Shimla Manali From Chandigarh Tour Package

Shimla Manali from Chandigarh: A Beautiful Journey into the Hills

Shimla and Manali, two of Himachal Pradesh’s most renowned hill stations, are must-visit destinations for travelers looking to escape the heat and chaos of city life. Situated a few hours away from Chandigarh, these picturesque locations offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. Whether you're a nature lover, adventure enthusiast, or someone looking to relax in a serene environment, Shimla and Manali have something for everyone.

Distance and Travel Options from Chandigarh to Shimla and Manali

The distance between Chandigarh and Shimla is approximately 113 km, while Manali is around 300 km away from Chandigarh. Both destinations are easily accessible by road, making them ideal for a scenic drive through the Himalayan foothills.

• By Road: Traveling from Chandigarh to Shimla and Manali by car is the most convenient and popular option. The road journey takes about 3-4 hours to Shimla, and 8-10 hours to Manali. The scenic route passes through lush greenery, charming villages, and winding mountain roads, making the journey an enjoyable part of the trip.
• Several private taxis and state-run buses also operate between Chandigarh and these hill stations. You can opt for a comfortable Volvo bus or hire a private car depending on your budget and preferences.
• By Train: For those who prefer trains, you can take a train from Chandigarh to Kalka, the nearest major railway station to Shimla. From Kalka, you can take the famous Kalka-Shimla toy train, which offers a scenic and nostalgic journey. However, there are no direct trains to Manali, so you would need to travel by road from Chandigarh or Shimla.
• By Air: The nearest airport to Shimla is Shimla Airport (Jubbarhatti), located about 22 km from the city. However, flights are limited. Alternatively, you can fly to Kullu Airport (about 50 km from Manali) from Delhi or other major cities.

Things to Do in Shimla and Manali

Shimla, often referred to as the “Queen of Hills,” is known for its colonial charm, lush green landscapes, and pleasant weather. Visitors can enjoy:

• A walk on the famous Mall Road, lined with shops, cafes, and local markets.
• A visit to Jakhoo Temple, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Exploring Christ Church and The Ridge, symbols of Shimla’s British-era architecture.
• Kufri**, a small hill station near Shimla, is perfect for activities like skiing, tobogganing, and nature walks.

Manali, known for its scenic beauty and adventure sports, offers:

• A visit to Hadimba Temple, a serene spot surrounded by cedar forests.
• Adventurous activities in Solang Valley, such as paragliding, zorbing, and skiing.
• A trip to Rohtang Pass for snow activities (accessible seasonally).
• Exploration of the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, ideal for nature walks and wildlife spotting.

Best Time to Visit Shimla and Manali

The best time to visit Shimla is from March to June when the weather is pleasant and perfect for sightseeing. If you’re looking for snowfall and winter activities, the December to February period is ideal.

Manali is a year-round destination, with summer (March to June) being perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Winter (December to February) offers snow activities, and monsoon (July to September) brings lush greenery but may have a higher risk of landslides.

Highlights

Scenic Road Journey

The drive from Chandigarh to Shimla and Manali offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan foothills, lush green valleys, and charming towns. The road trip itself is an unforgettable experience, especially for nature lovers.

Mall Road in Shimla

Shimla’s bustling Mall Road is a perfect place to stroll, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy local delicacies. It’s lined with colonial-style buildings, cafes, and shops that offer a glimpse into the town’s British-era charm.

Kalka-Shimla Toy Train

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the toy train from Kalka to Shimla offers a nostalgic and scenic journey through the hills. The 96-km ride takes you through tunnels, bridges, and lush landscapes, making it a unique experience.

Jakhoo Temple in Shimla

Located at the highest point in Shimla, Jakhoo Temple offers stunning panoramic views of the city and the surrounding mountains. Dedicated to Lord Hanuman, it’s a peaceful spot for visitors to enjoy both spirituality and nature.

Kufri Adventure Park

A popular spot near Shimla, Kufri offers a variety of adventure activities, including skiing, tobogganing, and a Himalayan Nature Park. It’s perfect for those looking for some outdoor fun.

Hadimba Temple in Manali

Set amidst a cedar forest, Hadimba Temple in Manali is a beautiful, serene spot dedicated to the goddess Hadimba. Its unique architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a must-visit historical site.

