Rediscover the Land of Gods

Himachal Pradesh is the ideal place to enjoy both winter and summer sports all through the year. It literally means the " Land of snow " but can also be refered to as the '' Land of Gods ". It enjoys a unique position in the Indian Himalayas. Nature here is both sublime and beautiful , rugged and harsh , from the green meadows to the fertile valleys of Kangra and Kullu to the barren valleys of Lahoul and Spiti on whose rocky slopes not even a blade of grass grows. The elevation varies from 350m in the foothills of Kangra to 6975 m in the higher ranges of Lahoul and Parbati Valleys. While Dharamshala has the second highest level of rainfall.

Itinerary

Delhi - Shimla - Sarahan - Sangla - Chuitkul - Nako - Tabo - Pin - Kaza - Batal - Keylong - Manali - Palampur - Dharamsala - Amritsar - Delhi
Total no of days : 21
Best Season : June-September
Grade : Moderate

Day 1: Delhi

Meeting and assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel. Afternoon half day City tour of New Delhi visiting India Gate – The memorial arch of the World War, President House – official residence of India’s President. Then visit Qutab Minar, which was built by Qutub‘ud din in 1199 as a memorial of victory. Overnight at hotel.

Day 2: Delhi

Full day sightseeing of Delhi. We begin with Red Fort, built by the great Mughal Shah Jahan in the 17th century. Rising amid the chaotic huddle of streets is the Jama Masjid, India's most beautiful mosque, its black-striped marble cupolas etched against the skyline. We'll visit the Red Fort and explore the bustling Chandni Chowk, the best of all Asian bazaars. Everything here contrasts vividly with New Delhi's spacious gardens, sparkling ornamental waters and immense formal vistas.

Day 03: Delhi-Shimla (2205m) by train.

In time transfer to railway station to connect Himalayan Queen - dep. at 0600hrs Delhi arr. Kalka 1130hrs. Then board the connecting Toy Train to Shimla, (dep. 1215hrs Kalka-arr Shimla 1715hrs). Evening free to explore the down town which is situated at an altitude of 2130m, Shimla is the capital and the most important town of Himachal Pradesh. It derives its name from an ancient temple of goddess 'Shamla', a synonym of 'Kali'. Shimla was discovered by the British in 1819 but it was only in 1822 that the first permanent house was built here by a young officer, Major Kennedy-and it is still there. Shimla assumed the title of being the summer capital of the British Raj. It not only became famous for its high-flown social life, but eventually became a center of many important activities which are landmarks in the political history of India. On arrival you are met and transferred to your accommodation in the hotel. Overnight at your hotel.

Day 04: Shimla

After breakfast at Hotel, we would proceed for a heritage walk of Shimla. Start your walk from here to the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies (formerly known as Viceregal Lodge). On this walk past many other structures etc of Brit ish Era like the Shimla Club, Gaiety Theater, The Mall, The Ridge, Gorton Castle now office of The Accountant General, State Museum of Himachal and finally ending the walk at the magnificent Indian Institute of Advanced Studies or the Viceregal Lodge. Afternoon at Leisure for relaxation. Overnight at hotel.

Day 05: Shimla-Sarahan (1920m) by jeep 175 km (6 hrs)

Drive up along the ridge upto Narkanda (3690Mts) and then decent into Baspa valley driving along the Sutluj river. En route stop at Rampur (135km), erstwhile capital of Baspa Kingdom and continue drive to Sarahan, which is a beautiful village surrounded by apple orchards and dominated by Shirkhand Mahadev Peak (5155M) which resembles the "SHIVLING", is famous for Bimikali temple where goddess idol is around 200 years old. Sarahan was once the ancient centre of commerce Traders from Bhutan, Ladakh, Kashgar and Yarkand brought their wares to sell and explore excellent views of the Himalayas. Overnight stay in Hotel.

