When couples book their honeymoon in Manali, they often receive generic itineraries that put them on a hamster wheel. They arrive anxious and leave exhausted from the trip.
Therefore, if you expect a good travel itinerary, it will be created based on the fact that the focus of your FOUR DAY Honeymoon in Manali is all about the little things and the details.
You may wake up on your first morning in Old Manali to view the snow from your balcony, or halfway through your second serving of momos at Dylan’s, you realize that you have spent the last three hours talking without checking your phone.
These are just a few examples of the small things that can create lasting memories during your honeymoon.
This travel itinerary has been written to guide you to see Manali through your eyes and to enjoy each day of your four-day honeymoon to the fullest.
Quick Plan
On Day 1, arrive in Manali, settle into your hotel, and take an evening stroll along Mall Road and watch the sunset at Manu View Point.
On Day 2, walk through the old Manali, Hadimba cedar forest, visit the hot springs at Vashisht, and top it off with a café hop.
On Day 3, plan for a full day of snow fun at Solang Valley (i.e., paragliding in the summer months and snow).
On Day 4, visit the Atal Tunnel, Sissu or Naggar Castle, with departure scheduled by 4 PM.
The plan is quick and perfect for any first-time couple, those going on honeymoon, or those looking for adventure with some romance along the way.
Be flexible with Day 3 during the winter months of December-February because accessing Solang can be conditional on the amount of overnight snowfall, and the authorities can limit access to Solang Valley to only vehicles that are either 4X4 or the size of a 4X4.
Best Time to Do This 4-Day Couple Itinerary (Winter vs Summer)
Winter (December–February):
Everything is covered in snow, and Manali in winter looks like it was taken out of a postcard. It is almost like a painting, and the only elements missing are the winter roads, the cinnamon tea in the cafes, and the snow-covered viewpoints.
What is accessible:
- Snow games at Solang Valley (skiing, snow scooters, tube slides)
- Atal Tunnel, which leads to Sissu valley
- Hot springs in Vashisht
- Old Manali
What to know:
- Private cabs are required for heavy snow. Volvo buses are operational, but they refuse to go for that hidden waterfall shot.
- After fresh snow, roads to Solang become a little risky. In the mornings, only 4×4 cars are allowed past Palchan.
- Important: Due to the preservation of Sissu village’s local traditions, the village is closed to tourists from January 20 to February 28, 2026. You may drive through the Atal Tunnel for photos, but do not spend time there to sightsee.
Summer (March–June):
The summer season is perfect for couples who want to visit Manali without the winter madness.
What is accessible:
- Jogini Falls is accessible and looks absolutely gorgeous
- Naggar Castle and art galleries
- Old Manali cafés
- Kullu and Kasol road trip
What to know:
- Peak summer (May-June) means crowd…. Neck deep crowd. Stays need to be booked in advance.
- You can paragliding and zorbing in Solang
- The temperatures are pleasant (15-25 degrees)
To sum up, if this is your first visit and you want the full “Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani” type Manali fantasy, go in winter. If you want a laid back trip with romance go in spring (March-April) or autumn (September-October).
Volvo vs Private Cab: What Couples Should Choose?
Couples mostly prefer a private cab, and it’s a great choice as you can then control the pace of your travel. You can stop wherever you want for a photo sesh, or you can deviate completely from your pre-decided itinerary because you found a better alternative to spend the day.
But the prices of private cabs may increase your budget, so if you are ona strict budget, you need to think practically and choose a Volvo bus.
Volvo from Delhi
Pros:
- The cheapest way to travel to Manali.
- Being on a Volvo bus means that you will not lose a whole day of your trip because you are travelling overnight.
- Semi-sleeper seats and blankets, along with charging points on many buses.
Cons:
- Fixed Departure Dates mean no photo stops or detours.
- You will likely be exhausted on Day 1.
- Once you are in Manali and ready to go on a tour, the only means of transportation available to you is via local cabs, which typically cost a lot more than travelling in a private vehicle.
Private Cab from Delhi
Pros:
- Control your departure time. Stop for pictures at Sundernagar Lake, Pandoh Dam, and Hanogi Mata Temple.
- You will be able to keep all your luggage with you because you are travelling in a private cab.
