Winter Route Plan
Chandigarh Shimla (02N) Manali (03N) Chandigarh Departure
Tour Overview
Embrace the chill and witness the magic of the Himalayas cloaked in pristine white with our exclusive 6 Days Snowy himachal Winter Tour Package. Carefully tailored for snow lovers, honeymooners, and adventurous families, this itinerary focuses on the best snow destinations: Shimla and Manali.
Your winter escape begins in the colonial heart of Shimla, where you'll experience the frosty beauty of The Ridge and enjoy thrilling snow activities in Kufri. The journey then takes a spectacular turn towards Manali, where the landscape transforms into an alpine winter wonderland. Here, you will engage in skiing and snowboarding at Solang Valley and traverse the engineering marvel, the Atal Tunnel, to witness the dramatic, snow-draped landscapes of the Lahaul Valley.
Winter-Certified Safety & Comfort
Winter travel requires specific expertise. The Holiday Trips guarantees vehicles equipped for snow conditions (including snow chains and anti-freeze checks) driven by locals who master black-ice roads. We also ensure your accommodations feature reliable power backups and proper room heating facilities so you stay warm and comfortable.
Winter Highlights
- Experience the magical snowfall and winter vibes on Shimla's Mall Road.
- Enjoy yak rides, tube sliding, and snowmen building in Kufri.
- Indulge in thrilling skiing and snowboarding at Solang Valley.
- Drive through the majestic Atal Tunnel surrounded by deep snow walls.
- Relax in cozy, wood-paneled Himalayan cafes in Old Manali.
- Travel securely with our winter-ready fleet and expert hill drivers.
Day-wise Itinerary
Welcome to your winter escape! Our representative will meet you at the Chandigarh Airport or Railway Station. Settle into your comfortable, heated vehicle as we begin our ascent into the Shivalik ranges towards Shimla (approx. 4-5 hours). Feel the temperature drop as you approach the "Queen of Hills". Check into your cozy, heated hotel room. In the evening, wrap up warm and take a stroll on the iconic Mall Road and The Ridge, enjoying the frosty colonial charm. Dinner and overnight stay in Shimla.
After a hearty breakfast, we head to Kufri, Shimla's famous winter sports capital. The drive through the snow-laden pine forests of the Green Valley is simply mesmerizing. In Kufri, enjoy the snowy landscapes, try your hand at tube sliding, building a snowman, or take a horse ride up to the Mahasu Peak. Later, return to Shimla and visit the towering Jakhoo Temple. Spend your evening enjoying a hot cup of coffee at a local cafe. Dinner and overnight stay in Shimla.
After breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin your scenic 7-8 hour drive towards Manali. The route takes you alongside the Beas River, passing through the Kullu Valley. During winter, the landscape slowly transforms, with towering peaks covered in thick snow appearing on the horizon. Arrive in Manali by evening and check into your winter-ready hotel. Rest and prepare for the upcoming snow adventures. Dinner and overnight stay in Manali.
Today is the highlight of your winter tour! After breakfast, we drive to the famous Solang Valley. Engage in thrilling winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling (activities at personal expense). Depending on road accessibility and army guidelines, we will then drive through the magnificent 9.02 km long Atal Tunnel. Emerging on the North Portal, you will witness the raw, blindingly white beauty of the Lahaul Valley (Sissu). Return to Manali for a warm dinner and overnight stay.
Enjoy a relaxed morning. After breakfast, visit the historical Hadimba Devi Temple, beautifully blanketed in snow and surrounded by tall deodar trees. Visit the Vashisht Village, known for its natural hot sulfur springs—a perfect contrast to the freezing winter temperatures outside! Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the rustic, bohemian cafes of Old Manali or shopping for woolen souvenirs on Mall Road. Dinner and overnight stay in Manali.
Savor your final breakfast surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Check out from your hotel and bid farewell to the winter wonderland. We begin our drive back to the plains. Our driver will drop you off at the Chandigarh Airport or Railway Station (approx. 8-9 hours drive) for your onward journey, leaving you with unforgettable memories of a snowy Himalayan holiday.
Winter Inclusions
- 05 Nights stay in premium, well-heated rooms
- Daily Hot Buffet Breakfast & Dinner
- Private AC/Heater Vehicle for the entire trip
- Chandigarh Airport/Station Pickup & Drop
- Excursion to Solang Valley & Atal Tunnel
- Tolls, state taxes, and driver allowance
Exclusions
- Airfare / Train tickets to Chandigarh
- Winter sports (Skiing, Snowboarding, etc.)
- Winter clothing rentals (boots, snow suits)
- Afternoon Lunches & en-route meals
- Entry fees to monuments/parks
- 4x4 vehicle charges (if snow restricts normal cars)
Frequently Asked Questions
To experience live snowfall and deep snow cover, the best time to book this package is between mid-December to February. January is usually the peak month for heavy snow in Shimla and Manali.
No, you don't need to buy expensive snowsuits. You should pack heavy woolens, thermals, and a good jacket. Specialized waterproof snowsuits and snow boots can be easily rented on the way to Solang Valley or Kufri for a nominal charge.
Yes, it is generally safe as the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) clears the snow regularly. However, access is strictly regulated by local police based on daily weather conditions. If black ice or heavy snow makes the road dangerous, access to the tunnel or Solang Valley may be restricted. In extreme cases, a local 4x4 Gypsy might need to be hired (at an extra cost).
Our premium 3-star and 4-star category hotels provide centralized heating or individual room heaters. However, in some standard boutique properties, room heaters are provided on demand (sometimes for a small extra charge). We ensure you have a warm and comfortable stay.
The package includes transportation to the adventure sites (like Solang Valley and Kufri). However, the actual cost of activities like skiing, snowboarding, yak rides, or paragliding are directly payable at the spot based on your interest.