15-Day North India New Year Adventure: Mumbai to Delhi & Himalayan Escapes
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Day Day 1: Journey & Exploration
Mumbai, Maharashtra on December 22, 2025
7:00am
Fly to Amritsar
Catch an early morning flight from Mumbai to Amritsar; check into your hotel and relax after your journey.
INR 6000, 2h 30m
1:00pm
Lunch at Kesar Da Dhaba
Enjoy authentic Punjabi cuisine in the historic Kesar Da Dhaba, a local favorite open for lunch.
INR 500, 1h
3:00pm
Visit Golden Temple
Experience the spiritual serenity of the Golden Temple; visit the holy site, participate in evening prayers.
Free, 2h
6:00pm
Dinner at Brothers' Dhaba
Enjoy hearty Punjabi meals at Brothers' Dhaba, open until late.
INR 400, 1h
Day Day 2: Amritsar Sightseeing
Amritsar, India on December 23, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Café Tandoor
Relish a traditional North Indian breakfast with parathas and lassi at Café Tandoor.
INR 300, 1h
9:30am
Jallianwala Bagh
Visit the historic site commemorating the 1919 massacre, a poignant reminder of India's fight for independence.
Free, 1.5h
11:30am
Partition Museum
Explore stories of Partition through photographs and artifacts, a must-see in Amritsar.
INR 50, 2h
2:00pm
Lunch at Bharawan Da Dhaba
Sample delicious Punjabi cuisine in a lively local setting.
INR 600, 1h 30m
4:30pm
Wagah Border Ceremony
Witness the famous flag-lowering ceremony at the India-Pakistan border, a vibrant patriotic event.
Free, 1h 30m
6:30pm
Dinner at Bharwan Da Dhaba
Taste hearty Punjabi dishes in a lively environment, open late.
INR 500, 1h
Day Day 3: Dharamsala Journey
Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh on December 24, 2024
7:00am
Drive to Dharamsala
Embark on a scenic 4-5 hour drive from Amritsar to Dharamsala, soaking in Himalayan views.
Transport via private car or bus, 5h
1:00pm
Check-in & Lunch at Tibetan Kitchen
Relax and enjoy Tibetan delicacies in McLeod Ganj area.
INR 600, 1h
2:30pm
Dal Lake & Bhagsu Waterfall
Visit the peaceful Dal Lake and trek to Bhagsu Waterfall for serene nature experiences.
Free, 2h 30m
5:00pm
Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex
Explore the residence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the monk temple.
Free, 1h 30m
7:00pm
Dinner at Tibet Kitchen
Enjoy Tibetan momos and thukpa in a cozy setting to wind down your day.
INR 400, 1h
Day Day 4: Dharamsala to Dalhousie
Dalhousie, Himachal Pradesh on December 25, 2024
8:00am
Drive to Dalhousie
A scenic 4-hour drive through the mountains, uphill to discover Dalhousie’s colonial charm.
Transport via private car or bus, 4h
12:30pm
Check-in & Lunch at Om Cafe
Relax with a cozy lunch featuring local and North Indian dishes.
INR 500, 1h
2:00pm
Ganji Pahari & Khajjiar Excursion
Visit Ganji Pahari viewpoint then enjoy the 'Mini Switzerland' at Khajjiar with its lush meadows and lake.
Free, 3h 30m
6:00pm
Relax & Dinner at Moti Mahal
Dine at a local restaurant serving Himachali and North Indian favorites.
INR 600, 1h
Day Day 5: Dalhousie to Manali
Manali, Himachal Pradesh on December 26, 2024
7:00am
Drive to Manali
A long scenic journey of approximately 8-9 hours, traversing mountain roads and valleys.
Transport via private car or bus, 9h
5:00pm
Check-in & Relax in Old Manali
Unwind and stroll around famous cafes and markets in Old Manali.
Hotel stay, 1h
7:00pm
Day Day 6: Explore Manali
Manali, India on December 27, 2024
8:00am
9:30am
Visit Hidimba Devi Temple
Explore the historic temple surrounded by dense cedar forests, a spiritual and scenic site.
INR 100, 1h 30m
11:30am
Vashisht Hot Springs
Relax in natural hot springs believed to have medicinal properties, perfect for rejuvenation.
INR 50, 2h
2:00pm
4:00pm
Mall Road Shopping & Stroll
Shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and enjoy the lively street atmosphere.
Shopping budget varies, 2h
7:00pm
Day Day 7: Manali to Kasol
Kasol, Himachal Pradesh on December 28, 2024
8:00am
Drive to Kasol
A 3-4 hour scenic drive through mountains, with stops for photos and breaks.
