Best of Himachal Tour

12 Nights / 13 Days   Fully Guided Tours   Private Car  

Delhi - Shimla - Manali - Dharamshala - Dalhousie - Chandigarh - Delhi

Trip Overview

Snow-covered mountains, cedar forests, colonial hill stations, Tibetan monasteries, riverside valleys, and peaceful Himalayan landscapes come together beautifully in this carefully designed Himachal Pradesh luxury tour. Perfect for travelers looking to combine nature, culture, spirituality, and comfort, the journey moves gradually through some of North India’s most admired mountain destinations while maintaining a relaxed pace throughout the itinerary.

From the elegant colonial atmosphere of Shimla to the dramatic mountain scenery of Manali, every destination on this route presents a different character of the Himalayas. Dharamshala and Mcleodganj introduce travelers to Tibetan culture, monasteries, prayer flags, and spiritual traditions connected with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Further ahead, Dalhousie and Khajjiar offer charming mountain views, pine forests, old churches, and quieter landscapes away from crowded urban life.

Luxury mountain resorts, scenic road journeys, local cultural interactions, and private guided experiences ensure that the tour remains immersive without becoming exhausting. Whether enjoying Himalayan sunsets, tasting regional cuisine, walking through traditional villages, or simply relaxing beside mountain valleys, this itinerary creates a memorable balance between sightseeing and peaceful retreat experiences in North India.

Highlights of the Tour :
  • Colonial heritage tour of Shimla 
  • Scenic Himalayan drive routes 
  • Excursion to Kufri and Solang Valley 
  • Luxury mountain stays in Himachal Pradesh 
  • Tibetan monasteries and spiritual experiences in Dharamshala 
  • Beautiful landscapes of Dalhousie and Khajjiar 
  • Private chauffeur-driven vehicle throughout the tour 
  • Traditional Himachali cultural experiences 
  • Himalayan photography opportunities 
  • Ideal North India mountain holiday for families and couples

Best of Himachal Tour :- Detail Itinerary

Day 1 Arrival in Delhi

Upon arrival at Delhi International Airport, our representative will warmly welcome you before escorting you to your luxury hotel. India’s capital city introduces travelers to a fascinating blend of history, modernity, colonial architecture, and vibrant local culture. After your international journey, the first day is intentionally kept comfortable and relaxed to help you settle smoothly into the upcoming Himalayan holiday.

Depending on your arrival timing, you may enjoy a leisurely orientation drive through some of Delhi’s prominent districts. Wide avenues, elegant government buildings, bustling marketplaces, and green boulevards showcase the capital’s contrasting character. The city’s mixture of Mughal history and modern development creates an interesting introduction to North India.

Later in the evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel or choose from one of Delhi’s fine-dining restaurants offering Indian and international cuisine. Your tour coordinator will also provide a complete briefing regarding the mountain journey ahead. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 2 Delhi to Shimla

After breakfast, begin your journey toward Shimla, one of India’s most iconic hill stations established during the British colonial era. As the drive gradually leaves behind the plains of North India, the landscape transforms into rolling hills, pine forests, winding mountain roads, and fresh Himalayan air. Scenic mountain views begin appearing more frequently as you move higher toward Himachal Pradesh.

Arrive in Shimla by evening and check into your luxury mountain resort. The pleasant climate, colonial-era buildings, and peaceful atmosphere immediately create a refreshing contrast compared to the busy cities visited earlier. Shimla continues to remain one of the most loved destinations in the Himalayas due to its elegant old-world charm and natural beauty.

The evening can be spent relaxing at the hotel or enjoying a peaceful walk around the nearby surroundings. Crisp mountain weather, forest-covered hills, and distant Himalayan views make the first night in Shimla especially memorable for travelers seeking a calm escape. Overnight stay in Shimla.

Day 3 Shimla Sightseeing & Kufri Excursion

The morning begins with a sightseeing tour of Shimla including some of the city’s most prominent colonial landmarks. Visit the Viceregal Lodge, Christ Church, Gaiety Theatre, and the famous Mall Road where historic architecture still reflects the British influence from earlier centuries. Walking through these areas feels like stepping into a different era of Indian history.