- Flexibility to add days to your Atal Tunnel trip or to add on a trip to Kasol.
- You will likely have more comfort while travelling with your partner, because you will not have to deal with strangers, and you will not be rushed.
Cons:
- Private cabs are more expensive than traveling via bus, and travelling for 12 to 14 hours may feel like a long journey.
Most premium couple packages include private cabs, because when you are travelling with your partner, this stops feeling like a tour and starts feeling more like a trip that you are doing together.
Day 1 – Arrival in Manali + Romantic Local Evening
Morning: Arrive & Settle In
If you take a Volvo, you’ll reach around 7:00 AM to 8:00 AM. For safety reasons, do NOT hurry when you arrive at the hotel, but check in, take a shower, and sleep for 1.5 to 2.0 hours prior to starting any activities whatsoever.
After that time period, you will feel a lot better and will be awake and ready to go.
If you’re going to be driving, then you can expect to arrive in the evening—perfect for taking your time to get adjusted to the high altitude of Manali.
A good tip on where to stay in Manali would be Old Manali, or close to Manu Temple, which is a peaceful area with many beautiful views of the mountains, and there are many good cafés.
Mall Road has many hotels, but they are NOT peaceful, and generally feel just like a stopover point for all the transit traffic.
Afternoon: Light Local Loop
Afternoon: Gentle Local Loop Walk
After you have gotten some rest, walk instead of taking a “sightseeing walk”. The best walk is from Manu Viewpoint, which is a 10-minute uphill walk from Mall Road.
Manu Viewpoint is much less crowded than Mall Road and provides a better view of the Beas River than you will get from Mall Road.
The afternoon light (4:00 PM) highlights the valley in a golden hue.
This is not the time to shop, just to enjoy a leisurely stroll and great conversation with your partner. Pick up some corn from a street vendor (₹30-₹50) as you go.
Evening: Café Date
Café 1947 is located by the Old Manali Bridge. With a view of the River and the hillside, it has both a warm and a breezy feel to it. You should definitely order their Wood-Fired Pizza (Rs. 400-500).
You should sit outside if possible. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere better suited for conversation, try Drifters’ Inn, located in Old Manali.
The best time for a romantic sunset picture will be at 5:30 PM in winter, and 7 PM in summer.
Day 2 – Old Manali + Hadimba + Vashisht Hot Springs + Cafés
This is your slow day. No rush. No 6 AM wake-up calls.
Morning: Hadimba Temple & Cedar Forest Walk
Have an 8-9 am start at the Hadimba Temple. It is a must-see because of its beautiful wooden architecture and because of its surrounding cedar forests.
Take your time walking. The tall trees block all sunlight, even during the summer months, and the air smells of pine and coolness.
The walking trail behind the temple is usually less crowded, so walk a little deeper into the forest if you want to enjoy the quietness and nature.
Time needed: 1–1.5 hours
Must-visit cafés:
- Dylan’s Toasted & Roasted → Best coffee in Manali. Sit upstairs, order a cappuccino (₹150), and watch the lane below.
- Sunshine Café → Rooftop seating, Himalayan views, excellent breakfast menu (₹200–₹400)
- Lazy Dog → Multi-level seating, river-facing balcony, great for long conversations
Afternoon: Vashisht Hot Springs
Old Manali is 5 km away from Vashisht (costs ₹300 to ₹400 for a taxi, or you can walk there if you are adventurous).
The hot springs and baths are located within the Vashisht Temple Complex. There are separate areas for Men and Women, but couples often time it so they finish around the same time and meet outside.
What to expect:
- There is natural hot water (it has a light sulphuric odour).
- There are basic changing rooms available, so bring your own towel.
- The entrance fee is between ₹20 and ₹50 (but it’s sometimes free).
- There are many locals using the hot springs everyday so they get quite busy in the mornings. It would be best to take a bath after 3 p.m
Why couples love it: Taking a bath after being outside all day in the cold is so relaxing, and if you are as tired as most people are from walking all day, this is a very placid experience you will want to take advantage of. Plus, this is one of those things to do only in Manali.
Day 3 – Solang Valley Snow Day (Activities + Safety Notes)
This is your adventure day. The one you’ll post about. The one you’ll remember the most and the one you’ll keep reliving long after.