Day 06: Sarahan-Sangla (2680m) by jeep 95km (3-4 hrs)

En-route visit Bhimakali temple and then decent down to river Satluj. Driving along the bank till Karcham and then turn into Sangla Valley famous for Kamru Fort, where many Rajas of Kinnaur were crowned, now dedicated to Kamakshi Temple. Sangla is built on a slope with houses rising one above the other. The gigantic Kinner Kailash peak (6050M) dominates the background. Overnight stay in tents.

Day 07: Sangla-Chitkul-Sangla

After having breakfast drive to Chitkul, the last inhabited village in Sangala Valley surrounded by green fields and high mountain peaks, Chitkul is a like fairyland. The quaint little houses, temples, gompas and the people of Baspa Valley conjure up the perfect image of a Shangri-La. Afternoon sample the delights of many excellent surroundings in Sangla (2680 M) an important village of the valley situated on the right bank of Baspa river. Baspa valley, also known as Sangla valley, is by far the most beautiful valley of Kinnaur. It starts from Karcham- where the Baspa river, coming from the east, joins the Satluj. The road winds its way through a narrow valley and round precipitous bends to arrive at Sangla, a fairy large village with a Forest House the old fort of Kamru is situated a few kilometers north of Sangla.

Day 08 : Sangla-Nako (2950m) by jeep 120 km (5-6 hrs)

The footprints of the Second Buddha. The leg ends of kinnaur are replete with stories of Padmasambhava the great Buddhist teacher, also called the second Buddha. According to one legend, Padmasambhava in a demonstration of his tantrik powers is said to have landed on a rock in the village of Nako. It is typical Kinnaur village with a glacier fed lake, an ideal camping site. Overnight in camp at Nako village.

Day 09: Nako-Tabo by jeep 74 km (3-4 hrs)

After breakfast continue drive to Tabo (3050M), a small village famous for its 10th century old Buddhist unassuming monastery said to have been established as a seat of learning by Padmasambhava, the profounder of Tantric Buddhism. Surely the gods live here Beaten down by the silence and the appalling sweep of dispersal of the cloud-shadows after rain. This place is no place for men. Geologically and archaeologically, Spiti is a living museum. It is also known as "Ajanta" of the Himalayas. It houses more than 100 Lames, large number of scriptures and pieces of art, wall painting, Tankhas and stucco. Overnight stay in tents at Tabo.

Day 10: Tabo- Kaza by jeep 95 km (5 hrs)

Drive to Pin Valley in the South West of Spiti. The Pin Valley has a pass connecting it with Kinaur and from there by lower valleys with Kulu. LW Dane a British Traveler pioneered this new route and the Danes Pass are now known as the Pin Parvati pass. Enroute visit the Dankar Gompa. Overnight in your camp.

Day 11: Kaza

After early breakfast full day sight seeing in Kaza the capital of Spiti a commercial centre of the ancient silk route situated at the foot of steep ridges, on the left bank of river. Visit The famous Ki Monastery, which is visible, right from the road and is amongst The highest inhabited villages in the world. The Ki Monastery has a fabulous collection of Ancient tankhas. Kye is the biggest monastery in the Spiti Valley situated at an altitude of 4116 Meters above the sea level. It is situated 76km South East of Kunzum La and 74km from Sumdo. Return to kaza in evening and overnight in your tents.

Day 12: Kaza-Batal by jeep 88km (2-3 hrs)

After breakfast drive to Batal along Spiti river which is at the base of Kunzum Pass (4551M). Enroute lofty Shigri Glacier is seen in all its grandeur. Recently a temple has been built on the top of the pass dedicated to lord Geypan-the presiding deity of Lahaul. Rahul was the son of Buddha and the name Lahaul is derived from Rahul. Overnight in your tents at Batal.

