The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for a Memorable Manali Trip

Manali, a breathtaking hill station in the Himalayas, offers a perfect mix of adventure, serenity, and cultural richness. Of you're planning a short trip, this 3-day itinerary covers all the must-visit places, including Rohtang Pass and Sohlang Valley—two of Manali's top attractions. 

Day 1: Arrival and Local Sightseeing

Morning:

• Arrive in Manali and check in at your hotel.

• Enjoy breakfast and relax before heading out to explore.

• Start with the Hadimba Devi Temple, a 16th-century wooden temple set amidst cedar forests.

• Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu, located in the peaceful Old Manali area.

Afternoon:

• Explore Vashisht Temple and Hot Springs, known for their therapeutic waters.

• Walk through Old Manali, enjoying its charming cafés and vibrant atmosphere.

• Stop for lunch at Café 1947, Lazy Dog, or Johnson’s Café.

Evening:

• Stroll along Mall Road, shop for souvenirs, and try local street food.

• Visit the Tibetan Monastery and Van Vihar, a lush green park with a serene lake.

• Return to your hotel and relax or enjoy a bonfire night.


Day 2: Rohtang Pass—A Snowy Paradise (Open May to October, Requires Permit)

Early Morning:

• Start early (around 5-6 AM) for Rohtang Pass (51 km from Manali).

• Enjoy a scenic drive through Marhi and Gulaba, perfect for photography stops.

• Reach Rohtang Pass and spend time in the snow-covered landscape, even in summer.

Activities at Rohtang Pass:

• Snow activities: Skiing, snowboarding, and snow scooter rides.

• Trekking to Beas Kund Glacier (optional).

• Capture breathtaking views of Pir Panjal Range.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a local dhaba in Marhi or Koksar (simple but authentic food).

• Explore nearby spots like Rahala waterfalls on the way back.

Evening:

• Return to Manali and unwind at Club House, offering indoor games and a riverside café.

• Enjoy dinner at Casa Bella Vista (wood-fired pizzas) or Il Forno (authentic Italian).


Day 3: Solang Valley Adventure & Departure

Morning:

• After breakfast, head to Solang Valley (14 km from Manali).

• Enjoy adventure sports in this scenic valley.

Adventure Activities at Solang Valley:

• Paragliding – Soar above the valley for stunning aerial views.

• Zorbing – Roll down gentle slopes inside a giant transparent ball.

• ATV rides – Thrilling off-road experience.

• Ropeway (Gondola Ride) – Enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped peaks.

• Skiing & Snowboarding (during winter months).

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at Ride Inn Café or Chopsticks Restaurant (famous for Tibetan food).

• Visit Nehru Kund, a crystal-clear water spring, on your way back.


Evening:

• If time permits, explore Naggar Castle and Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery.

• Return to Manali, check out, and depart for your journey home with amazing memories.



These pictures were taken by me when I visited Manali in July 2021. 

Both pictures were taken at Sohang Valley.

Day 4: Visit Nagar Castle, Jagatsukh

If you are not interested in visiting a unique place, then include Naggar Castle on your trip by staying overnight at Naggar Castle. Yes, the views you offer are just amazing. So you can also choose Naggar instead of Solang if you don't like adventure games, then change this day with a trip to Naggar Castle, which is 30 dd km from Manali.

For the honeymoon, it is one of the best places to stay and visit that you have to deal with for couples who are looking for a good love point. For a snippet of ideas from Naggar Castle, check out these links for my visit to this beautiful place.

You can take a day trip to Naggar and leave Manali on the same day if you don't like it, but it's best to stay overnight at this beautiful hotel. The next morning you can travel to Delhi from Naggar itself.

Jagatsukh comes again and is one of the most undisputed places in Himachal.

Day 5: Visit Parvati Valley (Manali to Kasol)

Another list of places you can include on your Manali trip is to Kullu or Kasol in the evening. If it is the end of the trip or very early on any day if you have enough time. It would be nice if you could do it on your way back home to Delhi or the same route.

Reach Kullu, shop at the market, then head towards Kasol & Manikaran. Visit this sanctuary and then head to Kasol, where you can enjoy an evening of delicious Israel. If you have time, then dedicate a day to Kasol and try to enjoy nature in the context of the Parvati River.

Leave Delhi in the evening and arrive in the morning.


Winter travel tips :

1. Take heavy fabrics with you, especially heavy wool coats.

2. Take 2-3 pairs of inner bottles of thermals.

3. Take long fur socks. Airtight shoes can be ideal to help you avoid cold feet.

4. Do not overwork yourself, and try to keep your body hydrated during the day when you visit the ice points.

5. Take at least one day's rest in Manali before heading to the Highlands. That is, ice points are entered in Solang or Gulaba. Do not go to the snow areas on the first day you arrive in the Manali region.

6. Trekking shoes for better grip.