Himachal Discovery Tours
Duration : (10 Nights / 11 Days)
Places Covered : Delhi - Chandigarh - Dalhousie - Dharamsala - Manali - Shimla - Chamba - Khajjiar.
Day 01 : Delhi - Chandigarh
Meet our representative awaiting you at Delhi International Airport. You drive to Chandigarh. While some visitors are impressed with the urbanised settlement of Chandigarh, others find the green and clean ambiance of the city perfect for a vacation amidst interesting tourist sites and buzzing nightlife. Most fascinating is the architectural excellence of the neat geometrical design of residential quarters and area layouts gives the city a unique westernised appearance rarely found in the country.
Afternoon visit Rock Garden, a brilliant creation of a humble transport official, the park was put together by Nek Chand who wanted a small garden for himself and ended up creating grand sculptures inside a beauteous park. Also explore other sightseeing spots such as Museum and Art Gallery and The Chandigarh Museum before settling in your hotel for night stay.
Day 02 : Chandigarh - Dalhousie
After breakfast, drive to Dalhousie, followed by hotel check-in. An erstwhile British Summer capital, Dalhousie has been endowed with magnificent Victorian style structures by its colonial rulers. The colonial mansions are now accompanied by modern hotels and posh localities. The region is ideal for honeymooners who in addition find plenty of scenic vistas and seclusion to celebrate their marriage intimately amidst romantic environs. Stroll in the region and indulge in the picturesque beauty of Dalhousie.
Day 03 : Dalhousie - Chamba - Khajjiar - Dalhousie
Today, we proceed to Khajjair via Chamba. Khajjiar is part of the notified Kalatop Khajjiar sanctuary. The Monal Pheasant, a bird which was fairly common till recent times has become relatively difficult to spot nowadays, but with a little precision and guidance of an expert you can spot these species here at Khajjar. The sanctuary surrounded by mountainous trees of coniferous, Oak, Deodar and Fir is home to various endangered species of birds. In the evening drive back to Dalhousie.
Day 04 : Dalhousie - Dharamshala
After breakfast drive to Dharamshala. On arrival set on a sightseeing tour of Dharmshala and first visit a quaint little town, Mcleodganj. Also known as "Little Tibet" Mcleodganj is the place of residence of Dalai Lama. At the start of Mcleodganj is a small bazaar filled with variety of Tibetan handicrafts and artefacts. At the end of the spur lies the Namgyal Monastery thus the entire day at Dharamshala will be full of tranquillity and solace perfect for a rejuvenating sojourn to the hills. Apart from gorgeous vistas and serenity, Mcleodganj is frequently visited by those interested in learning Tibetan Buddhism, culture and crafts; it is also an ideal destination to full your bags with exquisite Tibetan handicrafts, Tibetan carpets, garments and other trinkets.
Day 05 : Dharamshala
This morning the entire day is at leisure. One can simply stay at the hotel and enjoy the scenic views from window of the hotel room or else venture outside to see some renowned Buddhist temples or plan a visit to surrounding towns of Palampur etc. The nearby spiritual attractions are Chamunda temple which is a renowned Hindu pilgrimage site; also an Osho Nisarga, a retreat centre of Osho is present in the same vicinity. The day is left free for personal activities and you can choose to mould the itinerary as per your preference and liking.
Day 06 : Dharamshala - Manali
After breakfast drive to Manali, the renowned hill station of Himachal Pradesh. While domestic tourists visit Manali for honeymooning and the enchanting views of mountains the foreigners loves to indulge in adventure sports and for a laid back exploration of the surrounding villages and temples. Also it is from here that a significant number of trekkers set on their mountaineering escapades towards Ladakh, Karakoram Pass, Spiti, Leh and Keylong.
Day 07 : Manali
After breakfast you may take a walking tour of Manali, visiting the 450 years old temple dedicated to Hadimba Devi, which has some excellent woodcarvings which includes its intricately carved wooden doors and a 24 meters tall wooden tower. Goddess Durga dominates most of the themes of the carvings inside the temple which is very captivating. You also visit the Vashisht Bath, Jagat Sukh Tibetan Monastery and the handicraft centre. The rest of the day at leisure or walk to the nearby picturesque village of Vashisht known for its quaint environs, small temples, simple living and of course hot sulphur springs. Visit Vashisth to witness tranquilizing façade of Mother Nature.
Day 08 : Manali
This morning you visit the Solang Valley which is situated at the top of Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh. The valley is not only a favourite of nature lovers, but is equally loved by adventure freaks for it offers summer and winter sport conditions. You can try your hands at various exhilarating sport activities such as parachuting, paragliding, skating, skiing and zorbing. The same route goes toward one of the not to be missed destinations of the region, the Rohtang Pass. Situated 51 km from Manali at an altitude of 3978 meters Rohtang Pass is a high mountain which connects Lahaul and Spiti Valleys (subjected to weather conditions).
Day 09 : Manali - Shimla
After breakfast proceed towards Shimla. Draped in forests of pine, oak and rhododendron this erstwhile summer capital of British colonisers blossoms at an altitude of 2,205 m. Experience pleasant summers and snowy winters at the soothing environs of Shimla which is often referred as "Queen of Hills". The neo-gothic architecture mushrooming amidst emerald settings of Shimla adds a vintage appeal which charms all. Spend the day at leisure at your hotel.
Day 10 : Shimla
On the tenth day you will be driven towards numerous famous tourist spots of the region. First set on an excursion to Kufri, a tiny hamlet located 13 km from Shimla. The highest point of the surrounding region, Kufri is known for spectacular scenery and a Himalayan Wildlife Zoo. For further blossoming vistas drive to Fagu or try you're your hands at renowned golf course of Naldehra which is a spectacular course, nestled at an altitude of 2044 meters strewn with trees and hillocks. Drive back to Shimla then in time for dinner.
Day 11 : Shimla - Delhi
After breakfast, back to Delhi and transfer to Railway Station / Airport.
