7-Day Adventure in Dharmashala Mcleodganj Triund Trek Bir Billing Shangarh Sainj Valley
Monday, October 23: Dharmashala
Start your trip by exploring the charming town of Dharmashala. In the morning, visit the famous Namgyal Monastery, the residence of the Dalai Lama, and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the colorful markets of Mcleodganj and indulge in Tibetan cuisine. As the evening sets in, visit the serene Dal Lake and enjoy a boat ride amidst the picturesque surroundings.
Namgyal Monastery: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
Mcleodganj Market: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Dal Lake: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Moonpeak Espresso, a cozy cafe serving delicious coffee and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, try Tibet Kitchen, a popular restaurant offering authentic Tibetan and Himalayan cuisine. Don't miss their momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, visit Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant, known for its mouthwatering sushi and other Japanese dishes. The cozy ambiance and friendly staff make it a perfect spot for a delightful dinner. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Tuesday, October 24: Mcleodganj
Embark on a trek to Triund and witness the breathtaking views of the Himalayas. In the morning, start your hike from Mcleodganj and enjoy the scenic trail. In the afternoon, reach Triund and marvel at the panoramic vistas. As the evening sets in, camp overnight in Triund and be mesmerized by the starry night sky.
Triund Trek: Cost: Varies (guide recommended), Time spent: Full day
Overnight Camping in Triund: Cost: Varies (tent rental), Time spent: Overnight
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to the famous Jimmy's Italian Kitchen in Mcleodganj. Enjoy their delicious omelettes and pancakes with a stunning view of the mountains. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
If you're looking for a quick and affordable lunch option, try Peace Café. They offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including their popular momos and thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Lung Ta Japanese Restaurant. Indulge in their sushi and sashimi platters while enjoying the cozy ambiance. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Wednesday, October 25: Bir Billing
Experience the thrill of paragliding in Bir Billing, known as the paragliding capital of India. In the morning, take a scenic drive to Bir and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping paragliding flight. In the afternoon, soar through the skies and enjoy the bird's eye view of the beautiful landscape. As the evening sets in, explore the charming village of Bir and interact with the friendly locals.
Paragliding in Bir Billing: Cost: Varies, Time spent: Half day
Exploring Bir Village: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Head to The Bunker Cafe for a delicious breakfast. Enjoy their freshly brewed coffee and hearty omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, visit The Silver Linings Cafe. Try their mouthwatering momos and flavorful Tibetan dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Savor the flavors of local cuisine at The Taste of Dharamshala for dinner. Indulge in their aromatic curries and delectable thukpa. Average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
Thursday, October 26: Shangarh
Discover the hidden gem of Shangarh, a serene village tucked away in the Himalayas. In the morning, embark on a scenic drive from Bir to Shangarh and enjoy the panoramic views along the way. In the afternoon, explore the traditional wooden architecture of Shangarh and visit the ancient Shangchul Mahadev Temple. As the evening sets in, take a leisurely walk through the apple orchards and soak in the tranquility of the village.
Scenic Drive from Bir to Shangarh: Cost: Varies (taxi), Time spent: 4-5 hours
Shangchul Mahadev Temple: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Exploring Apple Orchards: Cost: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Café Amigos. This cozy café offers a variety of options including healthy smoothie bowls, pancakes, and eggs. The average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Taste of India Restaurant and savor delicious Indian dishes such as butter chicken, paneer tikka, and biryani. The restaurant has a pleasant ambience and the average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Candle Light Restaurant is a perfect spot for a romantic dinner. Enjoy the beautiful views while relishing mouthwatering Continental and Chinese cuisines. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Friday, October 27: Sainj Valley
Immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of Sainj Valley, a hidden treasure in the Himalayas. In the morning, take a scenic drive from Shangarh to Sainj Valley and marvel at the picturesque landscapes. In the afternoon, go for a leisurely hike in the Sainj Wildlife Sanctuary and spot various species of flora and fauna. As the evening sets in, enjoy a peaceful picnic by the river and unwind in nature's lap.
Scenic Drive from Shangarh to Sainj Valley: Cost: Varies (taxi), Time spent: 4-5 hours
Sainj Wildlife Sanctuary: Cost: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
River Picnic: Cost: Varies (food and drinks), Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Sunrise Cafe is a cozy breakfast spot known for its delicious pancakes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $8 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Green Garden, a vegetarian restaurant that serves a variety of healthy and flavorful dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
Indulge in a lavish dinner at The Himalayan Grill, a popular restaurant offering a wide selection of Indian and international cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Saturday, October 28: Dharmashala
Return to Dharmashala and explore more of its cultural and spiritual offerings. In the morning, visit the Kangra Fort, an ancient fortress with a rich history. In the afternoon, explore the Kangra Art Museum and discover the vibrant art and heritage of the region. As the evening sets in, indulge in a rejuvenating spa session and relax your mind and body.
Kangra Fort: Cost: INR 150, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Kangra Art Museum: Cost: INR 50, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Spa Session: Cost: Varies, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to The Clay Oven. This cozy restaurant offers a variety of Indian and continental breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
If you're looking for a satisfying lunch, visit Tibet Kitchen. This restaurant specializes in Tibetan cuisine and serves mouthwatering momos, thukpa, and other traditional dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, try Namgyal Cafe & Restaurant. Located in the heart of McLeod Ganj, this restaurant offers a blend of Tibetan, Indian, and international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Sunday, October 29: Departure
On your last day, bid farewell to Dharmashala and depart for your onward journey. Take some time to soak in the serene ambiance of the town before heading to the airport or railway station.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a unique experience, visit the Tushita Meditation Centre in Mcleodganj and immerse yourself in the teachings of Buddhism. Also, don't miss out on trying the local delicacy of Momos, steamed dumplings filled with deliciousness, which can be found in various eateries in Mcleodganj. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Norbulingka Institute, a center for Tibetan art and culture, where you can witness traditional crafts being practiced.