Epic Golden Temple Road Trip: 6 Days of Serenity and Culture

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Amritsar, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kuldeep Naan

Start your day with delicious Amritsari kulcha and steaming chai at Kuldeep Naan, known for its authentic flavors.
Located a short 10-minute drive from the Golden Temple.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Golden Temple

After breakfast, immerse yourself in the spirituality of the Golden Temple, the holiest shrine of Sikhism, and take in its breathtaking architecture and serene atmosphere.
Located just 5 minutes from the breakfast spot, enjoy a pleasant walk.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Amritsari Da Dhaba

Try the famous Amritsari paneer and dal makhani at this local dhaba to fuel up for the day ahead.
A 10-minute drive from the Golden Temple.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Wagah Border Ceremony

Experience the flag-lowering ceremony at the Wagah Border, a colorful display of patriotism and camaraderie.
About 30 minutes from lunch via car.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Jallianwala Bagh

Visit the historic Jallianwala Bagh memorial, commemorating the lives lost in the massacre of 1919.
15 minutes drive from the Wagah Border.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Bharawan Da Dhaba

Savor traditional Punjabi food, especially the thali, rich in flavors and perfect after a long day.
A 10-minute drive from Jallianwala Bagh.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 2: Chandigarh Adventure

Chandigarh, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House

Start your day at the Indian Coffee House, a nostalgic spot known for its filter coffee and cheese omelets.
20-minute drive to Chandigarh.
INR 300, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Rock Garden

Explore the unique and artistic Rock Garden, a sprawling world of mosaic sculptures created by Nek Chand.
Located within Chandigarh, a 15-minute drive.
INR 50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cafe 3B2

Relax at this trendy cafe and enjoy a selection of pastas and fresh salads.
5 minutes drive from Rock Garden.
INR 600, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Sukhna Lake

Take a serene boat ride on Sukhna Lake, a beautiful artificial lake perfect for relaxation.
10-minute drive from lunch.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Explore the Punjab University Campus

Wander through the college campus designed by architect Pierre Jeanneret, known for its modernist architecture.
15-minute drive from Sukhna Lake.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Pal Dhaba

Indulge in authentic North Indian cuisine at Pal Dhaba, famed for its butter chicken and naan.
A 15-minute drive from Punjab University.
INR 800, 1 hour
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Day 3: Himachal Pradesh Breathtaking Views

Himachal Pradesh, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up on a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on the drive through the Himalayas.
N/A (included in hotel stay)
INR 500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Shimla

Enjoy the scenic mountain drive to Shimla, often referred to as the Queen of Hills.
Drive is approximately 4.5 hours.
N/A, 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cafe Simla Times

Take in panoramic views while enjoying a delicious pasta dish and local teas at Café Simla Times.
Located in Mall Road, Shimla, a short walk from your arrival point.
INR 700, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Mall Road

Stroll down Mall Road, a lively promenade filled with shops, eateries, and the iconic Ridge.
Easily walkable from Cafe Simla Times.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Jakhu Temple

Hike up to Jakhu Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, and enjoy stunning views over Shimla.
15-minute walk from Mall Road.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Wake and Bake Café

Relish the authentic Himachali cuisine; try the siddu and apple pie.
A 10-minute walk from Jakhu Temple.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 4: Adventuring in Manali

Manali, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy the mountain view while having breakfast at your hotel, with options from pancakes to local dishes.
N/A (included in hotel stay)
INR 500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Manali

Set off for Manali, known for its breathtaking landscapes and adventure opportunities.
The drive from Shimla to Manali takes approximately 7 hours.
N/A, 7 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at The Johnson Lodge

Relax and enjoy a health-conscious meal with options like fresh salads and handmade pastas.
Located near the Mall Road in Manali.
INR 800, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit Hadimba Temple

Admire the ancient wooden temple set amidst cedar forests dedicated to Goddess Hadimba.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
INR 30, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at Manali Kitchen

End the day with Indian and continental dishes in a cozy setting.
Located near the town center, a 10-minute drive.
INR 700, 1 hour
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Day 5: Cultural Retreat in Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with fresh fruits, local specialities, and omelets.
N/A (included in hotel stay)
INR 500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Dharamshala

Drive through charming villages and breath-taking sceneries to reach the serene Dharamshala.
Approximately 3 hours from Manali to Dharamshala.
N/A, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Joys Restaurant

Indulge in Tibetan specialties including momos and thukpa at this popular local eatery.
Located in McLeod Ganj, a 15-minute drive after your arrival.
INR 500, 1 hour

1:00PM

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the residence of the Dalai Lama and learn about Tibetan culture at the temple complex.
A 10-minute walk from the lunch spot.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Explore Buddhist Monasteries

Discover the tranquil Norbulingka Institute and other monasteries scattered across the area.
A 20-minute drive from Tsuglagkhang Complex.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Corner House

Enjoy comforting Indian dishes in a warm atmosphere, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.
A 15-minute drive back toward McLeod Ganj.
INR 600, 1 hour
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Day 6: Return to Amritsar

Amritsar, India

7:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a simple breakfast before checking out and beginning your journey back to Amritsar.
N/A (included in hotel stay)
INR 500, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive Back to Amritsar

Travel back to Amritsar, reflecting on the journey and experiences over the past six days.
Approximately a 6-hour drive.
N/A, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Kesar Da Dhaba

Savor signature Punjabi dishes like gulab jamun and lassi at this iconic eatery easy to find upon arrival.
15 minutes from the Amritsar city center.
INR 600, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Partition Museum

Conclude your journey by exploring the Partition Museum, dedicating a moment to reflect on the historical significance.
5-minute drive from lunch location.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Relax at the Golden Temple

Return to the Golden Temple for a final moment of tranquility, soaking in the stillness of this sacred site.
A quick 10-minute walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at The Brothers Restaurant

Say farewell to the culinary delights with one last meal, enjoying local dishes that capture the essence of Punjab.
A 15-minute walk from the Golden Temple.
INR 800, 1 hour
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