Explore The Western Himalayas with a 12-day Luxury Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Delhi

Today, your India journey will begin after your international flight arrives in Delhi. You'll meet your private guide, who will accompany you throughout the trip. You will be transferred to your hotel. Spend the remaining of your afternoon at leisure. Take a stroll from your hotel to the nearby shops and markets. Your guide can suggest a good place to dine - you will find many local specialty restaurants.

Day 2: Traversing to Shimla

This morning, follow your guide to the station for your train journey into the hills. 

Board the train, which travels north to Kalka, taking 4 hours. At noon, you'll reach Kalka and meet your guide, who will help you board the famous 'toy train. Enjoy the toy train ride with your guide for a 5-hour journey through 107 tunnels and many mountains to reach Shimla. A clear day will immerse you in the gorgeous passing views. On reaching the station, your guide will drive you to your hotel for the evening.

Day 3: Shimla Exploration

Today, get ready for a guided walk around Shimla, which includes a visit to Christ Church located on the pedestrianized Mall Road. You will then visit the Viceregal Lodge, which is also crucial in British history. In the afternoon, relax for a while and then meander around. Or head for Wildflower Hall to visit the gardens and relish a cup of tea.

Day 4: One-Day Tour of Pragpur

This morning, head out on a 5-hour drive for Pragpur continuing your journey north. En route, the snow-capped Himalayas will be a treat for your eyes. Discover the rural life in the Heritage Village of Pragpur residing in the Himalayan foothills.

Day 5: Heading to Dharamshala

Today, you'll journey 2 hours north to Dharamshala and McLeodganj, the spiritual leader Dalai Lama's residence. Appreciate the uniqueness of the hill town, home to a vast Tibetan community. You will then be free to explore at your pace. Visit local shops near your hotel which sell a range of Tibetan products. 

Day 6: Exploring Dharamshala

Head to the Norbulingka Institute today with your guide, which preserves Tibetan skills and ways of life. Get fascinated by watching some of the artisans at work. Visit the Buddhist Monastery later and the Mountaineering Institute as well.

Day 7: Traveling to Amritsar

Today, youll travel west to Amritsar, situated in the heart of Punjab. Your local guide will accompany you to the Wagah Border, which lies 45 minutes from the city on the Pakistan border, to witness the border closing ceremony. Witness this extravagant affair which occurs every day. 

Day 8: Private Tour of Amritsar

Today, make your way for a guided tour to the magnificent Sikh Golden Temple along with pilgrims and families from all over India. Witness the astounding kitchens which prepare thousands of free meals every day. After dinner and some time to relax, head back to the temple with your local guide to experience the putting-to-bed ceremony of the holy book. 

Day 9: Visiting Haridwar

Board a train with your guide to Haridwar, one of the holiest places for Hindus. Get absorbed in the splendid passing scenes on the way. Upon arrival, your guide will take you to the hotel for check-in. Then you will begin the guided exploration of buzzing Haridwar. As the sun sets, make your way to the river ghats to be a part of the vibrant devotional ceremony. 

Day 10: A Peaceful Day in Haridwar

This morning, you can loosen up or soak up the Ganges views from the hotels terrace. You can opt to wander off as well. At noon, enjoy a private guided tour of Rishikesh to explore its ashrams, temples, and surroundings before the aarti ceremony.

An hour's drive away, you'll witness contrasts between the Haridwar ceremony, which your guide can explain.

Day 11: Returning to Delhi

Catch a train for a 5-hour journey toward Delhi. Upon your arrival, you'll be driven back to a hotel that is at a convenient distance from the international airport.

Day 12: International Departure

After breakfast, your private guide will lead you to the airport. Your western Himalayan venture ends as you catch a flight back home.