OVERVIEW- Embraced in the lap of the mighty Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is a paradise embellished with various natural riches. This wonderful Northern State of India has cosseted various popular holiday destinations within its periphery like Shimla, Manali, Palampur, Dalhousie, Dharamshala, Kullu and Chamba. Referred as the Magical Showcase of Nature's Splendors, this is the most captivating regions of the Indian Himalayas. Abundant green grassland, wide valleys set against snow-clad mountains, crystal clear lakes, fruit laden groves, soft terraces of corn and tea makes Himachal the ultimate destination of India. Popularly known as the Devbhumi "Land of the Gods", the state is landlocked with the Tibetan plateau to the east, Jammu and Kashmir to the north, and the Punjab to the west. The mountain altitudes range from 350 to 7000 meters above the sea level. A summer holiday tour to Himachal simply means a tour to a kingdom of heritage and natural elegance.
CHANDIGARH- The city was designed by the French architect Le Corbusier and is known for its modern infrastructure. Chandigarh is the first planned city of India. The city is the perfect base for exploring the surrounding region that is rich with art, history and scenic landscapes.
SHIMLA- Popularly called the Queen of Hill Stations. Once the summer capital of the British in 1864 AD. Presently also it is the capital city of Himachal Pradesh. Shimla is a perfect heaven for those in search of tranquility. Nature has blessed this capital city with innumerable gifts and man has used them to make Shimla one of India's best destinations.
MANALI- Popularly called the Switzerland of India is a small hill town in the valley of Kullu. Manali is extremely popular with tourists for its lavish display of un spoilt natural beauty. Manali is mainly popular for the adventure sports like trekking, mountaineering, hiking, skiing, paragliding, kayaking and mountain biking. It is an excellent place for a holiday.
DHARAMSHALA- Situated in the picturesque Kangra valley and set against the Dhauladhar mountain range in Himachal Pradesh, Dharamshala is an ideal retreat for nature lovers. The pristine environment with dense green cover consisting of Deodar and Pine trees provides a visual treat. Dharamshala is also the winter capital of Himachal Pradesh.
DALHOUSIE- Just 80 kms from Pathankot, this place is still unexplored. Spread over five hills, Dalhousie has a serenity of its own. Pleasant climate, beautiful scenery, thick growth of deodars, pine, red and pink rhododendrons, tall trees in different shades of green can be seen all around the hill station.
KHAJJIAR- Khajjiar is one of the 160 places in the world that bear tropical resemblance to Switzerland, Khajjiar is situated at a height of 6500 feet and bestowed with natural beauty and pleasant climate. Vast expanse of green meadows and dense forests besides vistas of majestic snow-clad Himalayan peaks make it popular. Khajjiar is also called the Gulmarg of Himachal Pradesh and serves as the starting point for treks.
CHAMBA- This small town is located in a picturesque valley, amidst the Shivalik ranges and is famous for its medieval temples. The architecture of the temples of Chamba reflects the glory of its erstwhile rulers. It is also known for its local festivals. Chamba shawls, the captivating Chamba chappals, cane baskets, woolens, and the dolls are all unique to Chamba region of Himachal Pradesh.
Tour Destination: Chandigarh - Shimla - Manali - Palampur - Dharamshala - Dalhousie - Khajjiar - Chandigarh
Travel Duration: 12 Nights/13 Days
DAY 1: CHANDIGARH - SHIMLA
Welcome at Delhi/Chandigarh. Drive to the Queen of Hill Stations-Shimla. Transfer to the hotel.
Later you can visit the MALL ROAD, which is the main shopping center of Shimla. It is considered as the heart of the town. A vast variety of goods, handicrafts, wools and shawls, pullovers, Tibetan carpets, pickles, and squashes are here to offer. Shimla is considered the best market for handicrafts.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 2: SHIMLA
Today visit the beautiful locations of Shimla.
FAGU HILL- For enchanting Himalayan glimpses, Fagu is situated on Hindustan-Tibet Road and is gifted with some beautiful views.
CHRIST CHURCH- Located on the Ridge, the Christ Church is known to be the second oldest church in North India. This pale yellow structure dominates the skyline of the Mall. The stained glasses installed on its large windows enhance its beauty.
