48 Hours in Manali – The Ultimate Weekend Guide

Day 1: The Charm of Old Manali

Your adventure begins in Old Manali, the soulful heart of the town. Start your morning with breakfast at a riverside café — pancakes, espresso, and the murmur of the Beas flowing beside you.

Then head to Hadimba Temple, where tall cedar trees frame an ancient wooden shrine. The silence feels sacred, interrupted only by the sound of wind in the woods.

By afternoon, stroll down Mall Road, filled with shops selling woolens, local wines, and handmade trinkets. Pick up some Himachali shawls or wooden souvenirs before heading to Vashisht to unwind in the natural hot springs.

Evening: Find yourself at Café 1947 or Lazy Dog. With fairy lights, live music, and the river flowing nearby, these cafés redefine mountain nightlife.

Day 2: Adventure and Altitude

Fuel up early and set off for Solang Valley. Paragliding here is a must — floating above pine trees and snow-covered slopes is a once-in-a-lifetime thrill. If adventure is your thing, try skiing, snowmobiling, or ropeway rides.

By noon, drive toward Naggar Castle for history and breathtaking views of the Kullu Valley. Stop at the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery to see works inspired by the Himalayas.

Evening: Return to Manali and spend your last evening watching the sunset paint the mountains orange and pink. Have dinner at Johnson’s Café, famous for its trout dishes and mountain ambiance.

Travel Tips

• Carry warm layers, even in summer — mountain weather changes fast.

• Book permits early if you plan to visit Rohtang Pass.

• Try local apple cider — it’s fresh and authentic.

• Avoid single-use plastics — help keep the Himalayas pristine.

Final Word

In just 48 hours, you can taste adventure, culture, and serenity — all within the embrace of the Himalayas. Manali isn’t a weekend trip. It’s a memory that stretches far beyond your return journey.