7-Day Itinerary to Himachal, Sri Lanka

Saturday, September 30: Arrive in Himachal

Welcome to Himachal! Start your trip by exploring the beautiful hill station of Shimla in the morning. Take a walk on the Mall Road, visit the Viceregal Lodge, and enjoy panoramic views from the Jakhoo Hill. In the afternoon, head to Kufri, a nearby hill station, and indulge in adventure activities like skiing and hiking. As the evening sets in, explore the local markets and savor delicious Himachali cuisine.

• Shimla: Estimated cost - INR 5000, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Kufri: Estimated cost - INR 2000, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• Local Markets: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Sunday, October 1: Manali Exploration

Embark on a scenic drive from Shimla to Manali. In the morning, visit the famous Hadimba Temple and soak in the tranquility of nature at the Van Vihar National Park. In the afternoon, explore the Solang Valley and enjoy activities like paragliding, zorbing, and horse riding. As the evening approaches, take a leisurely stroll on the Mall Road, shop for souvenirs, and try local delicacies.

• Hadimba Temple: Estimated cost - INR 200, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Van Vihar National Park: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Solang Valley: Estimated cost - INR 3000, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Mall Road: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Monday, October 2: Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj

Head to Dharamshala in the morning and explore the serene hill station. Visit the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which houses the Dalai Lama's residence and the famous Namgyal Monastery. In the afternoon, proceed to McLeod Ganj, known for its Tibetan culture and vibrant markets. Visit the Bhagsu Waterfall and indulge in Tibetan cuisine. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful walk along the Dal Lake.

• Tsuglagkhang Complex: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Namgyal Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Bhagsu Waterfall: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Dal Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Tuesday, October 3: Explore Palampur

Discover the picturesque town of Palampur in the morning. Visit the tea gardens and learn about the tea-making process. Explore the Tashi Jong Monastery, known for its Tibetan art and culture. In the afternoon, head to Baijnath Temple, a famous ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. As the evening approaches, enjoy a peaceful walk amidst the lush greenery of Saurabh Van Vihar.

• Tea Gardens: Estimated cost - INR 100, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Tashi Jong Monastery: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Baijnath Temple: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Saurabh Van Vihar: Estimated cost - INR 50, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Wednesday, October 4: Kandy City Tour

Arrive in Kandy, Sri Lanka, and start your day with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the beautiful Kandy Lake and enjoy a boat ride. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens and immerse yourself in the lush greenery and exotic flora. As the evening sets in, witness a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Estimated cost - LKR 1500, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kandy Lake: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours
• Royal Botanical Gardens: Estimated cost - LKR 1500, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Kandyan Dance Performance: Estimated cost - LKR 1000, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Thursday, October 5: Sigiriya Excursion

Embark on an excursion to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the morning and marvel at the ancient frescoes and stunning views from the top. In the afternoon, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and explore the well-preserved ruins. As the evening approaches, return to Kandy and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city streets.

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Estimated cost - LKR 5500, Estimated time spent - 4-5 hours
• Polonnaruwa: Estimated cost - LKR 3500, Estimated time spent - 3-4 hours
• City Stroll: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours

Friday, October 6: Colombo City Exploration

Travel to Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, in the morning. Begin your day by visiting the Gangaramaya Temple, a prominent Buddhist temple. Explore the vibrant streets of Pettah and indulge in shopping at the local markets. In the afternoon, visit the National Museum of Colombo to learn about Sri Lanka's rich history and culture. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk along Galle Face Green promenade and enjoy the sunset.

• Gangaramaya Temple: Estimated cost - LKR 1000, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Pettah Markets: Estimated cost - Variable, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• National Museum of Colombo: Estimated cost - LKR 1500, Estimated time spent - 2-3 hours
• Galle Face Green: Estimated cost - Free, Estimated time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you have some extra time, consider exploring the hidden gem of Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh. This quaint hill station offers breathtaking views of the Himalayas and a serene atmosphere. Another local favorite is Nuwara Eliya in Sri Lanka, also known as "Little England," with its colonial architecture, tea plantations, and beautiful landscapes.

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Himachal, Sri Lanka, click here.