Arrival at Delhi & transfer to Hotel
Our representative will meet you at Delhi airport and transfer you to the hotel.
Delhi, India’s capital, has witnessed the rise and fall of great empires for millennia, each leaving behind monuments and ruins of stunning diversity. As the seat of the world’s largest democracy, it showcases magnificent symbols of self-rule and democracy in its architecture. Modern amenities such as wide multi-lane motorways, shopping malls, fast cars, and ultramodern steel-glass office complexes characterize this vibrant 21st-century metropolis.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, transfer to Delhi railway station and board the train to Chandigarh.
Upon arrival in Chandigarh, our representative will assist you and transfer you to the hotel.
Later, proceed for sightseeing:
Chandigarh, named after the Goddess of power, Shri Chandika, is renowned for its Chandi Mandir located on Chandigarh-Kalka Road, holding significant religious importance for Hindus. After India's independence, Punjab lacked a capital until the construction of Chandigarh, envisioned by Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru as a modern city symbolizing India's aspirations. Designed by French architect Le Corbusier, along with Pierre Jeanneret, Maxwell Fry, Jane Drew, Narinder S. Lamba (Chief Planner), and J.C. Verma (Chief Engineer), Chandigarh was established in 1953 at the foothills of the Shivalik range. Serving as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, it is currently administered as a Union Territory by the Central Government, although discussions continue regarding its future governance.
Enjoy a short sightseeing tour:
Sukhna Lake: Created by damming the seasonal rivulet Sukhna Choe, this lake offers a serene setting for morning and evening walks, with facilities for boating and water sports.
Rock Garden: Adjacent to Sukhna Lake, this world-famous garden is a unique fantasy crafted from household and industrial waste by Nek Chand. It features sculptures and structures made from recycled materials, depicting scenes of everyday life and fantasy.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
Morning drive to Shimla.
Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh and former summer capital of British India, remains the state’s most significant center. Despite its rapid expansion, Shimla retains a colonial charm with its grand old buildings.
Enjoy a short toy train ride known for its dramatic views of hills and surrounding villages. The Kalka–Shimla Railway, built in 1898 to connect Shimla with the rest of the Indian rail system, has been recognized by UNESCO for its altitude, length, and the tropical conditions it traverses.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
Today, enjoy a full day of Shimla local sightseeing, visiting The Mall, Ridge, Viceregal Lodge, Jhaku Temple, and Kufri. Overnight stay at the hotel.
The Mall: The main shopping center of Shimla, stretching approximately five kilometers from Chhota Shimla to Viceregal Lodge. This area is designated as a 'Heritage Zone' by the State Government, with only emergency vehicles allowed on Mall Road. Many old and beautiful buildings line the Mall.
The Ridge: A large open space in the heart of town offering excellent views of the mountain ranges.
Christ Church: Prominent on the Mall, the yellow Christ Church was built in 1857 and is reputed to be the second oldest church in northern India, designed by Colonel JT Boileau in 1844.
Scandal Point: Historically a hub of Shimla’s social life, where people gathered for conversation and gossip, now also known as a local meeting place.
Viceregal Lodge (Indian Institute of Advanced Study): Built between 1884-1888 by chief architect Henry Irwin, resembling a Scottish baronial castle. It was the first building in Shimla with electric light and hosted the Simla Conference in 1945. After independence, it became Rashtrapati Niwas and now houses the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, partially open to the public (closed on Mondays and Gazetted Holidays).
Jhaku Temple/Hill (2455 m): Dedicated to the monkey god Hanuman ji, located at Shimla's highest peak at 8048 feet above sea level, offering panoramic views of the city and snow-capped mountains.
Kufri (2501 m): Located 16 km from Shimla, renowned for its panoramic views, picnic spots, ski slopes, and horse riding. The Himalayan Nature Park/Zoo in Kufri houses various Himalayan species, including Snow Leopard, Barking Deer, Wolves, Black Bear, Brown Bear, Himalayan Monal, Silver Pheasant, and Red Jungle Fowl (Zoo closed on Tuesdays and Gazetted Holidays).
Overnight stay in the hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Manali via enroute visit to Kullu.
Kullu: Located 15 kilometers from Kullu at a small village called Bajura, the Bhasheswar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva. Constructed in the 9th century AD, the temple is renowned for its intricate stone carvings and houses small idols of Hindu deities such as Lord Vishnu, Ganesha, Durga, and Laxmi.
Upon reaching Manali, check in at the hotel. The evening is free for you to enjoy the hotel facilities.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.
Later, proceed for sightseeing in Manali.
Hadimba Devi Temple: Built in 1553 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh, the Hadimba Devi Temple is a famous wooden pagoda-style temple. It stands on a stone platform surrounded by ancient deodar trees. The temple is adorned with pennants, brass bells, and a trident, with carvings depicting animals, plants, and folk deities. Hunting trophies hang over its entrance.
