(15 or 16 Nights & 16 or 17 Days)
Take a relaxing and long vacation with this perfect tour package. You’ll get to see India in a special way, visiting cities with old, beautiful buildings and then enjoying nature in the mountains of Dharamshala. In simple terms, it’s a chance to make memories that will last a lifetime.
HIGHLIGHTS:
- Duration: 15/16Nights- 16/17Days
- Major Attraction: Taj Mahal, Fatehpur Sikri fort, Jaipur City, Foothills of Himalayas, Golden Temple
- Destinations covered: Delhi-Jaipur-Fatehpur Sikri-Agra-Delhi-Shimla-Manali-Dharamsala-Amritsar-Chandigarh-Delhi
ITINERARY
Day 01: Arrival in Delhi (by flight)
Welcome to the vibrant city of Delhi, the heart of India. Let’s make our way to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 02: Delhi sightseeing
Following breakfast, we’ll explore Old Delhi, taking in the sights of Raj Ghat, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk, with the option for a rickshaw ride. Afterward, we’ll head to New Delhi, where you can visit Humayun’s Tomb, India Gate, Rajpath, the President’s House, and Parliament House. Then, we’ll journey to Bangla Sahib Sikh Temple, Birla Temple, and Qutub Minar. If you’re in the mood for shopping, you can also do some. Finally, we’ll return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 03: Delhi – Jaipur: 270 km/04:30 hrs.
Today, post-breakfast, we’ll set off on a road trip to Jaipur. Upon reaching, you can unwind at the hotel. You have the option to take a leisurely stroll, indulge in some shopping, or experience a Bollywood movie at the renowned Raj Mandir Cinema in Jaipur to get your first impressions of the city. Alternatively, your driver can take you to Jaigarh Fort, which offers breathtaking views of Amber Fort and Maota Lake. This impressive fort, stretching over 3 kilometers, was constructed by Jai Singh II in 1726 and houses one of the world’s largest cannons, the formidable Jaivana Cannon, boasting a barrel length of 6.15 meters (20.2 feet) and a weight of 50 tons.
You’ll spend the night in Jaipur.
Day 04: Jaipur sightseeing
The day’s highlight begins with a visit to the historic Amber Fort, situated just 10 kilometers outside Jaipur. If you wish, you can enjoy a unique elephant ride up to the fort. After exploring Amber Palace and the Kali Mata Temple, we’ll return to the city.
In Jaipur, your tour will take you to the City Palace, a grand creation by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh that stands as one of the city’s most famous attractions. You’ll also visit the Hawa Mahal, constructed in 1799 and often referred to as the “Palace of Breeze.” Additionally, you’ll explore the renowned Jantar Mantar observatory, an architectural marvel built between 1724 and 1730 on the orders of Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II.
Following your sightseeing, you’ll have some free time for leisure or shopping. Jaipur is internationally acclaimed for its exquisite stone jewelry. Finally, we’ll return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 05: Jaipur–Fatehpur Sikri – Agra: 250 km/05:30 hours
On our way to Agra, we’ll stop to visit Fatehpur Sikri, which was once the capital of the Mughal Empire from 1571 to 1585.
Once we reach Agra and check into the hotel, you can take a short break. Afterward, we’ll head to Agra Fort, a grand historical complex built in 1576, about 2.5 kilometers away from the Taj Mahal. This fort was where the powerful Mughal emperors lived, and it was the place from which the country was governed.
Later, we’ll return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 06: Agra – Delhi: 230 km/03:30 hours
Our day begins with a visit to the Taj Mahal at sunrise. This breathtaking mausoleum was constructed by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in loving memory of his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It stands as a remarkable example of Mughal architecture, fusing elements from Persian, Ottoman, Indian, and Islamic architectural styles. This iconic masterpiece, symbolizing everlasting love, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is renowned as one of the New7Wonders of the World.
