"Complete road trip and holiday itinerary from Delhi or Chandigarh to the scenic hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. Includes Atal Tunnel, Solang paragliding, and Rohtang permits."
The Ultimate Himachal Holiday: Shimla, Kullu & Manali
If you crave crisp Himalayan air, pine-scented forests, thrilling paragliding flights, and snow adventures, the twin hill destinations of Shimla and Manali form northern India’s most celebrated travel circuit.
Shimla: Colonial Architecture & Panoramic Vistas
The capital city of Himachal Pradesh boasts a rich colonial heritage. Stroll along the pedestrian-only Mall Road and The Ridge, visit the neo-gothic Christ Church, and take the scenic ropeway up to Jakhoo Temple for sweeping views of the Shivalik hills.
Manali & Solang Valley: Adventure Capital
Solang Valley, located 14 km from Manali, is Himachal’s adventure epicenter. In summer, enjoy high-altitude tandem paragliding, zorbing, and quad biking. In winter, the valley turns into a snowy wonderland with skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobile rides.
Atal Tunnel & Sissu (Lahaul Valley)
The engineering marvel Atal Tunnel (9.02 km long at 10,000 ft) connects Manali directly to the barren, dramatic Lahaul Valley. Exiting the north portal into Sissu reveals spectacular glacier waterfalls, poplars, and traditional Buddhist prayer flags.
Rohtang Pass: The Snow Point at 13,058 ft
Rohtang Pass connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys. Open between May and October, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of peaks and glaciers. Note: National Green Tribunal permits are strictly limited per day; always ensure your tour operator arranges your Rohtang Pass entry in advance!
Ideal 6-Day Himachal Tour Blueprint
- Day 1: Delhi/Chandigarh drive to Shimla. Evening walk on Mall Road.
- Day 2: Shimla to Kufri (horse rides, Himalayan wildlife park) & local sightseeing.
- Day 3: Scenic drive from Shimla to Manali via Pandoh Dam, Hanogi Mata, and Kullu shawl factories.
- Day 4: Manali local tour: Hadimba Temple, Vashisht Hot Springs & Old Manali cafés.
- Day 5: Solang Valley adventure sports + Atal Tunnel & Sissu excursion.
- Day 6: Manali departure towards Chandigarh / Delhi.
Ananya Sen
Adventure Travel ConsultantCertified luxury travel consultant at UGI Holidays specializing in customized family holidays, honeymoon escapes, visa assistance, and boutique resort curation across India and global destinations.