Himachal Tour: Shimla, Manali & Dharamshala (13 days, from $1,699)

Trade the heat of the plains for pine forests and mountain air. This thirteen-day Himachal tour climbs through Shimla, the old summer capital of British India, on to Manali in the high Kullu valley, and across to Dharamshala, home of the Dalai Lama. Cool days, long views and winding mountain roads, all with your own car and driver. From $1,699 per person.

Delhi -Shimla - Manali - Dharamshala - Mcloadganj - Dalhousie - Khajjiar - Chandigarh - Delhi.

What's included

A private air-conditioned car with your own driver for the whole trip
An experienced, English-speaking chauffeur who knows the routes
Handpicked hotels matched to your comfort level and budget
Licensed local guides at the main monuments
All road travel, fuel, tolls and parking
Airport pick-up and drop-off
Support by phone and WhatsApp throughout your trip

Not included

International flights to and from India
Your India visa
Monument entry fees, which we can add to your quote
Lunches and dinners, unless the itinerary says otherwise
Personal spending and tips for your driver and guides

Good to know. Every trip is private to your party and never shared with a group. You can change the pace, stops and hotels while you travel, and we tailor the route and length to your dates. Tell us when you would like to travel and we will send an itemised quote, with no obligation, usually within 24 hours.

Itinerary

Upon your arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, you will be warmly received by our representative who will assist with your transfer to the hotel. Once checked in, take time to rest and acclimate after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may take a short stroll nearby to get a first taste of India’s dynamic capital or enjoy a delicious traditional dinner at the hotel. Delhi, a vibrant blend of old and new, is the perfect place to begin your journey.

After breakfast, begin drive from Delhi to Kalka Railway Station, approximately 4-5 hours. Upon reaching Kalka, you will board the historic Kalka–Shimla Toy Train, a UNESCO World Heritage ride that winds through 102 tunnels, over 800 bridges, and countless bends, offering stunning views of the lower Himalayas, pine forests, and mountain villages. Arrive in Shimla, the "Queen of Hills," in the evening and transfer to your hotel nestled in the cool mountain air.

Today, Visit the Viceregal Lodge, once the summer residence of British viceroys, now a beautifully maintained heritage museum. Stroll along the famous Mall Road, lined with quaint shops, cafés, and historic buildings. Explore Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India, and Scandal Point, steeped in old-world gossip and romantic tales. Later, take a short trek or cable car ride to Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, offering panoramic views of the city and beyond. The evening is perfect for a relaxing walk and a taste of local Himachali cuisine at a Cafe or Restaurant with a nice view.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a flexible day for optional activities. Optional visit to Kufri, a charming town known for its open meadows, horse rides, and Himalayan Nature Park. Another great option is Mashobra or Naldehra, home to apple orchards and scenic walking trails. If you prefer to stay within Shimla, visit the State Museum or simply relax at a café with views of the misty hills. This day allows you to enjoy Shimla at your own pace, soaking in its peaceful vibe.

After breakfast, begin your road trip to Manali, a journey of approximately 6 hours through valleys, forested slopes, riversides, and charming Himachali villages. Pause along the way for tea or to stretch your legs and admire the landscape. Upon arrival in Manali, check in to your hotel and unwind. In the evening, take a casual walk along Manali Mall Road, lined with shops selling woolens, handicrafts, and local produce. Overnight relaxation in Manali.

Start the tour of Manali with a visit to the Hadimba Devi Temple, an ancient wooden temple surrounded by deodar forest. Then head to Vashisht Village for a soothing dip in its natural hot springs, believed to have healing properties. Visit the Manu Temple, dedicated to the sage Manu, and spend time at the Tibetan Monastery, reflecting on the area's spiritual serenity. Take a walk by the Beas River, enjoy views of the snow-covered peaks, and experience Manali’s rich blend of natural beauty and traditional lifestyle.

Today, enjoy an excursion to Solang Valley, a hub for adventure sports. You can try paragliding, ziplining, cable car rides, or simply take in the spectacular alpine scenery. If weather and permits allow, you may visit the iconic Atal Tunnel, known for its stunning snowy vistas and dramatic mountain landscapes. Return to Manali in the late afternoon and spend the evening relaxing or shopping for local crafts and souvenirs.

