A common Shimla-Manali tour plan involves spending 2-3 days in Shimla to see colonial-era sites like Mall Road and Jakhu Temple, followed by a 7-hour drive to Manali. In Manali, you can enjoy activities like visiting Solang Valley for adventure sports, exploring local markets, and visiting nearby Kullu. The ideal time to visit is during the summer months (March to June) for pleasant weather, but the trip can be extended for a week or more to include surrounding areas like Kasol.