4-Day Family Friendly Nature Itinerary: Dharamshala, Vaishno Devi Temple, Jammu & Palanpur

Day 1: Exploring Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Himalaya

Start your day with a delightful breakfast featuring fresh Himachali fare while enjoying the stunning mountain views.
Walk or take a short drive to the cafe from your accommodation.
INR 700, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Dalai Lama Temple Complex

Spend time at one of the main attractions in Dharamshala, soaking in the peaceful ambiance and learning about Tibetan culture.
A short 10-minute drive from Cafe Himalaya.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Nature Walk in McLeod Ganj

Embark on a walk through the picturesque paths of McLeod Ganj, keeping an eye out for local wildlife and plants.
Walk down from the temple complex to McLeod Ganj.
Free, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Nick's Italian Kitchen

Treat the family to delicious Italian dishes made with fresh ingredients in an inviting environment.
A short walk from the nature walk area.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Bhagsu Waterfall

A short trek leads to this stunning waterfall, perfect for family photo ops, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Take a local taxi to the start of the Bhagsu trek.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Hotel Grand View

Enjoy a family-friendly dining option with traditional Himachali food and stunning views of the mountains.
Return to your accommodation by taxi.
INR 1500, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Vaishno Devi Visit

Katra, Jammu, India

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at your hotel before embarking on your journey to Vaishno Devi Temple.
Download luggage and prepare for the road trip.
INR 600, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Vaishno Devi Temple

Set out for a scenic drive to Katra, the base camp for the Vaishno Devi pilgrimage, through lush green hills.
By taxi, approximately 3 hours.
INR 2000, 3 hours

11:00AM

Trek to Vaishno Devi Temple

Take the 12 km trek to the temple, a family-friendly route with plenty of stalls for refreshments along the way.
Start the trek from Katra.
Free, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at the Temple Cafeteria

Enjoy a simple but fulfilling meal in the temple cafeteria, serving prasad that nourishes both body and spirit.
Available facilities within the temple premises.
INR 300, 1 hour

4:00PM

Explore the Temple

Spend some time exploring the sanctum and soaking in the spiritual atmosphere.
Short walks around the temple area.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Return Trek to Katra

Descend back to Katra, enjoying the views from different angles as the sun starts to set.
Walk the same route back.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Sagar Ratna

With a menu that blends local and South Indian cuisine, it's a great end to the day, offering something for everyone.
By taxi from Katra.
INR 1200, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Exploring Jammu

Jammu, India

8:00AM

Breakfast at JKTDC Restaurant

Relish traditional Jammu breakfast dishes and prepare for a day of exploration.
From your hotel in Katra, return to Jammu by taxi.
INR 800, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Raghunath Temple

Explore Jammu's famous temple, known for its majestic architecture and spiritual significance.
Short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the Mubarak Mandi Palace

Discover the historical significance and architectural splendor of the former royal palace of Jammu.
A short walk from Raghunath Temple.
INR 100, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pahalwan Restaurant

Indulge in a variety of North Indian dishes that cater to the whole family’s taste buds.
Short taxi ride from the palace.
INR 1000, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Bagh-e-Bahu Garden

Stroll through the beautiful gardens on the banks of Tawi River, offering a serene environment and great views.
By taxi from the restaurant.
INR 50, 2 hours

3:30PM

Shopping at Raghunath Bazaar

Explore local handicrafts and Kashmiri shawls and souvenirs, perfect for loved ones back home.
Walk back towards Raghunath Temple.
Varies, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at the royal Chakara

Luxury learns a decadent take on Northern Indian cuisine; a rewarding palate-pleasing conclusion to your day.
Take a taxi from the bazaar.
INR 1800, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Journey to Palanpur

Palanpur, India

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at the Hotel

Start your journey with a fulfilling breakfast that includes a variety of dishes for all family members.
At your hotel in Jammu.
INR 800, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Palanpur

Set off early for your next destination, catching the train or bus for a scenic route to Palanpur.
Choose either train or bus, depending on schedule.
INR 1200, 8 hours

4:00PM

Check-In and Relax

Arrive at your accommodation in Palanpur, take the time to rest after the day’s travel.
At your hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

5:00PM

Evening at Pavagadh Hill

Enjoy a picturesque evening walk in the area and enjoy clifftop views of the surroundings.
Short taxi ride from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Shiv Palace

Dine on a variety of local and regional dishes, providing a lovely way to round off your adventurous travel.
Back at your hotel by taxi.
INR 1300, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability