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364 Embassy, Koramangala, Bangalore. Ph: +91 9483958408, 9880388991, holiday@takeabreak.in, www.takeabreak.in

BEST OF HIMACHAL PRADESH

Delhi – Manali – Dharamshala – Shimla – Delhi 9 Days / 8 Nights

(Blackout Dates: 15th December to 5th January)

DELHI

MANALI

SHIMLA

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Overview

Note: Guests will be spending a total of 2 nights in the coach (1 night from Delhi – Manali & 1 night from Shimla – Delhi)

PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS Delhi: Akshardham, Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, India Gate Manali: Hadimba Temple, Manu temple, Vashisth, Naggar castle, Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley Dharamshala: Gyuto Monastery, War Memorial, Kangra Art Museum and Kotwali Bazaar, McLeodganj, Namgyal Monastery and Tsuglagkhang Shimla: Mall road, Christ Church, Kurfi, Viceregal Lodge, Shimla State Museum, and Prospect Hill

Day 1: Delhi

Delhi

Delhi, National Capital Territory of Delhi, is the Capital territory of India. Through most of its history, Delhi has served as a capital of various kingdoms and empires. The city was captured, ransacked and rebuilt several times, particularly during the medieval period, and modern Delhi is a cluster of a number of cities spread across the metropolitan region. The city is divided into two parts – Old Delhi and New Delhi – which are two different worlds on their own. Old Delhi, once the capital of Islamic India, is a labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with crumbling havelis and formidable mosques. In contrast, the imperial city of New Delhi created by the British Raj is composed of spacious, tree-lined avenues and imposing government buildings. Like an eastern Rome, India’s capital is littered with the relics of lost empires. The Pandavas of the Mahabharata had their capital at Indraprastha, which is believed to have been geographically located in today's Delhi.

Day Notes

Arrive in Delhi International Airport You will be greeted by our chauffeur and drive to your hotel Check-in to the Hotel & rest of the day at leisure. Overnight at Delhi

Included

BB

Day 2: DELHI – MANALI (540 Km / 11 Hrs)

Day Notes

After breakfast, check out from the property and proceed for sightseeing of Delhi Delhi Sightseeing: Akshardham, Red Fort, Humayun's Tomb, Qutub Minar, India Gate After sightseeing in the night @ 20:00 Hours take your coach from Delhi Bus station to Manali (sharing basis) Overnight in the coach

Destination Nights Basis

Delhi Manali Dharamshala Shimla

1 2 2 1

BB BB BB BB

RO: Room only I SC: Self Catering I HB: Half Board I B&B: Bed and breakfast I D, B&B: Dinner, bed and breakfast I FB: Dinner, bed, breakfast and lunch I FB+: Dinner, bed, breakfast, lunch and activities daily I FI: Fully inclusive

HB – breakfast & dinner

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Included

BB

Visit the below sightseeing points

Akshardham

Swaminarayan Akshardham Temple in Delhi is the largest Hindu temple complex in the world and is on the banks of Yamuna

River. The temple opened in 2005 was built by BAPS Swaminarayan Sanstha spiritual organization; the complex displays

millennia of traditional Hindu and Indian culture, spirituality, and architecture. The main monument, at the centre of the

complex designed in accordance with ancient Vedic text known as the Sthapatya Shastra, features a blend of architectural styles

from across India. The monument is constructed entirely from Rajasthani pink sandstone and Italian Carrara marble, and has no

support from steel or concrete. The complex also features a beautiful garden known as Garden of India or Bharat Upavan. The

garden spread over acres of well manicured lawns and large trees also has several bronze sculptures of famous Indian

personalities and freedom fighters who have contributed to India's history and culture. Akshardham is open between 9:30 am

and 6:30 pm on all days except Mondays.

Red Fort

Delhi's most famous monument, the Red Fort or the Lal Quila, stands as a powerful reminder of the Mughal emperors who ruled

India. The Fort, built in 1638 by Shah Jahan, is a magnificent monument that captivates your attention and exhibits the show of

architectural splendour of Mughals. Its walls, which stretch for over two kilometres (1.2 miles), and are 33 meters high were

built to keep out invaders. On Indian Independence Day (15 August), the Prime Minister of India hoists the national flag at the

main gate of the fort and delivers a nationally-broadcast speech from its ramparts. Except on Mondays the World Heritage site is

open on other days between 9 am and 6 pm.

