Tour of the Western Himalayas is specifically designed for those intending to travel leisurely by road through some of the most fascinating countryside. Spring and early Summer is a riot of broom. Early autumn the apples are harvested giving way to the glow of golden foliage. The old towns were earlier 'British summer retreats dolled with quaint cottages and churches. 'The various Hindu rulers have now converted their properties into heritage hotels 'Dharamsala is flocked by many to meet the Dalai Lama the 'Tibetan spiritual leader.
Drive to Nalagarh or train to Chandigarh and transfer to Nalagarh. Check into the Nalagarh Palace Heritage resort. Evening at leisure to explore the fort or relax in the company of the Royal family, perhaps over a drink. Overnight in Nalagarh palace.
Morning drive to Kangra. Check into the Judge's Court a stately manor built in 1918 situated in the quaint village of Progpur. The Kangra valley rolls down the southern edge of the magnificent Dhoulodar range, it's slopes are covered with forest, orchards, tea gardens and terraced fields. From Pragpur, the Beas river offers exciting opportunities for Mohaseer fishing. Kangra is also known for its exquisite miniature paintings. Nearby is the temple of Jwalamukhi, where a natural blue flame issues from the rock sanctum. Overnight judge's Court.
Morning drive to Dharamsala situated at 61 00 ft. Check into mountain resort of Mcleodganj, Visit to Tibetan children's village, At Mcleodganj visit Dalai lama temple and Tibetan school of performing arts. In the evening explore Tibetan food at local restaurants. Overnight in Dharamsala.
Drive to Taragarh (2 hrs). Check into Taragarh Palace resort owned by the family of the Maharaja of Kashmir. Evening walk across the tea gardens or drive to the monastery Overnight in Taragarh.
Drive to Kullu. Arrive late afternoon and check into the exotic span resorts on the banks of the river Beas, 12 kms upstream Kullu. with bonfire and bar-be-cue (and a glass of beer or chota peg!). Overnight in Kullu.
Morning visit Manali town, visit Hadimba temple. Later drive up to Rohtang Pass, 52 kms at 13,500 ft. for a fabulous view of the Dauladhar, Zanskar and the lahaul / Spiti ranges. Overnight in Kullu.
Drive to Shimla, the erstwhile summer capital of the British Raj Check into your Palace hotel. Overnight Shimla.
After breakfast transfer to the Kandoghat railway station for a fascinating train journey to Kalka, on the toy train Arrive and transfer to Shatabdi Express Train, arriving Delhi late evening. Check into Water banks Island resort near Delhi.
OPTIONS AND EXTENSIONS:
1. Overnight train to Pathankot and transfer to Dharamsala fly directly to Dharamsala.
2. Extension to Dalhousie, Khajjar and Chamba.
3. Trout fishing/ Para gliding/ Ballooning/ river Rafting in Kullu-Manali.
4. Various trekking options.
POSSIBLE VARIATIONS:
Delhi/ Nalagarh/ Manali/ Shoja/ Sarahan/ Shimla/ Delhi
BEST TIME: April To October
Drive on south to dogra for you flight to Delhi.