Morning: Depart from Kolkata Howrah on a 3A overnight express bound for Ambala Cantonment. Enjoy comfortable sleeper cabins and scenic views of West Bengal and Bihar.
Afternoon: Continue the journey through the plains of Uttar Pradesh, with a lunch stop at the train’s pantry car offering regional specialties.
Evening: Arrive at Ambala Cantonment around 20:00 hrs. Transfer to the waiting private Tata Winger, settle in, and brief the group on the upcoming itinerary.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Ambala after breakfast, crossing the picturesque foothills of the Himalayas. The road winds through Shimla, offering panoramic mountain vistas.
Afternoon: Reach Narkanda, a tranquil hill station at 2,708 m. Explore the pine‑forested lanes and enjoy a light lunch at a local dhaba.
Evening: Take a short trek to Hatu Peak for sunset views, then return to the guesthouse for dinner and an early night.
Find HotelsMorning: Leave Narkanda early, driving through Shimla and onto the breathtaking Kinnaur Valley. Stop at Rohru for tea.
Afternoon: Continue to the remote village of Chitkul, the last inhabited settlement of the Basoo region. Stroll along the river banks and admire traditional Kinnauri architecture.
Evening: Enjoy a cultural dinner featuring local trout and Kinnauri chilies, followed by a brief talk on the region’s history.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Chitkul, crossing the iconic Rohtang Pass (subject to weather clearance). The drive offers dramatic alpine scenery.
Afternoon: Arrive at Nako in Spiti, perched at 3,662 m. Visit the serene Nako Lake, a turquoise high‑altitude lake surrounded by rugged peaks.
Evening: Settle into the homestay, share stories around a bonfire, and enjoy a hearty Spitian thukpa.
Find HotelsMorning: After breakfast, head to Tabo, known as the “Ajanta of the Himalayas.” The road descends through dramatic cliffs and stone‑filled valleys.
Afternoon: Explore the famous Tabo Monastery, a UNESCO‑listed complex with ancient murals and a tranquil courtyard.
Evening: Return to the guesthouse for a relaxed dinner; optional stargazing session in the clear Spiti sky.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart early for the iconic Chandratal Lake, also called the “Moon Lake,” crossing the high‑altitude Kongmar La (5,200 m) pass.
Afternoon: Arrive at the lake’s turquoise waters. Take a short walk around the rim, snap photos, and enjoy a picnic lunch.
Evening: Camp near the lake (optional) or stay at a nearby guesthouse; enjoy a simple dinner under the stars.
Find HotelsMorning: Begin the descent toward Manali, passing through the lush valleys of Kullu.
Afternoon: Reach Manali and check into the hotel. Visit the historic Hadimba Temple and explore the bustling Mall Road.
Evening: Group dinner featuring Himachali cuisine; free time to shop for local handicrafts.
Find HotelsMorning: Depart Manali early, driving back to Ambala Cantonment. Stop for a quick breakfast en route.
Afternoon: Arrive in Ambala and board the return 3A train to Kolkata. Lunch will be served on the train.
Evening: Reach Kolkata by night, concluding the circular adventure.
Find HotelsIf you wish to extend the trip, consider adding a day in Manali for adventure activities such as paragliding or a visit to Solang Valley. To shorten the itinerary, you can skip the overnight camp at Chandratal and return directly to Manali, saving both a night of accommodation and a few hours of driving. Always check weather conditions for high‑altitude passes (Rohtang, Kongmar La) and carry warm clothing, as temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer.