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Discover the Magic of the Himalayas

Himachal Magic
Shimla & Manali Colonial Retreats

6 Days / 5 Nights
Shimla → Kufri → Manali
Group / Private
4.8/5 Rating
Shimla Panoramic View
Manali Valley
Viceregal Lodge Shimla
Rohtang Pass
Hadimba Temple Manali

Trip Overview

The Himachal Magic — Shimla & Manali Colonial Retreats tour is the ultimate Himalayan escape, blending colonial charm with breathtaking mountain scenery. This 6-day journey takes you through the most enchanting hill stations of Himachal Pradesh — Shimla and Manali — two jewels nestled in the mighty Himalayas.

Begin your adventure in Shimla, the former summer capital of British India, where grand colonial architecture meets misty mountain trails. Stroll along The Ridge, visit the iconic Christ Church, and explore the magnificent Viceregal Lodge. Continue to Kufri for panoramic Himalayan views and adventure activities before embarking on a scenic drive through the Kullu Valley to reach Manali.

In Manali, discover the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple, explore the adventure paradise of Solang Valley, and experience the charm of Old Manali. This carefully curated tour includes expert local guides, comfortable hotel stays, air-conditioned private transport, and all sightseeing arrangements. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travellers seeking a refreshing mountain getaway.

Duration

6 Days / 5 Nights

Destinations

Shimla, Kufri, Manali

Hotels

3-Star / 4-Star

Meals

Breakfast Included

Transport

Private AC Vehicle

Guide

English Speaking

Highlights of the Tour

Stroll along The Ridge & Mall Road in Shimla — the heart of colonial hill station life
Visit the grand Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study) — stunning British-era architecture
Explore Christ Church — the second oldest church in North India with neo-Gothic splendour
Enjoy adventure activities at Kufri — horse riding, yak rides & panoramic Himalayan views
Experience the scenic Shimla to Manali drive through the lush Kullu Valley along the Beas River
Visit the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple — a 1553 AD wooden temple surrounded by cedar forests
Adventure at Solang Valley — paragliding, zorbing, skiing & rope activities
Explore Old Manali — charming village with traditional Himachali wooden houses & cafés
Optional excursion to Rohtang Pass — a stunning snow-covered mountain pass at 3,978m
Experience Himachali cuisine, culture & warm hospitality in picturesque mountain settings

Tour: Detail Itinerary

DAY 1

Arrival in Shimla — The Queen of Hills

Welcome to Himachal Pradesh! Upon arrival at Chandigarh Airport or Kalka Railway Station, our representative will greet you and transfer you to Shimla (approx. 4-5 hours scenic drive). Check into your hotel and spend the evening exploring the charming town.

  • Scenic drive from Chandigarh/Kalka to Shimla through winding mountain roads with stunning valley views
  • Check-in at your hotel and freshen up
  • Evening stroll along The Mall Road — the main promenade lined with colonial-era shops & restaurants
  • Visit Christ Church on The Ridge — an iconic neo-Gothic landmark built in 1857
  • Enjoy the sunset views from The Ridge — the large open space in the heart of Shimla
  • Optional: Visit Scandal Point — a historic meeting point with panoramic mountain views
Overnight stay in Shimla.
Christ Church Shimla
DAY 2

Shimla Sightseeing & Kufri Excursion

After breakfast, explore the colonial heritage of Shimla and take an excursion to Kufri — a small hill station famous for its panoramic views and adventure activities.

  • Visit the magnificent Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study) — the former residence of the British Viceroy, built in Jacobethan style
  • Explore Jakhoo Temple — perched atop the highest peak in Shimla with a 108-ft Hanuman statue
  • Drive to Kufri (approx. 30 mins) — enjoy horse riding to Mahasu Peak for breathtaking Himalayan panoramas
  • Visit Kufri Fun World — India's highest amusement park with adventure activities
  • Optional: Visit the Himalayan Nature Park — home to rare Himalayan wildlife including snow leopards & Himalayan bears
  • Return to Shimla for evening leisure — explore local handicraft shops on Lakkar Bazaar
Overnight stay in Shimla.
Kufri Hill Station
DAY 3

Shimla to Manali — Scenic Kullu Valley Drive

After breakfast, check out from your Shimla hotel and embark on one of India's most scenic drives — the Shimla to Manali highway (approx. 7-8 hours) through the stunning Kullu Valley.