Getting to Solang
Solang Valley is 14 km from Manali. Takes 45 minutes on a normal day, 1.5 hours if there’s traffic (which there will be on winter weekends).
Cab cost: ₹1,500–₹2,500 for the day (waiting charges included)
Timing: Leave by 8:30 AM. Seriously. By 11 AM, the entire stretch from Palchan to Solang turns into a parking lot during peak season.
Winter Snow Activities (December–February)
Solang becomes a snow carnival. Solang is just perfect for the snow sports. You can try tube slide, paragliding, skiing, etc. This time around, you will find rows of operators, bright jackets, music, chaos—and yeah, even though it’s touristy, it’s also fun.
Activities & cost range (2026):
- Snow scooter ride: ₹500–₹800 for 10–15 minutes
- Skiing (with instructor): ₹800–₹1,500 for 1 hour
- Paragliding (if weather allows): ₹2,500–₹3,500
- ATV ride on snow: ₹500–₹1,000
- Tube slide: ₹200–₹300 per round
Remember, like any other tourist spot, bargaining works here as well. Operators quote high, and you just need to politely negotiate. Couples often get combo deals (₹2,000 for 2–3 activities).
Summer Activities (March–June)
- Paragliding: The main activity that draws tourists here. Tandem flights (₹2,500–₹3,500) offer 15–20 minutes of mountain views.
- Zorbing: Roll down a slope inside a giant ball (₹300–₹500)
- Ropeway to Mount M1: ₹700–₹900 return. Views are decent, but skip if you’re doing paragliding.
Pack sandwiches or eat at one of the small dhabas near the activity zone (₹150–₹300 per person). Don’t expect fine dining—it’s basic Maggi, parathas, and chai.
Couple Safety Notes
- Wear layered clothing—you’ll heat up during activities
- Waterproof shoes are non-negotiable in snow
- Keep your phone in a secure pocket during snow scooter rides (I’ve seen too many phones lost in the snow)
- If either of you isn’t comfortable with adventure activities, don’t push—sitting together with snow around and hot tea is equally romantic
Time to return: Aim to leave Solang by 4 PM. Roads get icy as the sun sets.
Day 4 – Atal Tunnel Plan (or Naggar/Waterfall) + Departure
Your last day should be fun… but more than that, it should be balanced. You will be torn between extending the magic and not rushing the departure. So, here’s what you can do:
Option A: Atal Tunnel + Sissu Trip
The Atal Tunnel is a 9km long tunnel through Pir Panjal range. It is one of the longest tunnels of India and provides passage to Lahaul.
Why do couples LOVE the Atal Tunnel?
Because as soon as you come out of the tunnel, there is quite a transformation. You encounter the stark contrast of the landscape as it goes from a series of valleys with trees, to desolate mountains, white iced tops on rock cliffs, and streams flowing down the hillsides.
Also, the Sissu Village lies just 8km down the road from the exit of the tunnel.
Time to Leave Manali 8 AM
Time to Arrive at Tunnel 9:30 AM
Spend 1-2 Hours in Sissu
Time to Return by 2 PM
Cost of Cab ₹3,500—₹5,000 which includes the toll and the waiting period.
What to do in Sissu:
- Walk to Sissu Waterfall
- Sit by the Chandra River
- Grab chai at a local dhaba (₹20–₹30)
Important Restriction (Jan 20–Feb 28, 2026)
Sissu village has suspended tourism activities during this 40-day window to protect local spiritual and cultural traditions. You can still drive through Atal Tunnel and stop for photos, but:
- No extended sightseeing or trekking
- No overnight stays in Sissu
- Respect local guidelines if approached by village representatives
If your trip falls in this window, consider Option B or just drive till the tunnel, take photos, and return.
Option B: Naggar Castle + Calm Morning
If Sissu is closed or you found the Atal Tunnel too far away, spend your morning in Naggar, which is 25 km from Manali in the opposite direction.
What makes Naggar special:
- Naggar Castle (heritage hotel/museum – ₹50 price of admission): A place with old-world charm and breathtaking views of the valley, great for leisurely walks.
- Roerich Art Gallery (₹100 price of admission): A peaceful, artistic place to think and heal your spirit.
- Nicholas Roerich Estate: Walk through beautiful apple orchards, sit on benches to enjoy the views of the valley.
