10-Day Himachal Pradesh Itinerary: Explore the Enchanting Hills with Elephant Cabs

Embark on a mesmerizing 10-day journey through Himachal Pradesh, starting from Chandigarh and culminating in the serene landscapes of Chitkul. This itinerary covers major destinations like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, and Chitkul, offering a blend of colonial charm, spiritual retreats, adventure activities, and untouched natural beauty. Travel comfortably with Elephant Cabs' fleet of air-conditioned sedans, SUVs, Tempo Travellers, and luxury coaches, ensuring a seamless experience across the hilly terrains.

🗓️ Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla (Approx. 4 Hours)

• Morning: Depart from Chandigarh with Elephant Cabs towards Shimla, the Queen of Hills. Known for its colonial-era charm, pine forests, and scenic valleys, Shimla is a must-visit.

• En Route: Stop at Timber Trail in Parwanoo for a scenic cable car ride.

• Afternoon: Check into your hotel and freshen up.

• Evening: Stroll along the iconic Mall Road, visit Christ Church, Scandal Point, and enjoy panoramic views from The Ridge.

• Dinner: Savor local Himachali dishes at "Himachali Rasoi" or enjoy a cozy meal at "Café Simla Times".

🗓️ Day 2: Shimla – Kufri – Mashobra – Naldehra

• Morning: Drive to Kufri, known for snow activities in winter and its Adventure Park in summer. Visit the Himalayan Nature Park.

• Afternoon: Proceed to Mashobra, a less-crowded gem with apple orchards and pine woods. Then, visit Naldehra for a walk on the oldest golf course in India.

• Evening: Return to Shimla. Optional: Visit Jakhoo Temple via ropeway.

• Dinner: Try local delicacies at "The Devicos" or "Ashiana & Goofa".

🗓️ Day 3: Shimla to Manali via Kullu (Approx. 7 Hours)

• Morning: Depart for Manali. The drive through the Kullu Valley offers enchanting views of the Beas River and surrounding peaks.

• En Route: Visit the Pandoh Dam, Hanogi Mata Temple, and enjoy rafting in Kullu.

• Afternoon: Stop at Kullu Shawl Factories to see local craftsmanship and shop.

• Evening: Arrive in Manali and check into your hotel.

• Dinner: Dine at "Johnson's Café" or "The Corner House".

🗓️ Day 4: Manali Local Sightseeing

• Morning: Explore Hadimba Devi Temple (16th century), Manu Temple, and the sacred Vashisht Hot Springs.

• Afternoon: Visit the Tibetan Monastery and take a leisurely walk through Van Vihar, a forest park beside the Beas.

• Evening: Shop at the Mall Road. Try local woolens, handicrafts, and Tibetan souvenirs.

• Dinner: Enjoy a riverside meal at "Café 1947" or live music at "The Lazy Dog".

🗓️ Day 5: Solang Valley and Atal Tunnel Excursion

• Morning: Head to Solang Valley for paragliding, ropeways, skiing (in season), and more.

• Afternoon: Drive through the Atal Tunnel (world’s longest highway tunnel above 10,000 ft) to reach Sissu. Explore waterfalls, riverside meadows, and snow-clad peaks.

• Evening: Return to Manali.

• Dinner: Dine at "Il Forno" (authentic Italian) or "Drifters' Café".

🗓️ Day 6: Manali to Dharamshala (Approx. 8 Hours)

• Morning: Depart early for Dharamshala, the spiritual home of the Dalai Lama and Tibetan culture.

• En Route: Pass through Mandi and Palampur’s lush tea gardens.

• Afternoon: Check into your hotel. Visit Cricket Stadium (one of the highest in the world).

• Evening: Walk through serene local markets.

• Dinner: Enjoy momos, thukpa, and Tibetan bread at "Tibet Kitchen" or "Nick's Italian Kitchen".

🗓️ Day 7: Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj Exploration

• Morning: Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, Tsuglagkhang Monastery, and Bhagsunag Waterfall.

• Afternoon: Explore Norbulingka Institute (Tibetan culture center), the War Memorial, and Naddi View Point.

• Evening: McLeod Ganj Market – great for woolens, thangka paintings, incense, and silver jewelry.

• Dinner: Try cafes like "Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen" or "Woeser Bakery" for desserts.

🗓️ Day 8: Dharamshala to Dalhousie (Approx. 4.5 Hours)

• Morning: Drive to Dalhousie – a charming town with British architecture, pine forests, and scenic beauty.

• Afternoon: Visit Panchpula (five springs), Subhash Baoli (named after Netaji), and Satdhara Falls.

• Evening: Explore Mall Road and Tibetan Market.

• Dinner: Dine at "Kwality Restaurant" or "The Kettle House".

🗓️ Day 9: Dalhousie – Khajjiar – Chamba – Dalhousie

• Morning: Drive to Khajjiar (Mini Switzerland of India). Enjoy zorbing, horse riding, and walks around the lake.

• Afternoon: Proceed to Chamba. Visit the Lakshmi Narayan Temple complex and Bhuri Singh Museum.

• Evening: Return to Dalhousie.

• Dinner: Try the local Himachali dham at "Old Sher-e-Punjab" or "Moti Mahal".

🗓️ Day 10: Dalhousie to Chitkul via Sangla (Approx. 9 Hours)

• Morning: Drive to Chitkul via Sangla Valley. Known for its raw beauty, Chitkul is the last inhabited village near the Indo-Tibetan border.

• Afternoon: En route, visit Kamru Fort in Sangla, and witness Baspa River views.

• Evening: Explore Chitkul’s traditional houses, interact with locals, and enjoy the tranquility.

• Dinner: Homestay meals with local flavor – rajma, rice, and madra.

🚖 Travel with Elephant Cabs: Your Trusted Companion in the Hills

Elephant Cabs offers:

• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles (Sedans, SUVs, Tempo Travellers, and luxury coaches)

• Chauffeur-driven rides with experienced hill drivers

• Multi-city taxi packages for Chandigarh–Shimla–Manali–Dharamshala–Dalhousie–Chitkul

• Group bookings, customized tours, roundtrip options, and sightseeing assistance

• Affordable pricing, punctual service, and clean vehicles

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a honeymooning couple, or a group of friends or family, Elephant Cabs ensures your journey through Himachal is safe, scenic, and memorable.

Embark on this unforgettable journey through Himachal Pradesh, experiencing the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, adventure, and spiritual vibes. With Elephant Cabs, your travel is not just a journey, but a Himalayan experience to remember forever.