Exploring Manali, Lahaul and Tirthan

09 nights/ 10 days Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Bharatgarh Fort

Arrive at Chandigarh airport from here head towards Bharatgarh Fort. Set admist the Shivalik ranges, on a small hilltop rests this magnificent Fort of Bharatgarh.

Constructed in 1783, the Bharatgarh Fort is one of the rarest standing live-in forts of Punjab. Although it is a residential fort, a portion of it has been made open to tourists in the form of a Heritage Homestay. The Fort is a quiet retreat, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, ideal to relax, soak yourself in nature and spend quality time with your loved ones.

Overnight stay at Bharatgarh.

Day 2: Transfer to Manali

Start your day with a trek around the forest near your accommodation. You could also go up to ‘Janda Wala’ – a locally worshipped shrine of a Pir, with a beautiful 360-degree view of the surroundings. Later, sit by the fishpond and try your hand at fishing if you wish to.

Embark on a scenic road trip along the Beas River to Manali. En route, savor a delightful lunch experience at Haripur Trout Farm, nestled in the scenic landscapes of Manali. Indulge in freshly prepared trout dishes served amidst the serene surroundings of the farm. 

Upon arrival, check into your boutique homestay accommodation, "The Green Mountain by Offbeat Tracks' in Jagatsukh village and relax for the rest of the day.

Overnight stay at Jagatsukh.

Day 3: Explore the offbeat at Manali

Begin your adventure with a hike to Sajla Waterfalls, nestled along the Manali-Naggar road in Himachal Pradesh, Sajla Valley beckons with its offbeat charm. Explore the Vishnu Temple and discover the hidden gem of Sajla Waterfall, a tranquil spot for nature enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters or swim in the natural pool beneath the falls. Wander through the village, admiring traditional Kath-Kuni houses, and venture deeper into the lush jungle for a serene escape amidst deodar and pine trees. 

Visit the Naggar Castle, a 15th-century marvel nestled in the breathtaking Beas Valley of Himachal Pradesh.  Admire its intricate wooden architecture, blending regional aesthetics with European influences. Additionally, you may visit the Nicholas Art Gallery and Museum. Named after the renowned Russian artist who found solace in these mountains after the revolution, this gallery is a testament to his enduring legacy. Delve into the artist's life through rare photographs, mesmerizing landscape paintings, and evocative portraits of the local community. 

End your day with a traditional Himachali meal experience. Savor the essence of Himachali culture with a culinary journey to a local's century-old ancestral home in Himachal Pradesh. Delight in an authentic Himachali meal prepared with love and passed down through generations. As you dine amidst the rustic charm of the traditional home, every bite tells a story of heritage and tradition.

Overnight stay at Jagatsukh.

Day 4: A full day hike to Tilgan Thach

Experience the thrill of trekking amidst the stunning landscapes of Himachal Pradesh with our beginner's trek to Tilgan Valley. Delve into the wilderness as you embark on this fun-filled adventure, offering breathtaking views and a night under the shimmering stars. Whether you're a novice or seasoned trekker, this gentle introduction promises an exhilarating journey into the heart of nature's wonders.

In the afternoon, indulge in a delightful picnic lunch following the exhilarating Tilgan trek. Amidst the serene wilderness of Manali, relish a sumptuous meal surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas and verdant landscapes.

Return to Jagatsukh for your overnight stay and relax.

Day 5: A day filled with Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating downhill mountain cycling adventure from the vibrant town of Manali to the serene hamlet of Raison. 

Experience the exhilaration of rafting amidst the breathtaking beauty of Himachal Pradesh on the Beas River. Let the adrenaline rush as you navigate through thrilling rapids, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests.

Wrap up your eventful day with the ultimate relaxation with a sundowner and BBQ at the tranquil Hampta Village in Manali. Delight in Himachali hospitality as you sip chilled beer amidst the serene beauty of deodar and pine trees. Revel in the flavors of a delectable BBQ feast while soaking in the breathtaking views of Hampta Valley. Gather around a cozy bonfire, sway to soothing melodies, and immerse yourself in the rich tales of mountain life. 

Head back to Jagatsukh for your overnight stay.

Day 6: Head to Lahaul via the Atal Tunnel

Venture on an awe-inspiring journey through the Atal Tunnel in Spiti Valley, an engineering marvel that connects Manali to Lahaul and Spiti. Traverse through this 9.02 km long tunnel, surrounded by towering mountains and rugged terrain, offering breathtaking vistas along the way. Experience the thrill of crossing one of the world's highest road tunnels, a gateway to the enchanting landscapes of Spiti.

Enjoy a boating session at the picturesque Sissu Lake, drift along the shimmering surface, surrounded by towering peaks and lush greenery, you will feel the gentle breeze caress your skin and be surrounded by pristine beauty.

En-route witness the picturesque confluence of the Chandra and Bagha rivers at Tandi, marvel at the majestic merging of these two rivers amidst breathtaking Himalayan scenery. 

End your day with a refreshing hike to Palam Dhara Waterfalls, trek through lush forests and rocky terrain to reach the cascading falls, where crystal-clear water descends gracefully amidst the serene surroundings.

For your overnight stay, check into a homestay/ hotel at Lahaul.

Day 7: Discover the caves of Sissu and Adventure Sports and Solang Valley

Sissu is a place of unfathomed beauty. Start your day with an expedition to the Too Gompa, a cave perfect for meditation and experience of a lifetime. A 400-year cave built by Amchi Family with deep rooted buddhist ideology. This cave serves as an historic as well as a place to be peaceful.

Head downhill towards Solang Valley and immerse yourself trying out various winter or summer activities here. In winters, feel the rush as you ski down powdery slopes or rev up a snowmobile for an icy expedition. As the snow melts in summers indulge in zorbing or soar high with paragliding against the backdrop of the majestic Himalayas. Summer unveils a different charm, inviting thrill-seekers to cable car rides and other exhilarating pursuits.

Later in the evening, head back to Jagatsukh for your overnight stay. On your way back you can also take a pause at Nehru Kund, a pristine spring named after India's first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawahar Lal Nehru, who frequented its tranquil waters, this spring holds a special place in local lore.

Day 8: Discover the Hidden Sainj Valley and Drive to Tirthan

Embark on a picturesque drive from the bustling town of Manali to the tranquil haven of Tirthan Valley, a journey that unfolds like a scenic masterpiece. As you leave behind the hustle and bustle of urban life, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Himalayan landscape. Traverse through winding mountain roads adorned with lush pine forests, meandering rivers, and snow-capped peaks towering in the distance.

Check into a boutique riverside resort located amidst forest and streams and relax for a while.

Head out to explore Sainj Valley, Sainj is the perfect rebuttal to those who claim that Himachal Pradesh is very touristy and there are no off-beat places left to explore! Untouched by modern-day tourism, Sainj is where you go to meet travelers, not tourists, and interact with the locals, all the while soaking in the views.

The valley is situated along the Sainj River and lies on the foothills of the Great Himalayan National Park. Shangarh or Sainj offers insanely gorgeous views, beautiful meadows, seclusion and isolation from the world.

Overnight stay at Tirthan.

Day 9:  Guided Trek at Great Himalayan National Park

Overnight stay at Tirthan.

Day 10:  Transfer to Chandigarh an Departure

Check out of your accommodation, your designated driver will chauffeur you to Chandigarh airport. Board your flight from here and fly back with sweet memories of Himachal Pradesh!