Day 01: Chandigarh to Shimla

Upon arrival at Chandigarh Airport, you will be greeted by your representative, who will escort you to Shimla, the charming hill station that once served as the Summer Capital of British India. Established after the Gurkha-British wars, Shimla became a summer retreat for the British from 1816 to 1947. As you ascend through the winding roads, you’ll witness beautiful pine forests and quaint hillside villages. On arrival, check into your hotel or homestay and relax amidst the European-style ambiance that defines Shimla’s colonial heritage.

Day 02:: Heritage Walk in Shimla

Shimla is renowned as a walker’s paradise, and today, you will explore the town’s colonial charm with a guided heritage walk. The journey begins at the majestic Viceregal Lodge, now the Institute of Advanced Study, once the summer residence of British viceroys. Proceed to the Christ Church, a neo-Gothic masterpiece and the second-oldest church in North India. Wander through the Army Heritage Museum and Annandale Ground, surrounded by stunning landscapes and rich military history. Continue to the Gaiety Theatre, a Victorian-era cultural landmark where British officers once gathered for plays and performances. The walk concludes at Mall Road, a bustling pedestrian-only street lined with charming shops and cafés. Your guide, Sumit, an author of eight books on Shimla, will captivate you with fascinating stories about the town’s past and present.

Day 03: Shimla to Sarahan

Today’s drive from Shimla to Sarahan takes you through scenic apple orchards and across the charming hill town of Narkanda, perched at an elevation of 9000 feet, offering breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks. Upon reaching Sarahan, a picturesque village surrounded by orchards and dominated by the towering Shrikhand Mahadev Peak (5155 meters), visit the renowned Bhimakali Temple, a remarkable blend of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. This sacred temple, home to a 200-year-old idol of Goddess Bhimakali, is revered by both communities and exudes spiritual tranquility. Spend the night soaking in the serene ambiance of this idyllic Himalayan village.

B'fast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive: 175km (6hrs)

Exp: Journey to Bhimakali

Day 04: Sarahan to Chitkul

Leaving Sarahan, you drive towards Chitkul, the last inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border, nestled along the pristine Baspa River. Known for its traditional wooden houses and lush pine forests, Chitkul offers an untouched Himalayan experience. Walk through the village, visit the local temple dedicated to Goddess Mathi, and engage with the locals dressed in their traditional attire. The rustic charm of Chitkul, with its breathtaking mountain backdrop, makes it a photographer’s paradise.

B'fast, Lunch & Dinner

Drive: 75Km (3hrs)

Exp: Last Village Trek

Day 05: Chitkul to Kalpa

The drive to Kalpa takes you through breathtaking landscapes. Along the way, you will stop at Batseri Village, known for its charming wooden architecture, and Kamru Village, home to the ancient Kamru Fort, a towering structure dedicated to Kamrunag, the local deity. A brief stop at Recongpeo, the headquarters of Kinnaur District, is necessary to obtain Inner Line Permits, which are required for traveling deeper into the restricted areas of the region. Upon reaching Kalpa, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the sacred Kinnaur Kailash Peak, which dominates the skyline.

Day 06: Exploring Kalpa and Nearby Villages

Kalpa is renowned for its towering cedar trees, apple orchards, and panoramic views of Kinnaur Kailash. Begin your day with a short walk to Village Roghi, located along the old Hindustan-Tibet Road, known for its ancient temples and intricate wooden architecture. Explore the nearby villages of Chini, Kothi, Pangi, and Telangi, each showcasing unique traditional structures and offering insight into the region's rich cultural heritage. Capture the breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped peaks to apple orchards, and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle.

Day 07: Kalpa to Nako

Today’s journey takes you to Nako, a serene high-altitude village situated at 3625 meters (11,893 feet). Once a prominent center of Buddhism, Nako retains its spiritual essence with ancient temples and sacred sites. Visit the historic Nako Monastic Complex, which dates back to the 11th–12th centuries, adorned with intricate wall paintings. A stroll around the tranquil Nako Lake, reflecting the surrounding peaks, offers a moment of serenity and spiritual connection.

Day 08: : Nako to Tabo – Entering Spiti Valley

Entering the barren and mystical Spiti Valley, often referred to as a living geological museum, you reach the village of Tabo, located at an altitude of 3050 meters. Explore the legendary Tabo Monastery, founded in 996 AD, often called the "Ajanta of the Himalayas" for its ancient murals, stucco sculptures, and priceless Buddhist manuscripts. This ancient monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, houses over 100 Lamas and remains an active center of Buddhist learning and spirituality.

