Family Friendly Itinerary: Vaishno Devi, Patni Top, Dharamshala Macleod Ganj

Day 1: Exploring Jammu

Jammu, India

9:00 AM

Vaishno Devi Temple

Start your day with a visit to the sacred Vaishno Devi Temple, one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in India.
Take a taxi from Jammu to Katra (approx. 1.5 hours drive) and then trek to the temple (about 12 km uphill).
Free entry, but donations accepted, 4-6 hours

3:00 PM

Local Markets

Explore the vibrant local markets of Jammu and shop for souvenirs and traditional handicrafts.
Walk around the city centre or take a rickshaw for short distances.
Varies, 2-3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, trying out authentic Kashmiri cuisine.
Ask your hotel for recommendations or explore the food streets.
Approx. 1000 INR per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 2: Continuing in Jammu

Jammu, India

9:00 AM

Bahu Fort

Visit the historic Bahu Fort and enjoy panoramic views of the Tawi River and the surrounding landscapes.
Take a short taxi ride from the city centre to the fort.
Entry fee: 20 INR per person, 1-2 hours

12:00 PM

Mubarak Mandi Palace

Explore the grand architecture and rich history of the Mubarak Mandi Palace complex.
It's a short walk or taxi ride from Bahu Fort.
Entry fee: 50 INR per person, 1-2 hours

3:00 PM

Raghunath Bazaar

Shop for traditional Kashmiri products and souvenirs at Raghunath Bazaar.
Located near the palace, you can walk or take a short taxi ride.
Varies, 2-3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at a Local Restaurant

End your day with dinner at a local eatery, savoring more Kashmiri delights.
Choose from the many restaurants or street food vendors in the area.
Approx. 800 INR per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 3: Exploring Patni Top

Patni Top, India

9:00 AM

Scenic Views

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Himalayas and lush greenery in Patni Top.
Travel by car from Jammu to Patni Top (approx. 3-4 hours drive).
Free, Full day

1:00 PM

Picnic Lunch

Have a picnic lunch amidst the picturesque surroundings of Patni Top.
Pack some food from Jammu or stop at a local restaurant on the way.
Varies, 1-2 hours

4:00 PM

Nature Walk

Take a leisurely nature walk through the pine forests and meadows of Patni Top.
Explore the trails near your accommodation or ask for recommendations.
Free, 2-3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hotel

Enjoy a cozy dinner at your hotel, relishing the serene atmosphere of Patni Top.
Dine at the hotel's restaurant or order room service.
Approx. 600 INR per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 4: Arrival in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

9:00 AM

Bhagsunag Waterfall

Start your day with a visit to the picturesque Bhagsunag Waterfall and enjoy the natural beauty.
Travel by car from Patni Top to Dharamshala (approx. 5-6 hours drive).
Entry fee: 20 INR per person, 2-3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Cafe

Have a relaxing lunch at a cozy cafe in Dharamshala, trying out some local Tibetan delicacies.
Explore the cafes in the Bhagsu Nag area or ask locals for recommendations.
Approx. 500 INR per person, 1-2 hours

4:00 PM

Namgyal Monastery

Visit the Namgyal Monastery, a significant Tibetan monastery known for its peaceful ambiance.
Located in McLeod Ganj, easily accessible by taxi or on foot.
Free entry, donations appreciated, 1-2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at a Tibetan Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious Tibetan dinner at a local restaurant, immersing yourself in the culture.
Choose from the many eateries in McLeod Ganj serving authentic Tibetan cuisine.
Approx. 700 INR per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 5: Exploring Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

9:00 AM

Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the Tsuglagkhang Complex, which houses the Dalai Lama's residence and various temples.
Located in McLeod Ganj, easily reachable by walking or taxi.
Free entry, donations welcome, 2-3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Enjoy a casual lunch at a local eatery, sampling more Tibetan and Indian dishes.
Try a small restaurant in the town or head to a cafe with a view.
Approx. 400 INR per person, 1-2 hours

4:00 PM

Norbulinka Institute

Visit the Norbulinka Institute to witness traditional Tibetan art and craftsmanship.
Take a short taxi ride from McLeod Ganj to the institute.
Entry fee: 30 INR per person, 1-2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at a Rooftop Restaurant

End your day with a scenic dinner at a rooftop restaurant, overlooking the beautiful hills of Dharamshala.
Choose a restaurant in McLeod Ganj with a terrace or rooftop seating.
Approx. 800 INR per person, 1-2 hours
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Day 6: Final Day in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

9:00 AM

Trek to Triund

Embark on a trek to Triund Hill for stunning panoramic views of the Dhauladhar range.
Start your trek from McLeod Ganj, following the well-marked trail to Triund.
Guide recommended for a fee, Full day

1:00 PM

Picnic Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the top of Triund, surrounded by majestic mountains and greenery.
Carry packed lunch or buy from small eateries along the trail.
Varies, 1-2 hours

4:00 PM

Explore McLeod Ganj

Spend the afternoon exploring the quaint streets, cafes, and markets of McLeod Ganj.
Walk around the town centre or rent a scooter for easier exploration.
Varies, 2-3 hours

7:00 PM

Farewell Dinner

Conclude your trip with a special farewell dinner, reminiscing about the beautiful experiences in Dharamshala.
Choose a cozy restaurant in McLeod Ganj with a warm ambiance.
Approx. 1000 INR per person, 1-2 hours
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