JAKHOO HILL- Lies 2 km from Shimla, Jakhoo hill positions itself at an elevation of 8000 ft. This is the highest peak of Shimla from where you can enjoy the charm of its landscape. It houses an old Hanuman temple, which is frequented by devotees from different parts of the world.
SHIMLA STATE MUSEUM- This museum was started in 1974 and serves as a repository of different relics related to art, cultural anthropology and archaeology. The museum secures a collection of 9000 objects that highlight the cultural richness of Himachal Pradesh. It has various galleries, showcasing artwork of various patterns and periods.
CHADWICK FALLS- Cascading from a height of 67 m, this Chadwick Falls stream down from the summer hill. Settled amidst a thicket of deodar trees, it looks spectacular. Travellers can take delight in the bracing environs of the place or simply can go on trekking in the adjoining forested areas.
THE RIDGE- Situated in the heart of Shimla, The Ridge is a spacious area that runs east to west alongside the Mall road. It connects the place at the Scandal point on the west side. The road leading to wooden crafts market is known as the Lakkar Bazaar.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 3: SHIMLA
After breakfast, drive to Chail.
CHAIL- This is a beautiful hill station in Himachal Pradesh and one of the best offbeat places to visit in India. The gigsntic deodar and chir pine forest, the beautiful valleys, temples and wildlife sanctuary make it a complete family holiday destination. Located at a distance of 45 km from Solan and 44 km from Shimla, the place is away from the hustle bustle of the city. Chail is home to several mountain peaks and is considered as the hiker's paradise.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 4: SHIMLA - MANALI
After breakfast, drive to the hill station of Manali
In the evening you can visit the MALL ROAD, which is the main shopping center of Manali. A vast variety of goods, handicrafts, wools and shawls, pullovers, and Tibetan carpet.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 5: MANALI
After breakfast, visit the Switzerland of India-Manali.
ROHTANG PASS- The highest point, 4,112m, on the Manali-Keylong road, 51-km from Manali town. Rohtang pass is the stretch which connects Manali to Himachal's dreamier and dessert like landscapes, Spiti and Lahaul. Surrounded by soaring snow-capped mountains, it provides a wide panoramic view of mountains rising far above clouds, which is a sight truly breath-taking. Owing to its picturesque surroundings, this pass serves as an ideal picnic spot for tourists and people from nearby areas.
SOLANG VALLEY- A valley between the Beas Kund and the Solang village tends to be a favorite for all its visitors as well as the locals. Also known as the Snow point, the Solang valley is famous for the glaciers and snow-clad landscapes. Activities such as parachuting, paragliding, horse riding, driving mini open jeeps and sking in winters are available for tourists.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 6: MANALI
Explore more places today, like
HADIMBA TEMPLE- Hadimba or Dhungiri temple in Manali is one of the most important temples in the region. It is an ancient shrine that lies a few kilometres away from the main market of Old Manali. This temple is dedicated to Lord Manu, who is considered to the creator of human race on the earth as per the Hindu mythology.
MANU TEMPLE- Manu temple is said to be the only temple of Manu in India, who is believed to be the creator of human race. This Pagoda style of structure offers quite a glimpse into history, spirituality as well as a fascinating style of architecture.
VASHIST HOT & SULPHUR SPRINGS- Renowned for its hot springs and temples. Vashisht is a tiny village that lies towards the Rohtang Pass on the left bank of the Beas River. This place is famous for its ancient temples and hot springs. The popular hot sulphur natural springs at this place receive a lot of visitors year round as it is believed these waters can cure skin diseases.
KOTHI- a picturesque spot and an ideal resting resorts of poets, writers and the lovers of peaceful environs
Spend your time together; enjoy the snow and other adventurous games.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 7: MANALI - PALAMPUR
After breakfast, drive to Palampur, en route visiting
KULLU- This sister town to Manali too, is a hill station of dreamy landscapes and sceneries, a hub of adventure activities as well as home to a number of sacred temples and shrines.
BAIJNATH- Baijnath for the famous Lord Shiva's Temple and is the most sacred temple of Himachal.