After an early breakfast, drive to Dharamshala around 6 hours through verdant valleys, small Himalayan hamlets, and cascading rivers. As you move towards Dharamshala, notice the scenery shift to pine and cedar forests. Upon arrival, check into your hotel in McLeod Ganj or Lower Dharamshala. The rest of the evening is at leisure—perhaps enjoy dinner with views of the Dhauladhar range or a quiet walk around the market.

Start your day at the Dalai Lama Temple Complex, also known as Tsuglagkhang, where you can observe monks in prayer and admire traditional Tibetan murals. Visit the Tibetan Museum and learn about the journey of the Tibetan community in exile. Later, walk to Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsu Waterfall, a popular local trek. You may also explore the Norbulingka Institute, a serene enclave preserving Tibetan arts and culture. Dharamshala offers a unique mix of Himalayan spirituality, Buddhist traditions, and peaceful mountain living. Overnight relax in Dharamshala.

After breakfast, take a 4-hour drive to Dalhousie, a quiet colonial hill station named after British Governor-General Lord Dalhousie. Upon arrival, take a leisurely walk around Gandhi Chowk, Subhash Baoli, and Panchpula, where natural springs and pine-clad trails offer a sense of tranquility. Visit St. John’s Church, a 19th-century stone church with beautiful stained-glass windows. This hill town is a refreshing break from the more commercial destinations and offers plenty of natural charm.

Today’s highlight is a visit to Khajjiar, often called the "Mini Switzerland of India," just 45 minutes from Dalhousie. Surrounded by dense pine forests and offering views of snow-capped peaks, the green meadows of Khajjiar are ideal for a picnic, horseback riding, or simply relaxing amidst nature. Visit the Khajji Nag Temple, a wooden temple dedicated to a serpent deity, before returning to Dalhousie in the afternoon. Spend the evening enjoying the calm surroundings or browsing local shops for souvenirs.

After breakfast, drive back to Dharamshala Airport (approx. 4 hours) for your domestic flight to Delhi. Upon landing, you'll be transferred to your hotel in Delhi for a final evening in India’s vibrant capital. If time permits, you can enjoy a short visit to Connaught Place, indulge in some last-minute shopping, or dine at one of Delhi’s top restaurants.

Spend your final day exploring the key highlights of Delhi, a city that effortlessly blends antiquity and modernity. Visit the towering Qutub Minar, the historic India Gate, and the majestic Humayun’s Tomb. Drive past the President’s House and Parliament Buildings, or explore the bustling bazaars of Old Delhi on a rickshaw. Later, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight, carrying with you a treasure of memories from India’s breathtaking Himalayan highlands and beyond. Tour Ends.

Book this Tour Contact for Customized Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

The main Himachal hill stations, Shimla, Manali and Dharamshala, along with the mountain drives, colonial-era towns and Tibetan monasteries in between. It is a cool-climate trip through the western Himalayas.

March to June is the classic season, pleasant in the hills while the plains bake. December to February brings snow to Shimla and Manali. The monsoon from July to September can bring landslides on the mountain roads.

Yes. Himachal is the most accessible and popular hill region in India, with good roads and hotels, so it is an easy introduction to the Himalayas and a cool escape from the heat of the plains.

Yes. The Himachal Tour: Shimla, Manali & Dharamshala is private to your party. You travel in your own car with your own driver, and there are no fixed group departures.

The Himachal Tour: Shimla, Manali & Dharamshala runs over 13 Days. We can shorten or extend it to fit your travel dates.

Yes. We plan every trip one to one and adjust the route, pace, stops and hotels to suit you. You can change the plan while you are travelling too.

Pricing for the Himachal Tour: Shimla, Manali & Dharamshala starts from around $1,699 per person and varies with your dates, group size, vehicle and hotels. Share your dates for an exact quote.

Yes. Our chauffeur-guides speak English and know the routes, stops and local logistics.