Shimla and Manali are two of the most popular hill stations in India, located in the beautiful Himalayan range. Planning a Shimla Manali tour in summer can be an exciting and fun-filled experience, as there are several places to visit, activities to do, and food to eat.
Places to Visit:
1. Shimla: The capital city of Himachal Pradesh, Shimla is known for its colonial architecture, pleasant weather, and scenic beauty. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Shimla include Mall Road, Christ Church, Jakhu Temple, and Kufri.
2. Manali: Located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh, Manali is known for its natural beauty, adventure activities, and serene atmosphere. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Manali include the Hadimba Temple, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and Old Manali.
3. Kullu: Known as the "Valley of Gods," Kullu is a picturesque destination located in the Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Some of the popular tourist attractions in Kullu include the Raghunath Temple, Bijli Mahadev Temple, and the Great Himalayan National Park.
4. Rohtang Pass: Located at an altitude of 13,050 feet, Rohtang Pass is a popular tourist attraction in Himachal Pradesh. It offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan range and is a gateway to Lahaul and Spiti Valley.
Activities to Do:
1. Trekking: Shimla and Manali offer several trekking routes, ranging from easy to difficult. You can choose the trekking route based on your fitness level and interest. Some of the popular trekking routes include the Hampta Pass Trek, Beas Kund Trek, and Pin Parvati Trek.
2. River Rafting: River rafting is a popular adventure activity in Manali, especially during the summer season. You can experience the thrill of rafting in the Beas River, which offers rapids ranging from Grade I to IV.
3. Skiing and Snowboarding: During the winter season, Manali is known for its skiing and snowboarding activities. You can enjoy these activities in the Solang Valley and the Rohtang Pass.
4. Paragliding: Paragliding is a popular adventure activity in Solang Valley, Manali. You can experience the thrill of flying over the Himalayan range and enjoying the panoramic views of the valley.
Food to Eat:
1. Himachali Dham: Himachali Dham is a traditional dish of Himachal Pradesh, which is served during festivals and special occasions. It is a vegetarian dish that includes rice, lentils, and a variety of local vegetables.
2. Siddu: Siddu is a popular snack in Himachal Pradesh, which is made of wheat flour and stuffed with vegetables or meat. It is served with ghee and chutney.
3. Trout Fish: Trout fish is a popular delicacy in Shimla and Manali, which is cooked in various styles, such as grilled, fried, and curry.
4. Chha Gosht: Chha Gosht is a traditional dish of Kullu, which is made of marinated mutton cooked in a clay pot. It is served with rice or roti.
However, planning a Shimla Manali tour from Delhi in the summer can be a daunting task if you are not aware of the intricacies of the trip. Planning a Shimla Manali tour in summer, covering various aspects such as the itinerary, transportation, accommodation, and more.
1. Decide on the Itinerary:
The first step in planning a Shimla Manali tour is to decide on the itinerary. You should consider the number of days you have available for the trip, your budget, and your preferences for sightseeing and adventure activities. Generally, a Shimla Manali tour can be completed in 6-7 days. You can consider visiting places like Shimla, Kufri, Manali, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, and more.
2. Choose the Mode of Transportation:
The most convenient and popular way to travel from Delhi to Shimla and Manali is by road. You can book a cab, self-drive car, or take a bus from Delhi to Shimla, and then continue your journey to Manali. You can also consider taking a train or flight to Chandigarh or Kullu, and then proceeding to Shimla or Manali by road.
3. Book a Tour Operator:
To make your Shimla Manali tour hassle-free, you can consider booking a tour operator in Delhi. There are several Manali tour operators in Delhi that offer customized tour packages to Shimla and Manali. They can take care of your transportation, accommodation, sightseeing, and adventure activities, as well as provide you with a local guide to help you explore the places.
4. Choose the Accommodation:
Shimla and Manali offer a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. You can choose from luxury resorts, boutique hotels, budget guesthouses, and homestays. It is advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak summer season.
5. Plan your Sightseeing and Adventure Activities:
Shimla and Manali offer a plethora of sightseeing and adventure activities that cater to all age groups. You can plan your itinerary based on your interests and preferences. Some of the popular activities include trekking, paragliding, river rafting, skiing, snowboarding, and more. You can also visit popular tourist attractions such as the Mall Road in Shimla, Hadimba Temple in Manali, and many others.
6. Pack Appropriately:
Since Shimla and Manali are situated at high altitudes, the temperature can be significantly lower than in other parts of India, even during the summer season. Therefore, it is advisable to pack warm clothes, comfortable shoes, and sunscreen lotion. You should also carry the necessary medications and a first aid kit.
In conclusion, Also, planning a Chandigarh Shimla Manali tour in the summer can be an enriching and enjoyable experience. By following the steps mentioned above, you can ensure a hassle-free and memorable trip. The lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains, and peaceful atmosphere of Shimla and Manali will leave you mesmerized and yearning for more. So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and embark on an exciting journey to these beautiful hill stations.