  • Drive through the breathtaking Kullu Valley — known as the "Valley of Gods" with lush green landscapes
  • Cross the Beas River multiple times as the road winds through apple orchards & pine forests
  • Stop at Kullu — famous for its handloom shawls, apple orchards & the annual Dussehra festival
  • Optional: Visit Raghunath Temple in Kullu — a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Rama
  • Arrive in Manali by evening — check into your hotel and relax
  • Evening free to explore Manali Mall Road — vibrant market with local handicrafts, woolens & cafés
Overnight stay in Manali.
Shimla to Manali Drive
DAY 4

Manali Sightseeing — Temples & Adventure

After breakfast, explore the cultural and natural wonders of Manali. Visit ancient temples, explore the charming Old Manali village, and enjoy adventure activities at Solang Valley.

  • Visit the ancient Hadimba Devi Temple (Dhungri Temple) — a unique 1553 AD pagoda-style wooden temple surrounded by towering deodar cedar forests
  • Explore Manu Temple — dedicated to sage Manu, the creator of the human race according to Hindu mythology
  • Visit Vashisht Hot Springs & Temple — natural sulphur hot water springs believed to have medicinal properties
  • Explore Old Manali — a charming village with traditional Himachali wooden houses, cosy cafés & art galleries
  • Afternoon excursion to Solang Valley — enjoy paragliding, zorbing, zip-lining & other adventure activities
  • Evening: Enjoy a bonfire at the hotel (seasonal) with traditional Himachali folk music
Overnight stay in Manali.
Solang Valley Manali
DAY 5

Rohtang Pass / Atal Tunnel Excursion

After an early breakfast, embark on the most thrilling day of the tour — an excursion to the legendary Rohtang Pass or the engineering marvel Atal Tunnel.

  • Drive to Rohtang Pass (3,978m) — a stunning high-altitude mountain pass with snow-capped peaks, glaciers & panoramic views (subject to permit & weather conditions)
  • Enjoy snow activities at Rohtang — skiing, snowboarding, snow scooter rides & snowman building
  • Alternative: Drive through the Atal Tunnel (9.02 km) — the world's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 ft, connecting Manali to Lahaul-Spiti Valley
  • Visit Sissu Waterfall & Lahaul Valley on the other side of the tunnel — a dramatic high-altitude desert landscape
  • Return to Manali by evening — free time for shopping at Tibetan Market for woolens, handicrafts & souvenirs
Overnight stay in Manali.
Rohtang Pass
DAY 6

Manali to Chandigarh — Departure

After a leisurely breakfast, check out from the hotel. Depending on your departure time, you may have free time for last-minute shopping or a final stroll through Old Manali.

  • Optional morning visit to Naggar Castle — a 1460 AD medieval stone & wood castle with stunning valley views
  • Optional visit to Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery — the former home of the famous Russian artist, now a museum
  • Drive back to Chandigarh (approx. 8-9 hours) or transfer to Bhuntar Airport (Kullu) for your onward flight
  • Drop-off at Chandigarh Airport / Railway Station / Hotel as per your travel plans
  • Tour ends with wonderful memories of the magical Himalayas!
Tour ends. We hope you had an unforgettable Himalayan journey!
Old Manali Village

Inclusion & Exclusion

What's Included

10 Items
  • 5 Nights accommodation in 3-Star / 4-Star hotels (Shimla & Manali)
  • Daily breakfast at the hotel
  • All transfers & sightseeing by private air-conditioned vehicle (Sedan / SUV / Tempo Traveller)
  • English-speaking professional tour guide at all sightseeing points
  • All monument & temple entrance fees as per itinerary
  • Kufri excursion with horse riding to Mahasu Peak
  • Complimentary bottled water during sightseeing
  • All applicable taxes (GST)
  • 24/7 on-trip support & assistance
  • Airport / Railway Station pick-up and drop-off (Chandigarh)

What's Not Included

8 Items
  • Airfare / Train fare to and from Chandigarh
  • Lunch and Dinner (can be arranged at additional cost)
  • Rohtang Pass permit fee & snow activities (optional — approx. ₹1,500–3,000 per person)
  • Adventure activities at Solang Valley (paragliding, zorbing, etc.)
  • Personal expenses — laundry, phone calls, tips, shopping
  • Travel insurance
  • Any services not mentioned in the inclusion list
  • Festival / Peak season surcharges (if applicable)

Get Your Custom Quote

Fill out this form and we'll send you a tailor-made itinerary within 12 hours at the best price.