We’ll return to the hotel for breakfast, check out, and then make our way back to Delhi. Upon arrival in Delhi, you’ll proceed to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 07: Delhi- Shimla: 360 km/08 hours
Today you will start your long-distance drive after your breakfast.
Check into hotel for overnight stay in Shimla.
Day 08: Shimla sightseeing
After breakfast, your journey to Kufri commences, a charming hill station located just 20 kilometers from Shimla. With an average elevation of 2,720 meters (8,923 feet), it stands as the highest point in this region. You’ll reach the viewing point on horseback, enjoying the scenic ride.
Upon returning to Shimla, you’ll explore the city’s rich history and attractions. Shimla, the capital and the largest city of Himachal Pradesh, was designated as the summer capital of British India in 1864 due to its favorable climate. The city’s allure lies in its location amidst the dense forests of the Himalayas. You’ll find various buildings showcasing Tudorbethan and neo-Gothic architectural styles from the colonial era, as well as numerous temples and churches.
Some of the famous attractions include the Viceroy Lodge, the Christ Church, the Jakhoo Temple, the Kali Bari Temple, the Mall Road, and the Ridge, all of which collectively form the city center.
After a day of exploration, we’ll return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 09: Train-ride with Kalka-Shimla Railway or Shimla – Manali: 260 km/06:30 hours
If you’re interested, consider extending your stay in Shimla and undertaking an extraordinary train journey via the one-of-a-kind Kalka-Shimla Railway. This suggestion isn’t limited to just railway enthusiasts; it’s an experience for everyone. The Kalka-Shimla Railway, often affectionately referred to as the “Toy Train,” was constructed between 1898 and 1903 to connect Shimla with the rest of the Indian rail system during the British Raj. This scenic route meanders through predominantly mountainous terrain, connecting Kalka to Shimla. In 2008, UNESCO designated the Kalka-Shimla Railway as a part of the mountain railways of India World Heritage Site. While on this journey, you can enjoy the breathtaking views of the hills and the charming villages that dot the landscape. You have various options to make the most of your day; feel free to inquire for more details.
Subsequently, make your way back to the hotel for an overnight stay.. However, if you opt to skip this train adventure, you will proceed to Manali, where you can check into your hotel and spend the night there
Day 09/10: Manali to Rohtang Pass and back to Manali
In the early hours, your journey commences as you ascend to an elevation of 3,978 meters, en route to Rohtang Pass, which is located 51 kilometers away from Manali. This pass serves as a vital link connecting the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul and Spiti Valley and stands as one of the world’s highest motorable passes. Throughout history, it has been the primary gateway to trade routes leading to Lahaul and Ladakh. Once you reach the pass’s summit, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking panoramic view of mountain ranges, towering peaks, steep cliffs, ridges, vast glaciers, moraine, and deep ravines. Rohtang Pass is typically open from May to November and experiences a polar climate, with occasional snowfall even in the summer months.
Please take note that our vehicles are not authorized to travel to Rohtang. However, we will make arrangements for a local taxi to take you there.
Day 10/11: Manali sightseeing
Manali, a quaint town nestled amidst the northern mountains of the Kullu Valley, often referred to as the “Valley of the Gods,” is renowned for its picturesque apple orchards. During the balmy summer months, it emerges as a beloved retreat for both local and visiting tourists.
Begin your day with a delicious breakfast and set out on an enchanting journey to explore Manali’s renowned attractions, which include the Hadimba Temple, Vashistha Temple, Manu Temple, the Tibetan Monastery, and the Club House. After a day filled with exploration, return to your hotel to unwind and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure.
Relish a tranquil overnight stay at your hotel in the scenic town of Manali.
Day 11/12: Manali – Dharamsala: 280 km/08 – 09 hours
You have an extended journey ahead, but it promises to be anything but tedious, thanks to the breathtaking scenery along the way. Should you desire, we’re more than happy to arrange some photo stops for you.
