DELHI TO DALHOUSIE

An 8-day tour from Delhi to Dalhousie offers a peaceful retreat to the picturesque hill stations of Himachal Pradesh. Dalhousie, a charming town surrounded by pine-covered valleys and snow-capped peaks, is known for its colonial architecture, scenic views, and tranquil atmosphere. Here’s a detailed itinerary for your 8-day tour to Dalhousie:

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

• Morning:
  • Arrive in Delhi, the capital city of India.
  • Depending on your arrival time, explore some key attractions such as India Gate, Qutub Minar, or Humayun’s Tomb.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit Chandni Chowk for some local shopping or a delicious lunch at one of the famous street food stalls.
• Evening:
  • You can relax in the evening at Connaught Place, a popular shopping and dining area.
• Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 2: Delhi to Dalhousie

• Morning:
  • Check out from your hotel and take a train, flight, or private vehicle from Delhi to Dalhousie.
    • By train: Delhi to Pathankot (approximately 9 hours) and then take a taxi to Dalhousie (about 2 hours).
    • By road: The journey from Delhi to Dalhousie by private vehicle or bus takes about 12-14 hours.
• Evening:
  • Arrive in Dalhousie and check-in to your hotel.
  • Relax and enjoy the fresh mountain air. If time permits, take a casual walk around Mall Road.
• Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

Day 3: Dalhousie Sightseeing

• Morning:
  • Start with a visit to Khajjiar, often called the “Mini Switzerland of India,” known for its lush green meadows, forests, and a beautiful lake. You can take a short walk, enjoy a picnic, or take a horse ride.
  • Visit the Khajji Nag Temple, an ancient temple dedicated to the deity Khajji Nag, with traditional wooden architecture.
• Afternoon:
  • Head to Panchpula, a picturesque spot where five streams meet, offering beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Visit St. Francis Church and St. John’s Church to admire the colonial architecture.
• Evening:
  • Explore Mall Road for shopping and enjoy a relaxed evening at one of the cafes or local markets.
• Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

Day 4: Dalhousie – Day Trip to Chamba

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, head to Chamba, located about 50 km from Dalhousie (1.5-2 hours by car).
  • Visit Chamba Chowgan, a beautiful 500-meter-long open ground, surrounded by temples and old buildings.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit Laxmi Narayan Temple, a 10th-century temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and Bhuri Singh Museum, which showcases the rich culture and heritage of the region.
  • Explore Chamera Lake, an artificial lake located a little outside the city, where you can enjoy boating amidst the serene surroundings.
• Evening:
  • Return to Dalhousie in the evening and relax.
• Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

Day 5: Dalhousie to Dharamshala

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, check out from your hotel and drive to Dharamshala (approximately 4-5 hours by road).
  • Upon arrival, check in to your hotel.
• Afternoon:
  • Visit McLeod Ganj, the residence of the Dalai Lama, which is also known as Little Lhasa.
  • Explore the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which includes the Dalai Lama’s temple and a Tibetan museum.
• Evening:
  • Visit Bhagsu Waterfall, a peaceful spot for nature lovers, followed by a visit to Bhagsunath Temple.
• Overnight stay in Dharamshala.

Day 6: Dharamshala Sightseeing

• Morning:
  • Visit Namgyal Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Dharamshala, known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views.
  • Explore St. John’s Church, a neo-Gothic church set in the lush forests, dedicated to John the Baptist.
• Afternoon:
  • Take a scenic drive to Dharamkot, a serene village with amazing views of the surrounding mountains. It is perfect for a short trek or a relaxing afternoon.
  • You can also visit Triund Hill, a popular trekking destination that offers magnificent views of the Dhauladhar range (if you’re up for some adventure).
• Evening:
  • Relax at Dal Lake, a small lake located in the forest area of Dharamshala.
• Overnight stay in Dharamshala.

Day 7: Dharamshala to Dalhousie

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, begin your return journey to Dalhousie (4-5 hours by road).
  • Check in at your hotel and rest.
• Afternoon/Evening:
  • Spend the rest of the day at leisure, either relaxing or revisiting local attractions in Dalhousie like Subhash Baoli (a quiet spot surrounded by trees) and Garam Sadak (a pleasant walk).
• Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

Day 8: Dalhousie to Delhi

• Morning:
  • After breakfast, check out from your hotel and start your return journey to Delhi.
  • If you’re traveling by bus or train, the journey will take about 12-14 hours.
• Evening:
  • Arrive back in Delhi by evening or late night, marking the end of your 8-day tour.

Additional Information:

• Accommodation: Dalhousie offers various options ranging from budget hotels to luxurious resorts. Choose based on your preference for comfort and budget.
• Transport: A private vehicle or a combination of train and road travel is ideal for this tour. For long-distance travel, consider using comfortable Volvo buses or trains.
• Weather: The best time to visit Dalhousie is during the summer months (March to June) and during autumn (September to November). The weather is cool and pleasant during these months.
• Meals: Enjoy traditional Himachali food, including Siddu, Chana Madra, and Dham, as well as other North Indian delicacies.
• Shopping: Dalhousie is known for its woolens, handicrafts, and souvenirs, including wooden artifacts, Tibetan jewelry, and local spices.

This 8-day trip will offer a balance of scenic views, adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration, making it an unforgettable journey to Dalhousie and surrounding areas.