Overview
Experience the charm of Northern India on this captivating 7-day journey beginning in the vibrant capital city of Delhi. From there, ascend to the tranquil hill station of Shimla where colonial history blends with natural beauty. Continue onward to Manali, nestled amidst snow-capped peaks and apple orchards, offering both adventure and relaxation. Return to Delhi for a restful night before embarking on a day trip to Agra, home to the magnificent Taj Mahal. This itinerary balances sightseeing, cultural immersion, and leisurely moments, designed to provide travelers with a rich and varied experience.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Delhi International Airport or Railway Station, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative who will assist you with a private air-conditioned vehicle for your onward journey to Shimla. The drive from Delhi to Shimla spans approximately seven to eight hours, covering around 350 kilometers. As you leave the bustling plains behind, the landscape transforms into lush green hills and winding roads, providing a scenic introduction to your mountain retreat.
Along the way, you will pause for lunch at a popular highway restaurant where you can savor authentic North Indian and Himachali flavors, such as Rajma Chawal or Dal Makhani served with fresh rotis. After resuming your journey, you will arrive in Shimla and check in to your selected mid-range hotel, chosen for its comfortable amenities and beautiful views of the surrounding hills. As the evening settles in, you can take a relaxed stroll along Shimla’s famous Mall Road. This vibrant walkway is dotted with shops offering woollens, handicrafts, and regional souvenirs. Be sure to sample the street food specialties like hot corn on the cob or a steaming cup of local Himachali tea. Dinner will be arranged at your hotel or a nearby restaurant that serves a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian Himachali dishes.
Following a hearty breakfast, your day will begin with a full exploration of Shimla’s top attractions. The morning will be spent visiting the Jakhoo Temple, perched atop Jakhoo Hill, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. The walk up the hill is invigorating and offers sweeping panoramic views of Shimla and the distant snow-capped peaks. Nearby, you will experience the bustling atmosphere of The Ridge, an open space in the heart of Shimla town where cultural events are held and locals gather. Here, you can admire the architecture of Christ Church, one of the oldest churches in North India, famous for its beautiful stained glass windows.
Next, you will visit the Viceregal Lodge, an exquisite building that once served as the summer residence of the British Viceroy. Surrounded by lush gardens, the lodge presents a fascinating insight into India’s colonial history. After a morning full of sightseeing, lunch will be served at a local café such as Café Simla Times, known for its cozy ambiance and delicious Himachali specialties.
In the afternoon, your journey continues to Kufri, a picturesque hill station located about sixteen kilometers from Shimla. Kufri is well-known for its pristine environment and opportunities for adventure activities such as horse riding or visiting the mini-zoo. In the winter season, visitors enjoy skiing and snowboarding on its gentle slopes. Returning to Shimla in the evening, you will have free time to browse more shops along Mall Road, where you can purchase warm woollens, traditional jewelry, and handicrafts. Your day concludes with dinner either at your hotel or a local restaurant.
After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, you will check out and embark on a scenic drive to Manali, a journey of approximately seven to eight hours covering around 250 kilometers. The road from Shimla to Manali is a visual delight, winding through valleys, alongside sparkling rivers, and past quaint villages nestled in the hills. Midway, you will stop at the charming town of Mandi to stretch your legs and enjoy some local snacks such as Aloo Tikki or sweet Himachali treats.
Lunch will be taken at a popular highway restaurant offering a variety of North Indian dishes. As you continue your journey, you will pass through Kullu and Naggar towns, both famous for their apple orchards and rich cultural heritage. Upon arrival in Manali, you will check into a mid-range hotel like Hotel Snow Valley or Hotel Greenfields, where you can relax amidst tranquil natural surroundings. The evening is yours to unwind at the hotel or take a leisurely walk along Manali’s Mall Road. Dinner will be served at your hotel or a local restaurant featuring Himachali and North Indian cuisine.
Following breakfast, the day is dedicated to exploring the beauty and culture of Manali. Your sightseeing begins with a visit to the Hadimba Devi Temple, an ancient wooden temple nestled within cedar forests and dedicated to Hadimba, a figure from the Mahabharata epic. Nearby are the Vashisht Hot Water Springs, natural springs believed to possess therapeutic qualities. You will also visit the Manu Temple in Old Manali, dedicated to the sage Manu, regarded as the creator of mankind in Hindu mythology.
Lunch will be enjoyed at a café such as Café 1947 or Johnson’s Café, both known for their inviting atmospheres and blend of Himachali and continental dishes. In the afternoon, you will venture to Solang Valley, renowned for its stunning landscapes and adventure opportunities. Activities like paragliding, zorbing, and skiing (in winter months) are popular here, while photographers will find endless inspiration in the valley’s natural beauty. Returning to Manali by evening, you will have time to explore local markets offering woollens, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Dinner will be served at your hotel or a nearby eatery.
You may choose between two distinct excursions today. Should weather and permits allow, an early morning drive will take you to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass situated at an elevation of 3,978 meters. The pass provides breathtaking views of the surrounding Himalayas and opportunities to engage in snow activities during winter. The journey is an adventure in itself, with winding roads and spectacular scenery. Please note that visiting Rohtang Pass requires prior permits, which we can assist you in obtaining.
Alternatively, you can visit Naggar Castle, a beautiful historical structure showcasing traditional Himalayan architecture and offering sweeping views of the Kullu Valley. Nearby is the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, which houses paintings by the Russian artist who settled in the area, making this a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Lunch will be served either in Naggar or back in Manali. The remainder of the day is free for rest or light exploration. Dinner and overnight stay will be at your hotel in Manali.
After breakfast and checking out from your hotel, you will begin the long drive back to Delhi. The journey typically takes around twelve to thirteen hours, with comfortable stops along the way for refreshments and meals. En route, you will enjoy changing landscapes as you descend from the mountains back to the plains.
Late in the evening, you will arrive in Delhi and check into a comfortable hotel located near the airport or in the city center, such as Hotel Lemon Tree or Bloomrooms. After settling in, you may choose to have dinner at the hotel or explore nearby restaurants offering authentic North Indian and Mughlai cuisine.
Following an early breakfast, you will depart for a day trip to Agra, which is approximately a three to four-hour drive one way. Agra is world-famous for the Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your visit will include a detailed tour of this magnificent white marble mausoleum, renowned for its breathtaking architecture and the romantic story behind its creation.
You will also explore Agra Fort, a sprawling red sandstone fortress that served as the seat of Mughal power for many years. Inside the fort, you can wander through magnificent palaces, audience halls, and manicured gardens. If time permits, you may visit Itimad-ud-Daulah’s Tomb, often called the Baby Taj, and Mehtab Bagh, which offers stunning sunset views of the Taj Mahal across the Yamuna River.
Lunch will be enjoyed at a local restaurant in Agra serving traditional Mughlai cuisine. After a memorable day, you will return to Delhi in the evening, where our representative will assist you with your transfer to Delhi International Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey.
Includes
Cost Includes
- Comprehensive Package for 2 Adults in Deluxe room.
- Welcomedrink on arrival (Non-Alcoholic i.e. Tea, Coffee, Juice etc...)
- MAP Meal Plan – Breakfast and Dinner.
- Allentire tour by Dezire Cab.
- Inclusive of all the Taxes (Parking, Toll Tax, Luxury Tax, Govt. Service tax, Green Tax,Fuel Exp. and Driver Exp. etc.)
Excludes
- Monument entrance fee/Camera fee.
- Air/Train Fair Any adventure activity.
- Meal other than specified.
- For Heater Requirement directly contact to Hoteliers.