The most popular 5-Day Manali Trip Guide: Itinerary, Travel Tips and Packing Essentials
Koushik Sarkar
Manali, situated in the midst of the Indian Himalayas, is a nature lover's paradise, an adventure junkie's heaven, and a peaceful retreat from the chaos of city life for those who are simply seeking one. With its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, and activity-filled pursuits, Manali is a destination that guarantees an experience one will never forget. If you are going on a trip to Manali and are thinking of how to maximize your time, this 5-day itinerary will take you through the top attractions to see, food to eat, and an approximation of your trip's budget.
5-Day Manali Itinerary at a Glance
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrival in Manali, Explore Old Manali & Mall Road |
| Day 2 | Adventure Day at Solang Valley (Paragliding, Skiing) |
| Day 3 | Visit Rohtang Pass (Snow Activities & Scenic Views) |
| Day 4 | Day Trip to Naggar Village (Naggar Castle, Art Gallery) |
| Day 5 | Visit Local Temples (Hadimba, Manu Temple), Departure |
Note: Customize this itinerary based on your preferences and activity levels!
Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Old Manali
Morning:
Reach Manali by bus or personal vehicle. In case you're coming by air, the nearest airport is Bhuntar, which is 50 km away, and it's easy to hire a taxi to get to Manali.
After you arrive at your hotel, proceed to Old Manali. The rustic suburb, with its characteristic old wooden houses, cobbled alleys, and lively cafes, is ideal for a laid-back day. Walk through the cobbled alleys, old wooden houses, and lively cafes. You may also go shopping for local handicrafts and souvenirs at the market.
Places to Visit:
Old Manali Market: Wander through the scenic lanes lined with local boutiques and cafes.
Manali Mall Road: A bustling shopping street lined with shops and restaurants.
Food to Try:
Tibetan Momos: These steamed or fried dumplings filled with meat or vegetables are a must-try in Manali.
Siddu: A traditional Himachali dish, Siddu is a type of steamed bread filled with various fillings.
Apple Cider: If you’re visiting in the autumn months, try some fresh apple cider, a local specialty.
Evening:
Unwind at one of the several riverside cafes and have a quiet evening spent by the Beas River.
Day 2: Solang Valley – A Day of Adventure
Morning:
On Day 2, wake up early and proceed to Solang Valley (around 14 km from Manali). It is a paradise for adventure seekers, famous for activities such as paragliding, zorbing, skiing (during winter), and trekking.
Things to Do:
Paragliding: For a rush of adrenaline, paraglide over the valley and enjoy breathtaking views.
Skiing or Snowboarding: In winter (December to February), Solang is a snow sports haven.
Zorbing: Roll down the hill in a large inflatable ball for an exhilarating experience.
Lunch:
Have a traditional Himachali lunch at one of the valley's local dhabas. Don't miss the **Chana Madra**, a classic chickpea curry prepared in yogurt.
Evening:
After a day full of adventure, you can return to Manali for a relaxing evening. Take a walk along the Beas River or treat yourself to a relaxing spa session at your hotel.
Day 3: Rohtang Pass – Snow-Capped Peaks and Scenic Views
Morning:
On Day 3, take a scenic drive to Rohtang Pass (51 km from Manali). At an altitude of 3,978 meters, Rohtang provides stunning vistas of the Pir Panjal Range's snow-covered peaks. If you are traveling between May and November (when the road is open), do not miss a glimpse of the beautiful landscapes.
Rohtang Pass Permit Information
| Permit Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Needs the Permit? | All vehicles (private or hired) and tourists traveling to Rohtang Pass need a permit. |
| How to Get the Permit? | Permits are available online through the Rohtang Pass Permit Portal or can be obtained directly from the DC Office in Manali. |
| Permit Fee | ₹50 - ₹100 per person (subject to change). Vehicles need an additional fee. |
| Best Time to Get the Permit | Permits can be obtained 1-2 days prior to your visit. Apply early, especially during peak tourist season (May to November). |
| Validity | Permits are valid for a single day. A new permit is required for each visit. |
| Important Documents Required | - A valid photo ID (Aadhar card, Passport, etc.) - Vehicle details (if using private transport) |
| Timing for Rohtang Pass Visit | The pass is open from 8 AM to 5 PM. Ensure you return to Manali by evening as the pass closes after dark. |
| Restrictions | - Permits are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. - Vehicles can only access Rohtang Pass via the Manali-Leh Highway. |
Note: The Rohtang Pass is closed from mid-November to April due to heavy snowfall, and permits are not issued during this time. Always check the current status of the pass before planning your visit.
Things to Do:
Snow Activities: Have snowball fights, ski, or just stroll in the snow.
Photography: The landscape of Rohtang Pass is among the most picturesque of the area.
Lunch:
There are small restaurants around Rohtang with hot food such as Maggi noodles,chai, and aloo parathas.
