Embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, a land where nature’s splendor meets cultural richness. This 16-day itinerary will take you on a remarkable adventure, from the modern cityscape of Chandigarh to the remote valleys of Spiti and the serene hill stations of Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie. In this round trip of Himachal, along the way, you’ll explore historical landmarks, savor local cuisines, and have opportunities for trekking and adventure activities. Each day promises a new experience and a deeper connection with the beauty and diversity of this northern Indian state. So, fasten your seatbelt and get ready to discover the hidden gems and thrilling adventures that Himachal Pradesh has to offer.
Day 1: Arrival in Chandigarh Upon your arrival in Chandigarh, you’ll be greeted to start with round trip of Himachal by the modernity and urban planning of this city. Check into your hotel, such as the luxurious Taj Chandigarh or the budget-friendly Lemon Tree Hotel, and relax after your journey. For your stay in Chandigarh, you can choose from various accommodation options in the city.
Day 2: Chandigarh to Shimla (130 km, 3-4 hours) After breakfast, embark on a picturesque drive to Shimla, the former summer capital of British India. Check into your accommodation in Shimla, such as The Oberoi Cecil or Hotel Combermere or budget friendly hotels of HPTDC, and take a leisurely stroll along Mall Road, Shimla’s bustling shopping and dining hub.
Day 3: Shimla Sightseeing Begin your day with a visit to the historic Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, where you can witness a massive Hanuman statue. Explore The Ridge, offering panoramic views of the Himalayas and Shimla’s colonial architecture. Shimla State Museum is a great place to delve into the region’s history and culture. Stay back in the hotel.
Day 4: Shimla to Rampur (130 km, 3-4 hours) Enroute to Sangla, make a stop at Rampur, a town with a rich historical background. Visit the Padam Palace, which once served as the residence of the princely state of Bushahr. For your overnight stay, you can find suitable accommodations in Rampur or continue to Sangla.
Day 5: Sangla Sightseeing Explore the stunning Sangla Valley, known for its lush green landscapes and apple orchards. Visit Kamru Fort, a historical fortification showcasing Himachal’s architectural heritage. Enjoy trout fish, a local specialty, for lunch. Adventure seekers can embark on a nature walk or indulge in birdwatching. You can choose to stay in number of hotels or homestays in Sangla for the night.
Day 6: The thrilling part of round trip of Himahal begins here with journey from Sangla to Kalpa (51 km, 2-3 hours) Today’s drive to Kalpa offers breathtaking views of Kinnaur Kailash, a sacred peak. Visit Kalpa Monastery, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and witness traditional rituals. Taste local Kinnauri dishes like Dham and Chana Madra, featuring flavors unique to this region. Consider staying in Kalpa for the night. Hotel Kinner Kailsah, Kalpa can be one of the best choice for staying in this place throwing fascinating view of Kinner Kailash mountains.
Day 7: Kalpa to Kaza (210 km, 8-9 hours) Embark on an adventurous journey towards Kaza in Spiti Valley. Along the way, visit Nako Lake, a serene high-altitude lake surrounded by prayer flags and mountains. Explore Tabo Monastery, an ancient treasure trove of art and culture. Adventure seekers can opt for an off-road adventure, navigating challenging terrains. You can find variety of accommodations options in Kaza for your overnight stay.
Day 8: Kaza Sightseeing Spend your day exploring the rich culture and spirituality of Spiti Valley. Visit Key Monastery, an iconic Buddhist monastery perched atop a hill, and engage in conversations with resident monks. Explore the picturesque Pin Valley, known for its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. Consider staying in Kaza for another night.
Day 9: Kaza to Keylong (190 km, 7-8 hours) Today, drive to Keylong, the administrative center of Lahaul Valley. Visit Kardang Monastery, a serene place with stunning views of the surroundings. Adventure seekers can try river rafting in the Chandra River, which offers thrilling rapids. Savor local dishes like Thukpa (noodle soup) and Momos (dumplings). Find accommodations in Keylong for your overnight stay. HPTDC Hotel Chanderbgaga is one of the suitable options for your stay in Keylong.
Day 10: Keylong to Manali (115 km, 4-5 hours) Head to Manali, a popular hill station known for its adventure activities. Visit Hadimba Temple, a historic wooden temple surrounded by deodar forests. Stroll through the charming streets of Old Manali, lined with quaint cafes and shops. For adventure, experience paragliding in Solang Valley. Choose from large variety of various hotels and guesthouses in Manali for your overnight stay.
Day 11: Manali Sightseeing Explore the adventure-packed Solang Valley and enjoy activities like ziplining, ATV rides, and horseback riding. Depending on the season, you can try skiing or snowboarding at Rohtang Pass. Taste local Himachali dishes like Dham, Babru and siddu, and don’t forget to savor a piping hot cup of chai (tea). Stay in Manali for another night on this memorable round trip of Himachal.
Day 12: Manali to Kullu (40 km, 1-2 hours) Drive to Kullu Valley, known for its breathtaking scenery. Visit Raghunath Temple, an ancient Hindu temple with intricate architecture. Explore the Kullu Shawl Factory to shop for handmade shawls and other handicrafts. For adventure, go white-water rafting in the Beas River. You can find large number of hotel accommodations in Kullu for your overnight stay.
Day 13: Kullu to Palampur (200 km, 6-7 hours) Travel to Palampur, famous for its lush tea gardens. Explore Andretta Pottery, a renowned center for pottery and art. Visit Tashi Jong Monastery to learn about Tibetan culture and spirituality. Adventure seekers can try paragliding in Bir-Billing, one of the best paragliding destinations in India. Finding accommodations in Palampur for your overnight stay is easy.
Day 14: Palampur to Dharamshala (40 km, 1-2 hours) Drive to Dharamshala, home to the Dalai Lama and a vibrant Tibetan community. Explore McLeod Ganj, the residence of the Tibetan government-in-exile, and visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and Namgyal Monastery. Consider joining a yoga or meditation retreat for a serene adventure. Choose from various accommodations in Dharamshala for your overnight stay but prefer to stay in Msleodganj which is approx. 9 km from Dharamshala upwards.
Day 15: Dharamshala to Dalhousie (120 km, 4-5 hours) The concluding part of round trip of Himachal heads to Dalhousie, a charming hill station with colonial architecture. Visit Khajjiar, often referred to as ‘Mini Switzerland,’ and marvel at its lush meadows and picturesque landscapes. Explore Dainkund Peak for panoramic views and St. John’s Church, a historical landmark. Adventure seekers can go trekking in the Dhauladhar Range. Finding accommodations in Dalhousie for your overnight stay is easy.
Day 16: Departure Depending on your preference, either drive back to Chandigarh (approx. 8-9 hours) or head to Pathankot (approx. 4-5 hours). Depart from Chandigarh or Pathankot to your next destination, concluding your adventurous journey through Himachal Pradesh.
As your adventurous journey through round trip of Himachal comes to a close, you’ll carry with you not just memories but a profound appreciation for the natural wonders, rich cultures, and thrilling experiences this region has to offer. From the bustling streets of Chandigarh to the tranquil valleys of Spiti and the charming hill stations of Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie, you’ve witnessed the incredible diversity of round trip of Himachal that defines this part of India. Whether you immersed yourself in local cuisines, explored historical landmarks, or embarked on thrilling treks, Himachal has left an indelible mark on your travel story. As you depart from this captivating land, may your heart be filled with the echoes of mountains, the warmth of its people, and the promise of future adventures. Until we meet again, Himachal beckons with open arms, ready to share its wonders anew. Safe travels!