Himalaya Hills & Adventure Tour – 7 Nights / 8 Days Delhi Shimla Kullu Manali

Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport/Railway Station, you will be greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Delhi, the capital of India, serves as the gateway to the Himalayas. After check-in, you have the rest of the day at leisure to relax and recover from your journey. You may explore the local area around your hotel, do some last-minute shopping for your mountain trip (warm clothes, medications, etc.), or simply rest. In the evening, you can enjoy a welcome dinner (optional) and get briefed about your upcoming Himalayan adventure. Delhi's moderate climate will prepare you for the cooler temperatures ahead. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

After an early breakfast, depart for Shimla, the capital of Himachal Pradesh and former summer capital of British India. The drive takes you through the plains of Haryana and Punjab before ascending into the Shivalik range of the Himalayas. En route, you'll pass through Chandigarh (the planned city by Le Corbusier) and Kalka (starting point of the UNESCO World Heritage Shimla-Kalka Toy Train route). As you climb higher, the temperature drops and the scenery becomes more mountainous. On arrival in Shimla (elevation: 2,205 meters), check into your hotel. In the evening, take a leisurely walk on the famous Mall Road, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and enjoy the colonial architecture. Shimla's cool climate is a welcome change from the plains. Overnight stay at hotel in Shimla.

After breakfast, embark on a full-day sightseeing tour of Shimla. Visit the historic Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India, with its beautiful stained glass windows. Next, visit Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, located at Shimla's highest point (2,455 meters). Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Walk along the Ridge, a large open space in the heart of Shimla offering spectacular views. Visit the State Museum to learn about Himachal's culture and history. Later, explore the Mall Road again, shop for local handicrafts, woolens, and wooden items. You may also visit the historic Viceregal Lodge (now Indian Institute of Advanced Study) - the summer residence of British Viceroys. In the evening, enjoy a cultural performance (optional) or simply relax with views of the sunset over the mountains. Overnight stay at hotel in Shimla.

After breakfast, check out from your Shimla hotel and depart for Kullu. The scenic drive takes you through beautiful mountain roads, pine forests, and along river valleys. You'll pass through Bilaspur (first planned hill town of independent India) and Sundernagar Lake. As you enter the Kullu Valley, also known as the "Valley of Gods," you'll be greeted by stunning views of the Beas River and apple orchards. On arrival in Kullu, check into your hotel. Visit the famous Kullu Shawl Factory to see traditional handloom weaving and shop for authentic Kullu shawls, caps, and handicrafts. In the evening, take a walk along the Beas River and enjoy the serene mountain atmosphere. Kullu is also famous for its Dussehra festival (if visiting in October). Overnight stay at hotel in Kullu.

After breakfast, depart for Manali, the most famous hill station in Himachal Pradesh. The short but scenic drive takes you further up the Kullu Valley along the Beas River. On arrival in Manali (elevation: 2,050 meters), check into your hotel. Begin your Manali exploration with a visit to the ancient Hidimba Devi Temple, a unique wooden temple built in 1553 dedicated to Hidimba, wife of Bhima from the Mahabharata. The temple is surrounded by cedar forests. Next, visit the Tibetan Monastery and Market to see Tibetan handicrafts and artifacts. Explore Old Manali with its quaint cafes, apple orchards, and hippie culture. Visit the Manu Temple (dedicated to sage Manu) and Vashisht Temple known for its hot springs. In the evening, enjoy a walk on the Mall Road and shop for local handicrafts. Overnight stay at hotel in Manali.

After an early breakfast, embark on an exciting day trip (subject to weather and road conditions). You have two options:

Option 1: Rohtang Pass (altitude: 3,978 meters) - A high mountain pass on the eastern Pir Panjal Range. Enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and the Chandra River valley. Experience snow activities (seasonal) like skiing, snowboarding, and snowmobiling (additional cost). Note: Rohtang Pass requires special permits which we can arrange at additional cost. The pass is open from May to November (subject to weather).

Option 2: Solang Valley (altitude: 2,560 meters) - If Rohtang Pass is closed or you prefer less altitude, visit Solang Valley, Manali's adventure hub. Enjoy activities like paragliding, zorbing, ropeway cable car, ATV rides, and ziplining (additional cost). The valley offers stunning views of surrounding mountains.

Return to Manali in the evening. You may also visit the Club House for indoor games and activities. Overnight stay at hotel in Manali.

After breakfast, bid farewell to the mountains as you begin your long journey back to Delhi. The drive takes you through the picturesque Kullu Valley, then descends to the plains via Mandi and Bilaspur. You'll have lunch en route (own expense). As you leave the mountains behind, the temperature will gradually increase. You'll pass through Punjab and Haryana before reaching Delhi. This is a long travel day, so sit back, relax, and reminisce about your Himalayan adventures. On arrival in Delhi in the late evening, check into your hotel. You may enjoy a farewell dinner (optional) to celebrate the completion of your mountain journey. Overnight stay at hotel in Delhi.

After breakfast, you have some free time depending on your flight schedule. You may do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs - consider buying Kullu shawls, Himachali caps, wooden crafts, or local jams and preserves. Later, you will be transferred to Delhi International Airport for your onward journey. As you depart, take with you beautiful memories of snow-capped peaks, cool mountain air, colonial architecture, adventure activities, and the warm hospitality of the Himalayan people. Until your next mountain adventure! Tour ends with beautiful Himalayan memories.