It’s time you have been planning a holiday trip to the hills but are facing the dilemma of choosing between Shimla and Manali. You’re not alone. They are some of the most beautiful locations, and many tourists find it challenging to decide on which to visit two.
All the destinations included snowy peaks, beautiful countryside, and local bazaars. However, the budget will remain your only deciding factor. That is why it is essential to know where you can cut down on your budget; hence, understanding the Shimla vs Manali cost comparison can be helpful.
This information includes where to stay, where to eat, what to do, and how to get around. You will get information about traveling to these places and the corresponding costs. Thus, whether you are a budget traveler or a family tourist, this blog will still help you choose the right option. Without any further ado, let us compare which hill station offers a better experience at a lower price today!
Table of Contents
Accommodation Costs: Where Will You Spend Less?
1. Cheap Accommodations Shimla vs. Manali
In any travel, accommodation expenses are always considered the largest. However, both Shimla and Manali offer plenty of affordable options. The relative difference is the variation and position.
Shimla:
There’s no scarcity of budget hotels in Shimla, especially in places like Old Shimla and Chhota Shimla. Homestays and budget accommodations vary from 700 to 1500 Rupees per night. On the same note, one can get dorms at as low as ₹400.
Manali:
Similarly, cheap hotels in Manali can be easily seen around old Manali and Vashi St. They range from the same prices as Shimla but offer an even more striking view of the place. One can afford a normal guest house for 800 – 1200 rupees.
Winner:
Manali is slightly cheaper and offers even more picturesque places to view.
2. Hotel Deals: Finding Affordable Comfort
Affordable Hotels in Shimla vs Affordable Hotels in Manali
Both towns provide mid-price options for those who want something not overly luxurious but still comfortable.
Shimla:
The cheap hotels in Shimla are available in or around the localities of Mall Road and Kufri. Free Wi-Fi, hot water, and beautiful balconies cost from ₹ 1 500 to ₹ 2 500 per night.
Manali:
Many other hotels in Manali offer affordable accommodations with similar facilities at as low as Rupees 1,200. Some even provide their own cafeterias and bike rental services onsite.
Winner:
Manali, again, is for better value in mid-range hotels.
3. Food Costs: Taste on a Budget
Cost of Food in Shimla vs Cost of Food in Manali
It can be said that food can either increase or decrease a budget. Fortunately, both areas provide locally sourced meals that are affordable to anyone who wishes to eat at the restaurant.
Shimla:
The cost of food items is very low if one chooses to dine at local eating joints or restaurants in Shimla. An essential thali meal costs ₹100. Some of the street food, such as momos and chaat, costs approximately ₹50.
Manali:
The overall price level of the food in Manali remains almost similar. But if you wish to enjoy food items of international cuisines, numerous cafés in the old Manali provide an excellent taste at the price range of ₹150. Local cuisines such as the Himachali dishes are also available.
Winner:
Both towns are significantly similar in terms of affordability for food enthusiasts.
4. Activities: Fun Without Overspending
Budget-Friendly Activities in Shimla
Jakhoo Temple trek: Free
Ridge and Mall Road Walk: Free
Kufri day trip: ₹200 for travel
Tara Devi Temple visit: Lesser transportation expenses
Himalayan Bird Park: Entry ₹20
Budget-Friendly Activities in Manali
Hidimba Temple: Free
Old Manali walking tours: Free
Vashisht Hot Springs: Free
Jogini Falls trek: Free.
Manu Temple and local cafes: Entry-free, café snacks under ₹150
Winner:
Tours in Manali offer more options for budget travelers, especially nature lovers.
5. Transportation: Reaching and Getting Around
Transportation Costs Shimla vs Transportation Costs, Manali
Reaching Shimla:
To get there, you can take a train to Kalka and then take either a toy train or a taxi. Buses cost around ₹600. Taxis from Kalka cost ₹2,000+.
Getting Around:
Local buses cost ₹10–₹20. Taxis and auto rickshaws are cheap. It is easy to walk in the downtown.
Transportation costs Shimla: Moderate with some additional charges.
Reaching Manali:
Volvo buses from Delhi cost around ₹1,000–₹1,500. Small taxi services are available from nearby cities like Bhuntar.
Getting Around:
Walking is prevalent in Old Manali. Cars and rental scooters are relatively cheap, costing ₹500 for a day.
Transportation costs Manali: Cheaper for movement within the town.
Winner:
Manali is slightly more economical overall.
6. Backpacking Experience: Low-Cost Exploration
Backpacking in Shimla
For history and nature lovers, the best backpacking destination is Shimla. Cheap accommodation in hostels, homestays, meals, and other local consumables and services make it cheap. The toy train is appealing, but it will cost more than catching a local bus.
Backpacking in Manali
If one is talking about adventure, then backpacking in Manali can be a dream come true for many. You may go trekking, visit nearby villages, and participate in local events and ceremonies. Cafés offer affordable, high-energy meals.
Winner:
Manali, for better backpacker culture and flexibility.
7. Best Time to Visit on a Budget
Best Time to Visit Shimla on a Budget
Budget travelers should consider visiting Shimla during the monsoon season – July to September or the post-winter months of March. If there are fewer tourists, this means that hotel rates will be relatively low.
Best Time to Visit Manali on a Budget
For those traveling on a tight budget, the best time to travel to Manali would be during the spring of March- May or during the month of September. Food and accommodation are also cheaper, and the climate is favorable.
Winner:
A tie, both having sweet budget seasons.
8. Local Cuisine: Taste the Hills
Local Cuisine Shimla
You should try dishes such as Siddu, Madra, and Chana Madra. The local food of Shimla is spiced and mainly non-vegetarian. These are available at a reasonable range of ₹100– ₹150, which makes dhabas quite popular.
Local Cuisine Manali
Some of the local food items of Manali are trout fish, siddu, and bhey which are made from lotus stem. It is richer and has a better non-vegetarian food variety. Local cafés serve meals at ₹150–₹200.
Winner:
Manali, for variety and taste.
9. Smart Travel Tips
Shimla Travel Tips
- Do not travel during the high season, which is in December and June.
- Don’t go to Mall Road for cheap hotels.
- Use shared taxis from Kalka.
Manali Travel Tips
- Get cheap fares for buses by booking them as early as possible.
- You will indeed find good deals if you stay in Old Manali.
- Carry cash for smaller shops.
Quick Cost Comparison Summary
| Category | Shimla (₹) | Manali (₹) |
| Dorm Stay (per night) | 400-600 | 400-500 |
| Budget Hotel (per night) | 800-1500 | 700-1200 |
| Mid-Range Hotel | 1500-2500 | 1200-2000 |
| Local Food (per meal) | 100-150 | 100-200 |
| Activities (per day) | 0-300 | 0-200 |
| Intra-City Transport | 100-200 | 50-150 |
| Total Daily Budget | 800-2000 | 700-1800 |
Conclusion: The Final Shimla vs Manali Cost Comparison
In conclusion, this detailed Shimla vs Manali cost comparison reveals a close contest. Both are affordable, endowed with natural scenery, and have some uniqueness to them. Still, Manali has the lowest costs of accommodations, even more free things to do, and a better feeling of being a backpacker here.
However, that does not mean that Shimla does not have its own advantages, and it is equally good for a quiet, low-cost vacation. Your choice depends upon whether you are interested in history or adventure; a peaceful place or a lively one; a dhaba or a café.
When traveling, we advise you to plan ahead, make early bookings, and follow these tips to avoid inconvenience. Ultimately, no matter your choice, the scenic beauty of the Himalayas will embrace you with open arms.
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