Himachal Pradesh is a destination that calls out to every mountain lover who desires some time off from routine life. This Himalayan paradise with its pine-scented valleys, colonial-era little towns, snow-covered slopes, and warm hospitality serves as the ideal place of calmness and adventure. You can sip coffee at a hilltop café, experience some thrilling snow sports, or explore the sights and sounds of Tibetan monasteries with this 10-day Himachal tour by Chetram Holidays. Chetram Holidays takes care of everything from upscale stays to private transfers, leaving you with nothing else to worry about except enjoying the ride.
Reach Shimla by road or train, where you will be welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel. The next day, post breakfast, you can wander through The Ridge, which offers scenic views of the snow-laden peaks. Find your way to the neo-gothic-inspired Christ Church and walk down Lakkar Bazaar for souvenirs and woolens. Visit Jakhu Temple via Jakhu Ropeway for panoramic views of the town. In the evenings, take a walk down Mall Road munching local snacks and sipping hot beverages. From colonial charm to trendy shops, this is the perfect place for your first day and night in the mountains. Rest and dinner at the hotel.
Set out for Kufri, just 16 km from Shimla, after breakfast. The place is known for its beautiful landscape with a view of snow-covered mountains, and it attracts nature lovers and adventure lovers. Tour the Himalayan Nature Park, which is a natural habitat to some rare inhabitants of Himalayan wildlife, and follow this with a trip on a horse or yak to Mahasu Peak, which is the highest point in Kufri. In the winter, take advantage of skiing, snowboarding, or tobogganing. Drive to Fagu Valley for peaceful views and good photography. Return to Shimla in the late evening. Spend the rest of your evening relaxing at the hotel or taking more time strolling down Mall Road.
After breakfast proceed to Manali by road, which will take approximately 7–8 hours. On the way, stop at Sundernagar Lake, Pandoh Dam, and Kullu Valley. Break for Kullu’s Shawl Factories to see in-house artisans intricately weaving woolens. On reaching Manali, check into a hotel and unwind after the long journey. Evening walk at Mall Road, including the Tibetan market for shopping for souvenirs. After that, have a hot dinner in your hotel and stay overnight.
Post breakfast at the hotel, proceed to visit Solang Valley, the adventure capital of Himachal. You could try paragliding, zorbing, or a ropeway ride in summer and skiing, snow scootering, and sledding in winter. If the weather is good and Rohtang Pass is open, you can spend time playing with snow and maybe catch a few glaciers. This is a heaven for photographers with its frosty winds and scenic peaks. Head to Manali by evening and unwind.
Visit the Hadimba Devi Temple and get your day off to a spiritual start with a 16th-century wooden temple situated amidst cedar trees. Check out Manu Temple in Old Manali and the Vashisht Hot Springs that are famous for their miraculous waters. Walk by the Beas River or sit back in one of the cozy cafes in Old Manali. End your tour by visiting the Tibetan Monastery in the evening and return to the hotel.
Post breakfast, leave for Dharamshala, a town held sacred by Buddhists. Surrounded by cedar forests on the edge of the Himalayas, this hillside town is home to the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile. Upon arrival at Dharamshala, check into your hotel and visit Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang Complex, the largest Tibetan temple outside Tibet and the official residence of the 14th Dalai Lama. Visit the Tibetan market to buy artifacts, prayer flags, and jewelry. Return to your hotel while enjoying Tibetan cuisine at a hillside café.
Have breakfast and then proceed to Bhagsu Nag Temple and Waterfall, come back in time, and move to beautiful Dalhousie. Of course, having a great view and pleasant walks are important considering this is a colonial hill station. In the evening, stroll in Gandhi Chowk and do some shopping for Himachali woolens and souvenirs.
Post breakfast, depart for Khajjiar, also known as “Mini Switzerland of India.” The lush meadow of Khajjiar, enclosed by deodars, is an ideal place for long nature walks and landscape photography. Get breakfast and visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and Waterfall, then drive to Dalhousie. On arrival, check in at the hotel. The hill station is a charming colonial stop with some lovely views and walks. In the evening, do the walk at Gandhi Chowk for Himachali woolens and souvenirs from little shops around.
Travel to the Kangra valley, which is home to the picturesque village of Palampur. Discover the tranquil and serene atmosphere of the Tashi Jong Monastery. Discover Tibetan culture while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain ranges. Explore the pine trees and take in the flora and fauna at Saurabh Van Vihar if you're looking for a quiet, isolated place to spend some time.
Post breakfast, you can explore Palampur more or just sit and relax in the mountains. Leave with the nostalgic memories of Himachal Pradesh in your luggage and head towards the airport or railway station.