Scenic Himachal Pradesh Journey: Dehradun to Shimla, Mandi, and Dharamshala

Day 1: Dehradun to Shimla

Shimla, Himachal Pradesh, India on April 19, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ellora's Melting Moments, Dehradun

Start your day with a delightful breakfast featuring local and international cuisine at this popular bakery and cafe open from 7 am to 10 pm.
INR300, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from Dehradun to Shimla

Embark on a picturesque 8-hour drive (about 280 km) through the hills, enjoying the scenic views of forests and valleys en route to Shimla.
INR1500 (Taxi fare approx.), 8h0m

4:30pm

Check-in and Refresh at Hotel

Relax and settle into your hotel in Shimla, such as The Oberoi Cecil or Hotel Willow Banks, both centrally located for easy sightseeing access.
Varies, 1h0m

5:30pm

Evening Stroll at The Mall Road

Explore Shimla’s famous Mall Road with shops, cafes, and the nearby Ridge, offering great views of the Himalayan foothills.
Free, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Café Sol

Enjoy a cozy dinner with a mix of Himachali and continental dishes; Café Sol is open typically from 8 am to 10:30 pm.
INR600, 1h0m
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Day 2: Shimla to Mandi

Mandi, Himachal Pradesh, India on April 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Indian Coffee House, Shimla

Enjoy a traditional Indian breakfast and strong coffee at this iconic and budget-friendly spot open from 7 am to 9:30 pm.
INR150, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from Shimla to Mandi

Set out on a scenic 3-hour drive of approximately 75 km through charming hill roads and villages towards Mandi, a temple town known as 'Varanasi of the Hills'.
INR800 (Taxi fare approx.), 3h0m

11:30am

Visit Rewalsar Lake and Surroundings

Although slightly on the way to Mandi, stop at Rewalsar Lake to see its Buddhist monasteries and Tibetan culture. Entry is free and it’s open throughout the day.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Hotel Beas View, Mandi

Savor local Himachali cuisine with views of the Beas River in this well-regarded hotel restaurant open until 3 pm for lunch.
INR450, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Mandi Temples

Visit the famous Bhima Kali Temple and Panchvaktra Temple complexes, open until sunset. They offer insight into the region’s rich religious heritage.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Check-in and Rest at Hotel

Relax at your hotel in Mandi such as The Mayflower Regency, conveniently located near major sites.
Varies, 1h0m

5:00pm

Evening Walk Along Beas River

Enjoy the soothing riverside ambiance and local markets before dinner.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Gallops Hotel Restaurant

Taste fresh Indian and Himachali dishes in this comfortable place, open from 7 pm to 10 pm.
INR500, 1h0m
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Day 3: Mandi to Dharamshala

Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, India on April 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel before starting the journey to Dharamshala.
Included in stay, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive from Mandi to Dharamshala

Travel approximately 120 km over 3.5 to 4 hours through scenic mountainous terrain to reach Dharamshala, home to the Tibetan government-in-exile and Dalai Lama.
INR1200 (Taxi fare approx.), 4h0m

12:30pm

Check-in and Lunch at Hotel Norbulingka

Settle in and enjoy lunch at this culturally rich hotel offering Tibetan cuisine, located near McLeod Ganj.
INR600, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex and Dalai Lama Temple

Explore the spiritual heart of Dharamshala, open daily from 8 am to 6 pm, to witness Tibetan Buddhist architecture and teachings.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Explore Bhagsu Waterfall and Temple

Take a short drive or hike to this scenic waterfall and nearby ancient temple, open all day for visitors.
Free, 2h0m

5:30pm

Relax at Café Chung, McLeod Ganj

Enjoy organic snacks, coffee, and Tibetan specialties in this cozy café open from 9 am to 9 pm.
INR400, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Tibet Kitchen

Taste authentic Tibetan and momos dishes in this popular restaurant open until 10 pm.
INR550, 1h0m
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