks and scenic views. Trains run daily from Kalka, which is connected to major cities for example Delhi and Chandigarh. One more option is to drive or take a bus from Chandigarh or Delhi.

 It further takes around 4 to 8 hours, as per the traffic. After reaching Shimla, start your day by exploring Mall Road. It is the heart of Shimla’s shopping and dining scene. Mall Road is full of charming cafes, restaurants, and shops. That are selling local handicrafts, woolen clothes, and souvenirs. You can meanwhile stop by the Shimla Christ Church, a neo Gothic church built in 1857.

 It is one of the most famous landmarks in Shimla. Walk up to the Ridge, a large open space above Mall Road. That further offers stunning views of the nearby mountains. Above all, it’s an ideal place to relax and soak in the mountain air. For some thrill and divnity, head up to Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla. Here you’ll find Jakhoo Temple, a sacred temple devoted to Lord Hanuman.

The hike to the temple is steep but short. It firstly offers some of the best views of Shimla. If hiking isn’t your thing, you can also take a cab to the temple. Meanwhile, be mindful of the monkeys. Here, they’re known to snatch food and loose things from coming tourists!.

Day 2: From Shimla to Manali

To travel from Shimla to Manali, you can take a cab, bus, or rent a car. The journey is around 247 km and further takes about 7 to 9 hours. Though it’s a long drive, the scenic beauty along the way makes it worthwhile. You’ll pass through lush green valleys, rivers, and small villages. That meanwhile offer a glimpse into the life of the locals. Once you arrive in Manali, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. During the evening, take a calm walk through Old Manali.

It is known for its bohemian vibe, cozy cafes, and local handicraft shops. Old Manali is quieter and more soothing than the bustling New Manali. Meanwhile, grab a cup of coffee. Try some local dishes in one of the many charming cafes that line the streets. The ambiance here is perfect for unwinding after a long journey.

Day 3: Discovering the Beauty of Manali

Start your day early with a trip to the Solang Valley. It is located around 14 km from Manali. Known as the outdoor sports capital of the region, Solang Valley offers various thrilling activities. Your Shimla Manali 3 days trip include a visit to this valley. During the summer, you can go paragliding, ziplining, and zorbing. In winter, it is draped in snow, making it an ideal spot for skiing and snowboarding. The nearby mountain views and fresh air further make this an exciting experience.

If you’re visiting Manali between May and October, Rohtang Pass is a must see. This high mountain pass is located about 50 km from Manali. It offers stunning views of snow capped peaks, glaciers, and the Chandra River. There are some issue due to its high altitude and uncertain weather. So, it’s must to check for road conditions before heading out further. Rohtang Pass is a famous place for both locals and tourists. So, start your day early to avoid the crowds. Back in Manali, head to the Hadimba Temple, an ancient temple. That lies amidst the deodar forests and devoted to the goddess Hadimba.

Built in 1553, this temple is a building marvel. That stands out further with its unique wooden carvings and a serene ambiance. The temple’s location amidst tall pine trees meanwhile adds to its mystical charm. After visiting the Hadimba Temple, stop by the Tibetan Monastery in Manali. This vibrant monastery is a center for the local Tibetan people. It contains scenic murals, statues, and prayer wheels. It’s a quiet place where you can spend some time in meditation. Meanwhile, you can shop for Tibetan hand made crafts, carpets, and souvenirs.

Vashisht Village is located about 3 km from Manali. It is firstly home to natural hot springs said to have healing effects. The village itself is quaint and further offers a glimpse into traditional Himachali culture. After a long day of sightseeing, take a dip in the hot springs. It is a relaxing way to end your day. There are separate bathing areas for men and women. So, you can meanwhile enjoy the springs comfortably.

Final Thoughts

A three day trip to Shimla and Manali offers a taste of the huge Himalayas. It blends natural beauty, cultural charms, and outdoor sports. While three days are short to explore all that these places offer. But this Shimla Manali 3 day gives you a chance to witness the highlights. It meanwhile get a refreshing break from the hustle of daily life. Start to explore from the colonial charm of Shimla’s Mall Road. This goes further to the thrill of outdoor sports in Solang Valley. In short, this journey offers a diverse and pleasant experience.