Heavenly Himachal

Arrive at the Chandigarh International Airport and transfer to Shimla by road. This would be close to a four-hour journey but the ride is a comfortable one and loads of scenic beauty to cover. Shimla, erstwhile summer capital of British India, is now the capital city of Himachal Pradesh and home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Kalka-Shimla Railway line. This hill station city is set amidst the snowcapped Shivalik mountain ranges and offers stunning views of the mighty Himalayas. On arrival, check-in to your hotel and set off for some nearby sightseeing on your own; relish the tasty local dishes for dinner before retiring for the night.

Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast and gear up for an excursion to the popular winter ski resort, Kufri, which is located 13 km north of Shimla. Kufri derives its name from kufr which means lake in the local language and is the highest point in the surrounding region. Then, we move on to visit the Indira Tourist Park at Chini Bunglow and the Himalayan Wildlife Zoo. Spend some time with the Himalayan monal, rare breeds of antelopes and feline. In the afternoon, we return to Shimla for a half day city tour. This small but breathtaking city has lots to explore such as Jakhoo, Himachal State Museum & Library, and the Indian Institute of Advance Study. In the evening, we visit the Christ Church- the second oldest church in north India, Scandal Corner Mall road and The Ridge for some retail therapy. Return to hotel.

After a delicious breakfast, check-out of the hotel and be off Manali by road. We will cover a distance of 260 kms in about 8 hours, crossing the majestic town of Kullu with coffee and lunch breaks; you could also enjoy shopping for some local hand woven shawls. What makes the journey fun filled is the spectacular scenery while traversing through the circuitous roads. On arrival, check-in to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at your own leisure; Manali is located in the ancient Kullu valley and is surrounded by towering peaks at an arm's length. Return to hotel.

Have a delectable breakfast and prepare yourself for an activity-filled day at the Rohtang Pass and the Solang Valley. We visit Rohtang Pass, up to the snow line during winters due to heavy snowfall, to catch some awe-inspiring panoramic view of the mountains rising from above the clouds. Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass, is an ancient trade route between the people on either side of Pir Panjal Range of the Himalayas. Next on, we visit the Solang Valley in the afternoon. This valley is a famous picnic spot and ski resort during the winter; you can opt for activities such as skiing, snowboarding (during winters), the rope way rides, and paragliding. Return to hotel.

After a scrumptious breakfast, we head out to visit Naggar, particularly, Naggar Castle and Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery. The medieval Castle, with authentic western Himalayan architecture, was built by Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu around 1460 AD and was converted into a hotel a hundred years back. The gallery in the castle is home to the paintings of Russian artist, Nicholas Roerich. Back to Manali by afternoon when we prepare for more sight seeing to places such as The Club House, Tibetan Monastery, and Vashisht Village which is known for the hot Sulphur Springs. Return to hotel.

Savour a lip smacking breakfast and be off to Chandigarh by road.En route Chandigarh, we stop by the famous Kullu Town with lush green meadows, glistening rivers, and snow capped mountains. On arrival, check-in to the hotel and freshen up. We then visit the Rock Garden and Sukhna Lake during late afternoon. The Rock Garden of Chandigarh, a sculpture garden, is also known Nek Chand's Rock Garden, after its founder Nek chand, a government official, who secretly built the garden in his spare time. Sukhna Lake is a reservoir at the foothills of the Himalayas- the Shivalik Hills. You could do a number of things at this lake, such as boating, go for a Shikara ride, camel ride, or glance through Le Carbouseur Sketches, appreciate the sunset and more! When you have had your fill, return to hotel.

Enjoy your appetising breakfast buffet and check-out of the hotel. Transfer to the Chandigarh International Airport for your journey back home.