Itinerary

Day 1, MANALI TO DHARAMSALA

Drive to Dharamsala, a hill station with a spectacular setting along a spur of the mighty Dhauladar mountain range. Surrounded by magnificent deodar and pine forests, tea gardens and beautiful hills, there are superb views over the valleys below. Since 1960, when it became the temporary headquarters of the Dalai Lama, Dharamsala has come to be known as the “Little Lhasa” in India.

Stay at Chonor House for two nights

Day 2, DHARAMSALA

A guided morning tour to explore Mcleodganj, the upper tier of Dharamsala, which also houses the headquarters of H.H. the Dalai Lama. There are several temples and monasteries worth visiting. The most remarkable is the Nornulingka which has all the old-world charm of Tibetan architecture. The complex includes a temple, college, studio, workshops, guesthouse and cafe. Opened in 1995, the Norbulingka Institute is a living record of Tibet’s rich culture, committed to preserving those of its arts that are being wiped out in the homeland.

Day 3, DHARAMSALA TO AMRITSAR

Drive to Amritsar. Just before sunset you visit the flag lowering ceremony at the Wagah Border between India and Pakistan. The ceremony lasts for around 45 minutes in total. It starts with high patriotic spirits from sides of the border. Soldiers march towards the gate at the border, which is thrown open when they reach there. The soldiers salute each other other and start lowering the flags. The flags are lowered at the same time. The soldiers retrieve and fold the flags, the gate slams shut, and a trumpet sounds the end of the ceremony. The soldiers then return with their country’s respective flag. Quite a show!

Stay at Ranjit’s Svaasa for two nights.

Day 4, AMRITSAR

Situated on the north western borders of India, in Punjab, the 400 year old city of Amritsar is the most important seat of Sikh history and culture. The city houses the sacred shrine the Golden Temple. At the centre of this enormous temple complex is the stunning Hari Mandir with its golden gleaming dome.

In the morning you have a guided tour of Amritsar, including the Golden Temple. Heads must be covered and shoes removed when you enter the temple. You may consider returning to the temple on your own at night when it’s beautifully lit up, with its imposing pure gold dome illuminated.

Day 5, AMRITSAR TO DELHI

You take the express train from Amritsar to Delhi. On arrival at Delhi railway station you are met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.

Day 6, ONWARDS FROM DELHI

Today your tour ends after breakfast. Delhi is the gateway to all major places of interest in North India. The favourite destination of most travellers is Rajasthan. You can travel from Delhi to Jaipur module, and from there either follow the Road to Agra or continue your Journey into Rajasthan.

Alternatively, you can travel by to Shimla, Haridwar & Rishikesh, or Corbett National Park, to explore the Foothills of the Himalaya.