Yo fellow travellers! Lakshay here, reporting live from Greater Noida, ready to spill the beans on our epic Manali adventure with my awesome crew. Buckle up, ’cause we’re about to paint the Himalayas with friendship, snow, and laughs that echo in the mountains!
Day 1: Old Manali Mantra – Slow Down, Soak it in:
We traded city noises for bus tunes, leaving Greater Noida behind as Delhi transformed into serene landscapes. Arriving in Manali, 550 kilometers later, Old Manali welcomed us with open arms, narrow lanes, vibrant markets, and cafes galore!). Budget tip: Hotel Royal became our cozy HQ for just 900 INR a night. We embraced the local vibes, chatted with friendly folks, and devoured unique eats – Old Manali’s magic unfolds at a slow, delicious pace.
Day 2: Rohtang Rush & Solang Spins:
Day two, buckle up for mountain madness! The drive to Rohtang Pass was a feast for the senses, each turn revealing a new landscape masterpiece. Reaching the top, snowflakes kissed our cheeks, snowball fights erupted, and memories were carved in icy laughter. Budget alert: entrance fees and travel to Rohtang clocked in at around 2,000 INR. Down in Solang Valley, adrenaline became our middle name. We booked our adventure sports in advance, ensuring smooth skies (and no queue blues!).
Top tip: Plan ahead for a hassle-free thrill ride!
Day 3: Temple Tranquility & Hot Spring Harmony:
The final day began with a soul-soothing visit to Hidimba Devi Temple, where ancient trees whispered secrets and intricate architecture cast us back in time. Budget watch: local sightseeing and entry fees added up to about 1,500 INR. And our grand finale? Vashisht Hot Springs, a serene oasis where we soaked in the warmth, swapped stories with fellow travelers, and watched the mountains paint the sky with sunset hues. Tip for happy travelers: pack a change of clothes for the hot springs, the perfect way to melt away the adventure dust.
Sunset & Farewell Notes:
As Manali waved goodbye, our hearts brimmed with memories, from bustling Delhi streets to the snow-kissed Himalayas. Even the journey itself, with its vibrant stops and unexpected encounters, became part of our adventure. Top tip: Don’t just plan your destination, relish the route, every turn unveils a new story. The entire three-day magic, including stay, travel, activities, and delicious meals, cost us around 15,000 INR per person.
So, if you’re dreaming of Manali, remember this: embrace the unexpected, soak in the diversity, and create memories that will echo in the mountains, long after you’ve left. Happy travels!