
North India Hill Stations & Amritsar
New
Starting and ending in Delhi, this 13–day Himalayan loop blends big–city icons with mountain calm. You’ll explore Old and New Delhi, with highlights including Red Fort, Jama Masjid and India Gate. Then head to Shimla for colonial charm, Mall Road strolls and views from Jakhoo. Day trips reach Chail and Kufri for palaces, horses and pine forests. Continue to Manali for temples, Tibetan vibes and, weather permitting, the dramatic Rohtang Pass. Tea gardens await in Palampur, while Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj bring monasteries, waterfalls and Tibetan culture. Finish in Amritsar with the Golden Temple, Wagah ceremony and lively bazaars, then fly back to Delhi.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
13 daysHotel Rating
3, 4 or 5 star hotelsStarts
DelhiEnds
DelhiMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in India that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Country
IndiaPassengers
£2,630.00
£1,490.00
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 1 / Max Private Tour
Trip Type
Private Tours
Range
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - for included sightseeing.Group Size
Min 1 / Max Private TourRange
On this tour, you won't be joined by other travellers, and will just be travelling with your booking party. Some transportation & sightseeing may be shared, check the Inclusions for more information.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Private ToursPlaces You'll See

New Delhi

Delhi

Amritsar

Shimla

Shimla Division

Chail

Kufri

Manali

Mandi Division

Kullu

Palampur

Dharamshala

Dharamsala

McLeod Ganj

Kangra Division
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Itinerary
Day 1 - Delhi
Arrive in Delhi and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 2 - Exploring Delhi
We begin the day in Old Delhi, exploring the Red Fort, the grand Mughal citadel, followed by Jama Masjid, one of India’s largest mosques noted for its intricate craftsmanship. We then weave through the lively lanes of Chandni Chowk, a trading hub for centuries. Moving into New Delhi, we pause at India Gate – the memorial to Indian soldiers of the First World War – and drive past Rashtrapati Bhavan and Parliament House, landmarks of the colonial era. We continue to Humayun’s Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage mausoleum set in formal gardens and considered a forerunner to the Taj Mahal, before concluding at Qutub Minar, the soaring 12th century brick minaret that anchors another UNESCO-listed complex. Overnight at hotel.
Day 3 - Delhi to Shimla
We depart Delhi for Shimla – a scenic 364 km journey into the Himalayan foothills. As we ascend, the cityscape gives way to mountain views. On arrival, we check in to your hotel, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery, and you can take time to relax. In the evening, you can explore the hotel surroundings or take a leisurely stroll to enjoy the fresh mountain air. Overnight at hotel.
Day 4 - Exploring Shimla
We begin with the Viceregal Lodge (Rashtrapati Niwas) – the former summer residence of the British viceroys – to stroll its gardens and take in the Gothic style architecture. We then head to Christ Church on The Ridge, noted for its stained glass windows and recognised as the second oldest church in Northern India.
Afterwards we continue along Mall Road – Shimla’s main promenade lined with shops, cafes and colonial era buildings. You can browse for souvenirs or try local snacks during free time. We finish at Jakhoo Hill, the city’s highest point, for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, and visit Jakhoo Temple dedicated to Hanuman – home to a towering statue of the deity. Overnight at hotel.
Day 5 - Chail & Kufri Day Trip
From Shimla, we set out on a day trip to Chail and Kufri. In Chail – once the summer capital of the princely state of Patiala – we explore the elegant Chail Palace and its tranquil gardens, taking in the calm of this hillside retreat.
We then continue to Kufri for sweeping views of the Himalayan ranges and forested slopes. In your free time, you can try horse riding – a local favourite – or visit the Himalayan Wildlife Zoo. We return to Shimla in the evening. Overnight at hotel.
Day 6 - Shimla to Manali
Shimla – Manali (310 km). We depart Shimla and drive to Manali, stopping en route at the Nicholas Roerich Art Gallery, dedicated to the renowned Russian artist who made the Himalayas his home. We explore its collection of paintings, sculptures and artefacts inspired by the region’s landscapes before continuing to Manali. On arrival, we check in to your hotel, which offers panoramic mountain views. Overnight at hotel.
Day 7 - Exploring Manali
We start the day at Hadimba Devi Temple, set among tall cedar forests – admire its finely carved wooden architecture and the tranquil, spiritual atmosphere. We continue to the Tibetan Monastery to see colourful prayer flags, intricate mandalas and Buddhist artefacts, gaining an insight into the area’s Tibetan heritage. We then wander the lanes of Old Manali, with traditional houses, easy-going cafés and shops selling handmade crafts, before visiting Vashisth Village to see the ancient Vashisth Temple and its natural hot springs amid picturesque surroundings. We round off the day with an unhurried stroll along the Beas River. Overnight in Manali.