  • 6 Days / 5 Nights
    Duration
  • Shimla → Kufri → Manali
    Route
  • Group / Private
    Tour Type
  • 4.8/5 Rating
    Guest Reviews
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GUEST REVIEWS

What Our Travellers Say

"The Himachal Magic tour was absolutely breathtaking! Shimla's colonial charm combined with Manali's mountain beauty made for a perfect holiday. The Viceregal Lodge was stunning and our guide brought the history alive. The drive through Kullu Valley was simply magnificent!"
J

James & Claire Wilson

United Kingdom
"We took this tour as a family with two kids and it was perfect! The children loved the horse riding at Kufri and the snow activities at Rohtang Pass. The hotels were comfortable and the driver was very careful on the mountain roads. Highly recommended for families!"
P

Priya & Arjun Sharma

India (NRI - London)
"As a solo traveller, I was looking for a peaceful mountain retreat and this tour delivered beyond expectations. Old Manali was my favourite — the cosy cafés, the sound of the river, and the stunning mountain views. The Solang Valley paragliding was the highlight of my trip!"
A

Anna Bergström

Sweden
FREQUENTLY ASKED

FAQ — Himachal Magic Tour

What is the best time to visit Shimla & Manali?
The best time to visit Shimla & Manali is from March to June (pleasant summer) and October to February (winter snowfall). Summer temperatures range from 10°C to 25°C, perfect for sightseeing. Winter (December–February) brings snowfall, ideal for snow lovers. The monsoon season (July–September) is best avoided due to landslides and road closures.
Is the Rohtang Pass accessible throughout the year?
No, Rohtang Pass is typically open from May to November, depending on weather and snow clearance. A government permit is required to visit Rohtang Pass (limited to 1,200 vehicles per day). During winter months, the Atal Tunnel provides year-round access to the Lahaul-Spiti Valley as an alternative. We arrange permits in advance for our guests.
Is this tour suitable for elderly travellers?
Yes! The tour is designed to be comfortable for all age groups. We provide well-maintained vehicles with experienced mountain drivers, and the itinerary includes adequate rest time. However, the Rohtang Pass excursion involves high altitude (3,978m) which may not be suitable for those with heart or respiratory conditions. We can customise the itinerary to suit individual needs.
What type of clothing should I pack?
For summer visits (March–June): Light woolens, a warm jacket for evenings, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen & sunglasses. For winter visits (October–February): Heavy woolens, thermal innerwear, waterproof jacket, snow boots, gloves, muffler & cap. Layered clothing is recommended as temperatures can vary significantly between day and night.
How long is the drive from Shimla to Manali?
The drive from Shimla to Manali is approximately 250 km and takes 7-8 hours via the Kullu Valley route. The journey is incredibly scenic, passing through pine forests, apple orchards, and along the Beas River. We make comfortable stops along the way for refreshments and photo opportunities. The road conditions are generally good but can be affected during monsoon season.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Absolutely! We specialise in customised tours. You can extend the tour to include Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj, Kasol & Manikaran, or Spiti Valley. You can also upgrade hotels, add adventure activities, or modify the daily schedule. Just fill out the enquiry form with your preferences and we'll create a tailor-made itinerary for you.
Are adventure activities safe?
Yes, all adventure activities (paragliding, zorbing, skiing, etc.) at Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass are conducted by certified operators with proper safety equipment. However, these activities are optional and at your own risk. We recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers adventure sports. Children under 12 may have restrictions on certain activities.
What is the cancellation policy?
We offer flexible cancellation: Full refund if cancelled 30+ days before departure. 50% refund if cancelled 15-29 days before. No refund for cancellations within 14 days of departure. During peak season (December–January & May–June), cancellation terms may vary. We recommend purchasing travel insurance for added protection.

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