Day 1: Arrival in Delhi and Travel to Amritsar
- Morning: Arrive in Delhi and start your journey towards Amritsar. You can travel by:
- Train: The Shatabdi Express or Golden Temple Mail offers fast and comfortable services.
- Flight: A direct flight from Delhi to Amritsar takes about 1 hour.
- Private vehicle: A 6-8 hour drive by road to Amritsar.
- Evening: Arrive in Amritsar, check-in at your hotel.
- Visit the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib) in the evening for the Palki Sahib Ceremony.
- Overnight: Stay in Amritsar.
Day 2: Amritsar Sightseeing
- Morning: Visit the Golden Temple for a serene early morning experience. Don't miss the Langar (community kitchen) offering free meals.
- Mid-morning: Explore the Jallianwala Bagh, a historical park commemorating the 1919 massacre.
- Afternoon: Head to the Partition Museum for a look at India's partition history.
- Evening: Visit the Wagah Border for the Beating Retreat Ceremony (about 30 km from Amritsar), where India and Pakistan perform a ceremonial lowering of flags.
- Overnight: Stay in Amritsar.
Day 3: Amritsar to Dharamsala
- Morning: After breakfast, drive to Dharamsala (approx. 4-5 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Check-in at your hotel in McLeod Ganj, the upper part of Dharamsala, known for its Tibetan culture.
- Evening: Explore the vibrant McLeod Ganj Market, and visit the Tibetan Monastery.
- Overnight: Stay in McLeod Ganj (Dharamsala).
Day 4: Dharamsala Sightseeing
- Morning: Visit the Namgyal Monastery, the personal monastery of the Dalai Lama.
- Mid-morning: Hike to the Bhagsu Waterfall for a scenic spot.
- Afternoon: Explore the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which includes the Dalai Lama's temple, and the Tibetan Museum.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy a peaceful evening at Dal Lake or stroll around the peaceful Tibetan markets.
- Overnight: Stay in McLeod Ganj (Dharamsala).
Day 5: Dharamsala to Dalhousie
- Morning: After breakfast, head towards Dalhousie (about 4-5 hours by road).
- Afternoon: Check-in to your hotel in Dalhousie.
- Explore The Mall Road, lined with shops selling local handicrafts.
- Visit St. John’s Church and Subhash Baoli, a popular spot for a peaceful retreat.
- Evening: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Pir Panjal range.
- Overnight: Stay in Dalhousie.
Day 6: Dalhousie Sightseeing
- Morning: Visit Khajjiar, often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," known for its lush meadows, forests, and a small lake. You can also enjoy horse riding here.
- Afternoon: Head to Dainkund Peak, the highest point in Dalhousie, offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
- Evening: Relax and enjoy the scenic beauty or explore Chamera Lake for boating.
- Overnight: Stay in Dalhousie.
Day 7: Dalhousie to Delhi
- Morning: After breakfast, drive back to Delhi (approx. 12 hours by road). Alternatively, you can take a flight from Pathankot Airport (the nearest airport to Dalhousie) to Delhi, which takes about 1.5 hours.
- Evening: Arrive in Delhi for your onward journey or for the return flight.
Travel Tips:
- Travel Time: The drive between cities in this itinerary is long, so prepare for some long hours on the road. If you want a more relaxed trip, consider adding extra time at one of the locations.
- Weather: Depending on the season, temperatures can vary significantly. In the winter months (December to February), it can get quite cold, especially in Dharamsala and Dalhousie, so pack accordingly.
- Altitude: Dharamsala and Dalhousie are at higher altitudes, so drink plenty of water and take it easy for the first day to adjust to the altitude.
- Local Cuisine: Enjoy local Punjabi food in Amritsar and Tibetan cuisine in McLeod Ganj (Dharamsala).