Family-Friendly Shoestring Budget Itinerary: Delhi to Dharamshala, McLeod Ganj & Dalhousie

Day 1: Explore Delhi

Delhi, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Janak's

Start your day with delicious stuffed parathas and lassi at this local favourite.
Located in the Paharganj area.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit India Gate

Stroll around the iconic India Gate, a war memorial that provides a great photo-op.
You can take an auto-rickshaw from Janak's for about INR 100.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Humayun’s Tomb

Wander around this UNESCO World Heritage Site to admire its outstanding Mughal architecture.
Auto-rickshaw ride from India Gate takes about 20 minutes.
INR 600 for family, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Karim's

Enjoy budget-friendly delicious Mughlai cuisine at this famed restaurant.
Located in Old Delhi, a short auto ride away.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Red Fort

Discover the history of Delhi by touring the majestic Red Fort, another UNESCO site.
It's just a walk from Karim's.
INR 600 for family, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Bus to Dharamshala

Catch an overnight bus to Dharamshala; settle in for the night while travelling.
Bus leaves from ISBT Kashmere Gate, make sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early.
INR 800 per person, 12 hours
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Day 2: Dharamshala Discovery

Dharamshala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Shanti

Enjoy a warm breakfast with views of the mountains, serving Tibetan and Indian breakfast.
Located centrally in Dharamshala.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the main temple of His Holiness the Dalai Lama and immerse in Tibetan culture.
A short walk from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Lhamo's Croissant

Grab unique Tibetan baked goods and quick lunch for a budget-friendly treat.
Just down the road from Tsuglagkhang.
INR 300, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Bhagsunath Temple and Waterfall

Trek towards the waterfall and enjoy a family picnic amidst nature.
It's a short bus ride or 30-minute walk from the cafe.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at McLeod Ganj

Wander through the local shops and enjoy some street-side tea.
Walking distance from Bhagsunath.
INR 100, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Dhamma Restaurant

Enjoy a wholesome dinner with local flavours, offering meals at affordable rates.
Located in McLeod Ganj.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Adventures in McLeod Ganj

McLeod Ganj, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner House

Enjoy a hearty breakfast of pancakes or omelettes to fuel your day.
Located just a walk from your accommodation.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Namgyal Monastery

Explore the largest Tibetan monastery outside Tibet, a serene place for family meditation.
Easily reachable by foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Dharamkot Hike

Take a scenic hike to Dharamkot and enjoy picturesque views along the route.
A 30-minute trek from the monastery.
Free, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Morgan’s Place

Have lunch at this popular joint known for healthy vegan meals and gorgeous views.
Located on the way back from the hike.
INR 400, 1 hour

3:30PM

Visit the Tibetan Museum

Learn about the Tibetan culture and history, perfect for a family-learning experience.
Close to Namgyal Monastery.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant 21

Enjoy a comforting Tibetan meal before retiring for the day.
A short walk from the museum.
INR 500, 1 hour
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Day 4: Scenic Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel Restaurant

Start your day with a simple breakfast at your hotel or a local dhaba.
In-house dining or walking distance.
INR 200, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus to Dalhousie

Travel to Dalhousie, a charming hill station known for its scenic beauty.
Buses from Dharamshala leave frequently; travel takes around 3 hours.
INR 300 per person, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Grand View Hotel Restaurant

Enjoy a lovely meal with a view at this centrally located restaurant.
Conveniently located in Dalhousie.
INR 600, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Khajjiar

Known as 'Mini Switzerland', enjoy some leisure time and perhaps some horse riding.
Hire a shared taxi for a short drive to Khajjiar.
INR 800 (shared taxi), 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Explore Dalhousie Mall Road

Wander the Mall Road for local handicrafts, perfect for souvenir shopping.
Walking distance from Hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Sher-e-Punjab

Savour truly Indian dining experience with a wide range of affordable dishes.
Located at the Mall Road.
INR 500, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Return to Delhi

Dalhousie, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Finish your trip with a leisurely breakfast at a cafe on Mall Road.
Walk to nearest local cafe.
INR 250, 1 hour

9:30AM

Bus back to Delhi

Start your journey home, reflecting on the wonderful experiences of the trip.
Bus station is nearby, ensure to check timings.
INR 800 per person, 12 hours
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