15 Days Tour to Himachal Pradesh
Himachal Pradesh with its enthralling and scenic beauty has so much to offer that a 15 days tour of Himachal Pradesh is all that is needed to explore this ravishing natural masterpiece like never before.
We start on this trilling, adventurous and an unbelievable tour of Himachal Pradesh.
Arrive at Delhi on Day 1
We reach Delhi almost at midnight and check in to some good hotel for night stay.Starting for Chandigarh on Day 2
In the morning right after breakfast we head towards Chandigarh which is about 238 km from Delhi. One can also pack their breakfast and have it on the way, choice is all yours. It is almost at evening that we reach Chandigarh and then get into a good hotel.Heading for Kurfi on Day 3
Arrive at Shimla (about 120 km from Chandigarh), check into some good hotel or resort freshen up, have breakfast or light snacks and then head towards Kufri about 18 km from Shimla.Local sightseeing in Kufri
Kufri at an elevation of about 2,510 meters is a very famous tourist destination having a very pleasant and cool climate. Kufri is also a paradise for adventure lovers with Skiing being the most popular sport.
Skiing
Kufri with its towering altitude has some excellent slopes that serve as the perfect ground for skiing. Every year, skiing competitions are held in Kufri that attracts both professionals as well as amateurs. Apart from skiing, tourists visiting Kufri should not miss on the fun filled adventurous Yak and Horse rides.
The Himalayan Nature Park
The Himalayan Nature Park towering at an elevation of over 2,600 metres is a very beautiful park known to house a wide variety of Himalayan flora and fauna like Snow Leopards, Tibetan wolves, bear and Pheasants. Spread over 90 hectares, the park has some forests surrounded by a thick canopy of Deodar, Blue pine trees, Oak and Fir. It boasts of having a wide range of Orchids and herbs.
Mahasu Peak
The Mahasu Peak is the highest peak in Kufri from where one can get a panoramic view of its enthralling surroundings.
The slopes of Mahasu Peak provide an excellent ground for skiing, especially for amateurs.
Fagu
Situated at a distance of about 6 km from Kufri, Fagu, at an altitude of about 2,509 metres is a majestic place surrounded by some magnificent deep forests and lovely apple orchards. Fagu is a very serene and quiet place that offers an unbelievable view of the higher valleys and ranges. Kufri has a beautiful Rest House and Tourist Bungalow where people can night stay or one can head back to Kufri which also has some good resorts and hotels where people can rest at night.
Kufri to Shimla on Day 4
In the morning, after breakfast, we head back to Shimla, known to be the best hill station in India cradled by the mighty snow capped Shivalik Ranges. The beautiful hill station has so much to offer that immediately after returning, we head towards the major attractions of Shimla.Local Sightseeing in Shimla
Shimla weaves such a magical charm that people get floored by its enthralling natural beauty, visiting this beautiful hill station over and over again.Christ Church
Believed to be the second oldest church in Northern India, the Christ Church took 11 years for its completion (1846 – 1857).
A visit to this ancient church is a must which is an absolute architectural genius.
Scandal Point
The Scandal Point is located on the Mall Road. The Scandal Point is considered to be the highest point in Mall Road, offering a panoramic view of the magnificent Valleys of Shimla. Mall Road is also a very popular shopping destination where one can shop to their full satisfaction.
Regal Lodge Gardens
Also known as Rashtrapati Niwas, the Regal Lodge was once the Residence of the British Viceroy of India, now a Heritage building. The Regal Lodge Garden is well maintained and has a bontanical garden visited by a lot of tourists.
Jakhu Temple
The Jakhu Temple is a Hanuman Temple situated at Jakhu Hill, the highest peak in Shimla. One can get an amazing and scintillating view of the picturesque Shimla town from the hill top.
Enjoy Adventure Sports on Day 5
Shimla with its varying altitude is famous for a variety of adventurous sports and activities, popular among which are Golf, Skiing, Ice Skating and Trekking.
Golfing
Naldehra and golfing are like two faces of the same coin. Situated about 23 km from Shimla and surrounded with lush greenery, the Naldehra Golf Course is the oldest and the best golf course in India.Annandale in Shimla is another popular golf course that attracts a lot of tourists.
