Ultimate 10-Day Journey Through Northern India: From Serenity of Dal Lake to Spiritual Varanasi

Day 1: Explore Srinagar

Srinagar, India

8:00 AM

Shikara Ride on Dal Lake

Start your adventure with a serene shikara ride on the beautiful Dal Lake, enjoying the stunning houseboats and floating gardens.
Local shikaras are easily available at Dal Lake.
INR2000, 2 hours

10:30 AM

Breakfast at Mughal Darbar

Savor a traditional Kashmiri breakfast of Rogan Josh and Kashmiri tea at Mughal Darbar.
Located near Dal Lake, 15 minutes by car.
INR500, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Visit Mughal Gardens

Explore the exquisite Mughal gardens of Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, each rich in history and beauty.
10 minutes drive from the restaurant.
INR200, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at The Lalit Grand Palace

Enjoy a lavish lunch overlooking the lake at the luxurious Lalit Grand Palace.
15 minutes drive from Mughal Gardens.
INR1500, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Local Markets

Stroll through Srinagar's local bazaars, shop for pashmina shawls and saffron.
10 minutes drive or walk.
Free, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Ahdoos Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious dinner of authentic Kashmiri cuisine such as Yakhni and Dum Aloo.
5 minutes drive from the markets.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Daring Pahalgam Adventures

Pahalgam, India

8:00 AM

Drive to Pahalgam

Enjoy a scenic drive from Srinagar to Pahalgam, surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush forests.
2.5 hours drive.
Included in transport, 2.5 hours

11:00 AM

Breakfast at The Riverside

Start your day with a hearty breakfast by the river, savoring pancakes and fresh juice.
Close to Pahalgam entrance.
INR500, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Betaab Valley Visit

Explore the stunning Betaab Valley, famously known for its lush landscapes, perfect for photography.
20 minutes drive from the restaurant.
INR500, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at Pahalgam Hotel

Enjoy a relaxing lunch with a view, trying local kebabs and fresh salads.
Located at the heart of Pahalgam.
INR600, 1 hour

4:30 PM

River Rafting Experience

Get your adrenaline pumping with an exciting river rafting adventure on the Lidder River.
Operator picked up nearby.
INR2500, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Dalgate

Relish a delightful dinner at the popular Dalgate restaurant, with a blend of Indian and continental dishes.
5 minutes from rafting site.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Charming Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India

8:00 AM

Drive to Dalhousie

Set off for Dalhousie, a quaint hill station known for its colonial architecture and beautiful views.
Approx. 4 hours drive.
Included in transport, 4 hours

12:30 PM

Breakfast at Café Dalhousie

Savor a delightful breakfast with baked goodies and coffee at Café Dalhousie.
Central location in Dalhousie.
INR400, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Khajjiar, 'Mini Switzerland'

Explore the breathtaking meadows of Khajjiar, surrounded by deodar trees and stunning vistas.
30 minutes drive from Dalhousie.
Free, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Return for Dinner at The Corner House

Enjoy homemade-style Indian food at The Corner House, well-known for its warm atmosphere.
Return to Dalhousie.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Scenic Dainkund Peak

Dainkund Peak, India

8:00 AM

Hike to Dainkund Peak

Begin your trek to Dainkund Peak, renowned for panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
30 minutes of driving to the base.
Free, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Breakfast at a Local Dhabha

Feast on traditional Punjabi parathas and lassi from a local dhaba post-hike.
Dhabha located near the trek base.
INR300, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Return to Dalhousie

Drive back to Dalhousie and enjoy the beautiful views along the way.
30 minutes drive.
Included in transport, 30 minutes

3:00 PM

Lunch at Mall Road Restaurants

Savor local specialties in Dalhousie's bustling Mall Road, trying different snacks.
Central area, easy access.
INR500, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Visit St. John's Church

Explore the historic St. John's Church, showcasing stunning stained-glass windows and architecture.
10 minutes walk from Mall Road.
Free, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Meharan Restaurant

Dine in style and enjoy Indian cuisine and local favorites at Meharan Restaurant.
Nearby in Dalhousie town.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Adventure in Khajjiar

Khajjiar, India

8:00 AM

Drive to Khajjiar

Embark on a short drive filled with scenic views to reach Khajjiar, the mini Switzerland of India.
30 minutes drive.
Included in transport, 30 minutes

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel Khajjiar

Enjoy continental breakfast with a refreshing view of the meadows at Hotel Khajjiar.
Located in Khajjiar area.
INR500, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Exploration and Activities

Partake in activities like horse riding or paragliding to soak up the stunning natural beauty.
Activities available near the meadow.
INR1500, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Khajjiar Restaurant

Indulge in a delicious lunch featuring local Himachali dishes.
On-site, quick and easy.
INR600, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Khaji Narayan Temple

Take a peaceful moment to visit the traditional Khaji Narayan Temple, soaking in the spiritual ambiance.
Just a 10-minute walk from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Drive back to Dalhousie