Humayun's Tomb

Humayun’s tomb built in 1570 was comissioned by Queen Haji Begum, widow of second Mughal emperor Humayun. Located on

the banks of River Yamuna the tomb houses the Mughal emperor’s body. This was the first of this type of Mughal architecture

built in India which was followed by an extensive period of construction all over the country. This structure is also considered as

the inspiration for Taj Mahal’s creation. Open on all days the best time to view the tomb is in the golden light of the late

afternoon.

Qutub Minar

Qutub Minar is the tallest brick minaret in the world and the second tallest Minar in India. Made of red sandstone and marble,

the 73 meters (240 feet) tall structure was built in 1206. The tower has five distinct stories, and is covered with intricate carvings

and verses from the holy Quran. Qutub Minar is an exquisite example of Indo-Islamic Afghan architecture.

India Gate

Earlier known as ‘All India War Memorial’, India Gate was constructed in 1931 as a war memorial for over 70,000 soldiers who

were killed during First World War and Afghan War. The names of the martyrs are etched on the body of this 42 m high India

Gate. It's located in Rajpath, the royal way which leads to the President's residence. Amar Jawan Jyoti is a burning shrine

underneath the arch of the famous India Gate. The flame honors the immortal warriors of India. The shrine is a monument made

out of black marble. A rifle is positioned on the barrel, tufted by a helmet of a soldier. The words "Amar Jawan is inscribed in

gold in each of the faces of the monument. The place is illuminated with thousands of lights and that creates a gracious impact.

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Day 3: MANALI

Manali

Manali, a mystical hill town of Himachal Pradesh is located near the highway leading to Leh. The city is a haven for skiing and

paragliding and also offers various natural trails for trekking. The mythological legends, the snow capped mountains and scenic

beauty lures tourists to Manali. Snow can be enjoyed year round at Rohtang Pass providing the perfect setting for families and

couples to enjoy the natural vista. The small town is the beginning of an ancient trade route to Ladakh and from there over the

Karakoram Pass on to Yarkand and Khotan in the Tarim Basin. It is a popular tourist destination and serves as the roadway to

other northern hill stations.

Day Notes

Reach Manali by 08:00 Hours in the morning You will be greeted by our representative and transferred to the hotel. Check-in and relax After lunch at 1:00pm proceed for sightseeing of Manali Sightseeing of Manali: Hadimba Temple, Manu temple, Vashisth, Naggar, Naggar castle, Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery Return to the hotel by late evening and relax Overnight at Manali

Included

BB

Visit to the below sightseeing points

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Hadimba Temple

Hidimbi Devi Temple, also known variously as the Hadimba Temple, is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, sister

of Hidimba, a figure in the Indian epic Mahabarat. The temple is surrounded by cedar forest at the foot of the Himalayas. The

sanctuary is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground which was worshipped as an image of the deity. The structure was

built in 1553. The Hidimba Devi temple is built around a cave where Hidimba performed meditation. Hidimba was supposed to

have lived there with her brother Hidimb, and not much is known about their parents. Born into a Rakshas family, Hidimba

vowed to marry one who would defeat her brother Hidimb, who was supposed to be very brave and fearless. During the

Pandava's exile, when they visited Manali; Bhima, one of the five Pandavas, killed Hidimb. Thereafter, Hidimba married Bhima

and gave birth to their son Ghatotkacha. There is a shrine which is dedicated to Ghatotkacha (son of Bhima-Hadimba) and is

located just about 70 metres from the temple.

Manu Temple

This magnificent temple is dedicated to the sage Manu, who is said to be the creator of the world and the writer of Manusmriti.

