Day 01Arrive Delhi
Arrive by Internal flight, after traditional Indian style ‘Swagat’ (Welcome) by Exceptional Escapes representative, he would assist you at the airport & transfer to hotel for check in.
Delhi takes pride in being the capital of the country for many dynasties. It is in fact a city wrapped in legend, where time flows differently, and where every moment becomes a moment of history. A vibrant melting pot, it encapsulates two very different worlds, the 'old' and the 'new', each representing delectably different experiences. It is sprinkled with glittering gems like: captivating ancient monuments, magnificent museums, a vivacious performing-arts scene and some of the subcontinent's yummiest places to eat. Delhi blends within its folds the great cultural variety of India. Delhi is not just a name; it is a feeling. Come experience it...
Overnight Hotel – Delhi
Day 02Delhi – Chandigarh (By 12011 Klk Shatabadi@ 0740 / 10:59 Hrs)
Morning transfer to Delhi Railway station to board the train to Chandigarh. On arrival transfer to railway station to board the train to Chandigarh. “Enjoy the fastest train ride of India” On arrival transfer to Chandigarh hotel.
Later discover the artistic Rock Garden, scenic Sukhna Lake, and Le Corbusier’s iconic Capitol Complex (UNESCO site). Enjoy a stroll through the blooming Rose Garden, shop and dine at Sector 17 Plaza, and optionally visit the Chandigarh Museum & Art Gallery for art and history.
Overnight Hotel – Chandigarh (B)
Day 03Chandigarh – Kalka (28 Kms / 45 Minutes’ Drive) | Kalka – Shimla (By Him Darshan Express – 52459 @ 0700 / 1230 Hrs)
Early morning pickup at 05:30 AM and transfer to Kalka Railway Station to board the Him Darshan Express toy train to Shimla. This scenic train journey features six modern, first-class AC vista-dome coaches with glass rooftops offering stunning panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills.
The Kalka–Shimla Toy Train offers a picturesque ride through pine-covered hilltops, rich flora and fauna, and charming hill stations, justifying Shimla’s title as the Queen of Hills. It takes approximately 5–6 hours to reach Shimla, covering a 96 km route that includes 103 tunnels (with one now defunct), several artfully constructed humped bridges, and iconic stops like Dharampur, Solan, Kandaghat, Barog (home to the longest tunnel), Taradevi, Summer Hill, and finally Shimla.
Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the cool mountain air.
Overnight Stay: Shimla Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 04Shimla Sightseeing
After breakfast, proceed for a full-day guided sightseeing tour of Shimla, starting with:
Kufri: Known for its scenic beauty, trekking, and skiing (in winters). Adventure lovers can opt for skiing, tobogganing, or horseback riding.
Himalayan Nature Park (Kufri Zoo): Established in 1992, this high-altitude park was once a musk deer breeding center. It now houses over 140 species of Himalayan flora and fauna.
Timing: Winter – 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM | Summer – 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM | Closed on Tuesdays.
Return to Shimla and visit key landmarks:
Christ Church: Built in the 18th century, this is the second oldest church in North India with beautiful stained-glass windows.
Jakhu Temple: Located at Shimla’s highest point and dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic valley views.
The Ridge: A central open space with stunning views of the mountains and colonial architecture.
Shimla State Museum: Showcases Himachal’s cultural heritage with its collection of sculptures, paintings, and historical artefacts.
Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas): Once the summer residence of the British Viceroy, built in Jacobethan style and now a heritage building.
In the evening, enjoy leisure time exploring The Mall Road, known for cafes, shops, and colonial charm.
Overnight Stay: Shimla Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 05Shimla – Kullu – Manali (245 Kms / 6–7 Hrs Approx.)
After breakfast, drive to Manali with a stop at Kullu, the Valley of Gods, known for its temples, scenic beauty, apple orchards, and the vibrant Dussehra festival. The handicrafts of Kullu are a must-buy, especially woolens and shawls.
Continue to Manali, a major hill station that was once referred to as the "end of the habitable world." Manali is now a hub for both natural beauty and adventure sports, including skiing, rafting, trekking, and paragliding. Its charming mix of Indian, Tibetan, and Western cultures gives the town a lively and diverse character.
Arrive and check into the hotel. The evening is free to relax after the long drive.