Day 09: Tabo to Kaza via Dhankar and Pin Valley

This scenic drive to Kaza, the administrative hub of Spiti, takes you through some of the valley's most iconic landmarks. Start with a visit to the breathtaking Dhankar Monastery, an ancient cliffside structure built at an altitude of 3800 meters, offering panoramic views of the confluence of the Spiti and Pin Rivers. Continue through the dramatic landscapes of Pin Valley, known as a Geologist’s Paradise, with its moonlike formations and striking rock folds. By evening, arrive in Kaza, a vibrant yet remote town nestled amidst towering mountains.

Day 10: Exploring Kaza and High-Altitude Villages

Today, explore the high-altitude villages around Kaza, each showcasing Spiti’s unique culture and harsh yet beautiful environment. Begin at the iconic Key Monastery, the largest in Spiti, housing ancient murals, thangkas, and a rich collection of manuscripts. Proceed to Kibber Village, known for its picturesque surroundings and high-altitude wildlife. From here, visit Gete Village, offering panoramic views of the Spiti Valley. Conclude your exploration with visits to the remote villages of Langza, Komic, and Hikkim—home to the world’s highest post office (Hikkim, 4587 meters) and Komic, the highest motorable village.

Day 11: Kaza to Manali via Kunzum Pass and Atal Tunnel

The longest and most adventurous drive of the trip begins as you cross the famous Kunzum Pass (4600 meters), a high-altitude gateway connecting Spiti to Lahaul Valley. If road conditions permit, take a detour to visit the enchanting Chandratal Lake (Moon Lake), whose crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding peaks. Descending through the rugged terrain of Lahaul Valley, you will cross glacial streams and rough paths before driving through the engineering marvel that is the Atal Tunnel, the world’s longest high-altitude tunnel, before reaching Manali.

Day 12: Exploring Manali

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Manali is a town of stunning natural beauty and rich history. Start with a visit to the ancient Dhungri (Hidimba) Temple, dedicated to Goddess Hidimba, built from wood and stone in the traditional Kathkuni style. Continue to Naggar Castle, a medieval castle offering stunning views of the valley and showcasing traditional Himalayan architecture. Conclude your day at the Roerich Art Gallery, a museum housing the works of the renowned Russian painter Nicholas Roerich, who spent his later years capturing the beauty of the Himalayas.

Day 13: Manali to Dharamshala

The drive from Manali to Dharamshala takes you through the lush and picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, passing the charming Palampur Tea Gardens, originally planted by the British. Arriving in Dharamshala, the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile and home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, you will experience a unique blend of Tibetan and Indian cultures against the backdrop of the majestic Dhauladhar Range.

Day 14: Exploring Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj

Spend the day immersed in the rich Tibetan heritage of Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj. Begin at the serene Bhagsunag Temple and Waterfall, dedicated to Lord Shiva, a popular pilgrimage site surrounded by nature. Visit the Tibetan Children’s Village (TCV), a school and home for over 1500 Tibetan orphans, preserving Tibetan culture and traditions. Explore the historic St. John’s Church in the Wilderness, a neo-Gothic masterpiece set in a tranquil forest. Finally, visit the Norbulingka Institute, a vibrant center dedicated to preserving Tibetan art, culture, and crafts.

Day 15: Dharamshala to Pragpur (Heritage Village)

Driving towards the plains, you reach the Heritage Village of Pragpur, known for its well-preserved architecture and cultural heritage. En route, visit the remarkable Masroor Rock Cut Temples, an 8th-century complex of monolithic temples carved from a single rock, reminiscent of the Ellora Caves. Upon arrival in Pragpur, walk through its cobbled lanes and explore traditional homes belonging to the Sood community, showcasing unique architectural beauty.

Day 16: Pragpur to Amritsar

Arriving in Amritsar, the spiritual and cultural heart of Sikhism, begin your visit at the iconic Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib). Marvel at its stunning gold-plated dome and participate in the Langar, a free community meal served 24/7, a hallmark of Sikh hospitality. In the evening, travel to the Wagah Border to witness the dramatic flag-lowering ceremony, a patriotic display of military precision and camaraderie between India and Pakistan.

Day 17: Departure from Amritsar

With cherished memories of the majestic Himalayas and spiritual experiences from Amritsar, you will be transferred to Amritsar Airport or Railway Station for your onward journey, marking the end of this spectacular 17-day Himalayan adventure.