Transport via private car or bus, 4h
12:00pm
Check-in & Lunch at Old Kasol Cafe
Enjoy relaxed dining with views of the Parvati River, serving local Himachali and Israeli dishes.
INR 500, 1h
2:00pm
Explore Parvati Valley & Kheerganga Trek (optional)
Visit beautiful spots along the river or begin a trek for panoramic views if desired.
Free / Trek permits if applicable, 3h
5:30pm
Relax & Dinner at Glen Cafe
Enjoy serene riverside dinner with local and continental options.
INR 600, 1h
Day Day 8: Kasol & Local Exploring
Kasol, India on December 29, 2024
8:00am
Breakfast at Nectar Café
Start your day with fresh juice, smoothies, and hearty breakfast options.
INR 300, 1h
9:30am
Visit Manikaran Gurudwara & Hot Springs
Explore spiritual and natural hot springs, famous for healing properties and scenic views.
Free, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at Jim Morrison Café
Dine in a cozy, music-inspired setting with vegetarian and local dishes.
INR 500, 1h
2:00pm
Relax or Shopping in Kasol Market
Shop for souvenirs and enjoy the relaxed mountain village vibe.
Shopping budget varies, 2h
5:00pm
Evening Walk & Dinner
Stroll along the river and have dinner at Bhukkad Café, known for healthy options.
INR 600, 1h
Day Day 9: Kasol to Shimla
Shimla, Himachal Pradesh on December 30, 2024
7:00am
Drive to Shimla
Approximately 8-9 hours drive through scenic mountain roads with morning departure.
Transport via private car or bus, 9h
5:00pm
Check-in & Relax in Shimla
Unwind in your hotel and take an evening stroll on Mall Road.
Hotel stay, 1h
7:00pm
Day Day 10: Explore Shimla & New Year Eve
Shimla, India on December 31, 2024
8:00am
Breakfast at Café Sol
Start your day with a variety of breakfast options overlooking the town.
INR 350, 1h
9:30am
Visit Jakhoo Temple & Ridge
Enjoy panoramic views from Jakhoo Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and explore the surrounding Ridge area.
Free, 2h
12:30pm
2:00pm
Stroll & Shopping on Mall Road
Shop souvenirs, woolens, and enjoy the festive ambiance in the town.
Shopping varies, 2h
6:00pm
New Year Celebrations & Dinner
Join locals and tourists for New Year’s Eve celebrations in Mall Road with music, fireworks, and dinner options.
Dinner cost varies, approx INR 800, 3h
Day Day 11: Shimla to Dehradun
Dehradun, India on January 1, 2025
8:00am
Drive to Dehradun
A 6-7 hour scenic drive through mountains and plains to the city of Dehradun.
Transport via private car or bus, 7h
2:00pm
Check-in & Lunch at Café de Piccolo
Relax with a hearty Italian and North Indian meal after the journey.
INR 700, 1h
3:30pm
Robber's Cave & Forest Walk
Visit the natural cave formation and enjoy the peaceful forest walk nearby.
Free, 2h
6:00pm
Relax & Dinner at Gupta Brothers' Restaurant
Dine on popular North Indian dishes in a cozy local restaurant.
INR 500, 1h
Day Day 12: Dehradun to Rishikesh
Rishikesh, India on January 2, 2025
8:00am
Drive to Rishikesh
A scenic 1.5-hour drive along the Ganges, known for spirituality and adventure.
Transport via private car or bus, 1.5h
10:00am
Check-in & Breakfast at Little Buddha Café
Enjoy a healthy breakfast with views of the Ganges and mountain surroundings.
INR 400, 1h
11:30am
Laxman Jhula & Neelkanth Mahadev Temple
Cross the iconic suspension bridge and visit the ancient temple dedicated to Shiva.
Free, 2h
2:00pm
Lunch at Chotiwala
Dine on classic North Indian thali in a popular Rishikesh restaurant.
INR 500, 1h
4:00pm
Yoga & Meditation Session
Participate in an authentic yoga session in one of Rishikesh’s renowned centers.
INR 300, 2h
6:30pm
Ganga Aarti at Triveni Ghat
Experience the spiritual Ganga Aarti with mesmerizing chants and rituals at sunset.
Free, 1h 30m
Day Day 13: Rishikesh to Delhi
Delhi, India on January 3, 2025
8:00am
Drive to Delhi
A 5-6 hour journey to India’s capital city, leaving early to maximize sightseeing.
Transport via private car or bus, 6h
2:00pm
Check-in & Lunch at Cafe Lota
Enjoy contemporary Indian cuisine in a culturally rich setting in Connaught Place.
INR 700, 1h
3:30pm
India Gate & Rajpath Walk
Visit the iconic war memorial and take a leisurely walk along Rajpath.
