Considered to be a traveler’s paradise, Himachal has some of the most spectacular and beautiful landscapes that can be found anywhere in the country. There are lush green valleys, lofty snow peaks, enchanting mountain lakes, deep gorges and flower decked meadows in addition to the ancient monasteries and beautiful temples that make the place the ideal holiday destination for every traveler.
Day 1: Delhi
Meet and greet at the airport and transfer to hotel. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 2: Delhi - Shimla
On time assistance and transfer to New Delhi railway station to board train to Kalka. On arrival Kalka assistance and transfer to Shimla.Shimla, was the Summer capital of India under British rule . Presently, it is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh, with its population around 1.6 lacs (Shimla town only). Shimla has seen many important historical events such as the famous Shimla Pact between India & Pakistan which was signed here. The place is also famous for its natural beauty, architectural buildings, wooden crafts and apples . On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3: Shimla
After Breakfast Full day sight seeing of Kausani, Jakhu Temple, Kufri Valley.Jakhu Hill: 2 km from Shimla, at a height of 8000 ft, Jakhu Hill is the highest peak and offers a beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered Himalayas. At the top of the Hill, is an old temple of Lord Hanuman, which is also the home of countless playful monkeys waiting to be fed by all visitors.
Kausani is a destination for Himalayan tourists. It is located 53 km North of Almora. The altitude of this place is about 1890 mts. This place offers a 350 km view of the Himalayan peaks like Trisul, Nanda Devi and Panchchuli. There are very few places in the Himalayas which can compare with the beauty of Kausani - a picturesque hill station famous for its scenic splendor and its spectacular 300 km-wide panoramic view of the Himalayas. Kausani lies on the atop the ridge amidst dense Pine trees overlooking Someshwar valley on one side and Garur and Baijnath Katyuri valley on the other on Almora-Bageshwar-Didihat Highway. Mahatma Gandhi called this place the 'Switzerland of India', due to similarity in landscape.Jakhu Hill: 2 kms. from Shimla, at a height of 8000 ft, Jakhu Hill is the highest peak and offers a beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered Himalayas. At the top of the Hill, is an old temple of Hanuman, which is also the home of countless playful monkeys waiting to be fed by all visitors.After excursions back to Shimla.
Overnight at the Hotel.
Day 4: Shimla
Morning free. Afternoon half day city tour visiting <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AOH','SLV','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Indian Institute of Advanced Studies</a>, Sankat Mochan Temple and Jakhu Temple, Evening free to stroll in the famous shopping place of Shimla town - <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AOJ','SLV','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">The Mall</a> & The Ridge.<a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AOJ','SLV','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">The Mall</a>: <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AOJ','SLV','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">The Mall</a> is the main shopping centre of Shimla. It also has many restaurants, clubs, banks, bars, Post Offices and tourist offices. The Gaiety Theatre is also situated there. People walk up and down <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AOJ','SLV','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">The Mall</a> slowly, stopping to gossip, as it is the main meeting place for everyone. The Ridge and Scandal point are the two main meeting points at <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AOJ','SLV','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">The Mall</a>.
Christ Church: Situated on the Ridge is Christ Church, which is the second oldest church in Northern India. It has a very majestic appearance and inside there are stained glass windows which represent faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience and humility. Christ Church is a place all visitors should spend some time in.
Jakhu Hill: 2 kms. from Shimla, at a height of 8000 ft, Jakhu Hill is the highest peak and offers a beautiful view of the town and of the snow-covered Himalayas. At the top of the Hill, is an old temple of Hanuman, which is also the home of countless playful monkeys waiting to be fed by all visitors.
Shimla State Museum: The Museum, which was opened in 1974, has tried to project hill-out and the cultural wealth of the state. There is a collection of miniature Pahari paintings, sculptures, bronzes wood-carvings and also costumes, textiles and jewellery of the region.
<a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AOH','SLV','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Indian Institute of Advanced Studies</a>: This institute is housed in the Viceregal Lodge, which was built in 1884-88 during the British times. It has spacious gardens and is ringed by beautiful pine trees. All is calm and serene just the right atmosphere for a student of literature or politics.
Summer Hill: Situated at a distance of 5 kms. from the Ridge is the lovely township of Summer Hill at a height of 6,500 ft. on the Shimla-Kalka railway line. Mahatma Gandhi lived in these quiet surroundings during his visits to Shimla. Himachal Pradesh University is situated here.
Annandale: Developed as the playground of Shimla, Annandale is 2-4 kms. from the Ridge at a height of 6,117 ft. It is a favourite spot for cricket, picnics and the princely game of polo.Tara Devi: 11kms. from the Shimla bus-stand. Tara Devi has a temple dedicated to the goddess of stars on top of the hill. There is a military Dairy Town here as well as the headquarters of Bharat Scouts and Guides. At a height of 6,070 ft. Tara Devi is an ideal place for a person wanting peace and some rest.
Sankat Mochan: A popular Hanuman temple is located here. We get an excellent view of Shimla from the temple. It can be reached by car or on foot.
Overnight at hotel.
