6-Day Family Road Trip from Amritsar to Dharmshala, Dalhousie, and Back

Day 1: Arrival and Dharmshala Exploration

Amritsar to Dharmshala, India on April 30, 2025

7:35am

Arrival at Amritsar Airport and Car Pickup

Pick up your rental car at Amritsar Airport and begin your scenic drive to Dharmshala, approximately 4 hours away, offering beautiful mountain views en route.
INR0, 4h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Nick's Italian Kitchen

Enjoy a family-friendly lunch featuring Italian dishes with a Himalayan twist, located in McLeod Ganj, Dharmshala. Open from 11:00am to 10:00pm.
INR800, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the residence of the Dalai Lama, including the Buddhist temple and the Namgyal Monastery, open until 6:00pm. A serene spiritual experience perfect for all ages.
INR0, 2h0m

3:30pm

Bhagsunag Waterfall and Temple

A short drive to Bhagsunag village for a refreshing visit to the beautiful waterfall and ancient temple. Ideal for light trekking and photos.
INR0, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Tibet Kitchen

Enjoy authentic Tibetan cuisine such as momos and thukpa, located near the main market in McLeod Ganj. Open until 9:00pm.
INR700, 1h0m

Day 2: Dharmshala Nature & Culture

Dharmshala, India on May 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Illiterati

Start your day with some freshly brewed coffee and bakery items in a cozy café opening at 8am, popular among families and travelers.
INR400, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Norbulingka Institute

Visit this institute dedicated to preserving Tibetan arts and crafts. Witness artisans at work and enjoy the beautiful gardens. Open from 9:00am to 5:00pm.
INR100, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen

A delightful spot for Italian cuisine with family-friendly options, open from 11:30am to 9:30pm.
INR900, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Kangra Fort

Drive 20 minutes to the historic Kangra Fort - one of the oldest forts in India offering spectacular views and history. Open till 6:00pm.
INR50, 2h0m

4:00pm

Shopping at Tibetan Market

Explore local markets with handicrafts, souvenirs, and Tibetan goods perfect for family memories or gifts.
INR0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Nick’s Italian Kitchen

Return to Nick’s for another delicious dinner option with kid-friendly menu items, open till 10:00pm.
INR700, 1h0m

Day 3: Drive to Dalhousie & Sightseeing

Dharmshala to Dalhousie, India on May 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Enjoy an early breakfast at your accommodation or nearby café before departing for Dalhousie.
INR400, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive to Dalhousie

Embark on a scenic 3.5 to 4-hour drive south-east to Dalhousie through beautiful mountain roads and lush forests.
INR0, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Carmel Coffee House

Arrive in Dalhousie and enjoy lunch at this popular café known for comfort food and pleasant ambiance. Open till 9:00pm.
INR700, 1h0m

3:30pm

Explore Gandhi Chowk & Main Market

Walk through the town’s main market area and Gandhi Chowk for local crafts, snacks, and a feel of Dalhousie’s colonial charm.
INR0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit Subhash Baoli

A scenic spot known for its natural spring and charming view, ideal for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
INR0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at New Jawaddi Tandoor

Indian cuisine with tandoori dishes offering hearty meals perfect for families, open till 10:00pm.
INR800, 1h0m

Day 4: Dalhousie Nature & Adventure

Dalhousie, India on May 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Dalhousie

Enjoy fresh coffee, eggs, and pancakes at a popular breakfast spot open from 8:00am.
INR400, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Khajjiar – Mini Switzerland of India

Take a 45-minute drive to Khajjiar, a beautiful meadow surrounded by pine forests and hills. Ideal for pony rides and family picnics. Open all day.
INR100, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Café Sinclairs at Khajjiar

Enjoy a meal with wonderful views of the Khajjiar valley and fresh local produce, open during visitor hours.
INR700, 1h0m

2:00pm

Dalhousie Churches Tour

Visit St. John’s Church and other colonial-era churches within Dalhousie to appreciate local history and architecture.
INR0, 2h0m

5:00pm

Relax at Panchpula Waterfalls

Short local trip to beautiful waterfalls and hike nearby trails for fresh air and nature immersion. Open until dusk.
INR50, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kwality Restaurant

Family-friendly dining offering North Indian cuisine in a casual setting, open till 10:00pm.
INR700, 1h0m

Day 5: Return to Amritsar & Sightseeing

Dalhousie to Amritsar, India on May 4, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Start with an early breakfast at your hotel in Dalhousie to prepare for the travel day ahead.
INR400, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to Amritsar

Longer drive of approximately 6 hours back to Amritsar. Plan for stops for refreshments and stretch breaks.
INR0, 6h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Bharawan Da Dhaba

Experience traditional Punjabi cuisine at this famous dhaba in Amritsar, beloved by locals and tourists alike. Open till 10:00pm.
INR600, 1h0m

4:00pm

Visit the Golden Temple

Spend afternoon exploring the iconic Golden Temple, a spiritual and architectural marvel. Open 24 hours with best times before sunset for calm ambiance.
INR0, 2h0m

6:30pm

Walk at Jallianwala Bagh

Visit the historic Jallianwala Bagh park nearby, reflecting on India’s history. Open until 7:00pm.
INR0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Kesar Da Dhaba

End your day with a traditional Punjabi meal at this well-loved restaurant, open until 10:00pm.
INR700, 1h0m

Day 6: Departure Day

Amritsar, India on May 5, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or Local Café

Opt for a relaxed breakfast near your hotel or at your stay to prepare for your flight day.
INR400, 1h0m

9:00am

Local Relaxation or Last Minute Shopping

Use your morning for any last-minute sightseeing, rest, or nearby shopping in Amritsar’s markets.
INR0, 6h0m

3:00pm

Return Car and Airport Arrival

Head to Amritsar Airport, return your rental car, and check-in for your flight departing at 8:30pm.
INR0, 1h0m

8:30pm

Flight Departure

Depart from Amritsar Airport concluding your family road trip.
INR0, 0h0m