Himachal – Nature’s Splendor

10 Days / 09 Nights

Himachal Pradesh is a beautiful hill state in northern India nestled in western Himalayas. The state is landlocked with the Tibetan plateau to the east, Jammu and Kashmir to the north, and the Punjab to the west. However the state stands apart from its neighbours in terms of its sheer topographic diversity and breathtaking pristine natural beauty. From vast tracts of high-altitude Trans-Himalayan desert to dense green deodar forests, from apple orchards to cultivated terraces, from snow capped high Himalayan mountain ranges to snow fed lakes and gushing rivers.

Description

Day 01: Arrive in Delhi.
On arrival at New Delhi Airport you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private vehicle. After relaxation half day city tour of Old Delhi visting the Mughal splendor of Red Fort and Jama Masjid, the largest mosque in India. Overnight at your Hotel.

Day 02: Drive to Shimla (320 kms / approx. 8 hour drive).
After breakfast, proceed on a picturesque drive to the charming hillstation of Shimla. Check into your hotel on arrival. The rest of the evening is free. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 03: In Shimla.
This morning proceed for a wonderful excursion to Kufri, famous for its trekking and hiking trails. Enjoy a walk through thick cedar woods to Mahasu Peak for an amazing view of the mighty Himalayas. You can also visit Indira Tourist Park from where you enjoy a panoramic view of the locations around. You could take an enjoyable pony or yak ride around the park. Spend the evening on the Mall Road visiting Scandal Point, Christ Church and Lakkad Bazaar. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 04: Shimla to Manali via Kullu (270 kms / approx. 8 hour drive).
This morning you will proceed on a breathtaking drive to Manali, nestling on the banks of the River Beas amidst the Kullu Valley. En route visit the Hanogi Mata Temple, followed by the Kullu Shawl Factory and Vishnu Mata Temple. On arrival, check into your hotel. The rest of the evening is at leisure. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 05: In Manali.
During your city tour today, visit the four and a half century old Hadimba Temple and the Tibetan Monastery which houses several images of Lord Buddha and Tankha paintings. Later drive to Vashist, a small village located on the left bank of river Beas renowned for its hot springs and temples. Nearby is the pyramidal stone temple dedicated to Vashist Muni. The evening is free to relax or stroll or shop at the Mall Road. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 06: Manali. Excursion to Rohtang Pass / Snow Point (51 kms / approx. 2 hour drive).
This morning, proceed on a day excursion to the Rohtang Pass. Rohtang Pass was the medieval trading route to Lahaul and Spiti. If roads to Rohtang Pass are closed, then visit Snow Point where ponies / horses can be hired. The rest of the day is free to explore this picturesque town. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 07: Manali to Dharamsala via Palampur (205 kms / approx. 7 hour drive).
Today your picturesque journey continues to Dharamsala. En route visit the tea garden at Palampur. Further, drive to Dharamsala. The rest of the day is free. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 08: Dharamsala to Dalhousie (180 kms / approx. 5 ½ hour drive).
In the morning, visit Buddhist Monastery and St. John’s Church. Later in the afternoon continue to Dalhousie. On arrival check into your hotel. The rest of the evening is free. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 09: In Dalhousie. Excursion to Khajjiar (23 kms / approx. 1 hour drive).
Today, drive to Khajjiar also known as mini Switzerland, a scenic spot set amidst a backdrop of dense pines, deodars and lush green meadows. Khajjiar is exquisitely nestled down in the foothills of the imposing Dhauladhar ranges of the western Himalayas providing a panoramic and breathtaking view. Later in the day, visit the Martyr’s Memorial at Panchpulla and Satdhara. Overnight stay at the hotel.

Day 10: On to Pathankot (80 kms / approx. 3 hour drive). Fly to Delhi and Depart.
Today bid farewell to your ‘Himachal – Nature’s Splendour’ tour, as you are transferred to Jammu or Amritsar airport to fly back to Delhi. Rest of the day is set aside for last minute shopping. Later, in time transfer to the airport to board your flight to onward destination.
Date and price to suit individual arrangements based on 2 people sharing. Breakfast included. Private air-conditioned car and driver with English speaking guides for sightseeing.