Evening:
Return to Manali and have a relaxing evening at the Hadimba Temple, a serene site dedicated to the goddess Hadimba, located in cedar forests.
Day 4: Naggar Village and Art Exploration
Morning:
Visit Naggar Village, 22 km from Manali. The village provides a glimpse of the Himachali way of life. Visit the Naggar Castle, a 16th-century wooden and stone structure with a stunning view of the valley.
Places to Visit:
Naggar Castle: This lovely castle is currently a heritage hotel, where you can do a tour of the property and have an amazing view.
Roerich Art Gallery: The art gallery consists of works by Russian artist Nicholas Roerich, who spent most of his time in this village.
Lunch:
Enjoy a meal at the Naggar local cafe, where you can have Mithoor, a sweet Himachali dish prepared with jaggery and rice flour.
Evening:
Come back to Manali and unwind at your hotel or walk around the bustling Mall Road for shopping.
Day 5: Local Temples and Departure
Morning:
On your final day in Manali, go and explore some of the spiritual sites in and around the town. Begin with the Hadimba Temple if you had not visited it before, then the Manu Temple, which is a temple built for the sage Manu, said to have been the founder of human civilization.
Places to Visit:
Hadimba Temple
Manu Temple
Vashisht Hot Springs: Natural hot springs with healing properties.
Lunch:
Go to Chopsticks Restaurant or some other local restaurant for your final dinner in Manali. Don't forget to try Tandoori Trout, a local delicacy.
Afternoon:
Post-lunch, it's time to pack your luggage and depart, carrying memories of your action-packed holiday.
Cost Guide for Your 5-Day Manali Trip
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (Per Person) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | ₹1,500 - ₹5,000 per night (Budget to Mid-range) |
| Food | ₹300 - ₹500 per meal (Local cafes or restaurants) |
| Transportation | ₹1,000 - ₹2,000 (Bus fare one-way from Delhi) |
| ₹2,000 - ₹4,000 per day (Private cab for sightseeing) | |
| Activities | ₹1,000 - ₹3,000 per activity (e.g., paragliding, zorbing) |
| Souvenirs/Shopping | ₹500 - ₹2,000 (For local handicrafts and souvenirs) |
| Miscellaneous | ₹500 - ₹1,000 (For tips, small purchases) |
| Total Estimated Cost | ₹24,500 - ₹55,000 (For 5 days, depending on preferences) |
Note: Prices can vary depending on the time of year, the choice of accommodation, and the activities you choose. Always keep extra cash on hand for unforeseen expenses.
Manali Trip Essentials: Things to Carry and Avoid
Temperature and Weather Considerations
| Season | Temperature Range | Things to Carry |
|---|---|---|
| Winter (Nov - Feb) | -5°C to 15°C | Woolen clothes, thermal wear, down jackets, gloves, scarves |
| Summer (Mar - Jun) | 10°C to 25°C | Light woolen layers, sunscreen, comfortable clothing |
| Monsoon (Jul - Sep) | 15°C to 20°C | Waterproof jacket, umbrella, sturdy shoes |
Things to Carry
| Item | Reason |
|---|---|
| Warm Clothing (Jackets, Thermals, Gloves) | To stay warm in cooler weather or high altitudes. |
| Comfortable Shoes (Trekking Shoes, Sandals) | Perfect for trekking, hiking, and snow activities. |
| Sunglasses & Sunscreen | To protect from intense UV rays, especially in snow or high altitudes. |
| First Aid Kit | For minor injuries, altitude sickness, or headaches. |
| Water Bottle | Stay hydrated throughout your outdoor activities. |
| Camera/Smartphone | Capture the beautiful landscapes and memories. |
| Personal Toiletries | Basic hygiene essentials like toothbrush, deodorant, etc. |
| Cash | For small transactions or places that don't accept cards. |
| Small Backpack | For carrying essentials during sightseeing or hiking. |
Things NOT to Carry
| Item | Reason |
|---|---|
| Heavy or Bulky Luggage | Difficult to carry on hikes and rough terrains. |
| High Heels or Fancy Footwear | Manali’s terrain is not suitable for high heels. |
| Excessive Clothing | Stick to the essentials based on weather. You can buy locally if needed. |
| Expensive Jewelry | Avoid carrying valuables; it's safer and more practical. |
| Unnecessary Electronics | Minimize gadgets to stay focused on your adventure. |
| Plastic Bags | Carry eco-friendly bags to avoid contributing to plastic waste. |
| Excessive Cash | Only carry what you need, as ATMs may not be reliable in remote areas. |
Pro Tip: Pack light, stay comfortable, and be prepared for the varying temperatures and outdoor adventures!
Manali is a magical place that has the right blend of adventure, nature, and culture. With this 5-day tour, you can have the best of Manali, from snow-covered mountains to small villages and local cuisine. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure junkie, or simply want to unwind in the hills, Manali has something for all. Book your trip today and prepare yourself to create eternal memories in this beautiful Himalayan town!