Vashist Hot Water Springs: Located 4-5 kilometers from Manali across the Beas River, Vashist is renowned for its sulphurous hot water springs, a popular attraction among tourists and pilgrims. Visitors can also enjoy the springs in privacy at Turkish-style bathhouses available here. The village is also known for its stone temples dedicated to the local saint Vashishta.
Old Manali/Manu Temple: This original settlement features quaint old houses made of wood with slate roofs. The Manu Maharishi Temple, dedicated to Manu, the creator of the human race according to Hindu mythology, is also located here.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
In the morning, proceed for sightseeing.
Rohtang Pass (3979 m): Located 51 km from Manali on the national highway to Leh, Rohtang Pass offers panoramic views of spectacular mountains. It serves as a gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi, and Leh valleys. The pass is officially open from June to October each year, although trekkers may cross it earlier. Visitors can enjoy stunning sights of glaciers, peaks, and the Chandra River flowing into the Lahaul Valley.
(Rohtang Pass visit is subject to permission from NGT for our tour vehicle; otherwise, Solang Valley will be visited.)
Solang Valley (2480 m): Situated 13 km from Manali, Solang Valley is a splendid valley between Manali and Kothi, offering views of glaciers and snow-capped mountains. It features excellent skiing slopes with modern lifts, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The valley hosts the annual winter skiing festival.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
After breakfast, drive to Dharamshala and enroute visit Baijnath Temple and Chamunda Devi Temple.
Baijnath Temple: Located in the small town of Baijnath in Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh, Baijnath Temple is a Nagara style Hindu temple built in the 13th century (1204 AD) by two local merchants named Ahuka and Manyuka. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva as Vaidyanath, the Lord of physicians.
Chamunda Devi Temple: One of the most prominent temples in Himachal Pradesh and revered across India. It is believed that prayers and vows made here manifest into reality. The original shrine, Aadi Himani Chamunda, located atop a hill, was difficult for pilgrims to access. Therefore, the current temple was built around 400 years ago to facilitate easier worship. According to folklore, a 16th-century king and priest prayed to Goddess Chamunda, who appeared in a dream and guided them to the location of the idol. The idol was then installed at the present temple site.
Continue driving and reach Dharamshala to check in at the hotel.
Dharamshala overlooks the plains and is surrounded by dense pine and Deodar forests. Its proximity to the snowline, numerous streams, and cool, healthy atmosphere makes it a very attractive destination.
Dharamshala is a bustling bazaar town and serves as a base camp for travelers exploring the nearby mountains. Kotwali Bazaar offers a glimpse into small-town life, while colorful temples and Gompas reflect Tibetan culture, adding to its charm. The Kangra Museum provides insights into the region's rich history, while institutes dedicated to preserving Tibetan art, culture, and traditions enrich the cultural experience.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
Breakfast will be served at the hotel.
Proceed for sightseeing in McLeod Ganj.
Tsuglagkhang Complex: Located just above Dharamsala, this complex is the official residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. It includes the Dalai Lama's residence (Photang), Tibet Museum, Tsuglagkhang Temple, and Namgyal Gompa.
Kangra Art Museum: This museum showcases the arts, crafts, and history of the Kangra Valley, featuring artifacts dating back to the 5th century. It houses Kangra's famous miniature paintings, sculptures, pottery, and anthropological items.
War Memorial: Situated amidst pine groves, this memorial honors the post-independence war heroes of Himachal Pradesh. It's located at the entry point to Dharamshala and accessible via narrow paths and landscaped lawns.
Bhagsunag Falls: Located 2 km from the upper town of Dharamshala, Bhagsunag is known for its ancient temple, freshwater spring, hotels, and restaurants. A further 2 km hike leads to the picturesque Bhagsunag waterfall.
Dal Lake: Surrounded by towering Deodar trees, Dal Lake is situated 11 km from the town. It's a serene spot for picnics, easily accessible by road.
St. John's Church: A poignant relic of the British Raj, St. John's Church is located 8 km from Dharamshala on the way to McLeod Ganj. It houses a memorial over the grave of Lord Elgin, the British Viceroy who passed away in Dharamshala in 1863.
Kunal Pathri: These rock temples are a 3 km flat walk from Kotwali Bazaar, contributing to the historical charm of the region.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
fter breakfast, drive to Dalhousie.
Dalhousie is a serene hill station characterized by its enchanting ambiance. Nestled over five low-level hills on the western edge of the Dhauladhar range, east of the Ravi River, the town boasts picturesque colonial-era buildings, low-roofed stalls, and hotels. Surrounding pine-covered slopes crisscrossed with paths and treks offer ideal opportunities for leisurely walks.