Day 5: Shimla
Travel by surface from Shimla to Manali. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 6: Shimla - Manali
Morning half day city tour visiting Hadimba Devi Temple, <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AEO','MNL','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Manu temple</a>, Tibetan Monastery and Vashisht Village.In ancient times, the valley was sparsely populated by nomadic hunters known as 'rakshas'. The next arrivals were the shepherds who arrived from the Kangra Valley and settled to take up agriculture. Some of the earliest inhabitants of the region are the 'naur' or 'nar', which is a caste unique to the Kullu valley. Only a few naur families are known to exist now. A naur family in the village Soyal near Haripur on the west bank of Manali was famous for the vast land they owned and their practice of having 'rakshas' as their labourers.Manali is a popular Himalayan tourist destination and accounts for nearly a quarter of all tourist arrivals in Himachal Pradesh.[citation needed]Manali's cool atmosphere provides a contrast to hot Indian summers.
Manali is famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Yak skiing is a sport unique to this area.[4]. Manali also featured in Time magazine's "Best of Asia" for its "Extreme Yak Sports".[4] Manali also offers hot springs, religious shrines and Tibetan Buddhist temples.
Manali has become a favorite destination for honeymooners since the last few years. Statistics show that around 550 couples reach Manali daily for honeymoon in season (May, June, December, January) and around 350 couples reaches Manali daily in rest time[citation needed].
Manali is known for its shiny gompas or Buddhist monasteries. With the highest concentration of Tibetan refugees in the entire Kullu valley, it is famous for its Gadhan Thekchhokling Gompa, built in 1969. The monastery is maintained by donations from the local community and through the sale of hand-woven carpets in the temple workshop. The smaller and more modern Himalayan Nyingamapa Gompa stands nearer the bazaar, in a garden blooming with sunflowers.
Naggar Fort, south of Manali is a reminder from the Pala Empire. Made from rocks, stones, and elaborate wood carvings, it is an ensemble of the rich and elegant art works of Himachal. The castle was later converted to a hotel and is currently under himachal tourism.[citation needed]
Hidimba Devi Temple, erected in 1553, is dedicated to the local deity Hadimba, wife of the Pandava prince, Bhim. The temple is noted for its four-store pagoda and exquisite wooden carvings
The British introduced apple trees and trout, which were not native to Manali flora and fauna. It is said that when apple trees were first planted the fruits were so plentiful that often branches, unable to bear the weight, would collapse.[citation needed] To this day, apple—along with plum and pear—remains the best source of income for the majority of its inhabitants.
Afternoon free. Overnight at hotel.
Day 7: Manali
Full day excursion visiting Kothi Gorge, Gulaba, Marhi, Rohtang Pass (Upto Snow Line in case Rohtang is closed due to snow fall) and Sollang Valley.Rohtang Pass, at an altitude of 3979 m (13,050 ft) above sea level, is another adventure tourist site where it can be cold even on a summer day. It is the highest point on the Manali-Keylong road and provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is truly breath taking. Close by is a small lake called Dassaur Lake. Beas Kund, the source of river Beas, is also nearby. In winter, the road of Rothang Pass is closed.
Important to note that the road to Rohtang Pass is closed off at Manali bridge,on all tuesdays between 0900-1800 hrs for carrying out road widening work & repairs. If you are able to leave early, before 0900, you can avoid the traffic rush (found on all other days) and have Rohtang Pass to your self (well almost!!). Flip side is to be prepared for stoppages (extending upto a few hours) on the return trip as the road is blocked off where repair works are progressed. If you are driving up, be prepared for the rough broken roads at many places, sheer blind turns and tight hairpin bends, which can be exhilarating depending on the state of your nerves. Beas Kund, an igloo shaped temple, on top has a spring which is the origin of River Beas.
Solang Valley popularly known as Snow Point, is 13 km northwest of Manali and famous for its 300-meter ski lift. It is a picturesque spot and offers splendid views of glaciers and the snow-capped mountains. <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'AEP','MNL','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Jagatsukh</a>, the former capital of Manali, is also an important spot
Overnight at hotel.
Day 8: Manali
Full day excursion visiting <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'ACA','KUU','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Manikaran</a>. <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'ACA','KUU','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Manikaran</a> is a pilgrimage centre for Hindus and Sikhs. The Hindus believe that Manu recreated human life in <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'ACA','KUU','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Manikaran</a> after the flood, making it a sacred area. It has many temples and a gurudwara.[1] There are temples of Lord Rama, Krishna, and Vishnu.[2] The area is well-known for its hot springs[3] and its beautiful landscape.
According to legend, when Lord Shiva and his consort Parvati were walking in the valley, Parvati dropped one of her earrings. The jewel was seized by Shesha, the serpent deity, who then disappeared into the earth with it. Shesha only surrendered the jewel when Shiva performed the cosmic dance, the Tandava and shot the jewel up through the water. Apparently, jewels continued to be thrown up in the waters at <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'ACA','KUU','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Manikaran</a> until the earthquake of 1905
<a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'ACA','KUU','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Manikaran</a> has the World-s hottest Suplhur Spring Waters and is a holy place for Hindus & Sikhs alike. Return back to Kullu town enroute visiting the famous Kullu Shawl Industry. On arrival check in at hotel. Evening free to visit Kullu town. Overnight at hotel.