Free, 2h
6:30pm
Dinner at Saravana Bhavan
Dine on delicious South Indian dishes, perfect after a long day of travel.
INR 500, 1h
Day Day 14: Exploring Delhi
Delhi, India on January 4, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Indian Coffee House
Start your day with traditional South Indian and North Indian breakfast options.
INR 300, 1h
9:30am
Visit Qutub Minar & Humayun’s Tomb
Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites showcasing Mughal architecture and history.
INR 300, 3h
1:30pm
Lunch at Karim’s
Savor famously flavorful Mughlai cuisine in Old Delhi's historic setting.
INR 800, 1h 30m
3:30pm
Gardens of India Gate & Connaught Place Shopping
Relax in the green spaces and indulge in retail therapy at high-end markets.
Shopping budget varies, 2h
6:30pm
Dinner at Bukhara
Enjoy a luxurious North Indian Dinner at the famous Bukhara restaurant.
INR 2000, 2h
Day Day 15: Departure from Delhi
Delhi, India on January 5, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast & Packing
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and pack up for your departure.
In hotel or local café, 1h
10:00am
Transfer to Airport
Head to Indira Gandhi International Airport for your flight back home.
Transport included in hotel arrangement, 1h
15-Day North India New Year Adventure: Mumbai to Delhi & Himalayan Escapes
Packing List
Clothing
- 5-7x T-shirts/shirts (lightweight and breathable for daytime)
- 2-3x Long-sleeve shirts or thermal tops (for warmth in mountains and evenings)
- 2x Sweaters or fleece jackets
- 1x Heavy jacket or down jacket (required for cold Himalayan evenings and higher altitudes)
- 2x Pairs of trekking pants or comfortable hiking trousers
- 2x Jeans or casual pants
- 1-2x Shorts (for warmer city areas like Mumbai)
- 1x Rain jacket or windbreaker
- 7-10x Underwear pairs
- 7-10x Socks (including wool socks for cold weather)
- 1x Gloves and warm hat/beanie
- 1x Scarf or neck gaiter
- 1x Sleepwear or comfortable lounge wear
- 1x Pair of sturdy hiking shoes or trail sneakers (for trekking and rough terrain)
- 1x Pair of casual walking shoes or sandals
- 1x Flip-flops/slippers (for hotels and casual wear)
- Swimwear (optional, for hotel pools or hot springs)
- Sunglasses and sunhat or cap
Toiletries
- Toothbrush, toothpaste
- Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash
- Deodorant
- Sunscreen (high SPF for mountain sun exposure)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Moisturizer (for dry mountain weather)
- Hairbrush or comb
- Razor & shaving kit
- Feminine hygiene products (if applicable)
- Small first aid kit (plasters, antiseptic wipes)
- Prescribed medications and basic painkillers (e.g., paracetamol)
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes or tissues
- Travel towel (quick-dry)
Travel Essentials
- Backpack (20-30L) for day trips and trekking
- Main luggage or suitcase (medium-sized for 15 days)
- Water bottle (preferably insulated)
- Travel pillow, eye mask, earplugs (for flights and bus rides)
- Reusable shopping bag
- Snacks (nuts, protein bars for trekking days)
- Cash (Indian Rupees) and small change for local purchases
- Credit/debit cards with international activation
- Guidebook or map (optional)
- Small lock for luggage
Electronics
- Mobile phone + charger
- Power bank (high capacity for long days outside)
- Universal travel adapter (India uses Type C, D, and M plugs)
- Camera with extra batteries or charger
- Headphones/earbuds
- E-reader or book for travel
- Laptop/tablet (optional)
Documents
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa for India (if required)
- Printed copies of flight, hotel, and transport bookings
- Travel insurance documents
- Emergency contact list
- ID card or driver’s license
- Vaccination certificate (as required)
Health & Safety
- Face masks (for crowded places and transport)
- Insect repellent
- Anti-diarrhea medication (just in case)
- Electrolyte powder or oral rehydration salts
- Water purification tablets or portable filter (optional, for trekking)
- Travel sickness tablets (if prone to motion sickness)
Weather-Specific
- Thermal base layers (for cold mountain mornings and evenings)
- Wool socks
- Waterproof jacket or poncho (winter rains possible)
- Sunglasses with UV protection (strong sun at altitude)
- Lip balm and moisturizer suitable for cold dry air
Destination-Specific
- Light scarf or dupatta (for visits to temples and gurudwaras; shoulders should be covered)
- Modest clothing covering arms and legs for temple visits
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip (for uneven terrain)
- Small flashlight or headlamp (useful in mountain guest houses)
This packing list ensures you are prepared for varied climates from Mumbai’s plains to cold Himalayan regions as you travel through North India during winter and New Year celebrations.
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