Introduction
North India offers a gateway to vibrant cities, delicious cuisines, adventurous wildlife, fascinating history, and culture, making it everything you’ve ever imagined! No matter your interests, this region of India has something to offer everyone, whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a foodie. If you’re new to travelling in North India, planning a vacation can feel overwhelming. But fear not; we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a 10-day journey to some of the best tourist places in North India, focusing on the enchanting capital of India, the golden city, and Himachal Pradesh’s snow-capped hill stations.
We’ve put together an ideal trip itinerary that combines adventure, serenity, and spirituality to make your journey unforgettable. So, buckle up and prepare for an unforgettable journey through North India’s most beautiful destinations.
Day 1 – Arrive at Delhi
This thriving metropolis is the ideal blend of old-world charm and modernity and a gateway to popular tourist destinations in North India. After landing in Delhi, you can explore some heritage sites like – Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, India Gate, and the Lotus Temple. A walk through the narrow lanes of Chandni Chowk is a must-do, known for its street food and shopping.
Day 2 – Delhi to Amritsar
Amritsar is home to a plethora of attractions that are sure to leave you amazed. While exploring every nook and cranny of this city in a single day is impossible, there are a few must-see attractions you can’t miss while in Amritsar. So, get started right away.
- The Golden Temple,
- Jallianwala Bagh
- Partition Museum
- Durgiana Temple
Do not forget to try the alluring taste of Punjabi cuisine, including Amritsari Kulcha, at some best restaurants and dhabas in the city.
Day 3 – Amritsar to Dharamshala
Travelling from Amritsar to Dharamshala, a beautiful hill town in Himachal Pradesh, would be an interesting adventure. This journey is filled with breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. The distance between Amritsar and Dharamshala is about 200 km, and the journey usually takes 4-5 hours, depending on the mode of transportation and the route taken.
After a long and exciting journey, take some time to relax and unwind after you’ve checked into your accommodation before venturing out to explore the town.
Dharamshala offers a wide range of cultural events and activities in the evening. You may go to a local art gallery or museum or participate in traditional cultural rituals or festivals. If you want a laid-back evening, you can simply relax by a bonfire and eat local delicacies.
Day – 4 Explore Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj
Dharamshala and McLeodganj are two beautiful towns close to each other and are often visited by tourists. While Dharamshala is well-known for its scenic beauty, McLeod Ganj is well-known for being the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama’s residence. The following are some of the top places to visit in these two towns:
Places to Explore Dharamshala & McLeodganj
- Bhagsu Waterfall
- Dalai Lama Temple
- Namgyal Monastery
- Triund Trek
Day 5 – Dharamshala to Shimla
Travelling from Dharamshala to Shimla is exciting and adventurous, as your journey will be filled with the stunning beauty of lush green landscapes and panoramic views of Himalayan ranges. The distance between Dharamshala and Shimla is about 240 kilometres, and the expected travel time is about 6-7 hours by bus or taxi; you can also drive to Shimla.
As the journey between the two towns is long, you may feel tired upon reaching Shimla. However, many activities in Shimla can help you relax and rejuvenate, allowing you to make the most of your evening.
You can enjoy strolling along the lively Mall Road, which is full of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques, visit the famous Christ Church, or try ice skating at the Shimla Ice Skating Rink.
Day 6 – Explore Shimla
Shimla is well known for its breathtaking natural beauty, mild climate, and colonial-style architecture. The lovely climate is one of the key reasons Shimla attracts so many tourists. The town is built on seven hills, each with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and many activities to discover.
Places to explore
- The Town of Kufri
- The Ridge
- The Jakhu Temple
- Christ Church
- Shimla State Museum
- The Viceregal Lodge
Day 7 – Shimla to Dalhousie
Shimla and Dalhousie are approximately 336 kilometres apart, and the travel time is expected to be 9-10 hours. This journey will be filled with thrilling off-road drives and breathtaking natural beauty. Overall, the journey from Shimla to Dalhousie is filled with adventure and excitement.
The drive from Shimla to Dalhousie is very long and can take a day. When you arrive in Dalhousie, there won’t be much to see, so it’s a good idea to rest and recharge to make the most of your vacation in the last 2 days.
Day 8 – Explore Dalhousie
Dalhousie is a tiny hamlet in the Himalayan range, popularly known for its magnificent natural beauty and tranquil environs. The town is bordered by tumbling pine-clad valleys and snow-capped mountain peaks, which provide stunning vistas. As you explore the town, you’ll discover gorgeous colonial-era architecture, small cafes, and beautiful gardens. Other popular Dalhousie attractions are listed below.
Places to explore
- Dainkund Peak
- St. Francis’ Church
- Panchpula Waterfall
- Satdhara Falls
- Kalatop Wildlife Reserve
While in Dalhousie, you can check out Elgin Hall – A cosy homestay located in the heart of Dalhousie that offers comfortable and luxurious accommodations to its guests.
Day 9– Explore Khajjiar
On the ninth day of your vacation, you might visit Khajjiar, India’s mini-Switzerland, just 20 kilometres from Dalhousie in Himachal Pradesh. Khajjiar is well-known for its breathtaking natural beauty, verdant meadows, and distant snow-capped peaks, making it a favourite destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Trekking is one of the most popular activities in Khajjiar, and the town is surrounded by stunning mountains and valleys that offer a variety of trekking choices. Some of the most popular trekking trails in Khajjiar are as follows.
Trekking at Khajjiar
- Dainkund Peak Trek: Dainkund Peak is one of the highest peaks in the region, and the trek to the top offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is a moderate-level trek that takes 4-5 hours to complete.
- Khajjiar Lake Trek: The Khajjiar Lake is a beautiful lake located in the heart of Khajjiar, and the trek to the lake is an easy trek that takes around 1-2 hours to complete.
- Chamba Valley Trek: The Chamba Valley is located near Khajjiar and is known for its breathtaking views. The trek to the valley is a moderate-level trek that takes around 3–4 hours to complete.
Day 10 – Return to Delhi
On the 10th day of your tour, you will be returning to Delhi from Dalhousie. You can take a bus or taxi to Delhi, or you can take a train from Pathankot Railway Station, which is the nearest railway station. Before leaving Dalhousie, stop by the local markets and shops to pick up some souvenirs and handicrafts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 10th day marks the end of your wonderful excursion to the picturesque hills of Himachal Pradesh. You can cherish the memories of the breathtaking natural beauty, tranquil surroundings, and local culture and traditions you encountered on your trip.