Skiing
Situated at a distance of 64 km from Shimla, at an elevation of about 8,100 feet, Narkanda is believed to be the oldest Ski Resorts in India. The slopes of Narkanda serve as an excellent ground for skilling, attracting a lot of enthusiast tourists every year.Trekking
There are some very famous places in and around Shimla known for trekking. Tourists come in large numbers every year to experience the thrill of trekking. Some popular places known for trekking are Naldehra, about 23 km from Shimla, Narkhanda about 64 km from Shimla and Chharabra about 13 km from Shimla.Shimla to Manali on Day 6
After breakfast, we head towards a new destination, Manali, situated at a distance of about 285 km from Shimla. Once we reach Manali, check in to some good Hotel and indulge in some exciting local sightseeing.
Local Sightseeing in Manali
Manali, also known as the Valley of Gods is a very famous tourist destination with lots to offerVashisht Village
Named after the famous Saint, Rishi Vashisht, the beautiful Vashisht Village, about 6 km from Manali is situated on the banks of the River Ravi. The village has a number of hot springs which are of great medicinal value and people come here to take a bath in these hot springs which are known to cure many skin diseases. The village is also famous for the temples of Lord Ram and his Kula Guru.Tibetan Monastery
One can also visit the Tibetan Monastery which creates a very peaceful and soothing ambience. The monastery is also known for some excellent Tibetan carpets and handicrafts that are being sold at the monastery. The Gadhan Thekchoking Gompa is a very popular monastery visited by a large number of tourists.Ma Hadimba Devi Mandir
Built in 1553, the 450 years old Hadimba Devi Temple.It is dedicated to Hadimba Devi, wife of Bhim.
Situated in the Dhoongri Village in Manali, the temple has a magnificent architecture.
Its wonderfully carved wooden doors are a must watch.
After another exciting day in the midst of nature, it is time to return to the hotel for a good night’s sleep.
A Visit to the Famous Manikaran Sahib on Day 7
Next we visit Manikaran, a place of immense religious interest that attracts devotees in large number. Situated in the magnificent Parvati Valley, Manikaran has some spellbound and magical landscapes and natural hot water springs, which have healing powers. Located at an altitude of about 1,760 metres along the banks of the Parvati River, Manikaran is a spiritually enriched place with a number of Temples (Lord Ram, Lord Krishna and Lord Vishnu) and Gurudwaras. It is believed that the rice for Langars is cooked by simply putting them in a bag and dipping the bag in the hot springs. Manikaran should not be missed at any cost.An Adventurous Trip to Rohtang Pass on Day 8
For the adventurous souls, there is always the much anticipated visit to the Rohtang Pass. After breakfast head towards the Rohtang Pass and explore it like never before. A paradise for adventure lovers, the magnificent Rohtang Pass is the gateway to Lahaul and Spiti, connecting the beautiful Kullu Valley with Lahaul and Spiti. Towering at an elevation of 3,980 metres above the sea level, Rohtang Pass is about 2 hours journey from Manali (about 51 km). Being the highest peak in Manali, the Rohtang Pass provides a breath taking view of the mighty Himalayan peaks covered with snow and the young glaciers. Due to its towering altitude, Rohtang Pass is an ideal place for Trekking, Skiing or Mountaineering and Rock Climbing. One should not miss the fun filled Scooter and Sledge Rides down the snowy slopes during the downward ride.
After the adventurous trip to the Rohtang Pass it is time to have lunch. One can then visit the beautiful Solang Valley and the Rahala Waterfall if still left with energy.
Solang Valley
The Solang Valley is located about 14 km Northwest of Manali. This beautiful village is famous for Skiing, Horse Riding, Paragliding, Parachuting and Zorbing attracting a lot of enthusiast tourists.Rahala Waterfall
Situated about 16 km from Manali, the Rahala Waterfall originates from the melting glaciers with water falling from a staggering height of 2,501 metres, leaving the spectators in awe.Manali to Palampur on Day 9
In the morning after breakfast we start for Palampur (about 183 km). Once we reach there, freshen up and start exploring the various places of interest in Palampur.
