Budget-Friendly Adventure Trip: Dalhousie, Khajjiar & Shimla

Day 1: Arrival in Dalhousie

Dalhousie, India

9:00AM

Check-in at Zostel Dalhousie

Settle into this budget-friendly hostel known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views.
Located on the main road, easily accessible.
INR 600, 1 hour

10:30AM

Breakfast at a Local Dhabha

Fuel up with an affordable breakfast of aloo parathas and chai, a local favorite.
Nearby the hostel, short walk.
INR 150, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Khajjiar

Take a local bus to Khajjiar, known as 'Mini Switzerland', and enjoy the snowy landscapes.
Bus ride from Dalhousie to Khajjiar (about 30 km).
INR 50 (bus fare), 1 hour

1:30PM

Street Food Lunch at Khajjiar

Try local snacks like maggi noodles and chaat from street vendors to keep it budget-friendly.
Numerous vendors around Khajjiar Lake.
INR 200, 1 hour

3:00PM

Snow Activities at Khajjiar

Engage in exciting activities like snowball fights, sledding, and walking through captivating snowy trails.
Activities available around Khajjiar Lake.
Free to minimal (sledding around INR 200), 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Dalhousie and Stroll at Gandhi Chowk

Enjoy the pleasant evening ambiance, shop for souvenirs, and capture moments.
Take a local bus back to Dalhousie.
INR 50 (bus fare), 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at a Local Eatery

Enjoy street food delicacies such as momos and tandoori rolls at a well-reviewed local eatery.
Nearby Gandhi Chowk.
INR 250, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Adventure Day in Khajjiar

Khajjiar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zostel

Grab a simple breakfast at the hostel with bread, omelettes, and juice.
Available at the hostel kitchen.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Excursion to Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Trek through the scenic sanctuary and enjoy sightings of various wildlife amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Local bus or taxi for a short ride (around 7 km).
INR 100 (taxi), 3 hours

1:00PM

Street Lunch in Khajjiar

Refuel with more street food, exploring different stalls offering various Himachali snacks.
Stalls near the sanctuary entrance.
INR 200, 1 hour

2:30PM

Paragliding Experience

Get an adrenaline rush with paragliding, providing stunning aerial views of Khajjiar.
Operated by vendors close to Khajjiar.
INR 1200, 1 hour

4:00PM

Return to Dalhousie

Travel back to Dalhousie to explore more of the local sites.
Take a local bus back.
INR 50 (bus fare), 1 hour

6:00PM

Visit St. John's Church

Admire the charming architecture and quaint surroundings of this historical site.
Within walking distance from the hostel.
Free, 1 hour

7:30PM

Dinner at Local Dhaba

Grab a delicious thali dinner from a local dhaba, known for generous servings at budget prices.
Nearby the hostel.
INR 300, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Kalka to Shimla Toy Train Adventure

Shimla, India

6:30AM

Early Breakfast at Zostel

Savor quick breakfast options before an exciting day ahead.
Available at the hostel.
INR 150, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Kalka

Catch a local bus to Kalka to board the famous toy train.
Local bus ride to Kalka (approx. 40 km).
INR 100, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Kalka to Shimla Toy Train Ride

Enjoy a scenic 5-hour toy train journey to Shimla, filled with views to remember.
Board the train at Kalka station.
INR 600 (for tickets), 5 hours

3:30PM

Check-in at a Budget Hostel in Shimla

Settle into a budget hostel that offers comfortable and affordable accommodations.
Easily accessible from the train station.
INR 600, 1 hour

4:30PM

Lunch at Lakkar Bazaar

Indulge in street food at the bustling market, sampling local treats and snacks.
Just a walking distance away from the hostel.
INR 250, 1 hour

6:00PM

Explore The Ridge and Mall Road

Walk around Shimla's iconic Ridge and Mall Road, enjoying the cool evening atmosphere.
Easily navigable by foot from the market.
Free, 2 hours

8:30PM

Dinner at Local Restaurant

Satisfy your hunger with delicious momos and thukpa from a local restaurant.
Centrally located near Mall Road.
INR 300, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Exploring Shimla and Departure

Shimla, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hostel

Start the day with a simple breakfast provided at the hostel.
Same location.
INR 150, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Jakhoo Temple

Hike to the Jakhoo Temple, famous for its giant Hanuman statue and panoramic views.
A short trek from the hostel.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Relax at Kufri

Head to Kufri for fun activities like tobogganing and horse riding in the snow.
Take a local bus from Shimla to Kufri (around 16 km).
INR 50 (bus fare), tobogganing around INR 200, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at a Local Dhaba in Kufri

Enjoy a hearty, budget-friendly meal at a dhaba serving locals and tourists alike.
Local dhaba situated near the Kufri activities.
INR 250, 1 hour

4:30PM

Visit the Shimla Local Market

Explore local handicrafts and souvenirs, taking home memories from Shimla.
Return via bus to Shimla.
Free to minimal cost., 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Head to Departure Point

Conclude the trip with great memories as you embark on your return journey.
Local transport available to the station or bus stop.
Varies, Depends on final destination
View Hotel Availability