Overnight Stay: Manali Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 06Manali – Excursion to Solang Valley & Atal Tunnel
After breakfast, head to Solang Valley (approx. 30 min drive), famous for winter snow activities like skiing and snowboarding and summer sports like paragliding and zorbing. A gondola lift takes visitors up to 3,200 meters for spectacular views.
Visit the Atal Tunnel, a marvel of engineering that connects Manali with Lahaul-Spiti valley, significantly reducing travel time and offering breathtaking Himalayan scenery.
Continue sightseeing in and around Old Manali:
Old Manali Village: Known for its peaceful vibe, fruit orchards, and rustic guesthouses.
Vashisht Village: Famous for its hot springs and temples, located across the Beas River.
Hadimba Devi Temple: A unique 16th-century wooden temple set in cedar forests, dedicated to Hadimba, wife of Bhima.
Tibetan Monasteries: Visit the serene Himalayan Nyinmapa Gompa, housing a golden Buddha statue and selling authentic Tibetan crafts.
Evening free for personal exploration or optional adventure activities.
Overnight Stay: Manali Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 07Manali – Dharamshala (260 Kms / 6 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Dharamshala, the serene hill town that serves as the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Nestled in the lap of the Dhauladhar ranges, Dharamshala is a perfect blend of Tibetan and Indian cultures.
Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. The rest of the day is free for relaxation and soaking in the peaceful mountain vibes.
Overnight stay at hotel in Dharamshala. (B, D)
Day 08Dharamshala Sightseeing
After breakfast, set out to explore the spiritual and cultural gems of Dharamshala and Mcleodganj:
The evening is free for personal exploration—enjoy the Tibetan markets or simply relax amidst the mountain serenity.
Overnight stay at hotel in Dharamshala. (B, D)
Day 09Dharamshala – Dalhousie (150 Kms / 4–5 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Dalhousie (2,039 m), a charming hill station spread across five hills on the outer slopes of the Dhauladhar Range. Famous for its old-world colonial charm, Dalhousie offers scenic beauty, pine-clad valleys, and stunning views of snow-capped peaks.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax.
Overnight stay at hotel in Dalhousie. (B, D)
Day 10Dalhousie – Khajjiar – Dalhousie (50 Kms / 2–3 Hrs)
After breakfast, enjoy an excursion to Khajjiar, often called “Mini Switzerland of India.” This picturesque destination is surrounded by dense deodar forests, rolling meadows, and a tranquil lake, making it one of the most enchanting spots in Himachal. Khajjiar is also part of the Kalatop–Khajjiar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rich flora and fauna.
Return to Dalhousie by evening for leisure and relaxation.
Overnight stay at hotel in Dalhousie. (B, D)
Day 11Dalhousie – Amritsar (210 Kms / 4 Hrs)
After breakfast, drive to Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural centre of Sikhism. On arrival transfer to hotel. Amritsar is renowned for its Golden Temple, the most revered and sacred shrine of the Sikhs. The name Amritsar literally means the Pool of Nectar. Devotees from all walks of life, regardless of caste or creed, visit the temple to offer their prayers. Within the temple complex lies the Guru Granth Sahib, the holy scripture of Sikhism, along with a 24-hour community kitchen (Langar) that serves meals to nearly 10,000 pilgrims daily, operated entirely by volunteers. Jallianwala Bagh, a site of historical significance, is also located nearby.
Wagah Border Ceremony
The Wagah Border is located 28 kilometers from Amritsar and serves as the only road crossing between India and Pakistan. This army outpost plays a crucial role in border security, preventing unauthorized crossings.
Evening Ritual at the Golden Temple
Later in the evening, return to the Golden Temple for a guided experience of the closing ceremony of the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred Sikh scripture. Witness the holy book being carried in a ceremonial palanquin to its night lodging, a deeply spiritual and serene moment.
Important Timings:
Overnight Stay: Amritsar (B)
Day 12Amritsar – Delhi (12003 Swarna Shatabdi @ 15:30 / 22:25 Hrs)
After breakfast, proceed for a guided visit to the sacred and historical landmarks of Amritsar with a knowledgeable English-speaking local guide.
In the afternoon, transfer to the railway station to board your train back to Delhi.
Overnight Stay: Delhi (B)
Day 13Delhi Departure
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey with memories of a wonderful Himachal journey.
Tour Concludes – Exceptional Escapes Manager will assist you with your airport transfer.