Later, continue toward Kufri, a scenic mountain destination located a short drive from Shimla. Surrounded by cedar forests and Himalayan ranges, Kufri is admired for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful viewpoints. During winter months, the area becomes particularly popular for snowfall and snow-based activities, while summer offers pleasant weather and panoramic mountain scenery.

Return to Shimla in the evening and enjoy leisure time exploring local cafés, bakeries, handicraft stores, and mountain markets. Travelers often enjoy tasting regional Himachali dishes while admiring the cool climate and relaxed atmosphere of the hill station. Overnight stay in Shimla.

Day 4 Shimla to Manali

After breakfast, begin one of the most scenic drives of the journey as you travel toward Manali. The route passes through beautiful valleys, riverside landscapes, mountain villages, and forest-covered roads. Throughout the drive, the Beas River frequently appears alongside the highway, adding dramatic natural beauty to the overall experience.

The changing landscapes during the drive provide excellent opportunities to witness the untouched beauty of Himachal Pradesh. Traditional wooden homes, apple orchards, terraced farming fields, and local roadside cafés offer glimpses into mountain life in the Himalayas. Frequent photo stops along the route make the long drive enjoyable rather than tiring.

Arrive in Manali by evening and check into your luxury resort surrounded by mountain scenery. Known for its snow peaks, adventure activities, riverside cafés, and alpine atmosphere, Manali remains one of the most visited hill stations in North India. Overnight stay in Manali.

Day 5 Manali Sightseeing

The day begins with sightseeing around Manali including visits to Hadimba Devi Temple, Manu Temple, and the Tibetan Monastery. Surrounded by tall deodar trees, the Hadimba Temple is especially admired for its peaceful forest setting and traditional wooden architecture. The spiritual atmosphere of these temples adds cultural depth to the Himalayan journey.

Continue exploring Old Manali where charming cafés, boutique shops, riverside paths, and small local markets create a relaxed mountain-town atmosphere. Travelers often enjoy interacting with locals, tasting Himachali cuisine, or simply sitting beside the flowing river while admiring the surrounding snow-covered mountains.

In the evening, you may visit the local Mall Road area known for handicrafts, woolen products, cafés, and mountain souvenirs. The cool weather, lively atmosphere, and Himalayan backdrop create a memorable experience for visitors looking to enjoy both leisure and cultural exploration. Overnight stay in Manali.

Day 6 Solang Valley Excursion

Following breakfast, proceed toward Solang Valley, one of the most picturesque locations near Manali. Surrounded by dramatic Himalayan peaks, glaciers, and open valleys, the area remains famous for outdoor activities and breathtaking scenery throughout the year. The route itself offers magnificent mountain views and excellent photography opportunities.

Depending on the season, travelers may enjoy optional activities such as cable car rides, snow experiences, mountain biking, ziplining, or simply leisurely walks through the valley. During winter months, the landscape becomes covered in snow, creating a completely different atmosphere compared to the greener summer season.

Return to Manali later in the afternoon and spend the remainder of the day relaxing at your luxury resort. Many travelers prefer enjoying the hotel’s spa facilities or riverside seating areas after a scenic excursion day in the mountains. Overnight stay in Manali.

Day 7 Manali to Dharamshala

After breakfast, continue your Himalayan journey toward Dharamshala, a destination internationally recognized for its Tibetan culture and spiritual atmosphere. The scenic drive passes through mountain villages, riverside roads, forests, and tea gardens while gradually revealing another side of Himachal Pradesh’s diverse landscape.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and relax briefly before exploring the peaceful surroundings. Dharamshala offers a quieter environment compared to other hill stations and attracts travelers seeking spiritual retreat experiences, meditation centers, and Himalayan serenity. The influence of Tibetan culture becomes visible through monasteries, cafés, prayer flags, and local handicrafts across the town.

The evening can be spent enjoying the calm mountain atmosphere or visiting local Tibetan markets. Soft mountain weather, beautiful valley views, and the slower pace of life create an ideal environment for relaxation after several days of travel. Overnight stay in Dharamshala.

