Highlights of Himachal Pradesh

A day to explore India’s capital city with a knowledgeable local guide (if you have opted for this service) who will explain some of Delhi’s fascinating past and try to make sense, as much as anyone can, of its vibrant and at times chaotic present. You can visit Red Fort -A UNESCO World Heritage site and an iconic symbol of India's rich history. Jama Masjid- One of the largest mosques in India. Raj Ghat- The memorial site of Mahatma Gandhi, marking the spot where he was cremated. Chandni Chowk- A bustling market area in Old Delhi, famous for its narrow lanes, vibrant bazaars, street food, and historical landmarks like the Red Fort. Humayun's Tomb- Yet another UNESCO World Heritage site, Humayun's Tomb is a magnificent example of Mughal architecture and serves as the tomb of the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Qutub Minar- another UNESCO World Heritage site, Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world, built in the early 13th century. The complex also includes several other ancient and medieval structures like, Iron Pillar- Located in the courtyard of the Qutub Minar complex and it dates back to the 4th century CE. It stands over 7 meters tall and has not rusted in over 1,600 years, a testament to the advanced metallurgical skill of ancient Indians. Then driving past Rajpath (Parliamentary road) in Delhi offers a scenic and symbolic journey through the heart of India's capital, encompassing several significant landmarks and government buildings and then visit India Gate- an iconic war memorial, located at one end of Rajpath, commemorates the Indian soldiers who died during World War I.

Overnight in Delhi.

Today morning you will be transferred to Delhi airport to catch your flight to Amritsar. On arrival in Amritsar, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel and relax for a while. In the afternoon, take the short excursion to the India-Pakistan border – “The Attari-Wagah border” to see the ‘beating retreat ceremony’. This ceremony is a daily event conducted by the Border Security Force (BSF) of India and the Pakistan Rangers and it is a really a visual treat. Drive back to the hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Amritsar

This morning you will visit the spectacular Golden Temple- the most sacred site in the Sikh religion, then visit to Jallianwala Bagh- a memorial garden that commemorates the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where hundreds of unarmed civilians were killed by British troops. Afternoon drive to Dharamsala and nearby McLeod Ganj, famous as the seat of the Tibetan Government in Exile, and home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama.

Overnight in Dharamsala.

Two full days to explore the area around Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj - most of the places of interest are within easy walking distance of your accommodation. Stretch your legs with a 90 minute return walk to the peaceful Bagshu waterfall, visit the monastery and home compound of the Dalai Lama at Tsuglagkhang, and wander around the town with its friendly Tibetan population (the cows are friendly too). Dharamkots is a small village near McLeod Ganj known for its panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range and peaceful atmosphere. Dal Lake- this is not to be confused with the larger Dal Lake in Kashmir, this smaller lake near Naddi village offers boating and picturesque views.

Norbulingka Institute which is Located near Dharamsala, this institute is dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and culture.

Optional Activities:

Additionally you could take a short trek from Dharamshala (in winter from December to February this will be dependent on how much snow has fallen in the hills). Some possibilities include:- Gallu Temple via Naddi and return, 10 km, 4 to 5 hrs; Guna Devi Temple via Ball village- return 20 km, 6 hrs.

Overnight in McLeod Ganj (Dharamsala).

After breakfast, depart for Mandi with a stop en route at a Tibetan Buddhist community near Taragarh. On arrival in Mandi, check in your hotel and in the afternoon explore the town of Mandi with its many temples and interesting ‘sunken garden’ central square.

Overnight in Mandi.

After breakfast, drive 3 hours to Manali arriving late morning. Check into your hotel- our main recommendations here are all historic places with great views to the mountains or onto the neighbouring pine forests. Explore Manali on foot in the afternoon- it is a lovely town which benefits greatly from its main street being closed to vehicle traffic, making it perfect for leisurely walking. One of the main attractions of Manali is the parkland and forest on the edge of town- another great place to walk.

Overnight in Manali.

There is plenty to see around Manali and on the opposite side of the valley along with spectacular views you can take in Naggar castle, the estate and museum of Russian ex-pat painter Nikolai Roerich and hot springs at Vashisht.

Optional to visit Rohtang Pass (if it is open during your visit):

If the road is open (normally it is closed from mid-October till April due to snow fall), you can take a half day drive to the Rohtang Pass on the road to Ladakh, through stunning scenery, high mountains and massive water and ice falls. Kindly note, to visit Rohtang Pass, tourists need to obtain a permit from the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) due to its sensitive ecological status and to manage traffic congestion and also need to take a Himachal Union vehicle for this visit (Delhi cars are not allowed). So if Rohtang Pass is open and if you are interested, you have to get permit (your driver will assist you on this) and then hire a local taxi union vehicle (on direct payment basis).

Return to Manali for overnight stay.

Depart Manali and drive 3 hours back down the valley past Kullu before turning east into the picturesque Banjar Valley (known as Valley of Gods), arriving at your accommodation in time for lunch. In the afternoon you can enjoy a spectacular mountain trek, or a more leisurely drive to nearby scenic points.

Banjar Valley is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, characterized by lush green meadows, dense forests of deodar and pine trees, and the snow-capped Himalayan peaks in the backdrop. The Tirthan River flows through the valley, adding to its scenic charm.

Overnight in the Banjar Valley.

Being the greenest city of India, Chandigarh serves as a union territory as well as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. Huddled at the foothills of the Shivalik range of Himalayas, Chandigarh is a pristine and beautiful destination. This prestigious city is known for its well-designed infrastructure which is designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier.

Morning visit to Rock Garden contains pottery and sculptures of musicians, dancers and animals that are completely designed out of discarded urban and industrial waste.

Then drive to Delhi, check in at your hotel and relax.

Overnight stay in Delhi.

Today you will be transferred to Delhi airport to take your international/domestic flight according to your flight schedule.

Tour Ends