The Best of Himachal Tour | Dalhousie/ Dharamshala
- Kashmir
Original price was: ₹25,000.00.₹19,000.00Current price is: ₹19,000.00.
- 9D/8N
- 2N - Shimla, Manali, Darmashala, Dalhousie
Tour Information
Transfers
Stays
Sightseeing
Breakfast & Dinner
Overview
This 9-day Himachal itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure, spirituality, and natural beauty as you journey through some of the most stunning hill stations in the region. Your adventure begins with a drive from Chandigarh to Shimla, where you explore the colonial charm of the hill station and its famous landmarks.
A day trip to Kufri allows for serene nature walks and adventure activities amidst picturesque surroundings. The journey then continues to Manali, with a scenic drive through Kullu and a visit to the spiritual town of Manikaran.
A day excursion to Rohtang Pass follows, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and thrilling snow activities.
Next, you’ll head to Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama, where you can explore the Dalai Lama Temple and Mcleodganj’s Tibetan culture.
From Dharamshala, you drive to Dalhousie, a peaceful hill station surrounded by lush greenery. Explore the quaint town and the beautiful Khajjiar, often referred to as “Mini Switzerland.” The journey concludes with a drive back to Chandigarh, offering an unforgettable experience of Himachal Pradesh’s diverse landscapes, spirituality, and adventure.
This trip is a perfect escape into the tranquility and beauty of the Himalayas.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla + Local Sightseeing
Distance: approx. 115 km
Drive Time: 4–5 hours
Your journey begins with a scenic drive from the plains of Chandigarh to the queen of hill stations—Shimla. As the altitude increases, so do the pine forests, winding roads, and colonial-era charm. Once in Shimla, check in and begin exploring the town’s heritage and vibrancy.
Take a leisurely walk on Mall Road, lined with cafes, local shops, and British-style buildings. Visit The Ridge for panoramic views and the iconic Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India. Don’t miss Lakkar Bazaar for wooden souvenirs and the optional climb or ropeway to Jakhoo Temple, home to a towering Hanuman statue.
Shimla offers the perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, especially in its cool mountain air and charming ambiance.
Night stay in Shimla
Day 2: Day Excursion to Kufri
Distance: approx. 15 km (one way)
Drive Time: 45 minutes (one way)
Today, enjoy a refreshing excursion to Kufri, a small yet scenic hill station located near Shimla. Surrounded by dense cedar forests and snow-capped peaks in winter, Kufri is a favorite destination for nature lovers and families alike.
Visit the Himalayan Nature Park, home to rare Himalayan wildlife like the snow leopard and barking deer. Adventure seekers can ascend to Mahasu Peak on horseback for stunning panoramic views of the Badrinath and Kedarnath ranges. In the colder months, Kufri transforms into a snowy playground with options for skiing, sledding, and snow biking. Kids and thrill-seekers will enjoy the amusement park at Kufri Fun World, which features some of the highest go-kart tracks in the world.
After soaking in the mountain beauty and enjoying some light adventure, return to Shimla for a relaxing evening stroll along Mall Road or a cozy dinner at a hilltop cafe.
Night stay in Shimla
Day 3: Shimla to Manali via Kullu and Manikaran
Distance: approx. 250 km
Drive Time: 8–9 hours
Start your long yet picturesque drive to Manali, one of Himachal’s most beloved destinations. On the way, stop at Kullu, where you can witness traditional Himalayan shawl weaving and, if adventurous, opt for river rafting in the Beas River.
From there, take a detour to Manikaran, nestled in the Parvati Valley, known for its natural hot springs and spiritual energy. Visit the Manikaran Sahib Gurudwara and ancient Shiva Temple, where hot water bubbles from the earth beside the icy river. The contrast between nature’s serenity and spiritual significance is mesmerizing. Continue your journey through winding roads flanked by apple orchards and thick forests, eventually reaching Manali.
Surrounded by towering peaks and alpine beauty, Manali welcomes you with cool air, scenic views, and a peaceful vibe. Check into your hotel and relax for the evening after a day of travel and sightseeing.
Night stay in Manali
Day 4: Day Excursion to Rohtang Pass
Distance: approx. 50 km (one way)
Drive Time: 2–3 hours (one way)
Today’s journey takes you to the breathtaking Rohtang Pass, perched at an altitude of 3,978 meters and often wrapped in snow for much of the year. The drive to Rohtang is as captivating as the destination, with glaciers, waterfalls, and panoramic views unfolding at every turn.
Once at the pass, you’ll be greeted by a magical landscape of snowfields and rugged mountain peaks. Depending on the season, enjoy snow sports such as skiing, sledging, snow biking, or simply building a snowman. For those unable to access Rohtang due to weather or permits, Solang Valley offers an excellent alternative with ziplining, paragliding, and ATV rides.