Day 8 Dharamshala & Mcleodganj Sightseeing

Begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Mcleodganj, the spiritual center of the Tibetan community in India and the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Monasteries, Buddhist temples, prayer wheels, meditation centers, and Tibetan cafés create an atmosphere completely different from the other destinations visited during the journey.

Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex where monks, pilgrims, and travelers gather in a peaceful spiritual setting overlooking the surrounding Himalayan mountains. The calm environment, colorful prayer flags, and sounds of Buddhist chants offer a deeply soothing experience for visitors interested in spirituality and culture.

Later, explore local Tibetan markets known for handicrafts, woolens, handmade products, and traditional Tibetan cuisine. Walking through the lively streets of Mcleodganj provides an excellent opportunity to observe daily Tibetan life in the Himalayas. Return to your hotel for overnight stay in Dharamshala.

Day 9 Dharamshala to Dalhousie

After breakfast, continue your scenic drive toward Dalhousie, a charming colonial-era hill station surrounded by pine forests, mountain slopes, and panoramic Himalayan views. The route passes through peaceful countryside regions and smaller Himalayan settlements where local life moves at a calm and traditional pace. The gradual transition from Tibetan-influenced Dharamshala to the colonial atmosphere of Dalhousie makes the journey visually and culturally interesting.

Upon arrival, check into your luxury mountain hotel and relax amidst the cool climate and quiet surroundings. Dalhousie still preserves much of its old British-era character through heritage churches, colonial architecture, and peaceful walking paths lined with cedar trees. Compared to busier hill destinations, the town offers a slower and more refined atmosphere ideal for travelers looking to unwind in the mountains.

Later in the evening, enjoy a leisurely walk through the local market area or simply relax at your resort while admiring sunset views over the hills. Crisp mountain air, forest-covered valleys, and beautiful Himalayan scenery create a highly relaxing environment after several days of continuous sightseeing. Overnight stay in Dalhousie.

Day 10 Excursion to Khajjiar

The morning begins with an excursion to Khajjiar, often referred to as the “Mini Switzerland of India” because of its lush meadows, dense forests, and scenic mountain setting. Surrounded by cedar trees and rolling landscapes, Khajjiar remains one of the most picturesque destinations in Himachal Pradesh. The peaceful atmosphere and open natural surroundings make it especially attractive for nature lovers and photographers.

Spend time walking around the meadow area while enjoying breathtaking Himalayan views and fresh mountain air. Travelers may also choose optional activities such as horse riding or short nature walks through nearby forest trails. Unlike crowded tourist cities, Khajjiar provides a calm environment where visitors can slow down and fully appreciate the beauty of the Himalayas.

Later, visit the ancient Khajji Nag Temple, a historic wooden temple dedicated to local deities and admired for its traditional Himachali architecture. The combination of spirituality, natural beauty, and mountain culture makes the excursion highly memorable. Return to Dalhousie in the evening for overnight stay.

Day 11 Dalhousie to Chandigarh

After breakfast, depart from Dalhousie and begin your drive toward Chandigarh. As the journey descends from the Himalayan hills toward the plains of North India, the landscapes slowly transform from mountain forests into greener agricultural regions and modern urban surroundings. The drive offers one final opportunity to admire the beauty of Himachal Pradesh before leaving the mountains behind.

Arrive in Chandigarh by evening and check into your hotel. Known for its modern planning, clean roads, gardens, and organized architecture, Chandigarh presents a completely different atmosphere compared to the traditional hill towns visited earlier during the journey. The city was designed by renowned architect Le Corbusier and continues to be admired for its urban design and greenery.

Depending on the arrival timing, you may enjoy a short orientation drive through some of Chandigarh’s famous sectors and markets. Wide roads, lakeside areas, cafés, and modern public spaces create a refreshing environment for travelers before returning to Delhi. Overnight stay in Chandigarh.

Day 12 Chandigarh to Delhi

Following breakfast, begin your comfortable drive back to Delhi. The highway journey passes through Punjab and Haryana’s agricultural landscapes where vast green fields, roadside villages, and local dhabas provide glimpses into daily life in North India. The route remains smooth and well-connected, allowing a relaxed travel experience.