The Manu Temple is located in old Manali, at a distance of three kilometres from the main market. Though this area is quite

congested, the presence of the River Beas adds to its attraction. The temple is one of the prime attractions in Manali and is

believed to be the same place where sage Manu meditated after stepping on earth. This place has a distinct historical

background that appeals to most of the people who visit Manali. The popularity of this majestic temple lies in the fact that it is

the only temple dedicated to Manu. The travellers are advised to wear dresses covering the knees and shoulders, while inside

the temple.

Vashisth

Vashisht, a small town on the outskirts of Manali, is famous for healing hot spring baths along with Vashisth and Rama temples.

Vashisht was named after Rishi Vashisht one of the seven sages of Hindu. Legend has it that the saddened Rishi Vashisht after

learning that his children were killed by Vishwamitra tried to commit suicide. But the river refused to kill him. The river was

therefore named as Vipasha which literally means ‘freedom from bondage’. It was later shortened to Beas River. He began

mediating and vowed to start his life anew. The Vashisht temple which exists even today is believed to be more than 4000 years.

It’s difficult to imagine how a place so old could remain so small. Perhaps the village is protected by its difficult landscapes.

Vashisht temple is built in a traditional style with lots of intricate wood carvings. It is also most popular for hot springs which is

believed to have medicinal value. Besides these gurgling streams, Vashisht also houses pretty old shrines dedicated to lord Ram

and his kula guru, Sage Vashisht.

Naggar

Located in the Kullu district, around 20 km from Manali, Naggar is a very popular heritage village in India. Besides having various

historical monuments and holy temples, the town also boasts of verdant fruit orchards and host of adventure activities like

trekking, fishing and camping.

Naggar Castle

Located in Naggar Town, amidst breathtaking forested hills, the Naggar Castle is a magnificent historical edifice. Made of stone

and wood, this palace served as the residence of Raja Sidh Singh of Kullu. It was built in AD 1460 in an impressive amalgamation

of European and Himalayan architecture. Fireplaces, fitting staircases, and magnificent stone and wood works grace the castle's

interiors. There are three small shrines within the premises, each holding immense religious importance. For art lovers, Naggar

Castle has incredible art pieces on display. Worth-mentioning are the paintings of Nicholas Roerich- the famous Russian painter.

In the year 1978, the castle was converted into a rest house, and more recently into a heritage hotel that is run by Himachal

Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC). The holy Beas River flows close to the castle, adding beauty and sanctity to

it.

Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery

Nicholas Reorich Art Gallery is a very popular attraction in Naggar and is located within the Naggar Castle. The museum displays

a private collection of paintings of the Russian painter Nikolai Reorich, who lived here and died in the year 1947. The ground

floor of the gallery is dedicated to the paintings of Kullu, Spiti and Lahaul by the painter. The upper floor preserves the artist’s

private rooms.

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DAY 4: MANALI

Day Notes

After early breakfast, proceed for sightseeing of Manali Manali Sightseeing: Rohtang Pass, Solang Valley Return to the hotel by late evening and relax Overnight at Manali

Included

BB

Visit to the below sightseeing points

Rohtang Pass

Rohtang Pass- a gateway to Lahaul and Spiti Valley in Himachal Pradesh, remains one of the most spectacular destinations in the

entire Kullu region. This picturesque pass is located around 51 kms away from Manali, at a height of 3980 meters, on Manali

Keylong highway. This mountain slope is so beautiful that attracts people from every corner of the country to take part in

adventure sports such as skiing, ice-skating, paragliding, etc. The Rohtang Pass is open for tourist from April to October and the

permission to travel on this highway is given by the Indian Army, once they clear the snow. The name Rohtang means 'ground of

corpses' due to the number of people who lost their lives while crossing this difficult mountain range. It is located on the Pir

Panjal Mountain Range of the Himalayas and serves as the gateway to Pangi and the valley of Leh. The Rohtang Pass is a natural

divide between the humid Kullu Valley, which has a predominant Hindu culture and high altitude Lahaul and Spiti Calleys, which

are predominantly Buddhist.