Panchpula (Five Bridges): Located just 3 km from the town, Panchpula is a scenic spot where the waters from a natural tank flow under five bridges. An elegant monument here pays tribute to Sardar Ajit Singh, the great freedom fighter Bhagat Singh's uncle, who spent his last moments at Panchpula.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
Morning Proceed for Excursion Tour of Khajjiar & Chamba
Khajjiar (1951m): Located just 27 km from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India." This picturesque spot features a saucer-shaped meadow surrounded by dense deodar forests. At its center lies a small lake with a floating island, adding to its scenic charm. Visitors can explore the 12th-century Khajjinag Temple with its golden spire and enjoy activities like golfing at the local course. Accommodation options include the tourist bungalow, Hotel Deodar, Youth Hostel, and PWD Rest House.
Chamba: Founded in 920 AD by Raja Sahil Varman after conquering the lower Rani valley, Chamba is renowned for its ancient cultural heritage and architectural marvels. The town boasts several ancient temples and palaces, some dating back a thousand years.
Lakshmi Narayan Temple: Built in the 10th century by Sahil Varman, this temple complex features six shikhara-style temples, with the main temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.
Champavati Temple, Vajreshwari Devi Temple, Hari Rai Temple, and Chamunda Devi Temple: These temples are among the prominent religious landmarks in Chamba, reflecting the town's rich spiritual heritage.
Chaugan: A grassy lawn stretching less than one kilometer in length and about seventy-five meters wide, Chaugan serves as a cultural hub for Chamba. Originally leveled in the 1890s, it was transformed into a public promenade and a cricket ground during the British era. The annual Minjar Fair held here in July-August showcases traditional attire, songs, dances, and music, drawing visitors from across the region.
Bhuri Singh Museum: Named after Raja Bhuri Singh, who ruled Chamba from 1904 to 1919, this museum houses a remarkable collection of miniature paintings from Kangra, Basholi, Chamba, and other Pahari schools. (Closed on Mondays and government holidays).
Overnight stay in the hotel.
After Breakfast, Drive to Amritsar
Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple, is one of India's oldest and most captivating cities. It holds significant importance in Sikh history and culture, serving as a gateway for travelers from Central Asia. The city thrives with various historical and religious sites, the most famous being the Golden Temple. Founded by the fourth Sikh Guru, Guru Ramdas, and completed by Guru Arjan Dev, the Golden Temple is a spiritual and architectural marvel.
Amritsar is also known for its diverse industries including textile factories producing cotton, woolen, and art silk textiles, as well as manufacturing of electric goods, sewing machines, auto parts, and carpets. The Verka milk processing plant, located about 6 kilometers from the city center, is one of the largest of its kind in the country. Amritsar serves as India's leading exporter of goods to the Middle East and is a prominent distribution center for dry fruits, tea, and condiments. The city is renowned for its shopping opportunities and culinary delights, making it a paradise for shoppers and food enthusiasts alike. Additionally, Amritsar holds the distinction of being the world's leading center for Punjabi publications.
Optional Village Visit to Tarn Taran
In the afternoon, if desired, you can embark on a village visit to Tarn Taran. Experience the rustic charm and rural activities of the village, such as wheat and paddy harvesting, jaggery making, and leisurely walks through open fields or nearby villages.
Return to Amritsar and Evening Leisure
Return to Amritsar in the evening. The later part of the evening will be free for you to explore the nearby markets, where you can indulge in shopping and local cuisine.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
After Breakfast, Drive to Amritsar
Golden Temple (Sri Harmandir Sahib): Situated in the heart of Amritsar, the Golden Temple is the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion. Also known as Sri Darbar Sahib, it is surrounded by the Amrit Sarovar (Pool of Nectar), from which the city derives its name. The temple complex is accessed through an ornate archway adorned with intricate inlay work. The architecture is a fusion of Hindu and Muslim styles, featuring marble walls with pietra dura decorations. The temple's sanctum houses the Adi Granth, the holy scripture of Sikhism, under a jewel-encrusted canopy. The Akal Takht, next to the Golden Temple, is the seat of the Shiromani Gurudwara Prabandhak Committee.
Summer Palace of Maharaja Ranjit Singh: Located in Ram Bagh, this summer palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens inspired by Shalimar Bagh in Lahore. The palace now houses a museum dedicated to Maharaja Ranjit Singh, displaying paintings, miniatures, coins, and weapons from the Sikh period.
Jallianwala Bagh: This historical site is infamous for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre of 1919, where General Dyer's troops opened fire on unarmed civilians gathered for a festival, resulting in hundreds of deaths. Today, the park commemorates the victims with a memorial and museum. Bullet holes in the walls and a well where many drowned trying to escape are preserved as reminders of the tragic event.
Evening Visit to Wagah Border
Return to the hotel to freshen up before proceeding to Wagah Border for the Gate Closing Ceremony. Located on the international border between India and Pakistan, this ceremony is a symbol of the rivalry and cooperation between the two nations. The vibrant and patriotic spectacle includes the Beating Retreat and the Change of Guard ceremonies.
Overnight stay in the hotel.
Amritsar Airport Departure (By Surface)
Transfer to Amritsar airport for your flight back home or onward journey.
'TOUR ENDS WITH MEMORIES'