For a 2-day trip from Chandigarh to Himachal Pradesh, a popular option would be to visit

Shimla or Manali, as they are easily accessible and offer plenty to see and do in a short time.

Here’s an itinerary suggestion for both destinations:

​

Option 1: Shimla (2-Day Trip)

​

Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla (Approx. 4-5 hours drive)

● Morning:

○ Depart from Chandigarh early (around 6:00 AM) for Shimla.The road is scenic

and winds through the hills.

● Afternoon:

○ Check-in at your hotel in Shimla.

○ Visit the Mall Road, which is the main street of Shimla, lined with shops, cafes,

and colonial-era buildings.

○ Explore The Ridge and Christ Church for some iconic views and history.

● Evening:

○ Head to Scandal Point for a beautiful sunset view.

○ Enjoy some snacks or dinner at a café on Mall Road.

​

Day 2: Explore Shimla & Return to Chandigarh

● Morning:

○ Visit Jakhoo Temple (located on a hill) for panoramic views of Shimla and the

surrounding mountains. You can either take a cab or hike up.

○ Head to Kufri, a small hill station around 16 km from Shimla. It offers outdoor

activities like horse riding, go-karting, and a Himalayan Nature Park.

● Afternoon:

○ Lunch in Kufri or Shimla.

○ Visit Shimla’s Viceregal Lodge (also called Rashtrapati Niwas), a historical

building with beautiful gardens and views.

● Evening:

○ Return to Chandigarh by around 4:00-5:00 PM, depending on how much time

you spend at the spots.

​

​

Option 2: Manali (2-Day Trip)

​

Day 1: Chandigarh to Manali (Approx. 7-8 hours drive)● Morning:

○ Depart early from Chandigarh (around 5:00 AM) to make the most of your day.

● Afternoon:

○ Reach Manali around lunchtime. Check-in to your hotel.

○ Start with a visit to Hadimba Temple, set amidst beautiful cedar forests.

○ Explore Manu Temple or relax in the Old Manali area, known for its cafes and

bohemian atmosphere.

● Evening:

○ Visit Mall Road in Manali for shopping and snacks.

○ Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, or try some Himachali cuisine.

​

Day 2: Explore Manali & Return to Chandigarh

● Morning:

○ Take a short drive to Solang Valley (about 15 km from Manali), where you can

enjoy adventure activities like paragliding, zorbing, or a cable car ride.

○ Alternatively, visit Rohtang Pass (seasonal, open from May to November) for

snow activities, though it requires an early start.

● Afternoon:

○ Visit Vashisht Baths to relax in natural hot springs, or head to Naggar Castle for

its history and scenic views.

○ Lunch in Manali before starting your return journey.

● Evening:

○ Start your drive back to Chandigarh (you may reach around 9:00-10:00 PM).

Both these destinations are beautiful and offer a variety of experiences within a short time

frame. Shimla is closer and a bit more relaxed, while Manali offers a bit more adventure.