Himachal Pradesh in India offers some of the most wonderful tourist destinations to spend your time in close proximity to Mother Nature. Shimla-Manali is regarded as one of the topmost pair to visit in this state, which is the reason they are also the most visited places in India. A lush green environment, grand valleys, snow-laden mountain peaks, all create a fascinating ambiance that gives a boost to tourism.
Various locations at Shimla and Manali can offer a range of fun activities to people from all age groups. The calmness and beauty of these places let you endure an experience of a lifetime.
This article lists the top 6 things to do in Shimla and Manali during your trip.
Adventurous Rafting Experience:
Any Shimla Manali tour package is incomplete without the inclusion of river rafting activity. There are much rafting stretches in the Shimla Manali region. In the Malani region, famous river rafting is allowed in Beas, Ravi, Satluj and Chenab rivers. The best thing is that you do not need to be well versed with rafting techniques.
From beginners to pro-level, various packages are available as per your suitability. River rafting is the best experience not only for adrenaline junkies but nature lovers. Along with rafting, you can also take a bath in a hot water spring in Tattapani. The best season for adventurous rafting activity is between June and July.
Duration of Rafting: 1 hour to 1.5 hours
Batch size: Small, 2 – 5 people
Timing: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
Total stretch: 12 Km
Age limit: between 5 years to 60 years
Package value: ₹ 800 per Adult
Experience Paragliding in Manali:
Paragliding is one of the most cherished adventurous activities to overcome the fear of heights. Paragliding is no less than fulfilling your dream of flying like a bird. There are many locations in Manali for Paragliding but Solang Valley hill station stands out due to its strategic location.
Lush green valleys, apple orchards, and snow-laden mountain peaks make your paragliding experience no less than a heavenly fly. It is also advisable that for a beautiful scenery paragliding activity should be undertaken in the morning.
Solang Valley is about 14 km away from Manali and one more famous location close to this place is Beas Kund. Paragliding from this valley lets you experience the birds-eye view of the breathtaking Beas River. The authorities also provide a camera set up to shoot a video to preserve your adventurous memory.
Location of the activity: Dobhi Fly point, Manali
Duration of the flight: 15 Minutes
Timing: 09:00 AM to 04:00 PM
Pickup location for the activity: Paragliding counter of Dobhi on Kullu Manali Highway
Age Limit: Above 14 years only
Package Price: ₹ 1,470 per Adult
Head to Rohtang pass:
There are so many picturesque valleys near Manali but nothing beats the Rohtang Pass. The unparalleled natural beauty of this place can rejuvenate your soul. Located at the height of about 4000 meters, Rohtang La is one of the major attractions of the Himalayan region. As you move ahead on your way to Rohtang La, dramatic changes in the scenery are visible that pleases your soul.
The immaculate beauty of this pass has also been adorned by Bollywood by featuring this place in movies like Yeh Jawani Hai Diwani. The clear blue skies, bewitching landscapes and mountains covered in snow can give an otherworldly feeling to travelers.
Some of the recommended places to visit near the pass are Nehru Kund, Hadimba Temple, Marhi and Vashisht Hot Water Springs. The set of activities you can perform at this place include – trekking, skiing, mountain biking, gondola, paragliding, and photography. The best time to visit the Rohtang pass is from September to October.
Mountain Biking:
Shimla and Manali are the hidden treasures of the Himachal region. These soul-losing places offer pristine natural elegance as well as, one of its kind adventurous experiences. Mountain (motor) biking on the rugged roads of the Himalayan Mountain is literally a roller coaster ride.
Mountain biking experience becomes much more satisfying when you encounter green enchanting valleys, scenic landscapes en route. It is an established fact that mountain biking in Himachal Pradesh and specifically in the Shimla Manali region can make your journey gruelling yet memorable.
The scenic beauty and tranquil feeling in the whole region can make you want to explore every nook and corner of it. Various routes for biking are defined as per the difficulty level and length of the route. You can pick any route that suits you. With a short distance and due to its location in the mountain region, Kangra Valley is one of the most preferred sites for mountain biking.
The best season for biking purposes is from May to June and September to October.
Also Read: Amazing places to visit in Hyderabad
Skiing in Manali Solang Nallah:
Solang Valley in Himachal Pradesh is also known as Solang Nala. This hill station at the top of Kullu is best suited for Skiing. The geographic location of the valley is so that it attracts an ample amount of snowfall that makes it a perfect ski destination. Even if you are a novice in skiing, the expert guide is there for you to make you learn some of the ski moves.
Skiing at the towering height surrounded by snow-capped mountains is a true delight for your soul. Spectacular views of Mount Friendship, Mount Ladakhi and Hanuman Tibba Mountain create a placid environment. The Solang Valley is also famous for zorbing activity as well so that you can leverage fun to its maximum extent.
Skiing location: Solang Valley, Manali
Duration of the activity: 20 mins
Timing: 10:00 AM – 04:00 PM
Riverside Camping:
Hilly terrains of Shimla and Manali offer some of the best places to lay tents for camping. The foothills of Pir Panjal range where Beas River flows is considered one of the best campsites in Manali. The dense forest of pine trees overlooking the Beas River gives a mystic appeal to this very place. The advantage of riverside camping is that you can also experience fishing with other outdoor activities.
The location is surrounded by tall mountains that can unlock the array of enjoyment. For a carefree holiday, away from the hustle and bustle of the city riverside camping is the best way to rejuvenate your soul. For a pleasant experience, the suitable time for camping in the Shimla-Manali region is from April to October.
