Recently, I thought of utilizing my long weekend by travelling to Shimla and Manali. These destinations are among my favourite places due to their pleasant temperature and exquisite touring qualities. There are no qualms about the natural beauty to be witnessed in Shimla and Manali. A travelling enthusiast like me yearns to explore multiple attractions while holidaying. I must say that my long weekend trip to these destinations was stupendous. I included sightseeing, local shopping, trekking and visit to temples & holy places in my itinerary. Since I love exploration, my idea of travelling was to come across famous places of interest in and around Shimla Manali.
I sought an expert advice from the tour planner and booked my hotels for the Shimla and Manali tour. I started for Shimla from Delhi, so, I decided to plan my journey via train. My decision was influenced by the climatic extremities. To be precise, it can be uneasy to go by bus in a hot climate all the way to Shimla Manali from Delhi. Thus, it is ideal to board a train from New Delhi Station. Many trains are bound to Shimla from Delhi such as Kalka Shatabdi Express, Himalayan Queen and Howrah Delhi Kalka Mail. I preferred Kalka Shatabdi Express over others because it takes 4 hours and five minutes to reach at its destined station, Kalka.
After getting down at Kalka railway station, I enjoyed a trip of toy train. I wanted to experience the ride in this toy train while travelling from Kalka to Shimla. When I reached Shimla, the spell-binding landscapes of the town were refreshing. The tranquillity of nature was very soothing and appealing. By the time I checked in at the hotel in Shimla, it was late evening. I decided to take rest after freshening up and had dinner. When I was through with my dinner, I planned to go out for a night trip in Shimla. Nightlife in Shimla complemented to the beauty of the town and it was a very welcoming experience. I was astonished by the nightlife of Shimla as it was very attractive to my utter surprise.
After enjoying the music in the pub and shopping souvenirs from the road side shops, I returned to the hotel. The next morning, I chalked out a plan for sightseeing and local touring. Mall Road is among the famous streets of Shimla to be explored. There is an array of tourist attractions over here which keep tourists engaged. I had many options to consider for spending quality moments while touring Shimla. Seeking blessings from Gods & Goddesses is always a common part of touring. I visited Kali Bari Temple during my tour in Mall Road. This ancient temple holds a mythological importance because Goddess Kali was believed to exist near Jakhoo.
Kali Bari Temple is dedicated to Goddess Kali and wooden idol is worshipped in the shrine. I was mesmerised by the divine aura and history of this temple. Besides, I indulged into shopping, dining and sightseeing on Mall Road. The next destination I visited in Shimla was The Ridge Road. The Ridge Road offers a wide pathway that moves from East to West. After this, I went to Lakkar Bazaar which is situated towards the east of The Ridge Road. Wooden crafts sold at Lakkar Bazaar are marvellous. Apart from this, I quickly took a tour in the town and witnessed charm of Shimla State Museum and Jakhoo Hill.
Additionally, I would like to mention about the elegance of Summer Hill of Shimla. The ambiance of this beautiful township is very appreciable. After completing my tour in Shimla, I proceeded to Manali. Manali is known for its multi-faceted places of interest to be explored while touring. I had heard about Manikaran and its magnificence, but never experienced it. Thus, I planned a visit to Manikaran, which is a small town located amidst the Parvati Valley in Manali. Hot springs of Manikaran attracted me the most. I even came across pilgrim centres in Manikaran with peaceful environment.
Manikaran serves as a religious centre for Hindus and Sikhs. After touring in and around Manikaran, I proceeded to Solang Valley and was impressed by its stunning beauty. I indulged into lots of adventure at Solang Valley. When I was passing through this valley, I explored Rohtang Pass. Before ending my vacation, I discovered the culture and hospitality of Manali. Lastly, I visited Manali Sanctuary and captured strikingly wonderful bird-watch moments. On the next morning, I took my backpack and started for Delhi. I would recommend readers to visit Shimla and Manali and make their vacation an experience to be cherished.
Mussoorie and Nainital are the next destinations I am going to cover during my next long weekend break!
Mussoorie and Nainital are the next destinations I am going to cover during my next long weekend break!