Naggar is a perfect getaway for those who seek peace. Experience the serenity of the area at this beautiful castle.
Time required for your visit: 2-3 hours.
Departure Timing
If leaving by Volvo: Buses depart around 4–6 PM. You have time for a relaxed morning.
If leaving by private cab: Start by 2–3 PM for a comfortable Delhi arrival (late night).
Manali Couple Trip Cost for 4 Days
Standard Package Cost (₹35,000–₹50,000 per couple)
The bulk of these goes towards your travel and lodging expenses. The next big expense is getting there. A round-trip private cab from Delhi will usually include local sightseeing and costs around ₹12,000 to ₹16,000.
For four days, you will need to budget 6,000 to 8,000 rupees for food, as it will cost 1,500 to 2,000 rupees a day.
There are more costs to factor in, such as how much you’ll end up spending on activities. An estimate of 3,000 to 4,000 rupees will go to adventure sports in Solang Valley, and you’ll also likely end up spending 3,500 rupees for a private cab per day.
To make it extra special, a candlelight dinner is about 2,500 rupees, and room decoration is an extra 1,500 rupees.
Lastly, budget about 3,000 to 4,000 rupees for other expenses to make the trip more special, including shopping, some snacks, and food.
FAQs
Is 4 days enough for a couple trip to Manali?
Yes, four days will provide enough opportunity for you and your partner to enjoy some of Manali’s local attractions
What is the best 4-day Manali itinerary for couples?
Day one: Arrive and settle in at the hotel, followed by a light evening on Mall Road.
Day two: Explore the old lanes of Manali, visit Hadimba Temple and the Hadimba Forest, enjoy the Vashisht Hot Springs, and café hop.
Day three: Have a full day at Solang Valley participating in winter snow activities or summer paragliding.
Day four: A trip to Atal Tunnel plus Sissu OR Naggar Castle in the morning prior to leaving.
What is the cost of a 3N/4D Manali couple package?
Budget packages start at ₹18,000–₹25,000. Standard packages range ₹35,000–₹50,000. Premium packages can go from ₹60,000 to ₹90,000+. Final cost depends on travel mode, stay category, and the activities you choose.
Volvo vs private cab — what’s better for couples?
Private cab is the preferred option due to the level of comfort and flexibility
Where can couples see snow in Manali?
Solang Valley is a prime destination for snow during the winter months. In town, Old Manali and areas near Hadimba often get snow cover during heavy spells.
Is Solang Valley open in winter, and what activities are available?
Yes, Solang is open in winter and becomes a snow activity hotspot. You can do snow scooter rides (₹500–₹800), skiing with instructors (₹800–₹1,500), paragliding if the weather permits (₹2,500–₹3,500), ATV rides, and tube slides.
Is Atal Tunnel worth it in a 4-day Manali trip?
Absolutely, if you have time on Day 4, the tunnel itself is impressive. Still, the real magic is Sissu—the barren, snowy landscape, frozen waterfalls, and bright blue Chandra River feel completely different from Manali.
Can we visit Sissu in January/February 2026?
You can drive through the Atal Tunnel and stop for photos, but between January 20–February 28, 2026, Sissu village has suspended tourism activities. Extended sightseeing, trekking, and overnight stays are not allowed during this period.
What are the best romantic places to visit in Manali for couples?
Old Manali lanes and cafés (Dylan’s, Sunshine Café), Hadimba Cedar Forest, Vashisht hot springs, Manu Viewpoint, and Café 1947 are good romantic places ideal for long conversations. For adventure romance, Solang Valley snow day and Jogini Falls trek (summer) work beautifully.
What should couples pack for Manali in winter?
Thermals, sweaters, waterproof jackets, woolen caps, gloves, sturdy waterproof boots, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturiser. Power bank, because cold drains phone batteries fast.
Final Words
Being Manali trip for 4 Days is about experience. Isn’t that the whole point of travel? To experience things?
Be wise when planning your trip; dress in layers; and keep your schedule open for unexpected things to happen.
If you can’t get to Solang because of snow, if you can’t get into a café because so many people are there, or if it rains when you want snow, then simply accept these events as a part of your experience.
Perfect couple trips are not always what you expect, but they are often the most authentic experiences you will ever have.
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