6-day travel plan covering Shimla, Kullu, Manali, and the Golden Temple

Here’s a detailed 6-day travel plan covering Shimla, Kullu, Manali, and the Golden Temple. This itinerary balances sightseeing, relaxation, and travel between locations to help you make the most of your trip.

Day 1: Arrival in Shimla

Morning:

• Arrival: Arrive in Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Transfer to your hotel and check-in.
• Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at the hotel or a nearby café.

Afternoon:

• Explore Shimla: Visit the Ridge, a popular open space with beautiful views and historical buildings. Explore Mall Road for shopping and local cuisine.
• Jakhoo Temple: Visit this ancient temple dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located on Jakhoo Hill. It offers panoramic views of Shimla.

Evening:

• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel. Try some local Himachali dishes.

Overnight: Stay in Shimla.

Day 2: Shimla to Kullu

Morning:

• Travel to Kullu: After breakfast, drive from Shimla to Kullu (approximately 6-7 hours, 260 km). Enjoy the scenic drive through the mountains.
• Check-in: Arrive in Kullu and check into your hotel.

Afternoon:

• Explore Kullu: Visit the Hidimba Devi Temple and Kullu Market for local handicrafts and souvenirs.

Evening:

• Relax: Enjoy a leisurely evening exploring the local area.

Dinner: Have dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.

Overnight: Stay in Kullu.

Day 3: Kullu to Manali

Morning:

• Travel to Manali: After breakfast, drive from Kullu to Manali (approximately 1-2 hours, 40 km).
• Check-in: Arrive in Manali and check into your hotel.

Afternoon:

• Explore Manali: Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple and Manu Temple. Walk around the Mall Road for shopping and dining.

Evening:

• Leisure Time: Enjoy a relaxing evening exploring the town or visiting local cafes.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.

Overnight: Stay in Manali.

Day 4: Manali Local Sightseeing

Morning:

• Solang Valley: After breakfast, visit Solang Valley for adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, or simply enjoying the stunning views.

Afternoon:

• Rohtang Pass: If the weather permits and it’s open (typically from May to November), drive to Rohtang Pass for breathtaking views. Note that this requires a permit, and it’s best to check availability in advance.

Evening:

• Relax: Return to Manali and relax. Explore local markets or visit the Vashisht Temple for its hot springs.

Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.

Overnight: Stay in Manali.

Day 5: Manali to Amritsar

Morning:

• Travel to Amritsar: After breakfast, drive to Amritsar (approximately 8-9 hours, 320 km). Alternatively, consider a flight if available to save time.
• Check-in: Arrive in Amritsar and check into your hotel.

Afternoon:

• Explore Amritsar: Visit the Golden Temple, the holiest Sikh shrine. Spend time exploring the complex and the beautiful Jallianwala Bagh, a historic garden and memorial.

Evening:

• Wagah Border Ceremony: If time allows, drive to the Wagah Border (around 30 km from Amritsar) to witness the evening flag-lowering ceremony, a popular attraction.

Dinner: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or your hotel.

Overnight: Stay in Amritsar.

Day 6: Departure from Amritsar

Morning:

• Breakfast: Have breakfast at your hotel.
• Local Sightseeing: If time permits, visit Mata Temple and Partition Museum.

Afternoon:

• Departure: Transfer to Amritsar Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey.