Are you ready to take on an adventure of a lifetime? One should always consider the best Acme Self Drive Car which gives directions for a great road trip to Himachal Pradesh from Chandigarh! This stunning Indian state is home to breathtaking landscapes, picturesque views, and a plethora of exciting activities to enjoy. In this ultimate road trip guide, we’ll take you through the finest routes, attractions, and tips to make your journey worthy.

Pre-Trip Prepration

  • Route Planning: Before hitting the road, plan your route carefully. Popular destinations in Himachal like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Spiti Valley are the go-to.
  •  Vehicle Check: The prime motive of choosing your self-drive car should be to check tyres, brakes, and engine oil, and carry spare parts for emergencies. Also, the vehicle should be undamaged.
  • Permits and Documents: Carry all mandatory necessary documents like driving licence, vehicle registration, and permits for restricted areas like Rohtang Pass.

Interesting tourist places to come upon 

Chandigarh to Shimla: (120 kms, 3-4 hours)

Begin your journey from Chandigarh and head towards Shimla, the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Take the NH22 route, which winds through the scenic Shivalik Hills. Stop at the Pinjore Gardens, a beautiful Mughal style garden, and explore the nearby villages. As you reach Shimla, check-in to your hotel and spend the evening exploring the Mall Road, Christ Church, and the scenic Ridge.

  •  Distance: The drive from Chandigarh to Shimla is around 113 km and takes 3-4 hours.
  • Scenic spots: Don’t miss the Timber Trail in Parwanoo and the famous Tara Devi Temple en route to Shimla.
  • Exploring Shimla: Visit the Ridge, Mall Road, Jakhu Temple, and enjoy the colonial charm of this hill station on.

Shimla to Manali: (250 kms, 6-7 hours)

  •  Distance: The journey from Shimla to Manali is approximately 250 km and takes about 7-8 hours.
  • Adventure Activities: Stop at Kullu for river rafting and explore Naggar Castle before reaching Manali.
  • Manali Attractions: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley, Hadimba Temple, and Old Manali are must-visit spots.

                                             OR 

 Shimla to Sarahan (160 kms, 5-6 hours)

Drive to Sarahan, a picturesque town nestled in the Sutlej Valley. Take the NH22 route, which passes through the scenic villages of Narkanda and Rampur. Visit the Bhima Kali Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Goddess Kali. Enjoy the stunning views of the Sutlej River and the surrounding mountains. 

Sarahan to Sangla (90 kms, 3-4 hours)

Drive to Sangla, a charming village nestled in the Kinnaur Valley. Take the NH22 route, which passes through the scenic villages of Jeori and Wangtu. Visit the Nages God Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. Enjoy the stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash Range.

Sangla to Kalpa (40 kms, 2 hours)

Drive to Kalpa, a picturesque village nestled in the Sutlej Valley. Take the NH22 route, which passes through the scenic villages of Powari and Reckong Peo. Visit the Narayan-Nagini Temple, a beautiful Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Enjoy the stunning views of the Kinnaur Kailash Range.

Manali to Dharamshala:(239 kms,6 hr and 20 mins)

  • Distance: The drive from Manali to Dharamshala is around 235 km and takes about 7-8 hours.
  •  Cultural Delights: Explore McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Waterfall, and Namgyal Monastery, and indulge in Tibetan cuisine.
  • Triund Trek: For adventure enthusiasts, the Triund Trek offers stunning views of the Dhauladhar range.

Dharamshala to Spiti Valley (396 kms,14 hrs 42 mins) 

  •  Distance: The journey from Dharamshala to Spiti Valley is long, approximately 220 km, and can take around 10-12 hours due to challenging terrain.
  •  Key Monasteries: Visit Key Monastery, and Tabo Monastery, and explore the unique landscape of Spiti.
  • High Altitude Tips: Acclimatize properly, stay hydrated, and carry warm clothing due to the high altitude.

FAQs:

How do I go to Dharamshala from Manali?

The fastest way to reach Dharamshala from Manali is by driving a car as hiring a car provides you peacefulness without any interruption. Also, you can plan and take a break in between as you want.

What is the best time to visit Kalpa?

Kalpa, a small town in the Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, is a popular destination for its scenic beauty and pleasant weather. The best time to visit Kalpa is generally during the summer, from March to June when the weather is mild and the temperature ranges from 8°C to 23°C.

Is Dharamshala worth visiting?

Dharamshala is one of the top-rated places in Himachal Pradesh to explore. This hilly destination witnesses maximum tourist footfall because of its scenic & serene environment. Located in Kangra Valley, this city in Himachal Pradesh is set at a high altitude of 1457m above sea level.

How can I go from Chandigarh to Shimla?

Shimla is approximately 50+ km from Chandigarh. The fastest way to reach Shimla from Chandigarh is either by bus but it would be overcrowded and uncomfortable or by hiring a taxi or driving a car from Acme Cars. Also, it is affordable and if you’re hiring for more than 10 days you can avail of more offers.

Which route is best for Spiti Valley?

Self-drive car is considered the most comfortable way to explore your tour privately. There are two roads to reach Spiti Valley, but we recommend the Shimla-Kaza route because: Manali to Solang Valley and Atal Tunnel (north portal)

Which route is better for Sarahan?

If you’re travelling by car, then the best way is to hire a Drive Car from Acme Cars at the cheapest rates to cover following via NH 5

Conclusion:

A road trip to Himachal Pradesh offers a blend of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences. With the freedom of a self-drive car, you can explore the hidden gems.Leave no stone unturned to create unforgettable memories. Remember to drive safely, respect the rules, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Himachal Pradesh.

Happy travels on your Himachal road trip! Enjoy every moment of this incredible journey.