ITINERARY:

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Day 1 : Arrival in Amritsar – Heritage Walk & Golden Temple
Arrive in Amritsar and check into your hotel. Begin your journey with a guided heritage walk through the old city, exploring narrow alleys, colorful bazaars, and traditional havelis. In the evening, visit the iconic Golden Temple, glowing magnificently under the night sky. Partake in the langar (community meal) for a soul-enriching experience. Walk around the serene Amrit Sarovar and admire the temple’s spiritual aura. Overnight in Amritsar.

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Day 2 : Amritsar – Partition Museum & Wagah Border
Start your day with a visit to the Partition Museum, a powerful tribute to the stories of 1947. Then, explore the Jallianwala Bagh, a poignant memorial of India’s freedom struggle. Enjoy a traditional Punjabi lunch at a local dhaba. In the late afternoon, drive (~30 km / 45 min) to the Wagah Border to witness the dramatic and patriotic Beating Retreat ceremony. Return to Amritsar for the night.

 

​Day 3 : Amritsar to Dalhousie – Scenic Drive
Distance: 200 km / Time: ~5–6 hours
Leave Amritsar after breakfast and head north toward Dalhousie, a peaceful hill station nestled in the Dhauladhar range. The scenic drive takes you past fields, foothills, and pine forests. On arrival, check into your hotel and take a relaxed walk along Gandhi Chowk or Subhash Baoli. The crisp mountain air and colonial charm of Dalhousie provide a refreshing change from the plains. Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

 

​Day 4 : Explore Dalhousie & Khajjiar
After breakfast, drive to Khajjiar (22 km / ~1 hour), often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India" for its lush green meadows, cedar forests, and a tranquil lake. Visit the Khajji Nag Temple and enjoy optional activities like horse riding or zorbing. Return to Dalhousie to explore St. John’s Church and admire views from Dainkund Peak or Panchpula waterfall. Spend the evening soaking in the cool mountain breeze and scenic views.

 

​Day 5 : Dalhousie to Dharamshala – Valley Drive
Distance: 120 km / Time: ~4–5 hours
Depart Dalhousie after breakfast and drive to Dharamshala, passing through picturesque valleys and quaint Himachali villages. On arrival, check in to your hotel in McLeod Ganj, home to the Tibetan government-in-exile. Spend your evening exploring the local markets and sampling Tibetan cuisine like momos and thukpa. The town’s spiritual aura and peaceful surroundings offer a perfect introduction to Dharamshala.

 

​Day 6 : Explore Dharamshala & McLeod GanjExplore Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj
Begin your day with a visit to the Namgyal Monastery and the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the residence of the Dalai Lama. Walk through the Tibetan Museum and continue to Bhagsunag Temple and Waterfall. Visit St. John in the Wilderness Church, nestled amid deodar forests. Later, enjoy sunset views from Naddi Village or take a nature walk around the peaceful Dal Lake. Overnight stay in McLeod Ganj.

 

​Day 7 : Day Trip to Palampur & Tea Gardens
Distance: 40 km one way / Time: ~1.5 hours each way
Take a scenic day trip to Palampur, known for its tea gardens and colonial charm. Visit the Tea Cooperative, where you can learn about tea production and enjoy fresh brews. Explore Tashi Jong Monastery and stroll through lush plantations with Dhauladhar views. On the return journey, stop at Norbulingka Institute, dedicated to preserving Tibetan art and culture. Return to Dharamshala by evening for a relaxed night.

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Day 8: Dharamshala to Amritsar – Departure
Distance: 200 km / Time: ~5–6 hours
After breakfast, drive back to Amritsar for your onward journey. Depending on your departure time, enjoy a quick bite at a Punjabi eatery or shop for phulkari and local souvenirs. As your journey concludes, carry with you the spiritual grace of Amritsar, the colonial calm of Dalhousie, and the Tibetan tranquility of Dharamshala—an enriching exploration of culture, history, and Himalayan beauty.