Day 13: Batal-Keylong by jeep 92km (3-4 hrs)

^^ TOP ^^

On day 13th drive to Keylong, the capital of Lahaul, is a compact of square-built houses overlooking the Bhaga river. With green cultivated fields and willows and popular trees, it looks like an oasis amidst the barren landscape of the valley. Surrounded by snow peaks, Keylong is so situated that it gets maximum sunshine during winters and summers. 117 km from Manali it stands on the Manali-Leh road. Kardong Monastery is one of the most important monastery, which is seen, perched on a hill in the shadow of Roangeha peak on the opposite side of the valley. Overnight in hotel at Keylong.

Day 14: Keylong-Manali by jeep 115km (5-6 hrs)

After early breakfast drive to Manali- 1896 m through Rohtang Pass (3980 M) above sea level and situated at the northern end of Kullu valley, is a picturesque little town, and is the most popular place in Himachal Pradesh. It is typical small town bustling with activity during the summer season. Around Manali, nature has lavished the region with forests, waterfalls, green slopes rivulets and souring snow-covered mountain peaks. Manali also boots of a Mountaineering Institute, which imparts training in Mountaineering, Skiing and other adventure activities. Driving and exploring the beauty of nature on the way enjoy the picnic lunch en route. Overnight stay in Manaliresort.

Day 15: Manali

Morning visit to Naggar- 27kms from Manali and 22km from Kulu, Naggar was the capital of Kullu Rajas till A.D. 1660. The ancient castle, now converted into Tourist Bungalow, overlooks the entire Beas Valley. Nicholas Roerich, the famous Russian painter and philosopher lived here and his quaint little house has been converted into a small museum. There are two old temples near castle. Afternoon at leisure to explore down town famous for apple orchards, its old wooden temples and its folk music and dances. Overnight at your camp resort/hotel.

Day 16:Manali - Palampur by jeep 158km (5-6 hrs)

After early breakfast drive to Palampur situated at an altitude of 1260 m. Palampur is a delightful spot in the Kangra valley. the town, surrounded by tea gardens has well planned walks and picnic spots. The mighty Dhauladhar in the back ground presents a memorable view. On your way visit Bir and Billing the famous for its Buddhist Monasteries and Tibetan Handicrafts. Halt en-route at Baijnath which is noted for its ancient Shiva Temple (804 AD). Afternoon visit the tea gardens in Palampur. Overnight at the Heritage Resort.

Day 17: Palampur - Dharamsala by jeep 58km (3 hrs)

Morning drive to Dharamsala situated at the height of1400M. Dharamsala is the third most popular hill station in the state. Macleod-ganj a charming Tibetan settlement with bustling bazaars that sell Tibetan handicrafts and delicious Tibetan food. The major center for the studies of Tibetan culture. It is the resident of Dalai Lama and is also famous for its arts and handicrafts. Enroute visit the Hindu temple in Jawli Mukhi. Afternoon visit the Namgyal Monastery, summer palace of HH Dalai Lama and Tsochling Monastery. Overnight stay at hotel.

Day 18: Dharamsala

Forenoon visit the Tibetian Chlidren village and handicraft centers. Afternoon visit Tibetian Parliament, Library and Medical Center. Evening free to rest and relax. Overnight at hotel.

Day 19: Dharamsala-Amritsar by jeep 200 km (6-7 hrs)

After early breakfast drive to Amritsar. Amritsar, as the name suggests, is rightfully a pool of nectar. Located in the state of Punjab, Amritsar is one of the most important pilgrimage centres especially for the Sikhs in the country. The city is characterised by some of the must visit religious, historical as well as contemporary sites of importance. The Golden Temple, where Sikhs from all over the world come to pay their reverence to Guru Granth Sahib and take a dip in the Amrit Saras Kund (Pool of Immortality) for spiritual purification is the major landmark of the place. Amritsar is also characterised by the hard working and warm- hearted people. In the afternoon visit the famous Golden Temple.

Day 20: Amritsar-Delhi by train.

In time transfer to railway station to connect Shatabdi Express for Delhi.

Day 21: Leave Delhi

In time transfer to airport to connect flight back home or for onward journey.