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Solang Valley

Solang valley is famous for hosting various winter adventure sports like skiing, parachuting, paragliding, trekking, and

mountaineering. This dazzling valley is one of the most picturesque sights in Manali and is located at an average altitude of

2,560 meters above sea level. Solang Valley is located between Solang village and Beas Kund and offers majestic views of

glaciers and snow capped mountain. The Mountaineering Institute of Manali has installed a ski lift for training. The winter skiing

festival is also organized in Solang every year and the activities like Zorbing, Horse riding & Snow Motor Bikes riding are offered

for the entertainment of tourists.

DAY 5: MANALI – DHARAMSHALA (234Km / 06 Hrs 30 Mins)

Dharamshala

Dharamshala, is located in the scenic valleys of Kangra. Situated at an average altitude of 1,475 meters above sea level and is

surrounded by thick deodar cedar trees, snow-laden mountains, exotic culture, and quaint old monasteries. The presence of the

great Tibetan leader Dalai Lama along with other Buddhist nuns & monks and several Tibetan Monasteries has made

Dharamshala one of the most sought after destination.

Day Notes

After breakfast check out from the hotel at 08:30 and drive to Dharamshala Arrive in Dharamshala by 15:00 Hours, check-in to the hotel and relax In the evening visit Gyuto Monastery, War Memorial, Kangra Art Museum and Kotwali Bazaar Overnight at Dharamshala

Included

BB

Visit the below sightseeing points

Gyuto Monastery

One of the most famous monasteries in Tibet, the Gyuto Monastery is known for its study of Tantric meditation, Tantric ritual

arts and Buddhist philosophy. It was founded in Tibet in 1474 by the main disciple of the first Dalai Lama, Jetsun Kunga

Dhondup. After the communist Chinese invasion in 1959, the monastery was re-established in India. Located 6km from

Dharamsala, the monastery is a famous pilgrim spot of the region. It was built to commemorate the Tibetan soldiers who

sacrificed their lives for the freedom of Tibet and houses the bronze statue of Sakyamuni Buddha.

War Memorial

War Memorial is located at the entry point of the Dharamshala town and it was built to commemorate the memory of those

who fought valiantly for the honor of their motherland. Surrounded by sprawling gardens, the elegant looking War Memorial is a

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tribute to those brave souls who sacrificed their life for the country. During the operations of 1947-48, 1962, 1965, and 1971 and

various peacekeeping missions, many soldiers lost their lives, and it was in their memory that the War Memorial was built with

the names of those many heroes inscribed on the stone

Kangra Art Museum

Kangra Art Museum is located close to the Bus stand and is famous for displaying some of the finest paintings from the Kangra

School along with fabrics, weapons and artifacts belonging to the local kings. Some of the displayed items in the museum date

back to 5th century. The museum is very close to the famous shopping hub, Kotwali Bazaar.

Kotwali Bazaar

Kotwali bazaar is the main shopping centre of the city. The whole city revolves around the Kotwali Bazaar and is replete with

small shops selling various kinds of souvenirs including the famous Tibetan carpets. Here tourists can enjoy some finger licking

street food like momos and Thupkas as well.

DAY 6: DHARAMSHALA

Day Notes

After breakfast proceed for day trip to Mcleodganj McLeodganj Sightseeing: Tsuglagkhang, Namgyal Monastery, Tibet Museum Return to the hotel by late evening and relax. Overnight at Dharamshala

Included

BB

Visit the below sightseeing points

McLeodganj

Mcleodganj, also known as Little Lhasa is the most important part of Himachal Pradesh. The place is located at a height of

approximately 1770 meters and is the residence of His Holiness, The 14th

Dalai Lama. Mcleodganj is also a historic place as the

Tibetan Government in exile has been headquartered here for over three decades and thousands of Tibetan refugees have been

living here since 1959. Mcleodganj is named after Sir Donald Friell McLeod, who was the lieutenant Governor of Punjab and

under whom the area of Mcleodganj was developed. The place has emerged as a major Buddhist center as it embraces great

and impressive monasteries with larger than life images of Buddha, Padmasambhava, and Avaloktwshwara. It represents the

Tibetan community, who makes its presence felt in the city through traditional architectural designs, Tibetan handicrafts,

culture, temples, and garments. There are many Tibetan markets, restaurants, and shops in Mcleodganj that offer the amazing

handicrafts of Tibet and serve people with delicious food, prepared in the rich flavors of Tibet.

