This extraordinary private tour takes in the best of northern India, a cultural and religious region that can be visited year round. Visit the lower ranges of the Himalayan Mountains and discover sacred temples, charming towns and hill resorts, surrounded by spectacular snow-covered mountains and lush valleys.
Trip Highlights
- Delhi's temples and mosques
- Colonial hill station of Shimla
- Pragpur heritage village
- Dharmshala's temples and markets
- Dalai Lama's residence
- Amritsar's Golden Temple
Start your Journey
Arrival into Delhi
Arrive in Delhi where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. You can upgrade your hotel to The Leela Palace New Delhi to start your tour in true style.
Delhi
Today begins with a full day tour of Delhi. Explore the contrasting architecture of New and Old Delhi. Being the capital city of India, Delhi is probably the country's best known destination. However, there is so much more to this city than meets the eye, from the intricate hand-crafted goods on display at the local markets, to the aromas of the street food vendours that draw you closer. The tour will incorporate all of these hidden gems, as well as the major sights around the city.
Delhi, Kalka and Shimla
Take the early morning Shatabdi Express train to Kalka. After, climb aboard the Himalayan Toy Train through the Shivalik ranges to Shimla. Experience the sound, smell and romance of a bygone era as the 2-foot gauge Darjeeling Himalayan Railway travels at about 10 mph, criss-crossing the road allowing you to experience spectacular landscapes. Some of the small four-wheel locomotives are over 100 years old and showcase the genius and technological achievement of the Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Shimla, the Queen of Hills, was the British summer capital and features a host of splendid colonial edifices, quaint cottages and charming walks.
Shimla
Take a morning sightseeing tour of Shimla, including the Sankat Mochan Temple and Jakhu Temple. This afternoon is at leisure to stroll in the famous Mall and The Ridge.
Shimla
A day at leisure in Shimla to enjoy the town at your own pace.
Shimla to Pragpur
Today, continue your journey to Pragpur. On arrival check in at your hotel, which is a splendid country manor built in 1918 in the Indo-European tradition and surrounded by orchards. This afternoon, take a walking tour of the heritage village. Walk along its cobbled streets and view the mud-plastered, slate-roofed houses, a reminder of days gone by.
Pragpur to Dharamsala
This morning you depart for Dharamsala, a small hill station where snow-capped mountains enfold three sides of the town, and the valley stretches out in front of you. Since 1960, when it became a temporary headquarter of the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen to fame as 'The Little Lhasa' in India.
Dharamsala
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Dharamshala. The tour includes a visit to the Dalai Lama's residence and if you're lucky, an opportunity of an audience with him at Mcleod Ganj, where a large Tibetan population now lives. The waterfall of Bhagsunath is also within walking distance. Spend some time in the Tibetan colony and visit their local market and temples.
Dharamsala to Amritsar
After checking out of your hotel, depart for Amritsar. Once you arrive, enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Amritsar
Visit the Golden Temple - a sacred Sikh sanctuary, spread over a vast complex, it houses the holy book of the Sikhs: the Guru Granth. The community kitchen provides free meals for up to 10,000 pilgrims or visitors each day. Later, walk by the busy city bazaars, and then late afternoon visit Wagah, on the border with Pakistan. See the charming spectacle of the 'beating retreat' and 'changing of the guard' ceremony.
Amritsar to Delhi
In the afternoon, transfer to railway station to board the train for Delhi. Transfer to your hotel for your last night on the tour, you can upgrade to The Leela Palace New Delhi if you want to end your trip in pure luxury.
Onward travels
Spend the day at leisure, before your transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
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What To Expect
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Includes
- Accommodation as detailed in twin or double bed with private facilities (alternative but similar hotels may be used at certain times of year)
- Meals included as detailed
- Private air-conditioned transport
- Train journeys as shown (chair car)
- Services of a qualified English-speaking local guide
- Airport/train station assistance and transfers
- All site entrance fees while touring as appropriate
Excludes
- International flights from the UK
- Visa fees
- Airport departure taxes
- Beverages during meals
- Tips for the driver/guide and hotel staff
- Optional excursions
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