Solang Valley Adventure Sports

Solang Valley near Manali is a hub for adventure activities such as paragliding, zorbing, skiing, and snowboarding (during winter). It offers an adrenaline-packed experience for thrill-seekers.

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass, located about 51 km from Manali, is a must-see during the winter months. It offers snow-covered landscapes and a range of snow activities like skiing and snowball fights. The pass is a popular spot for snow lovers.

Great Himalayan National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Great Himalayan National Park, located near Manali, is perfect for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park offers trekking opportunities with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and diverse flora and fauna.

Tibetan Monasteries and Culture

Both Shimla and Manali are home to beautiful Tibetan monasteries, such as the Himalayan Nyingmapa Gompa in Manali. These monasteries offer a peaceful environment and an insight into Tibetan culture and Buddhism, making them a serene stop on your journey.

Itinerary

Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla (Travel and Explore Shimla)

• Morning:
  Depart from Chandigarh to Shimla by road. The drive takes around 3-4 hours, covering a distance of approximately 113 km. Enjoy the scenic beauty along the way.


• Afternoon:
  Arrive in Shimla and check into your hotel. After freshening up, begin your exploration of Shimla.


• Evening:
  Head to Mall Road, the main street of Shimla, known for its colonial charm, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the atmosphere.
  • Visit The Ridge for panoramic views of the city.
  • Explore Christ Church and nearby attractions like Lakkar Bazaar for local handicrafts and souvenirs.


• Overnight: Stay in Shimla.

Day 2: Shimla Sightseeing

• Morning:
  After breakfast, visit Jakhoo Temple, situated on Jakhoo Hill, offering breathtaking views of Shimla and the surrounding mountains. The temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and you can also spot monkeys along the way.


• Afternoon:
  Head to Kufri, located about 16 km from Shimla. It’s known for its adventure activities such as skiing (in winter), tobogganing, and nature walks. Visit the Himalayan Nature Park and Fagu for more scenic views.


• Evening:
  Relax and enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant on Mall Road, with a view of the city.
• Overnight: Stay in Shimla.

Day 3: Shimla to Manali

• Morning:
  After breakfast, check out from your Shimla hotel and embark on the 8-10 hour road journey to Manali (around 300 km). Enjoy the scenic drive through hills, valleys, and small towns along the way.


• Afternoon:
  Stop for lunch on the way at a local dhaba, enjoying the rustic charm of Himachali cuisine.


• Evening:
  Arrive in Manali, check into your hotel, and relax after the long journey.
• Overnight: Stay in Manali.

Day 4: Explore Manali

• Morning:
  After breakfast, start your Manali exploration with a visit to Hadimba Temple, a serene spot surrounded by cedar forests. The temple is dedicated to Hadimba, a character from the Mahabharata.


• Afternoon:
  Visit Solang Valley, around 14 km from Manali. Here, you can indulge in various adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, or skiing (seasonal). Enjoy the beautiful landscape surrounding the valley.


• Evening:
  Take a stroll along the Beas River, or shop for woolens and souvenirs at Mall Road in Manali.
• Overnight: Stay in Manali.

Day 5: Rohtang Pass and Departure

• Early Morning:
  After breakfast, embark on an excursion to Rohtang Pass (open from May to November). It’s one of the most famous spots for snow activities like snowboarding, skiing, and snowball fights. The panoramic view of the snow-clad mountains is a highlight of your trip.


• Afternoon:
  After returning from Rohtang, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Manali.


• Evening:
  Check out from your hotel and begin your journey back to Chandigarh by road (approximately 8-10 hours).
• Overnight: Return to Chandigarh by late evening or early morning the following day.

Inclusions

Transportation

• Round-trip transportation from Chandigarh to Shimla and Manali by comfortable private vehicle or Volvo bus (depending on package selection).
• All local transfers for sightseeing within Shimla and Manali.
• Driver and fuel charges for the road trip.

Accommodation

• 3-star or 4-star hotel accommodation in Shimla and Manali on a twin-sharing basis (single occupancy available on request).
• Comfortable rooms with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, hot water, etc.
• Complimentary breakfast during the stay in both Shimla and Manali.

