December 2023 Himachal Pradesh Itinerary

1. Day 1: Shimla
   Shimla Airport to Ridge Road: 30 minutes (13.5 km)

   In the morning, visit the Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman. Afternoon, visit Christ Church, the second oldest church in North India. In the evening, stroll through the Ridge Road and enjoy the scenic view of lush green hills.

2. Day 2: Manali
   Shimla to Manali: 6 hours (248 km)

   Morning, drive to Manali via Kullu Valley, and stop by Kullu Shawl Factory to shop for handmade shawls. Afternoon, visit the Hidimba Devi Temple, an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima. In the evening, explore the Mall Road, a popular shopping and dining destination.

3. Day 3: Solang Valley
   Manali to Solang Valley: 30 minutes (13.9 km)

   Morning, visit Solang Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes and adventure activities such as skiing, paragliding, and zorbing. Afternoon, go on a scenic trek to Anjani Mahadev Temple, a hidden gem in the mountains. In the evening, relax and enjoy the beautiful sunset view in Solang Valley.

4. Day 4: Dharamshala
   Manali to Dharamshala: 7 hours (238 km)

   Morning, drive to Dharamshala, the home of the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan government-in-exile. Afternoon, visit the Kangra Fort, an ancient fort built by the Katoch dynasty. In the evening, explore the colorful markets of McLeod Ganj and try some delicious Tibetan food.

5. Day 5: Dalhousie
   Dharamshala to Dalhousie: 3 hours (118 km)

   Morning, drive to Dalhousie, a scenic hill station located in the Chamba district. Afternoon, visit the Khajjiar Lake, also known as the Mini Switzerland of India. In the evening, explore the beautiful Panchpula waterfall and enjoy the serene surroundings.

6. Day 6: Amritsar
   Dalhousie to Amritsar: 4 hours (198 km)

   Morning, drive to Amritsar, home of the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of the Sikh religion. Afternoon, visit the Jallianwala Bagh, a public garden martyred by British troops in 1919. In the evening, watch the Wagah border ceremony, a military practice ceremony that is a symbol of the brotherhood and cooperation between India and Pakistan.

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the Rohtang Pass, a high mountain pass on the Pir Panjal Range, or the Rock Garden in Chandigarh, a sculpture garden made of recycled materials. You can also go on a day trip to the Palampur Tea Gardens or the Manimahesh Lake. To maximize your fun, try local street food, such as momos and thukpa, and shop for traditional handicrafts.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Jakhu Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Christ Church (1-2 hours, free)
• Kullu Shawl Factory (1-2 hours, INR 500-1000)
• Hidimba Devi Temple (1-2 hours, INR 30-50)
• Anjani Mahadev Trek (3-4 hours, free)
• Kangra Fort (1-2 hours, INR 150-300)
• Khajjiar Lake (1-2 hours, INR 10-20)
• Panchpula Waterfall (1-2 hours, free)
• Golden Temple (1-2 hours, free)
• Jallianwala Bagh (1-2 hours, free)
• Wagah Border Ceremony (2-3 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 690-1420

Check here for hotel and flight prices.