Getaway to Himachal Hill Stations

Arrive in Shimla. Start with a visit to Jakhoo Temple, the highest point in Shimla, featuring a massive statue of Hanuman and panoramic views of the Shivalik range. Visit the Viceregal Lodge, a magnificent Scottish Baronial-style building that served as the summer residence of the British Viceroy. Stroll along The Ridge and Mall Road. Visit the neo-Gothic Christ Church and browse the wooden handicrafts at Lakkar Bazar.

Drive to Kufri. Explore the Himalayan Nature Park or enjoy a horseback ride to Mahasu Peak. Visit Fagu Valley for quieter, picturesque views of apple orchards and cedar forests. Return to Shimla for dinner at a local café on Mall Road.

This is a long but beautiful travel day. The route follows the Beas River through the Kullu Valley. En route, stop at Pandoh Dam for photos and visit Hanogi Mata Temple. If time permits, stop in Kullu to visit a shawl factory or try river rafting. Arrive in Manali and check into your hotel. Spend a relaxed afternoon in Old Manali, which has a more bohemian vibe than the main town.

Head towards the Atal Tunnel, the world's longest highway tunnel above 10,000 feet. Cross into the Lahaul Valley to witness the dramatic landscape shift at Sissu. On the way back, stop at Solang Valley for adventure sports like paragliding or zorbing. Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple, built in 1553 and surrounded by a dense cedar forest.

Drive to Kasol in the Parvati Valley. Take an easy 3-kilometer riverside walk to the village of Chalal. The trail follows the turquoise Parvati River through pine forests. Explore Kasol's famous café scene. Try traditional dishes or local trout.

Visit Manikaran Sahib, renowned for its natural hot springs and historic Gurudwara. You can see the community kitchen where food is cooked using the boiling spring water. Head further up the valley to Tosh for a short hike to a waterfall and a final view of snow-capped peaks before starting your return journey.