Day 1: Delhi to Manali (Overnight Journey)
● Evening:
Departure from Delhi: Board the overnight bus/vehicle from Delhi to Manali. The journey takes approximately 12-14 hours, offering you a scenic drive through the mountains.
Day 2: Manali Local Sightseeing
● Morning:
Arrival in Manali: Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and freshen up.
Hadimba Devi Temple: Start your day with a visit to the Hadimba Devi Temple, an ancient wooden temple set amidst lush forest.
Vashisht Hot Springs: Visit Vashisht Village to experience the natural hot springs and explore the nearby temples.
● Afternoon:
Old Manali: Explore Old Manali, known for its quaint cafes, shops, and the rustic charm of the area.
Manu Temple: Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to Sage Manu, located in Old Manali.
● Evening:
Mall Road: Stroll along the Mall Road, the main shopping street in Manali, where you can shop for local handicrafts and enjoy local delicacies.
Day 3: Manali to Kasol via Solang Valley
● Morning:
Solang Valley: After breakfast, drive to Solang Valley, famous for adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (seasonal).
Scenic Drive to Kasol: Continue your journey towards Kasol, a picturesque village in the Parvati Valley.
● Afternoon:
Check-in at Kasol: Arrive in Kasol and check in to your hotel or guesthouse.
Explore Kasol: Take a leisurely walk along the Parvati River and explore the vibrant local markets.
● Evening:
Café Hopping: Enjoy the relaxed vibe of Kasol by visiting popular cafes known for their delicious food and laid-back atmosphere.
Day 4: Kasol Local Sightseeing and Transfer to Jibhi
● Morning:
Manikaran Sahib: Visit the famous Manikaran Sahib, a Sikh Gurudwara known for its hot springs and religious significance.
Chalal Village Trek: If time permits, take a short trek to Chalal Village, known for its scenic beauty and peaceful environment.
● Afternoon:
Transfer to Jibhi: Post lunch, drive to Jibhi, a serene hamlet in the Tirthan Valley, known for its natural beauty and peaceful ambiance.
● Evening:
Check-in at Jibhi: Arrive in Jibhi and check in to your cozy homestay or guesthouse.
Relax: Spend the evening relaxing by the riverside or exploring the quaint village.
Day 5: Excursion to Serolsar Lake and Jalori Pass, Departure
● Morning:
Jalori Pass: After an early breakfast, drive to Jalori Pass, a high mountain pass offering stunning views of the Himalayas.
Serolsar Lake Trek: Embark on a 5 km trek to Serolsar Lake, a beautiful, sacred lake surrounded by dense forest.
● Afternoon:
Return to Jibhi: Trek back to Jalori Pass and drive back to Jibhi.
Check-out: After returning, check out from your stay and prepare for departure.
● Evening:
Departure: Begin your journey back to Delhi.
Day 6: Arrival in Delhi
● Morning:
Arrival in Delhi: Arrive in Delhi in the early morning, concluding your trip with wonderful memories of the mountains.
Pack accordingly: Manali and Kasol can be cold, especially in the mornings and evenings, even during summer months. Bring warm clothing, especially for higher altitudes like Serolsar Lake and Jalori Pass.
Rain gear: If traveling during the monsoon season (June to September), pack raincoats or umbrellas as the region can experience heavy rainfall.
Stay hydrated: The altitude can make you feel thirsty faster. Always carry a water bottle and drink water regularly.
Altitude sickness: Some people may feel dizzy or nauseous in higher altitudes, like Kasol or Jalori Pass. Take it slow, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities if you're feeling unwell.
Basic medications: Carry a small medical kit with basic medicines for headaches, cold, stomach upsets, or any other personal health concerns.
Sun protection: Even in cooler months, the sun can be strong, so apply sunscreen and wear a hat or sunglasses.
Comfortable walking shoes: Many of the locations (like Solang Valley, Chalal Village, and Serolsar Lake) require walking or light trekking, so bring comfortable, sturdy shoes.
Layered clothing: Weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers that you can add or remove based on conditions.
Backpack: For day trips and sightseeing, a small backpack will be useful for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Limited network: Expect limited to no mobile network in remote areas like Jibhi, Chalal, and parts of Serolsar Lake. It's wise to inform family or friends about your travel plans.
Internet: Wi-Fi is not always available in hotels or guesthouses, especially in rural areas, so plan accordingly.
Carry cash: While there are ATMs in Manali and Kasol, the availability of cash withdrawal options may be limited in remote places like Jibhi. It's always good to carry cash for small purchases.
Local markets: Small shops or cafes in places like Old Manali and Kasol may not accept card payments, so have sufficient cash for shopping and food.
Respect local customs: Manali, Kasol, and Jibhi are culturally rich regions, with some areas being conservative. Always be respectful of local traditions and dress modestly when visiting temples and sacred sites.
Eco-conscious travel: The region is known for its natural beauty, so it's important to keep the environment clean. Carry reusable water bottles, avoid littering, and respect wildlife and nature.
Adventurous activities: If you're planning on indulging in activities like paragliding, zorbing, or skiing (in Solang Valley), make sure to go through proper safety protocols and follow the instructions of the instructors.
Eat wisely: Try local foods but be cautious of street food if you're sensitive to new cuisines. Stick to reputable restaurants to avoid stomach issues.
Bottled water: Always drink bottled or purified water, especially in remote areas, to avoid waterborne illnesses.
Punctuality: The hilly roads can sometimes delay travel, so it’s best to stick to flexible schedules.
Rest breaks: Plan regular stops to stretch and rest during your long travel hours (especially the journey from Delhi to Manali and the return journey).