Local Sightseeing in Palampur
Palampur is another popular tourist destination that attracts tourists in large numbersDhauladhar National Park
Known as Gopalpur Zoo, the famous Dhauladhar National Park is situated at about 30 km from Palampur and house a variety of animals like Red Fox, Angora Rabbits, Sambhar and Asiatic Lion.
Known as the Tea Capital of Northwest India, Palampur is famous for the tea gardens that fill the whole atmosphere with a heavenly aroma.
Church of St. John
Church of St. John is a very famous tourist destination that was rebuilt in 1929.
Situated at a distance of about 18 km from Palampur, the Baijnath Shiva Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Palampur to Kangra Valley on Day 10
In the morning, we head towards the magnificent Kangra Valley (about 15.3 km)
Local Sightseeing in Kangra
The picturesque Kangra valley is cradled by the mighty Shivaliks towards its south and the Majestic Dhauladhar Range towards its north making it a spectacular sight. Kangra is of great spiritual importance as it has a number of temples.Kangra Fort
The Kangra Fort is a very popular tourist destination also known as the “Nagar Kot” and is well maintained by the Archaeological Department.
Chamunda Devi Temple
The Chamunda Devi Temple is a very famous temple that is believed to be a Shakti Peeth dedicated to Goddess Chamunda or Goddess Durga. The temple is situated at a distance of about 13 from Kangra and attracts a lot of tourists and devotees in particular.
Jwalamukhi Temple
The Jwalamukhi Temple is situated at a distance of about 30 km from Kangra. A very popular temple in Northern India, the temple has no Idol of any Goddess and is dedicated to Jwalamukhi or the “Flamming Goddess”.
There is an eternal flame arising from the rock sanctum that is considered to be sacred and is visited and worshiped by devotees in large numbers.
Brajeshwari Devi Temple
It is a popular temple dedicated to Brajeshwari Devi. This temple was believed to be destroyed by a massive earthquake in 1905 after which it was rebuilt in 1920.
Kangra Art Museum
Kangra Art Museum is a very famous museum that displays Kangra Valley’s crafts and some magnificent artifacts dating back to the 5th Century.
Bir Billing
For those interested in Paragliding, a visit to Bir Billing in the magnificent Kangra valley is a must. The enthusiast para gliders can experience the thrill of soaring high in the air, giving wings to their dreams, leaving aside all the tensions.
Kangra to Dharamshala on Day 11
The next morning we proceed towards the magnificent Dharamshala which is about 19 km from Kangra
Local Sightseeing in Dharamshala
The picturesque hill station Dharamshala is divided in two parts; the upper part called McLeodganj and the lower part known as Dharamshala. Dharamshala with a strong Tibetan influence has many exciting and interesting places visited by tourists in large numbersTsuglag Khang
Tsuglag Khang (Dalai Lama’s Temple Complex) is a very famous tourist destination that is known to house the popular Namgyal Monastery where monks get trained. It is situated at a walking distance from the bus stand at Dharamshala. Tsuglag Khang is known to be an excellent meditation centre.
Dip Tse-Chok Ling Gompa
This is a very popular Monastery situated on a steep hillside. It has a guesthouse where the tourists can relax.
Tea Gardens
Dharamshala is famous for tea gardens that leave a person completely mesmerised with a heavenly aroma. Green tea leaf, Jasmine tea, Oolong tea and premium tea are all results of these extremely rejuvenating tea gardens.
Temple of Kunal Pathri
Temple of Kunal Pathri is a very popular temple erected to worship Goddess Kapaleshwari. Legends have that Devi Sati’s skull which was cut off by Lord Vishnu’s Sudarshan Chakra fell at this place.
Chinmaya Tapovan
Chinmaya Tapovan is a beautiful Ashram at about 10 km from the magnificent Dharamshala. It is situated on the banks of Bindu Saras was established by late Swami Chinmayananda. The major center of attraction in Chinmaya Tapovan is a 9 meter high statue of Lord Hanuman.