Upon arrival in Delhi, check into your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. After spending several days in the Himalayas, returning to the capital city offers a noticeable contrast between mountain serenity and metropolitan energy. Travelers may choose to relax at the hotel, enjoy shopping, or visit nearby restaurants for a final Indian dining experience.

The evening is ideal for reflecting on the diverse experiences encountered during the journey — colonial hill stations, snow-covered valleys, Tibetan monasteries, pine forests, Himalayan landscapes, and peaceful mountain towns. Overnight stay in Delhi.

Day 13 Departure from Delhi

Your memorable Himachal Pradesh luxury tour concludes today after breakfast. Depending on your international flight timing, enjoy some relaxed moments at the hotel before your private transfer to Delhi International Airport. The journey across Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, and Khajjiar leaves travelers with unforgettable mountain memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of North India.

Throughout the itinerary, every destination revealed a different side of the Himalayas — from colonial heritage and adventure valleys to Tibetan spirituality and peaceful alpine landscapes. Carefully selected hotels, scenic road journeys, private transportation, and balanced sightseeing ensured a comfortable and enriching travel experience across Himachal Pradesh.

As you board your onward flight, the memories of cedar forests, mountain sunsets, monasteries, valleys, rivers, and snow-covered peaks continue to remain among the most rewarding highlights of the journey. The tour offers an ideal combination of comfort, culture, and Himalayan beauty for travelers seeking a premium North India mountain holiday.

Inclusion :
  • Accommodation in luxury hotels and mountain resorts 
  • Daily breakfast at all hotels 
  • Private chauffeur-driven air-conditioned vehicle 
  • Airport transfers and travel assistance 
  • Professional English-speaking guides during sightseeing 
  • Sightseeing tours as per itinerary 
  • Excursion to Kufri and Solang Valley 
  • Excursion to Khajjiar 
  • All applicable toll taxes, parking, and driver allowances 
  • Bottled drinking water during road journeys
Exclusion :
  • International and domestic airfare 
  • India visa fees 
  • Monument entrance fees 
  • Travel insurance 
  • Lunches and dinners unless specified 
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, beverages, tips, and shopping 
  • Adventure activity charges in Solang Valley 
  • Camera or video charges at monuments 
  • Early check-in and late check-out charges 
  • Expenses caused by weather conditions, road closures, or unforeseen circumstances

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Testimonials

What Our Client's Say!

Read the reviews of our esteemed client's, go through the experiences they had with Top Indian Holidays.

