Haryana, Punjab, Shimla, and Kashmir 5-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary in July 2023

1. Day 1: Haryana - Kingdom of Dreams
   30 minutes (11.5 km) from Indira Gandhi International Airport

   In the morning, visit the Kingdom of Dreams, an entertainment and leisure destination showcasing India's rich art, culture, and heritage. In the afternoon, go to the Cyber Hub, a modern complex housing restaurants, cafes, and shops. In the evening, go to the Sulabh International Museum of Toilets, a unique museum featuring the history of sanitation and toilets.

2. Day 2: Punjab - Golden Temple
   6 hours (290 km) from Kingdom of Dreams

   In the morning, visit the Golden Temple, a beautiful and serene place of worship that is also known as Harmandir Sahib. In the afternoon, go to Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden and memorial that marks the site of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. In the evening, go to the Wagah Border to witness the Retreat Ceremony, a daily military practice performed by Border Security Force (BSF) and Pakistani Rangers.

3. Day 3: Shimla - Mall Road
   7 hours (300 km) from Golden Temple

   In the morning, visit the Ridge, a large open space in the heart of Shimla that offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, go to the Mall Road, a bustling street lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. In the evening, go to the Christ Church, a historic church that features beautiful stained glass windows and a serene atmosphere.

4. Day 4: Kashmir - Dal Lake
   11 hours (640 km) from Shimla

   In the morning, take a shikara ride on the Dal Lake, a stunning lake surrounded by majestic mountains and lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit the Mughal Gardens, a series of beautiful gardens built by the Mughals. In the evening, go to the Hazratbal Shrine, a revered Muslim shrine that houses a relic of the Prophet Muhammad.

5. Day 5: Kashmir - Gulmarg Ski Resort
   2 hours (55 km) from Dal Lake

   In the morning, go to the Gulmarg Ski Resort, a popular and scenic ski destination that offers stunning views of the Himalayas. In the afternoon, go to the Maharaja Palace, a historic palace that features a beautiful architecture and a rich history. In the evening, go to the Shankaracharya Hill, a sacred hill that features a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and offers stunning views of Srinagar.

Recommendations

You may also consider visiting the Pinjore Gardens in Haryana, the Rock Garden in Chandigarh, the Kalka-Shimla Railway in Shimla, and the Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh in Kashmir. A side trip to Amritsar for the Wagah Border ceremony is also recommended. To maximize your fun, try local cuisine and shop for souvenirs at local markets. Don't forget to carry sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Kingdom of Dreams (4 hours, £8)
• Cyber Hub (2 hours, £20)
• Sulabh International Museum of Toilets (1 hour, £2)
• Golden Temple (3 hours, Free)
• Jallianwala Bagh (1 hour, Free)
• Wagah Border (3 hours, Free)
• The Ridge (1 hour, Free)
• Mall Road (2 hours, £10)
• Christ Church (1 hour, Free)
• Dal Lake (3 hours, £10)
• Mughal Gardens (1 hour, £5)
• Hazratbal Shrine (1 hour, Free)
• Gulmarg Ski Resort (4 hours, £20)
• Maharaja Palace (1 hour, £5)
• Shankaracharya Hill (1 hour, Free)
• Total Estimated Costs: £83

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