Kullu and Manali are two picturesque towns in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh, set amidst the breathtaking Himalayan mountains. Known for their lush valleys, rivers, and scenic landscapes, they are popular destinations for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and honeymooners.
Kullu
Kullu, often called the "Valley of the Gods," is renowned for its scenic beauty, dotted with lush forests, apple orchards, and rivers. The town sits alongside the Beas River and is famous for its colorful Dussehra festival, ancient temples, and outdoor activities. Key attractions in Kullu include the Bijli Mahadev Temple, offering panoramic views of the valley, and Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its diverse flora and fauna. Kullu is also a base for activities like river rafting, trekking, and paragliding.
Manali
Located a little further up the valley, Manali is a charming hill station known for its snowy peaks, pine forests, and vibrant market streets. Manali is famous for adventure sports such as skiing, paragliding, and zorbing, especially around Solang Valley. Rohtang Pass, a high-altitude mountain pass near Manali, offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains and is a major attraction for those seeking snow activities. Old Manali has a relaxed, bohemian vibe with its cozy cafes, and Hadimba Temple is a historic temple set amidst cedar forests. The Beas River flowing through Manali adds to its scenic charm, offering spots for fishing and riverside picnics.
Key Highlights of Kullu and Manali
- Natural Beauty: Towering Himalayan mountains, pine forests, and the serene Beas River.
- Adventure Activities: Trekking, river rafting, paragliding, skiing, and more.
- Spiritual Spots: Ancient temples like Bijli Mahadev Temple, Hadimba Temple, and Manu Temple.
- Seasonal Snow: Rohtang Pass and Solang Valley provide snow activities and views of the winter landscape.
- Festivals: Kullu’s Dussehra celebration is vibrant and attracts visitors from across India.
Together, Kullu and Manali offer a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty, making them ideal for travelers seeking a rejuvenating experience in the Himalayas.
Day 1: Arrival in Kullu-Manali
- Afternoon:
- Arrival: Reach Kullu-Manali by road or air (Bhuntar Airport is nearest to Kullu).
- Check-In: Arrive and check into your hotel in Manali or Kullu.
- Evening:
- Explore Local Markets: Take a relaxing stroll through Manali’s Mall Road or Kullu Market, shopping for souvenirs, woollens, or local handicrafts.
- Dinner: Enjoy a traditional Himachali dinner at a local restaurant or your hotel.
Day 2: Manali Sightseeing
- Morning:
- Hadimba Temple: Start your day by visiting the historic Hadimba Temple, set amidst cedar forests.
- Manu Temple: Head to this ancient temple dedicated to Sage Manu, located in Old Manali.
- Afternoon:
- Solang Valley: Visit Solang Valley, famous for adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (seasonal).
- Lunch: Have lunch in Solang or return to Manali town.
- Evening:
- Rohtang Pass (optional, depending on season): If visiting in summer or early autumn, drive to Rohtang Pass for snow activities like skiing, snowboarding, and a snowball fight.
- Dinner: Relax and enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel or a local restaurant.
Day 3: Kullu Sightseeing & Adventure Activities
- Morning:
- Travel to Kullu: After breakfast, head to Kullu (approx. 1.5-hour drive from Manali).
- Bijli Mahadev Temple: Visit this temple, perched high above the Kullu Valley, offering stunning views of the entire region.
- Afternoon:
- Great Himalayan National Park: Explore the UNESCO-listed park, known for its incredible biodiversity. Take a light trek or walk to enjoy the natural beauty.
- Lunch: Have lunch at a local restaurant in Kullu.
- Evening:
- River Rafting: If you're an adventure enthusiast, go river rafting on the Beas River in Kullu.
- Return to Manali: Head back to Manali for the evening.
- Dinner: Enjoy a relaxing dinner after a day full of adventure.
Day 4: Day Trip to Naggar & Local Exploration
- Morning:
- Naggar Village: Drive to Naggar (about 1 hour from Manali), known for its charming village atmosphere, ancient temples, and the Naggar Castle.
- Naggar Castle: Explore this 16th-century castle, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
- Afternoon:
- Lunch in Naggar: Enjoy a meal at a café or local restaurant in Naggar.
- Art Gallery: Visit the Naggar Art Gallery, which displays works by local artists and has a cultural vibe.
- Evening:
- Relax in Old Manali: In the evening, return to Manali and explore Old Manali, a peaceful area with cafés, guesthouses, and a relaxed, bohemian vibe.
- Dinner: Try local Himachali dishes at one of the cafés in Old Manali.
Day 5: Departure
- Morning:
- Leisure Morning: After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing morning at leisure. You can explore local shops or simply relax by the Beas River.
- Afternoon:
- Check-Out and Departure: Check out from your hotel and head to Bhuntar Airport or your bus stop for your onward journey.
INCLUSIONS
Â
Pick up and drop from airport/railway/bus station.
Accommodation on double/twin sharing basis.
All breakfast included at hotels.
All transfers and sightseeing by private A/C
vehicle.
Driver’s bata, toll, parking, road tax, fuel
charges All applicable taxes.
Â
EXCLUSION
Service Tax – 5% GST Extra.
Any air/bus/rail fare Any other meals not mentioned
in package inclusions.
Any other destination not mentioned in itinerary.
Any personal expenses such as laundry, room
service, mini bar, telephone etc.
Guide charges/boating charges/entrance fees for any
sightseeing
Any services or activity charges other than those
included in inclusions.
Supplementary cost for festival period, long
weekend or peak season.
