Are you dreaming of a trip to the mountains? Shimla and Manali are two of the most famous hill stations in Himachal Pradesh. They are popular with families, friends, honeymooners, and adventure lovers. The best way to explore both these places is by taking a Shimla Manali tour package by car. Traveling by car gives you comfort, flexibility, and the chance to stop anywhere you like to enjoy the beauty of the hills.
In this blog, we will share everything you need to know about Shimla Manali tours by car, including routes, attractions, best time to visit, and travel tips. By the end, you will have a clear idea of how to plan your trip.
Why Choose Shimla Manali Tour by Car?
Traveling by car is very different from traveling by bus or train. You get more freedom, and the journey itself becomes a part of the holiday. Here’s why choosing a car tour package for Shimla Manali is a great idea:
Comfort and Privacy: You don’t have to share your space with strangers. You can relax, play music, and enjoy the ride.
Flexible Stops: You can stop at small villages, dhabas (roadside eateries), and scenic viewpoints.
Time-Saving: No waiting for buses or trains. Your trip starts the moment you get inside the car.
Door-to-Door Travel: The car picks you up from your home or hotel and drops you directly at your destination.
The Delhi to Shimla Manali Car Route
Most travelers start their Shimla Manali tour from Delhi. The road journey is long but very scenic. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Delhi to Shimla: Around 340 km, 7–8 hours drive. The route goes through Chandigarh and Solan.
Shimla to Manali: Around 250 km, 7–8 hours drive. The road passes through Kullu Valley and small towns like Sundernagar and Mandi.
Manali to Delhi: Around 550 km, 12–14 hours drive.
Though the drive is long, you will enjoy mountain views, pine forests, and river valleys throughout the trip.
Best Time to Visit Shimla and Manali
The beauty of Shimla and Manali changes with the seasons. You can plan your car trip depending on what you want to experience:
Summer (March to June): Perfect for escaping the heat. The weather is cool and pleasant.
Monsoon (July to September): Green landscapes and waterfalls, but be careful as roads can be slippery.
Winter (October to February): Best for snow lovers. You can enjoy snowfall, skiing, and winter sports in Manali.
Top Attractions in Shimla
Shimla, also known as the "Queen of Hills," is full of charm. While traveling in your car, you can explore these attractions:
The Ridge and Mall Road
This is the heart of Shimla. You can shop for souvenirs, eat local food, and enjoy the views of the mountains.
Jakhoo Temple
Located on a hilltop, this temple is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The view from here is breathtaking.
Kufri
Just 16 km from Shimla, Kufri is known for horse riding, skiing (in winter), and adventure parks.
Christ Church
One of the oldest churches in North India, this landmark glows beautifully in the evening.
Top Attractions in Manali
Manali is all about natural beauty, adventure, and peace. Here are some must-visit spots:
Solang Valley
Rohtang Pass is renowned for its adventure sports such as paragliding, skiing, zorbing, and snowboarding.
Rohtang Pass
A dream destination for snow lovers. It is open from May to October and offers stunning mountain views.
Hadimba Temple
A peaceful temple surrounded by cedar forests. The architecture is unique and worth seeing.
Old Manali
Known for its cafes, live music, and hippie vibes. It’s a great place to relax and meet travelers from around the world.
Shimla Manali Tour Itinerary by Car
A 6-night/7-day Shimla Manali tour package by car is the most popular choice. Here’s a sample itinerary:
Day 1: Drive from Delhi to Shimla. Evening walk on Mall Road.
Day 2: Local sightseeing in Shimla – Kufri, Jakhoo Temple, Ridge. Overnight in Shimla.
Day 3: Drive from Shimla to Manali. Scenic journey through valleys and rivers.
Day 4: Manali sightseeing – Hadimba Temple, Vashisht hot springs, Mall Road.
Day 5: Excursion to Solang Valley and adventure activities.
Day 6: Excursion to Rohtang Pass (if open). Return to Manali.
Day 7: Drive back to Delhi.
This plan can be customized depending on your package and time.
Tips for a Shimla Manali Car Trip
To make your trip smooth and enjoyable, keep these tips in mind:
Start early from Delhi to avoid traffic jams.
Always carry warm clothes, even in summer, as mountain weather changes quickly.
Keep some snacks and water bottles for the journey.
Make sure your driver has experience in hilly areas.
Book your hotel and package in advance during peak season.
Why Book a Shimla Manali Tour Package?
You might wonder, why not plan everything on your own? Booking a Shimla Manali tour package by car has many benefits:
No stress of planning routes, hotels, or sightseeing.
Professional drivers who know the mountain roads well.
Comfortable stay options with food included.
Packages are often more cost-effective than booking everything separately.
Packages are available for families, couples, and groups, so you can choose according to your needs.
Final Thoughts
A Shimla Manali tour by car is not just about reaching the destination; it’s about enjoying the journey. The winding mountain roads, fresh air, tall pine trees, and snow-covered peaks make every moment special. Whether you are looking for adventure, romance, or family fun, Shimla and Manali have something for everyone.
So, if you are planning your next holiday, book a Shimla Manali tour package by car and get ready for a trip full of memories.