Return to Dalhousie, enjoying the picturesque views on the way.
30 minutes drive.
Included in transport, 30 minutes

7:00 PM

Dinner at Kwality Restaurant

Conclude your day with a wholesome Indian meal at Kwality Restaurant in Dalhousie.
Near Dalhousie center.
INR600, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Spiritual Journey in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

8:00 AM

Drive to Dharamshala

Set out early to travel to Dharamshala, where serenity meets spirituality.
Approx. 2.5 hours drive.
Included in transport, 2.5 hours

10:30 AM

Breakfast at Mcleodganj Cafe

Grab a cozy breakfast here; try the Tibetan bread and butter tea.
Central Mcleodganj area.
INR400, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Visit Dalai Lama Temple

Explore the tranquil grounds of the Dalai Lama Temple, a perfect place for meditation.
Just a 10-minute walk from the café.
Free, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Norling Restaurant

Enjoy Tibetan cuisine with delicious momos and thukpa for lunch.
Close to the temple.
INR600, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Bhagsunath Waterfall

Visit the Bhagsunath Waterfall, a perfect chill spot amidst nature.
15 minutes drive or 30-minute hike.
Free, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Tibet Kitchen

Enjoy a warm dinner featuring traditional dishes like Thukpa and Momo.
Mcleodganj area.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Solang Valley Adventure

Solang Valley, India

8:00 AM

Drive to Solang Valley

Start your day with a drive to Solang Valley, known for adventure and beautiful scenery.
Approx. 3.5 hours drive from Dharamshala.
Included in transport, 3.5 hours

11:30 AM

Breakfast at a Local Dhabha

Refuel with breakfast at a local dhaba, enjoying north Indian fare.
On the way to Solang.
INR400, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Arrive in Solang Valley

Settle in and get ready for thrilling activities like paragliding and zorbing.
On-site activities center.
INR2500, 3 hours

4:30 PM

Lunch at Solang Valley Resort

Have a light lunch at Solang Valley Resort, focusing on fresh salads and local dishes.
At base of the activities.
INR600, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Relax and Enjoy Scenic Views

Take time to enjoy the breathtaking landscapes surrounding you in Solang.
Free time to anywhere you feel inspired.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Hotel Solang Valley

Finish off your day with a delicious Indian buffet at Hotel Solang Valley.
At the hotel.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Explore Spiti Valley

Spiti Valley, India

6:00 AM

Early Start to Spiti Valley

Begin your journey through the mountain roads to Spiti Valley, a land of barren beauty.
Approx. 8 hours drive.
Included in transport, 8 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at a Local Eatery in Spiti

Enjoy a quick lunch at a local eatery upon arrival featuring local Tibetan dumplings.
Located in the heart of Spiti.
INR500, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Chandra Taal Lake

Head to the mesmerizing Chandra Taal Lake and savor the surreal turquoise waters reflecting the mountains.
Approximately 1.5 hours drive to the lake.
Free, 3 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Spiti Guesthouse

Enjoy a wholesome dinner at the guesthouse featuring Tibetan and local Himachali cuisine.
At your guesthouse.
INR700, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Manali Marvels

Manali, India

8:00 AM

Drive to Manali

Travel to Manali, a popular hill station with breathtaking views.
Approx. 5 hours drive from Spiti.
Included in transport, 5 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Café 1947

Savor a delicious Italian meal by the riverside at Café 1947.
Located near Old Manali.
INR800, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Visit Rohtang Pass

Head to Rohtang Pass for stunning landscapes and breathtaking views of the Himalayas.
1-hour drive from Manali.
INR400, 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Johnson Lodge

End your day with delicious North Indian cuisine at The Johnson Lodge.
Back in Manali.
INR800, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Journey to the Hills and Beyond

Mussoorie to Varanasi, India

8:00 AM

Drive to Mussoorie

Travel to Mussoorie, a charming hill station known for its colonial charm.
Approx. 7-hour drive from Manali.
Included in transport, 7 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at Kalsang Restaurant

Try Tibetan influences with an array of thukpa and momos at Kalsang.
Located on Mall Road, Mussoorie.
INR700, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Gun Hill

Take a cable car ride to Gun Hill for an unforgettable sunset view of the Himalayas.
Short walk from Mall Road.
INR300, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Drive to Haridwar

Head to the holy city of Haridwar for an evening aarti at Har Ki Pauri.
Approx. 1.5 hours drive.
Included in transport, 1.5 hours

8:30 PM

Dinner at Aangan Restaurant, Haridwar

Dine at Aangan, offering a mix of North Indian delights and local specialties.
Close to Har Ki Pauri.
INR500, 1.5 hours

10:00 PM

Drive to Nainital

Embark on a drive to tranquil Nainital.
Approx. 6-hour drive.
Included in transport, 6 hours
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