PALAMPUR TEA GARDEN- The smallest tea region of India, Palampur has beautifully lined and organized tea gardens across the Kangra Valley.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 8: PALAMPUR - DHARAMSHALA
After breakfast drive to hill station of Dharamshala. On the way visit Chamunda Devi Temple and Jwalaji Temple. Later transfer to hotel.
In the evening rest after the long day drive enjoying the overlooking high mountains covered with silent snows and deep boulder strewn gorges.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 9: DHARAMSHALA
After breakfast visit The Little Lhasa of India- Dharamshala
DHARAMSHALA CRICKET STADIUM- Lying right in the lap of the beautiful natural backdrop of Dhauladhar Mountains, the Dharamshala Cricket Stadium is an unlikely but worthy tourist destination. This stadium is located at the height of 1457 meters above sea level and makes up for a mesmerizing view.
ST. JOHNS CHURCH- The charming dressed- stone church of St. John in the wildness. It is the oldest built structure of Dharamshala. This neo-gothic church was built in 1852 and is one of the most important churches in Himachal Pradesh.
DAL LAKE & NADI- Dal Lake is 11 km from lower Dharamshala and lies in between hills and deodar trees. This is a starting point for trekking and excursion, which is covered around the lake to make the walk memorable.
TRIUND- Triund is a 9-km trek away from Mcleodganj. It is situated at a great height and provides a mesmerizing view of the Moon Peak-Indera Pass. This is an ideal spot for picnics and the clean and pristine environment will surely rejuvenate your senses.
MCLEODGANJ- Often called the' Little Lhasa' at 1770 m; this is the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. The large Tibetan community and the presence of traditional architectural designs drawn from Tibet have enhanced the area.
BHAGSUNATH- Close to fresh water springs; this ancient temple is 11 km from Dharamshala. It is a popular picnic spot and the famous slate quarries are close by.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 10: DHARAMSHALA - DALHOUSIE
Drive to hill station of Dalhousie. Transfer to hotel. Transfer to the hotel.
In the evening visit the Tibetan market, the Himachal Handloom Industry Emporium, Himachal Handloom and Crafts Center, and Tibetan Handicrafts Center to buy spectrum of goods including bags, dolls, handicrafts, carpets, rugs, and purses.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 11: DALHOUSIE
Today visit the beautiful hill station of Dalhousie
ST JOHN'S CHURCH- Constructed in 1863, St.John's Church is one of the oldest holy places in the city. The church has a library where one can have a glance at the different collection of books portraying the rich tradition and history of this hill station. Moreover one can relish the emerald beauty as it is positioned in the setting of charming surroundings.
CHAMERA LAKE- The lake is situated at a distance of 12 miles from Dalhousie at an elevation of 1700m above sea level. It is an idyllic place for activities such as fishing and boating. There is a boat house close to the lake offering water sports activities like canoeing, river rafting, kayaking and motor boating.
DAINKUND PEAK- The mountain's highest point towers at a monolithic height of 2,745 meters above sea level. The Dainkund Peak is often termed as the singing hill.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 12: DALHOUSIE
Today continue sightseeing of Dalhousie viewing
KALATOPE WILDLIFE RESERVE- The high altitude forests of the Kalatop Wildlife Reserve are located at an average elevation of 2,500 meters above sea level. The forests are also known as Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary and are situated between the thick pine, deodar and oak forests.
KHAJJIAR- Often referred to as 'mini-Switzerland of India', Khajjiar is a small town near Dalhousie which provides tourists a unique combination of forests, lakes and pastures.
CHAMBA- The beautiful hill station of Chamba in s about 55 km from Dalhousie. Established by Raja Sahil Verma in 920 AD, the hamlet has retained its medieval charm. Along with pleasant climate, the picturesque hill station offers breathtaking sights of the snow-clad mountains and lush green forests. Chamba serves as a perfect summer getaway. The snow-clad mountains in and around Chamba are extremely popular for snow skiing.
Overnight at Hotel.
DAY 13: DALHOUSIE - CHANDIGARH
Day free for leisure and later, drive back to Chandigarh to catch your flights towards onward destination.
Distance & Time (Approx)
Himachal Pradesh at a Glance
Shimla at a Glance
Manali at a Glance
Dharamshala at a Glance
Dalhousie at a Glance
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