England
18 Apr 2025
5/5
halvequabold
  because my time with him in India was the most organized and exciting two weeks of my existence. I spent two weeks touring Southern India with a class of 16 American students and one professor who had never been to India, but thanks to Nand, the trip was seamless. He took us to incredible locations and called upon his personal connections to create opportunities for us and ensure that we were involved and informed. The entire time we were there, Nand made India feel like home. Somehow, he found a way for us to experience a range of incredible, new experiences in a completly unfamiliar place, while always ensuring our safety, comfort, and awareness. There is nothing Nand will not do to make your trip incredible. I cannot reccommend him enough.  ...Read More
USA
14 Mar 2025
5/5
bill4040
  My wife had a wonderful 28 day trip around the main sights in Rajasthan, The Golden Triangle and onwards to Varanasi. Nand organised the hotels to our budget, the driver and guides all of which were very good. Without his expertise this trip would not have been possible so a big "thank you"!  ...Read More
Germany
17 Feb 2025
5/5
AAaron S
  Nand Singh and his company did a great job of managing the first half of a custom study tour for me in Southern India. I brought 16 students from Saint Mary's College in January of 2018 and Nand Singh ans his company organized the hotels, shared meals, excursions, and transportation for us.   ...Read More
Germany
09 Jan 2025
5/5
UAE jacobs
  Our trip with Top Indian Holidays was fantastic. Our family of five, including 3 small kids, visited the Golden Triangle of India. It was a wonderful cultural experience. I cannot recommend them enough. The hotel accommodations were great (we stayed at the trident hotels). The food was delicious. Everyone we met in India was so friendly and kind. We always felt safe. Our tour guide Nand was super nice and informative. Our kids’ favorite stop was the Monkey Temple :) The rickshaw ride through Delhi was exciting and fun.  ...Read More
Bali
15 Nov 2024
5/5
Wmilee K
  I’ve made such wonderful memories here in India. For a week, I had the chance to work on my sister’s women’s healthcare project in the village of Chandelao, and then spent a weekend in Jaipur. The accommodations have been top notch, and both our guides- Kartika and Nand Singh- have become our good friends. Top Indian Holidays is a tour company dedicated to exceptional service. Despite traveling alone with my sister, we felt so safe and at home. I truly have fallen in love with I did!  ...Read More
Australia
26 Sep 2024
5/5
Surban L.
  Last year, I travelled throughout northern India for one month as part of a course at Saint Mary’s College. We had such incredible adventures, thanks to our in country guide and friend Nand Singh Rathore. I was so impressed by his company’s commitment to excellent hospitality that I planned another visit this March. The main purpose of my trip was to work on a women’s healthcare project in Chandelao. Top Indian Holidays was so helpful in organizing transportation and accommodations. Our guide, Kartika, and our driver, Bhim, made sure we were well taken care of. My project would not have gone smoothly if it weren’t for them- and I am so proud to call them my new friends! My sister and I stayed an extra weekend in Jaipur, and Nand Singh was amazing as usual. He is so, so good to us!!! If you visit India through Top Indian Holidays, I assure you that you will have a safe, adventurous, and unforgettable experience!  ...Read More
England
17 Jun 2024
5/5
Bill M
  We could not be more pleased with our experience with Top Indian Holidays. All the travel arrangements from Taxis, Vans, and Airlines were seamless. From the Jain Festival to Armristar - touring the Golden Temple, and two flights north to see the Dalai Lana, all our needs were taken care of. Expert local guides were used as needed, all professional and friendly. They listen to your desires, and made our first trip to India an adventure of a lifetime.  ...Read More
Madrid
03 Mar 2024
5/5
NWPalmer
  Top Indian Holidays is THE BEST! We came to India for the Jain Festival in south India at Shravanabelagola (which happens only once every 12 years) and continued on to the Golden Temple in Amritsar and to sit for teachings with His Holiness, the XIV Dalai Lama in Dharamsala. Top Indian Holidays handled all of the arrangements expertly, providing first rate service, excellent accommodations, transport, and first rate local guides! We've travelled through many, many countries with numerous very good travel agencies but none have provided the excellent service that Top Indian Holidays provided. They are committed to excellence. Thank you Top Indian Holidays!  ...Read More
Finland
25 May 2026
5/5
Anthony M
  We had an absolutely incredible experience touring India with Top Indian Holidays, and I can’t recommend them highly enough. Our journey took us through Delhi, Agra, Ranthambore, and Jaipur, and every part of the trip was seamlessly organised from start to finish. The itinerary struck the perfect balance between sightseeing, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Seeing the Taj Mahal in Agra was, of course, a highlight, but the real standout moment was Ranthambore—where we were lucky enough to see tigers in the wild, something we’ll never forget. What really made the trip exceptional, though, was having the same driver with us throughout the entire journey.  ...Read More
UK
25 May 2026
5/5
Culture43864522401
  On the advice of a friend we contacted Nand Singh Rathore at Top Indian Holidays in Jaipur. Nand worked with us and suggested a suitable tour over 5 days. We flew from Goa to Delhi and were met by our driver Ram Singh, whom stayed with us for the duration of the tour. Day 2 we visited the Taj Mahal with a very well informed local guide and spent 3 hours enjoying this special place. We then headed for Jaipur ( a 6 hour drive from Agra) stopping on the way at Chand Baori ( The Abhaneri Step Well). Day 3 in Jaipur we visited the Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, and the City Palace. We were also due to visit the Jantar Mantar but because of heavy rain and thunderstorms we missed this out. Day 4 we were picked up at our hotel for the 7 hour drive to Udaipur , stopping for lunch and comfort breaks on the way.  ...Read More
Nand Singh Rathore
Nand Singh
Rathore
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