Day 8 - Rohtang Pass Day Trip
We set out on a full day excursion to Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass at 13,050 feet. The drive follows rugged Himalayan terrain, passing through valleys and snow covered landscapes. At the pass, we take in wide views of surrounding peaks and glaciers, with time to walk on the snow and photograph the scenery.
If conditions allow, you can try seasonal snow activities such as skiing or snowboarding, or simply enjoy a snowball fight. The excursion is subject to weather and permit availability – if access is not possible, alternative activities may be arranged locally. We return to Manali for the evening – overnight at the hotel.
Day 9 - Manali to Palampur
Manali to Palampur – 180 km. We depart Manali on a scenic drive to Palampur, a town framed by the Dhauladhar range and known for its tea gardens. On arrival we check in and have time to relax. In the afternoon we visit Tashi Jong Monastery to appreciate its Tibetan architecture and tranquil setting, then continue to the ancient Baijnath Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and noted for its stone carvings. We finish at a local tea estate to see cultivation and processing first-hand, walk through the gardens and taste freshly brewed tea while taking in views of the surrounding plantations. Overnight at hotel.
Day 10 - Palampur to Dharamshala
Palampur – Dharamshala (50 km) After breakfast, we drive to Dharamshala, a spiritual centre in the Kangra Valley and home to the Tibetan government in exile. On arrival we check in – you have time to relax and take in the mountain views.
In the afternoon we visit Namgyal Monastery and the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which includes the Dalai Lama’s residence and offers insight into Tibetan Buddhism, culture and traditions. We stroll the complex – gardens, meditation halls and prayer rooms – with colourful prayer flags adding to the calm atmosphere. Overnight at hotel.
Day 11 - Exploring Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj
We spend a full day exploring Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj. We begin at Bhagsunag Temple – an ancient shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva – and take time to wander the peaceful complex. We then continue to nearby Bhagsu Waterfall to appreciate the mountain setting.
In McLeod Ganj, we visit the Tsuglagkhang Monastery – the main temple of the Tibetan community in exile – and the Library of Tibetan Works and Archives, home to important Tibetan manuscripts and artefacts. You can then browse the streets of McLeod Ganj at your own pace, calling into Tibetan shops, handicraft stores and simple cafes. Overnight at hotel.
Day 12 - Dharamshala to Amritsar
Dharamshala – Amritsar (210 km). We depart Dharamshala for a scenic drive to Amritsar, Punjab’s spiritual and cultural hub. On arrival we check in at the hotel and you have time to relax – you can savour traditional Punjabi cuisine as you unwind after the journey. In the afternoon we head to the Wagah Border for the Beating Retreat ceremony – a striking display of drill and flag-lowering on the India–Pakistan frontier, cheered on by enthusiastic crowds. Overnight at hotel.
Day 13 - Exploring Amritsar & Return to Delhi
After breakfast we set out on a comprehensive city tour of Amritsar. We visit the Golden Temple – one of Sikhism’s most sacred pilgrimage sites – to admire its gilded dome and serene sarovar. We also see the Central Sikh Museum above the Clock Tower and learn about the community kitchen at the Guru Ka Langar, which serves free meals to around 20,000 people each day, rising to about 100,000 on special occasions. We continue to the Durgiana Temple – a Hindu shrine whose architecture echoes the Golden Temple – before exploring the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Museum, noted for its collections of paintings, weapons, armour, manuscripts and coins.
We then head to Gobindgarh Fort, originally built in the 18th century and strengthened in the early 19th century by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, who renamed it after the tenth Sikh Guru, Guru Gobind Singh. The fort once mounted five cannons, including the famed Zamzama cannons. Later, we take a rickshaw ride and a guided walk through Amritsar’s old market to experience its lively streets and local trade.
In the evening we transfer you to the airport for the flight to Delhi (flight not included) – from here you can connect with a late night onward flight. If you prefer, you can end the tour in Amritsar.
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Tour Reviews
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Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
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Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.

Accommodation Standard
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Prices & Dates
The prices you see below are a guide, with final prices per person being determined by the number of travellers in your booking party, desired hotel standard and the rooming arrangements required. To see an accurate price, please click "Book Dates" and enter the details for your booking party.
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