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Tsuglagkhang

The prime attraction of McLeodganj, Tsuglagkhang is a beautiful complex that houses the Namgyal Monastery (abode of Dalai

Lama). Except the monk’s residences, tourists are allowed to explore the stupas, temples, bookshops, café and a museum

located inside the complex. You must pass through a quick security screening and bag check to enter parts of the complex;

cameras and phones are permitted only when teachings are not in progress.

Namgyal Monastery

Namgyal Monastery was founded in the 16th century by the second Dalai Lama and it was established so that Namgyal monks

could assist the Dalai Lama in public religious affairs. The monks living here perform rituals for the welfare of Tibet and work as a

centre of learning and meditation on the profound Buddhist treatises. In 1959, the Red Chinese invaded Tibet, after which, His

Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama along with thousands of Tibetans, including hundreds of Namgyal monks, fled into the

neighbouring countries of Nepal, Bhutan, and India and re-established the Namgyal monastery in India. The Namgyal Monastery

was first established by the 3rd Dalai Lama in 1575 in Tibet and was relocated to Dharamshala following the Tibetan uprising in

1959. The monastery currently houses around 200 Tibetan monks, who help preserve the monastery's ancient rituals, artistic

skills and traditions.

DAY 7: DHARAMSHALA – SHIMLA (240 Km / 06 Hrs 30 Mins)

Shimla

The ever-charming Queen of Hills 'Shimla' was once the summer capital of the British in India. This beautiful hill station is

surrounded by picturesque green valleys, snow-capped Himalayan mountain range, scenic hills, and spectacular structures,

made during the colonial era. The city creates an aura of regal India and embraces numerous attractions in its vicinity that looks

absolutely stunning in winter. Shimla is the present capital of Himachal Pradesh, which is situated in the northwestern part of

the Himalayan Mountain Range and is surrounded by pine, deodar, oak, and rhododendron forests. It has grand old buildings,

stately Viceregal Lodges, charming iron lamp posts, regal bakeries and coffee houses that make Shimla one of the top tourist

destinations in India. The city also plays host to the historic toy train that links Kalka with Shimla through 105 tunnels and many

beautiful rail & road stations.

Day Notes

After breakfast check out from the hotel at 08:30 and drive to Shimla Arrive at Shimla by 15:00 Hours, check-in to the hotel and relax In the evening you may wish to take a walk along Mall Road and The Ridge and indulge yourselves in shopping Overnight at Shimla

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Included

BB

Visit the below sightseeing points

Mall Road

The Mall Road is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Shimla that enfolds many hotels, restaurants, clubs, bars, banks,

shops, offices, post offices, and tourist offices. One can walk up and down the Mall road slowly and enjoy the scenic views of the

nature while sipping your favourite coffee. This is a vehicle-free zone and is best explored only on foot. Horse riding can also be

enjoyed here.

Christ Church

Christ Church is one the oldest churches in North India and was built by the British in 1857 to serve the large Anglican British

community in the area. The majestic appearance of the church and its stunning location makes it a prime attraction in Shimla.

The church has stained glass windows, which represents faith, hope, charity, fortitude, patience, and humanity. It is one of the

long lasting legacies of British rule in India and also Shimla‘s most popular landmark. The church building is constructed in the

Neo-Gothic style of architecture and anyone visiting Shimla should spend some time in this glorious structure.

The Ridge

The Ridge is a large open space in the heart of Mall road that provides an excellent view of the mountain ranges engulfed in the

beauty of nature. It is one of the most famous attractions in Shimla that is worth seeing with family and friends. The Ridge

connects the Mall road at the Scandal point on the west side and offers a panoramic view of the snowy mountains of Shimla.

DAY 8: SHIMLA – DELHI (350 Km / 07 Hrs)

Day Notes

After breakfast, check-out from your Hotel and proceed for sightseeing of Shimla Shimla sight Seeing: Kurfi, Viceregal Lodge, Shimla State Museum, and Prospect Hill Later in the evening you will dropped to the bus station to board your coach to Delhi (sharing basis) Overnight in the coach

Included

BB

Visit to the below sightseeing points

Kufri

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Kufri is a small hill station in Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh state in India. It is located 13 km from the state capital Shimla.

