The 5-Day Itinerary by Back Road Adventures offers a well-rounded exploration of Manali, blending adventure, culture, and relaxation. Over five days, experience thrilling activities like paragliding, river rafting, and trekking in Solang Valley and Hampta Pass. Discover cultural landmarks such as Hidimba Devi Temple, Naggar Castle, and the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. Take scenic drives to Rohtang Pass and through the Atal Tunnel, relax in the Vashisht Hot Springs, and enjoy peaceful moments by Jogini Waterfalls. This itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking a mix of adventure, natural beauty, and local culture in the heart of the Himalayas
Day 1: Arrival & Local Exploration
Morning:
Arrival in Manali: Check into your hotel and freshen up after your journey.
Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional Himachali breakfast at a local café.
Late Morning:
Hidimba Devi Temple: Visit the iconic 16th-century Hidimba Temple, nestled amidst a cedar forest.
Gadhan Thekchhokling Monastery: Visit the serene Manali Gompa, known for its Tibetan architecture and peaceful ambiance.
Afternoon:
Old Manali: Explore the charming streets of Old Manali. Stop for lunch at a riverside café and stroll through the local markets.
Evening:
Mall Road: Explore Manali’s bustling Mall Road, shop for local handicrafts, and savor street food.
Sunset at Van Vihar: Enjoy a peaceful evening walk in Van Vihar, a beautiful park near the Beas River.
Day 2: Adventure in Solang Valley
Morning:
Solang Valley: Head to Solang Valley, known for its breathtaking views and exciting adventure activities.
Activities: Paragliding, zorbing, horse riding, quad biking, and gondola rides.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Solang Valley: Enjoy lunch at a local café or dhaba while soaking in the valley views.
Snow Adventures (Winter): If you’re visiting in winter, enjoy skiing or snowboarding.
Evening:
Atal Tunnel (optional): If time permits, take a scenic drive through the world’s longest highway tunnel, Atal Tunnel, to explore the stunning Lahaul Valley.
Return to Manali: Head back for a relaxed evening, enjoying the local nightlife or café hopping in Old Manali.
Day 3: Cultural & Offbeat Exploration
Morning:
Naggar Castle: Drive to Naggar, a quaint village 20 km from Manali, to explore the historical Naggar Castle and enjoy stunning views of the valley.
Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery: Visit the art gallery dedicated to the Russian painter Nicholas Roerich, known for his Himalayan landscapes.
Afternoon:
Lunch at a Heritage Café: Dine at a local café or restaurant in Naggar, experiencing the charm of traditional Himachali cuisine.
Jagatsukh Village: Visit this nearby village, famous for its ancient Shiva temple and serene surroundings.
Evening:
Return to Manali: Take the evening off to relax in your hotel or take a peaceful walk by the Beas River.
Day 4: Rohtang Pass & High-Altitude Adventure
Morning:
Rohtang Pass (if open): Start early for a day trip to Rohtang Pass (50 km from Manali, requires a permit). Enjoy panoramic views of the snow-covered peaks and high-altitude glaciers.
Activities: Snow biking, snowball fights, or simply enjoy the snowy landscape.
Afternoon:
Lunch at Marhi: On your way back from Rohtang Pass, stop at Marhi for lunch at a roadside café or dhaba.
Alternative (If Rohtang is closed):
Atal Tunnel & Sissu: Explore the Atal Tunnel and visit Sissu village in the Lahaul Valley, known for its stunning waterfall and beautiful landscapes.
Evening:
Return to Manali: Rest after a long day of adventure or enjoy a leisurely evening exploring Mall Road once again.
Day 5: Nature & Relaxation
Morning:
Jogini Waterfalls: Start your day with a scenic trek to Jogini Falls (a 3 km trek from Vashisht Village). The trek offers beautiful views of nature and the waterfall is a serene spot for relaxation.
Late Morning:
Vashisht Hot Springs: After the trek, visit the Vashisht Temple and take a rejuvenating dip in the natural hot springs.
Afternoon:
Lunch at a Café: Head back to Manali and enjoy lunch at one of the riverside cafés in Old Manali.
Late Afternoon:
Explore Local Villages: Take a short drive to nearby villages like Prini or Burua for a glimpse into the local lifestyle and explore traditional Himachali homes.
Evening:
Departure: Freshen up at your hotel, pack up, and bid farewell to Manali as you prepare for your departure.