4-Day Cultural and Scenic Exploration of McLeod Ganj and Dharamshala from Pathankot

Day 1: Arrival and McLeod Ganj initiation

Pathankot to McLeod Ganj, India on May 18, 2025

7:00am

Travel from Pathankot to McLeod Ganj

Start early morning as you arrive in Pathankot, then take a taxi or bus to McLeod Ganj, the journey takes around 3.5 to 4 hours offering scenic views of the foothills of the Himalayas.
INR800, 4h0m

11:30am

Breakfast at Weston’s Bakery

Enjoy a delicious freshly baked pastry or croissant with tea at this iconic bakery, loved by both locals and tourists, open from 7am onwards.
INR200, 1h0m

12:30pm

Visit Tsuglagkhang Complex

Explore the spiritual and administrative center of the Dalai Lama, including the Namgyal Monastery and Tibetan Museum, open 9am-6pm.
Free, 2h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Tibet Kitchen

Savor authentic Tibetan dishes like momos and thukpa at this popular local restaurant, open from 11am to 10pm.
INR350, 1h0m

3:30pm

Walk to Bhagsu Waterfall and Bhagsunath Temple

Enjoy a short hike to the serene Bhagsu Waterfall and visit the ancient Bhagsunath Shiva Temple nearby, waterfall is accessible all day.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Evening tea at Moonpeak Espresso Cafe

Relax with a soothing cup of tea or coffee and some light snacks while enjoying mountain views, open until 8pm.
INR150, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nick’s Italian Kitchen

End the day with delicious wood-fired pizza or pasta in a cozy atmosphere, open till 10pm.
INR700, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: McLeod Ganj sightseeing

McLeod Ganj, India on May 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Common Ground Cafe

Start your day with healthy and tasty breakfast options including fresh juices and egg dishes, open from 8am.
INR300, 1h0m

9:00am

Visit Dal Lake and Surrounding Trails

Explore the beautiful Dal Lake area with forest treks and serene views; a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography.
Free, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Jimmy’s Italian Kitchen

Enjoy a variety of Italian delicacies with an Indian twist in a scenic setting, open 11am to 10pm.
INR600, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit Bhagsu Nag Tibetan Clinic and Norbulingka Institute

Learn about Tibetan arts and crafts and traditional medicine at these culturally enriching sites, Norbulingka Institute open 9am-5pm.
INR100 for Norbulingka, 3h0m

5:00pm

Tea at Cafe Illiterati

Relax at this artistic cafe with excellent coffee and a literary ambience, open till 8pm.
INR200, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Clay Oven

Try North Indian and Tibetan cuisine with specialties like dumplings and thukpa, open till 10pm.
INR400, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Dharamshala

Dharamshala, India on May 20, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at New Shiva Cafe

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast street-style with local and continental options, open from 7am.
INR250, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit the War Memorial and Kangra Art Museum

See the War Memorial dedicated to Indian soldiers, followed by artworks showcasing Kangra Valley painting styles, museum open 9am to 5pm except Mondays.
INR50, 2h0m

10:30am

Explore St. John in the Wilderness Church

Visit this colonial-era church surrounded by cedar forests, renowned for its neo-Gothic architecture.
Free, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Illiterati Cafe, Dharamshala

Relax at this stylish cafe offering great sandwiches, coffee, and desserts, open until 8pm.
INR350, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit HPCA Cricket Stadium and walk around Dharamshala town

Take a tour of the stunning cricket stadium with Himalayan views and enjoy local shopping in Dharamshala town.
Free, 2h0m

4:00pm

Relax at Dharamshala Cantonment area

Spend some quiet time in the peaceful cantonment area with peaceful walks among pine trees.
Free, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Nick’s Italian Kitchen, Dharamshala

Enjoy another Italian feast or local Himachali dishes in a tranquil setting, open till 10pm.
INR650, 1h30m
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Last activities and departure

McLeod Ganj to Pathankot, India on May 21, 2025

7:30am

Early Breakfast at Zahter

Have a light and healthy breakfast with Mediterranean influences before your journey, open from 7am.
INR300, 1h0m

8:30am

Last minute shopping at Tibetan Markets

Pick souvenirs like prayer flags, jewelry, and handicrafts from McLeod Ganj’s famous markets.
Varies, 1h0m

9:30am

Travel back to Pathankot

Start your return journey to Pathankot by taxi or bus, aiming to reach before noon or early afternoon for your onward travel arrangements.
INR800, 4h0m

2:00pm

Lunch in Pathankot at Haveli Restaurant

Enjoy traditional North Indian lunch with flavorful dals, rotis, and tandoori items, open 12pm to 10pm.
INR400, 1h0m
View Hotel Availability