Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Delhi to Dharamshala & Dalhousie

Day 1: Exploring Delhi

Delhi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Saravana Bhavan

Start your day with a delicious South Indian breakfast of Masala Dosa and filter coffee at this iconic eatery.
Located in Connaught Place, a popular area in Delhi.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit India Gate

Stroll around the historic India Gate, a memorial to Indian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, and explore the lush surroundings.
Easily reachable by walking from Saravana Bhavan.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Humayun's Tomb

Discover the exquisite Mughal architecture at Humayun's Tomb, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Take a metro from Patel Chowk to JLN Stadium then a short walk.
INR 30, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karim's

Enjoy authentic Mughlai cuisine with a famous mutton biryani at Karim's, located in the bustling streets of Old Delhi.
Take an auto-rickshaw or walk to Chandni Chowk.
INR 300, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Red Fort

Walk through the grandeur of Red Fort, another UNESCO World Heritage site, and absorb its historical significance.
Located near Karim's, a short rickshaw ride can get you there.
INR 50, 2 hours

5:00PM

Shopping at Chandni Chowk

Explore the vibrant marketplace of Chandni Chowk, perfect for picking up souvenirs and street snacks.
A short walk from Red Fort.
Variable, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at WPA

Wrap up your day with an affordable dinner at the Workers’ Playway Association, known for its simple and filling meals.
Located in the central area of Delhi.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:00PM

Overnight transport to Dharamshala

Catch a sleeper bus from Delhi to Dharamshala to start your mountain adventure.
Buses leave from various points in Delhi, check bookings in advance.
INR 800, 12 hours
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Day 2: Welcome to Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

9:00AM

Check-in & Relax

Check in to a budget guest house upon arrival and enjoy a restful morning after your long journey.
Guest houses are prevalent near McLeod Ganj.
INR 500, 2 hours

11:00AM

Brunch at Cafe McLeod

Savour a delightful brunch with Tibetan specialities like Thukpa and Momos.
Just a short walk from your guest house in McLeod Ganj.
INR 250, 1 hour

12:30PM

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the Tsuglagkhang Complex, the official residence of the Dalai Lama and a site of cultural richness.
Within walking distance from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Hiking to Bhagsunag Waterfall

Take a scenic hike to Bhagsunag Waterfall, a refreshing spot perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
A 2 km trek starting from McLeod Ganj.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Tea at the Waterfall Cafe

Relax at the café near the waterfall, enjoying the serene views while sipping a cup of fragrant tea.
Right at the Bhagsu parking area.
INR 150, 1 hour

5:30PM

Return Hike

Hike back to McLeod Ganj and enjoy the sunset along the way.
Retrace your steps back.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Corner House

Savour simple yet delicious Indian delicacies for dinner in this cozy eatery.
Located in McLeod Ganj, an easy walk from your guest house.
INR 300, 1 hour

8:30PM

Evening Stroll

Enjoy a peaceful stroll exploring the quaint streets of McLeod Ganj, soaking in the tranquil vibe.
Walk around the main square.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Dharamshala Adventures

Dharamshala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mission Bliss

Start your day with healthy smoothie bowls at Mission Bliss, famous for its nourishing breakfast options.
Located in the heart of McLeod Ganj.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tibetan Museum

Discover Tibetan history and culture at the Tibetan Museum, which tells the story of the Tibetan struggle.
Just a short walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Meditation at Namgyal Monastery

Engage in a peaceful meditation session at Namgyal Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery outside Tibet.
Walking distance from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Norling Restaurant

Relish delectable Tibetan dumplings (Momos) and Thenthuk noodles at Norling, a favourite local spot.
Within McLeod Ganj premises.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:00PM

Day trip to McLeod Ganj market

Explore the Tibetan market for handicrafts, clothes, and souvenirs.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Variable, 2 hours

4:30PM

Yoga Class

Join a local yoga class, as Dharamshala is known for its spiritual retreats.
Numerous centres around McLeod Ganj offer drop-in classes.
INR 300, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Lhamo's Kitchen

Indulge in authentic Tibetan cuisine featuring tantalising curries and Momos.
Located nearby your accommodations.
INR 500, 1 hour

8:00PM

Relaxing Evening

Spend the evening enjoying a book or chatting with fellow travellers in cafes.
Stay close to your guesthouse to wind down.
Free, Variable
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Day 4: Travel to Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Guest House

Kick off the day with a hearty breakfast at your guest house before heading out.
On-site, quick and easy.
INR 100, 1 hour

9:30AM

Transport to Dalhousie

Travel to Dalhousie using a taxi or local bus for the scenic drive in the mountains.
Buses depart from McLeod Ganj bus stand.
INR 200, 3 hours

12:30PM

Check-In at Dalhousie

Check in to a budget hotel or guest house upon arrival and freshen up.
Various options are available at the main market.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Lunch at Old Sherwood

Enjoy a nice lunch in the heritage café known for its backdrop and salads.
Located near the Dalhousie market.
INR 300, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Khajjiar

Head out to the beautiful Khajjiar, also known as ‘Mini Switzerland,’ to experience picturesque landscapes.
Local taxis or shared jeeps available.
INR 400, 3 hours

6:00PM

Return to Dalhousie

Return to Dalhousie after an afternoon delight in Khajjiar.
Take the same transport back.
INR 400, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Moti Mahal

End your day with dinner at Moti Mahal, famous for Indian curries and a delightful ambiance.
Located conveniently in the market.
INR 250, 1 hour
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Day 5: Enjoying Dalhousie's Beauty

Dalhousie, India

7:30AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Start your day with a light breakfast served at your budget hotel.
On-site breakfast.
INR 100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit St. John’s Church

Experience the quiet calm of St. John's Church, one of the oldest churches in Dalhousie.
A short walk from the market.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Nature Walk at Panchpula

Enjoy the scenic views on a nature walk at Panchpula, exploring the tranquil surroundings and the beautiful waterfall.
Accessible by taxi or local bus.
INR 100, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Foodies Restaurant

Feast on a delicious buffet lunch in a casual setting at Foodies.
Located in the market area.
INR 250, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Ganji Pahari

Hike to Ganji Pahari for stunning panoramic views and a nice picnic spot.
Take a shared jeep or hike from the market.
INR 50, 3 hours

5:30PM

Return to Dalhousie

Make your way back from Ganji Pahari to refresh yourself.
Hike or jeep back.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Kanishka

Savour multi-cuisine dishes with Tibetan influences, perfectly suitable for dinner.
Walk from your hotel, nearby.
INR 400, 1 hour

9:00PM

Night Stroll

Enjoy an evening walk around Dalhousie, embracing the cool air and serene ambiance.
Walk around near your hotel.
Free, Variable
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Day 6: Return to Delhi

Delhi, India

7:30AM

Breakfast Before Departure

Have a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel in Dalhousie before checking out.
On-site offerings.
INR 100, 1 hour

9:00AM

Transport to Pathankot

Travel to Pathankot by local bus or taxi to catch a train back to Delhi.
Buses leave frequently in the morning.
INR 200, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Train from Pathankot to Delhi

Board your train to Delhi, settling in for the journey while recounting memories of your trip.
Trains leave regularly; booking in advance is advisable.
INR 600, 10 hours

9:30PM

Arrival in Delhi

Conclude your adventure as you reach back in Delhi, exhausted yet enriched with wonderful memories.
End of itinerary.
Free, N/A
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