Upon your arrival in Dharamsala, you’ll be promptly checked into your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 12/13: Dharamsala sightseeing
Dharamsala, situated at an elevation of 1,500 meters above sea level in the enchanting Kangra district, stands as a hill station that captivates the imagination with its stunning natural beauty and a distinctive blend of Tibetan, British, and Himachali cultures. The name “Dharamsala” itself conveys its essence, meaning “a spiritual abode,” or loosely, a sanctuary for pilgrims and travelers. During the British era, this area was transformed into a cantonment and served as the summer capital of India.
Dharamsala gained international prominence in 1959 when the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan Government in Exile arrived, making it a popular destination for foreigners, backpackers, and students of Buddhism. The Dalai Lama’s residence and the headquarters of the Central Tibetan Administration, which serves as the Tibetan government in exile, are located 3 kilometers uphill in McLeod Ganj, attracting most of the visitors.
Today’s sightseeing adventure includes visits to Namgyal Monastery, Bhagsu Nag Temple, and the serene Dal Lake.Subsequently, you can head back to your hotel to enjoy a restful and cozy overnight stay.
Day 13/14: Dharamsala – Amritsar: 210 km/04:30 hours
Following your breakfast, depart from the cooler surroundings and continue your journey towards Amritsar, where you will check in at your hotel and have some leisure time to unwind.
The name “Amritsar” draws its origins from the pool surrounding the Golden Temple and translates to “holy pool of nectar” (Amrit = elixir; Sar = a shortened form of sarovar, signifying “lake”). Amritsar stands as one of the largest cities in Punjab and holds significant importance as the spiritual and cultural epicenter of the Sikh religion. It was established by Guru Ramdas, the fourth Guru of the Sikh faith, in the year 1579.
In the afternoon, your driver will pick you up from the hotel to escort you to the Wagah Border, the sole road border connecting India and Pakistan, situated roughly 30 kilometers from Amritsar. Here, you can witness the flag-lowering ceremony, a daily military tradition jointly observed by the security forces of both India and Pakistan since 1959. This ceremonial event unfolds each evening before sunset.
Following this engaging experience, return to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.
Day 14/15: Amritsar – Chandigarh: 230 km/04:30 hours
Before departing from Amritsar, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s primary attraction. The Sri Harimandir Sahib, globally renowned as the Golden Temple, stands as the holiest shrine in Sikhism. It serves not only as the central religious site for Sikhs but also as a symbol of universal brotherhood and equality. Here, individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of caste, creed, or race, can seek spiritual solace and religious fulfillment without any barriers. The temple’s architectural grandeur is truly beyond imagination, and the sacred lake, believed to hold Amrit (holy water), further enhances the splendor of the temple complex. Within the Harmandir Sahib, you’ll find the Guru Granth Sahib, the sacred scripture of Sikhism. When inside the temple, it is essential to cover your head at all times. Moreover, partaking in the langar, a communal kitchen where food is served to all visitors, is an experience not to be missed.
Following this remarkable visit, your journey will proceed to Chandigarh, where your first stop will be at your hotel. Chandigarh, a city and Union Territory, serves as the capital of the neighboring states of Punjab and Haryana. It is notable as the first planned city in post-independent India, celebrated for its remarkable architecture and urban design. The city’s master plan was designed by the Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier.
After a brief interlude, you’ll explore key attractions, including the Rock Garden, Sukhna Lake, and the Rose Garden.
After your exploration, you can head back to your hotel for a relaxing and restful overnight stay.
Day 15/16: Chandigarh – Delhi: 260 km/05 hours
Your remarkable round trip is gradually nearing its conclusion, as today marks the return journey to Delhi. Upon your arrival in the Indian capital, you will be directed to your hotel for an overnight stay.
Day 16/17: Drop to the airport for flight back home or connecting program
End of Services
price on request because tours are customized, route changes are also possible.
We can arrange the accomodations for you as well as English, German, French, Spanish speaking local guides
Please don’t hesitate to contact us