Sightseeing & Activities

• Guided sightseeing tours as per the itinerary in Shimla and Manali, including visits to Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, and Rohtang Pass (seasonal).
• Adventure activities (if included in the package), such as paragliding in Solang Valley, skiing, and snow activities in Rohtang Pass (subject to weather conditions and availability).
• Entry fees for all the attractions mentioned in the itinerary.

Meals

• Daily breakfast at the hotel in both Shimla and Manali.
• Select lunches and dinners at local restaurants or hotels (if part of the package).

Local Transfers

• Private vehicle for local sightseeing, including visits to popular tourist spots in both Shimla and Manali.
• Driver and fuel charges for sightseeing tours.

Permits for Rohtang Pass (if applicable)

• Necessary permits for Rohtang Pass, as it is a restricted area. Entry is granted based on availability and seasonal access (May-November).

Taxes and Service Charges

• All applicable taxes, including GST and service charges.
• Parking fees and toll charges where applicable.

Travel Insurance (if included)

• Basic travel insurance covering trip cancellations, health emergencies, and accidents during the trip (if part of the package).

24/7 Customer Support

• 24/7 support for any queries or emergencies during the trip, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Shopping and Local Experience

• A visit to local markets in Shimla and Manali, including opportunities to purchase souvenirs, woolens, and handicrafts.
• Cultural experiences at local temples, monasteries, and markets to give you a glimpse of Himachali culture and heritage.

FAQ

What is the distance between Chandigarh and Shimla/Manali?

• The distance from Chandigarh to Shimla is around 113 km, which takes approximately 3-4 hours by road.
• The distance from Chandigarh to Manali is about 300 km, and it takes around 8-10 hours by road.

How can I travel from Chandigarh to Shimla and Manali?

• You can travel by private vehicle, Volvo buses, or state-run buses. The most popular and convenient option is a road trip via private car or Volvo. For a more scenic experience, you can take a train to Shimla via the Kalka-Shimla Toy Train.

• Shimla is best visited between March to June for pleasant weather, and December to February for snowfall and winter sports.
• Manali can be visited year-round: March to June for sightseeing and adventure activities, December to February for snow and winter sports, and July to September for lush greenery during the monsoon season.

Is it possible to visit Rohtang Pass during my trip?

• Yes, Rohtang Pass can be visited from May to November. However, you’ll need to obtain a permit to visit, and it is often closed in winter due to heavy snowfall. Be sure to check accessibility based on the season.

Are adventure activities available in Shimla and Manali?

• Yes, both Shimla and Manali offer a variety of adventure activities. In Solang Valley and Rohtang Pass, you can enjoy paragliding, skiing, snowboarding, and zorbing. Kufri near Shimla is known for skiing and tobogganing.

What are the main tourist attractions in Shimla and Manali?

• In Shimla, visit Mall Road, Jakhoo Temple, Kufri, and The Ridge.
• In Manali, explore Hadimba Temple, Solang Valley, Rohtang Pass, and The Great Himalayan National Park. Both destinations also offer beautiful natural landscapes.

Can I travel by air from Chandigarh to Shimla or Manali?

• Yes, Shimla has an airport at Jubbarhatti (22 km away), but flights are limited and may depend on weather conditions.
• Manali has the Kullu Airport (Bhuntar), around 50 km from Manali. You can take a flight from Chandigarh to Kullu and then drive to Manali.

What type of accommodation can I expect in Shimla and Manali?

• Both Shimla and Manali offer a variety of accommodation options, from budget guesthouses and hotels to luxury resorts and boutique properties. You can expect comfortable stays with amenities like free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and scenic views of the mountains.

Is it safe to travel to Shimla and Manali during the winter months?

• Yes, it is safe to travel during winter, but be prepared for cold weather and snow. Ensure that your vehicle is equipped with snow chains if visiting Rohtang Pass or other snow-clad areas. It’s also advisable to check weather forecasts and road conditions before embarking on the trip.

What should I pack for a Shimla Manali trip from Chandigarh?

• Pack warm clothing if traveling in winter (jackets, gloves, scarves, boots), and comfortable footwear for sightseeing and trekking. For summer trips, lightweight clothes with layers and sunscreen are recommended. Don’t forget personal items like medications, camera, and power bank for your journey.