The name Kufri is derived from the word kufri meaning "lake" in the local language. The highest point in the surrounding region

Kufri has a Himalayan wild life zoo which hosts rare antelopes, felines and birds including the Himalayan monal, the state bird of

Himachal Pradesh. During winter a meandering path through the potato plantations turns into a popular ski track.

Viceregal Lodge

This magnificent building was built in 1888 as the residence of the British Viceroy Lord Dufferin. It is located at the observatory

Hills and is surrounded by well-maintained gardens and lawns, ringed by beautiful pine trees & rose plants. The Viceregal Lodge,

also known as "Rashtrapati Niwas" is now converted into Indian Institute of Advanced Study and students come here for higher

studies. The building has an English Renaissance style of architecture. Since it is located at a good height, the views from this

place are enthralling and cannot be described in words.

Shimla State Museum

The Shimla State Museum has a good collection of ancient historical sculptures, paintings, coins, handicrafts, photos, and other

items from all over the state as well as from outside. The state museum is built in colonial style with sprawling gardens all

around and is one of the best places to visit in Shimla. It was opened in 1974 with just four galleries; later more galleries have

been added here and currently there are more than 9000 objects in the collection. Some of the popular galleries present here

are Indian archaeology, Himachal archaeology, Pre historic objects, Wood Carvings, Monuments, Photographs, Bronzes, Arms

Gallery, Gandhi Gallery, Philatelic, Anthropological, Pahari Miniature Paintings, Rajasthan Paintings, Contemporary Art, and Wall

Paintings Gallery. The museum is open on all days except on Mondays and public holidays.

Prospect Hill

Prospect hill is popular for having a temple dedicated to Goddess Kamna Devi. At Prospect Hill, one can enjoy a spectacular view

of the entire region that is so beautiful and so very rare. One can visit this place for a happy walk and travel through the uneven

path of the hill witnessing the cool breeze and highly pleasant environment. Shimla Prospect Hill is an ideal place for trekking

and for picnic parties.

Day 9: DELHI

Day Notes

Reach Delhi by morning and freshen up at restaurant After breakfast you will be dropped to Delhi International Airport for your return journey

Included

BB

----------------------------------------------------------------End of Vacation----------------------------------------------------------------------

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PRICE: Starts from USD 768 per person

INCLUSIONS

Accommodation on double occupancy in above well rated 3* properties

Breakfast plan on all days

Usage of hotel/ resort facilities

To and fro Volvo coach tickets (Delhi – Manali & Shimla – Delhi)

Transportation by private chauffer driven sedan as per the itinerary

Sightseeing as per the itinerary – (final Itinerary will be shared one week prior to the travel date)

All govt. taxes as on date

EXCLUSIONS

Airfare / Railway fare

Expense of personal nature

Meals not specified in the inclusions

Additional guest requests, orders and services

Additional Activities taken up at the resort

Transport for personal use

Exigency cost – in case of emergency

Travel Insurance

Entrance fees at points of interest

Gratitude & Portage

NOTE

- Above itinerary can be customised based on the no. of guests travelling

- Guests will be booked in a sleeper Ac coach during their journey from Delhi – Manali and Shimla – Delhi

- Above cost is calculated based on minimum 2 adults travelling together. Any change in the total no. of guests travelling will

result in change of rates.

- In case of non-availability of the above properties, similar properties will be considered.

- Most of our programs are customised and we work in line with the requirements of our clients and hence the final detailed

itinerary is prepared 5 days prior to the travel date based on the weather conditions and feasibility of visiting places during

sightseeing.

Good to Know

- Best season to travel to Himachal is between April – September. However if you want to experience snow rains October

to January is suitable

- Rohtang pass (in Manali) remains closed from November to April due to high snowfall in tis region and opens up by the

second week of May

- If one wishes to enjoy snow based activities it s recommended to travel between May to September