Besides this, the ashram is popular for a Ram Temple, a School and a Meditation and Recreation Hall.
Dharamshala to McLeodganj on Day 12
In the morning we start for Mcleodganj which is only about 9 km from Dharamshala:Local sightseeing in McLeodganj
There are some very popular places in and around McLeodganj which draws a lot of tourists towards itself every year.Dharamkot
Dharamkot is situated at about 3 km north of McLeodganj. Surrounded by a thick canopy of Rhododendron Forests and Tall Pines, Dharamkot offers a panoramic view of the majestic Dhauladhar Range. The Tushita Research Centre is situated in Dharamkot. Dharamkot is famous for the Tibetan Children’s Village, which runs a school that trains nearly 2,000 students.
Bhagsunath Temple
Bhagsunath Temple is situated 3km east of Mcleodganj. A visit to this temple leaves one completely rejuvenated and relaxed.
Bhagsu Waterfall
Situated just behind the Bhagsunath Temple, the splendid Bhagsu Waterfall dancing down from a height of 30 feet is a popular picnic spot that attracts a lot of tourists.
McLeodganj to Dalhousie on Day 13
Day 13 we move towards the very beautiful hill station, Dalhousie.Local sightseeing in Dalhousie
The picturesque hill station Dalhousie derives its name from Lord Dalhousie, the British Governor General of the 19th century. One can get a breathtaking view of the mighty snow capped Dhauladhar Ranges from Dalhousie.Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is a very popular and enthralling wildlife sanctuary that offers an unbelievable view of the snow capped mountain peaks, deep valleys and its immediate surroundings. Spread over 1,962 hectares of land, the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary house a wide variety of flora and fauna, famous among which is the Himalayan Bear. One can also opt for the fun-filled Jungle Safari.
Khajjiar
Also known as the Mini Switzerland of India, Khajjiar is a very famous tourist destination surrounded with a thick canopy of Deodar trees.
It is famous for a lake situated at the centre, near which is located the wooden Nag Temple (about 500 years old).
St. Francis Church
St. Francis Church was constructed in the year 1894 and is visited by people of all faith and religion.
Besides St. Francis Church, there is also St. Andrew's Church constructed in 1903 and St. Patric's Church in 1909 that attracts a lot of tourists.
Dainkund
Dainkund towering at an elevation of 2,745 meters is considered to be the highest peak in Dalhousie.It offers a magical view of three majestic rivers; River Beas, Ravi and Chenab.
Subhash Baoli
Named after the famous freedom fighter, Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, Subhash Baoli is situated at a distance of about 1.6 km from Dalhousie which serves as an excellent picnic spot.
Local sightseeing in Dalhousie continues on Day 14
In the morning, right after breakfast we continue exploring the beautiful hill stationJandari Ghat
Jandari Ghat is an excellent viewpoint that offers an enchanting view of the majestic snow capped Pir Panjal Range and the other adjacent hills.Panchpula
Panchpula is a place of great historical significance as the Samadhi of the famous freedom fighter; Sardar Ajit Singh lies here in Panchpula.
Panchpula stream is the major source of water to Dalhousie.
Bhadrakali Temple
The Bhadrakali Temple situated in the Chamba District is dedicated to Goddess Bhalai Mata, the local Goddess.Chamera Dam
Situated on the way to Chamba, the Chamera Dam is an artificial lake built over Ravi River. The Dam came into existence mainly due to the Chamera Hydroelectric project.Sach Pass
If time permits, one can visit the famous Sach Pass, that remains covered with snow throughout the year. Located at a very high altitude, the Sach Pass is situated at a distance of about 120 km from Dalhousie.
It is surrounded by the magnificent Chamba Valley and Pangi Valley on either side making it a spectacular view.
Dalhousie to Pathankot on Day 15
As all good things come to an end, so also this amazing trip finally ends and we head towards Pathankot which is about 80 km from Dalhousie. From Pathankot, we head back to Delhi by train.Armed with the above information, plan a trip to Himachal Pradesh as early as possible and enjoy the magical masterpiece on earth.
