Overview
Nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, Manali is a picturesque town situated in the Kullu Valley of Himachal Pradesh. Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, dense pine forests, gurgling rivers, and apple orchards, Manali offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. With a refreshing climate and mesmerizing landscapes, it serves as a year-round magnet for honeymooners, nature lovers, adventure seekers, and spiritual travelers. This 3 Nights 4 Days Manali Tour Package by Himalayan Holiday Trip is thoughtfully crafted to provide you a complete experience of the charm and serenity that this hill station has to offer. From exploring the local heritage and temples to the adventure-filled Solang Valley and serene riversides, each day brings something beautiful, relaxing, and memorable.
Itinerary
Your journey begins from Delhi in the evening, where you either board a comfortable AC Volvo bus or opt for a private cab based on your preference and travel style. As you depart from the bustling metropolis, the road winds its way through the plains of Haryana and Punjab, gradually leading you towards the serene foothills of Himachal. The journey is long, covering approximately 540 kilometers, but every turn brings a new view – rivers gliding beside the highway, wheat fields dancing in the breeze, and the landscape slowly shifting from city structures to mountains and valleys. The overnight journey is made comfortable with reclining seats, rest stops at hygienic restaurants, and the cooling mountain air that sets the mood for the adventures ahead.
As the sun rises and you reach the outskirts of Manali, the scenic beauty of the town unfolds before your eyes. The Beas River flows gently by the road, apple orchards dot the hillside, and wooden houses stand tall with slanted roofs. Upon arrival, you are transferred to your pre-booked hotel where you’re greeted with a warm welcome drink. After completing check-in formalities, you can freshen up and enjoy a hearty breakfast in the hotel restaurant. The rest of the morning is at leisure, allowing you to relax and unwind after the overnight journey. You may choose to sit by the balcony, sip on hot tea, and soak in the majestic views of the mountains surrounding your hotel.
In the afternoon, your local sightseeing tour of Manali begins. Your first stop is the famous Hadimba Devi Temple, also known as the Dhungari Temple. Built in 1553 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, this ancient wooden temple is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, the wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. Surrounded by a cedar forest and known for its unique pagoda-style architecture, the temple exudes an aura of spiritual serenity and natural beauty. The tall deodar trees and the quiet ambiance make it a favorite among photographers and devotees alike.
From there, you proceed to the Manu Temple, located in the old part of Manali. This temple is believed to be the only temple in India dedicated to the sage Manu, the creator of the human race according to Hindu mythology. The path to the temple takes you through narrow village lanes, giving you a glimpse of the old-world charm of Manali.
Next, you visit the Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs. Located around 3 kilometers from Manali, the village of Vashisht is renowned for its ancient temple dedicated to Sage Vashisht, and for its hot water springs believed to have medicinal properties. Many travelers take a dip in the bath area, which is maintained by local authorities and offers a rejuvenating experience.
You then explore the Tibetan Monastery, located near the Mall Road. The peaceful setting of this monastery allows you to witness Buddhist prayers, colorful prayer wheels, and traditional Tibetan art. In the evening, you visit the bustling Mall Road, the heart of Manali town. It is a perfect place to stroll, shop for local woollens, handicrafts, and handmade artifacts. Street food stalls serve momos, hot jalebis, corn, and Himachali trout. Cafés and bakeries serve both Indian and international cuisine, making it a lively hangout spot.
After an eventful day, return to your hotel. A delicious dinner is served in the hotel’s dining hall. You may choose to unwind on the hotel lawn under a star-lit sky or enjoy a warm cup of tea on your balcony before heading to bed for a restful night in the lap of the Himalayas.
Your third day in Manali begins with a hot breakfast served at the hotel. Post breakfast, you gear up for a thrilling full-day excursion to Solang Valley, one of the most famous destinations near Manali. Located at a distance of approximately 14 kilometers from the main town, Solang Valley is an adventure lover’s paradise nestled between the Solang village and Beas Kund. The drive to Solang is nothing short of magical – winding roads bordered by pine forests, icy peaks visible in the distance, and river streams running alongside the road.
Upon reaching Solang, you are greeted by a breathtaking valley surrounded by snow-covered peaks, open green meadows (or snowfields, depending on the season), and a sky that feels within arm’s reach. Depending on the season, Solang Valley offers different adventure activities. During summers, you can indulge in zorbing, ropeway rides, cable car rides, horse riding, and paragliding. The view of the valley from the cable car is extraordinary – snowy slopes blending into green mountains and the town of Manali spread out like a miniature below. For those seeking high-altitude thrills, paragliding offers a bird’s eye view of the valley and is a must-do experience.
During winters, the entire valley transforms into a snowy playground where visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow-scooter rides. Local vendors provide snow suits and boots for rent, making it convenient to enjoy the snow even for first-time visitors. Children can enjoy sled rides and snowball fights, while couples and families can take snow walks or simply soak in the mesmerizing snowy landscape.
Lunch can be enjoyed at local eateries in Solang, many of which offer traditional Himachali thalis, Maggie with butter, tea, and hot chocolate. After spending a fun-filled day in the valley, you return to Manali by late afternoon. On your way back, you can stop for photos along the banks of the Beas River or simply enjoy the cool breeze and golden sunlight that filters through the forest.
Once you reach your hotel, you have the evening at leisure. Some may choose to explore the nearby market for last-minute shopping or take a leisurely walk by the riverside. Dinner is served hot at the hotel, and the evening is yours to relax and reminisce about the beauty of Solang Valley.
Your final day in Manali begins with a warm breakfast. After breakfast, you pack your bags and check out of the hotel. If time permits before your return, you may take a last stroll around the Mall Road or visit Van Vihar Park, located near the river and filled with towering deodar trees. The calming environment makes it a great spot for morning walks or short nature breaks.
As you begin your return journey to Delhi, your heart carries countless memories of the snow, the laughter, the quiet moments, and the unmatched beauty of the mountains. The drive or bus ride back is filled with nostalgia, scenic views, and a longing to return once again to these peaceful hills. By the time you reach Delhi by late night or early next morning, the mountains may be far behind, but their beauty and tranquility remain etched in your heart.