Day 9: Manali
Travel by surface from Kullu to Mc Leodganj (Dharamsala). Dharamshala is a city in the upper reaches of the Kangra Valley and is surrounded by dense coniferous forest consisting mainly of stately Deodars. The suburbs of the town includes -- McLeod Ganj, Bhagsu Nath, Forsyth Ganj, Naddi, Kotwali Bazaar (the main market of the town), Kaccheri area (government offices such as the court, police, post etc.), Sidhpur and Sidhbari (where the Karmapa Lama is based
The village of McLeod Ganj lying in the upper reaches is known worldwide for the presence of the Dalai Lama, where he has resided since fleeing Tibet in 1959. Dharamshala houses the headquarters of the Tibetan Government-in-exile about two kilometres below the town of McLeod Ganj, led by the Prime Minister, Samdhong Rinpoche.
Dharamshala is the centre of the Tibetan exile world in India. Following the 1959 Tibetan uprising there was an influx of Tibetan refugees who followed the Dalai Lama. His presence and the Tibetan population has made Dharamshala a popular destination for Indian and foreign tourists, including students studying Tibet
On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 10: Manali - Manikaran
Morning half-day city tour visiting Dal Lake, Church, Bhagsu Nag Temple and Tibetan Monastery.Just 02 km from <a class="PIInfosoft-placeName" onclick="openAttractionDescriptionPopup('en', 'A7O','DHM','IND','India');" data-target="#PopUp5" href="javascript:void(0)" data-toggle="modal">Mcleodganj</a> is the ancient Bhagsunag temple dedicated to lord Shiva with a fresh water spring. Further, about 1.5 km a path leads to waterfall, which is at its pristine glory during monsoon. The view of unsullied water gushing out of the water fall and the mist emanating from the fall about 20 feet is indeed a delighting experience. Tiny water drops rising in air as a result of fall, taking from the light drizzle sooths one's eyes and mind.The sacred Dal lake with natural water body is 11km from Lower Dharamshala connected by motorable road. It is the starting point of excursions and trekking and is located next to the Tibetan Children's village. The lake is a scenic picnic spot surrounded by the forests of Deodar. There is a temple of Durveshwar Mahadev by the side of the lake. A colourful annual fair is held every september on the ady of Radhaashtami. Dal lake is spot of religious importance, besides, a place of tourist attraction.
Further, 1.5 km from Dal, is a scenic spot of Naddi offering a clear view of Kangra valley and Dhauladhar peaks. It is connected with road and is famous as sunset point. Naddi is also a staring point for trek to Kareri Lake, Guna Devi temple and Triund.
Afternoon free. Overnight at hotel.
Day 11: Manikaran - Kullu
Travel by surface from Mc Leodganj to Dalhousie. On arrival check in at hotel. Overnight at hotel.
Day 12: Kullu
Morning half-day city tour.In western Himachal Pradesh, the hill station of Dalhousie is full of old world charm and holds lingering echos of the Raj era. It covers an area of 14 sq. km. and is built on five hills - Kathlog, Patreyn, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun. It is named after the British governor General of the 19th century, Lord Dalhousie. The town's average height is 2036 m, and is surrounded by varied vegetation - pines, deodars, oaks and flowering rhododendron. Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. Its location presents panoramic views of the plains and like a long silver line, the river Ravi twists and turns below Dalhousie. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar mountains are also visible form this enchanting town.CHURCHES : There are four beautiful churches in Dalhousie. These are St. Andrew's Church and St. Patrick's Church at Balun, St. Francis church at Subhash Chowk and St.John's Church at Gandhi Chowk.
SUBHASH BAOLI (1 km) : It was at this enchanting spot surrounded by majestic trees, that Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose spent time in 1937, contemplating and meditating.
PANCHPULA (3 km) : This is a picturesque spot where a stream feed a series of pools. A monument has been built here in memory of the freedom fighter, Sardar Ajit Singh.
KALATOP (10 km) : This wild life sanctuary is a home to the 'ghoral' and Himalayan black bear.
Afternoon free. Overnight at hotel.
Day 13: Kullu - Dharamshala
Full day excursion visiting Khajjiar and Chamba town.Often called India's Switzerland, the exquisite glade of Khajjiar (1960m) has a circumference of about 5 km. Along its fringes, thick forests of deodar climb the slopes, the snow-line rests above these woods. At Khajjiar there is a 12th century temple dedicated to KhajjI Nag. Within the temple are life size wooden images of the five Pandav brothers. Chamba town (915m). stands on the right bank of the river Ravi. As a former princely State, it is one of the oldest in the century and dates back to the sixth century. It is well known for its splendid architecture and a base for numerous excursions. It is also the district headquarters. Overnight at hotel.
Day 14: Dharamshala
Check out from the hotel. In time transfer to Pathankot railway station (Chakki Bank - 90 Kms) to board train to Delhi.
Day 15: Dharamshala
On arrival assistance and transfer for onward destination.