After soaking in the alpine air and stunning views, return to Manali by evening. Consider unwinding at Mall Road with hot chocolate or browsing local woollen wear and souvenirs in the Tibetan markets.
Night stay in Manali
Day 5: Manali to Dharamshala
Distance: approx. 240 km
Drive Time: 7–8 hours
Depart from Manali and embark on a beautiful drive toward Dharamshala, a serene town located in the shadow of the Dhauladhar range. The journey takes you through charming Himachali villages, thick pine forests, and flowing rivers.
Along the way, you’ll witness changing landscapes—from alpine views near Manali to spiritual calm as you near Dharamshala. Known as the home of the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala is a unique blend of Tibetan culture, Buddhist spirituality, and Himalayan beauty. Once you arrive, check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Soak in the peaceful environment, take a quiet walk, or enjoy the cool breeze and scenic views.
Dharamshala’s tranquil atmosphere sets the tone for a more introspective and spiritually enriching leg of your journey.
Night stay in Dharamshala
Day 6: Explore Dalai Lama Temple and McLeod Ganj
Today, explore McLeod Ganj, the vibrant Tibetan neighborhood of Dharamshala. Begin your day at the Dalai Lama Temple Complex (Tsuglagkhang), a serene spiritual site surrounded by prayer wheels, monks, and chanting.
This is the official residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and a place of peace and reflection. Visit the nearby Namgyal Monastery, and the Tibetan Museum, which offers insights into Tibetan culture and history. Walk through Bhagsunag Temple, and hike to the nearby Bhagsu Waterfall, a popular scenic spot. Wander through the colorful lanes filled with cafes, bookstores, and handicraft shops selling Tibetan jewelry, carpets, and thangkas.
Enjoy a Tibetan meal or sip butter tea while gazing at the snow-clad mountains. McLeod Ganj is a peaceful retreat with a blend of spiritual learning, natural beauty, and cultural richness that leaves a lasting impression.
Night stay in Dharamshala
Day 7: Dharamshala to Dalhousie
Distance: approx. 120 km
Drive Time: 4–5 hours
Leave Dharamshala behind and travel to Dalhousie, a colonial hill town known for its old-world charm and pine-covered valleys. The drive is scenic, taking you through lesser-known parts of Himachal with forests, streams, and winding roads offering quiet beauty.
On arrival, check into your hotel and explore the peaceful atmosphere of the town. Visit Subhash Baoli, a spring named after Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, and take a stroll through Gandhi Chowk. Marvel at the colonial architecture and quiet churches such as St. John’s Church. Dalhousie is known for its serenity and is perfect for those seeking rest amidst nature.
Spend your evening enjoying the cool weather and the crisp mountain air, preparing for the excursion to Khajjiar the next day.
Night stay in Dalhousie
Day 8: Explore Dalhousie Including Khajjiar
Distance to Khajjiar: approx. 22 km (one way)
Drive Time: 1 hour (one way)
Today, enjoy a day trip to Khajjiar, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India” due to its vast green meadows surrounded by thick forests and snow-capped peaks. Stroll across the open pastures, enjoy boating at Khajjiar Lake, or simply soak in the scenic beauty.
Visit the ancient Khajji Nag Temple, built in the 12th century, with wooden carvings and legends of local folklore. Adventurers can try horse riding, zorbing, or paragliding depending on the season. On the way back, you may also visit Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary, known for its nature trails and Himalayan flora and fauna. Return to Dalhousie by evening for a relaxed dinner.
The contrast of colonial calm and alpine wilderness makes this day a visual and emotional highlight of your trip.
Night stay in Dalhousie
Day 9: Dalhousie to Chandigarh
Distance: approx. 315 km
Drive Time: 8–9 hours
On the final day of your journey, drive back to Chandigarh. The route offers one last opportunity to enjoy the scenic mountain roads before descending into the plains.
As you leave behind the cool air, pine forests, and majestic peaks, reflect on the beautiful moments and diverse experiences the trip offered—from spiritual visits in Dharamshala and snowy adventures in Rohtang to colonial walks in Shimla and the serenity of Khajjiar.
Arrive in Chandigarh with a heart full of memories, beautiful photographs, and perhaps a few local souvenirs that carry the spirit of Himachal’s magic with you.
Include/Exclude
- Accommodation on twin-sharing basis.
- Breakfast and Dinner.
- All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary. Sedan or SUV depending upon the group size
- Driver lodgings, food, and other expenses.
- Road Tolls, fuel, and cab charges.
- Any activity like Rafting, Paragliding etc.
- Union transportation for Rohtang Pass
- Lunch and snacks.
- Any Kind of Personal Expenses or Optional Tours / Extra Meals Ordered
- Anything not mentioned in the inclusion list.
Call Our Tour Expert
- +91 70064 13075
- Arif Langoo (Tour & Travel Expert)
For customisation, group discounts, change in itinerary or stay options etc
Tour Information
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Sightseeing
Breakfast & Dinner
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