Description
Travelling in Delhi isn’t just limited to history but it’s a step to take past and present hand in hand. Blended with modern advancements, Delhi is the modern-day city of Troy. The amalgamation of all religion and spiritual hubs of different faiths coexisting together in peace is the testament of the unity in diversity. Delhi offers numerous tourist attractions ranging from monuments, museums, shrines to modern day markets. Exploring the city is like witnessing a mini-India, with Delhi Tourism being a reflection of rich culture of India.
Historically Monuments in Delhi
Humayun's tomb
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb is a stunning piece of Persian architecture built in the Mughal era. It was commissioned in 1526, nine years after Humayun’s death, by his widow Hamida Banu Begum. This beautiful monument is made of red sandstone.
The tomb is in the centre of Charbagh-style of gardens with pools that are connected to canals. It has two entrances: a southern side and a western side. The high central arch and the octagonal shape of the structure are important aesthetics of Mughal architectures
Kutub Minar
This 73-meter high tower was built by Qutub-ud-Din Aibak in the year 1193. Built after the defeat of Delhi’s last Hindu ruler, the Qutub Minar was constructed to celebrate the Muslim supremacy in Delhi. It is the highest tower in India, with five levels and projecting balconies. The first three levels are made up of red sandstone and the last two of marble and sandstone.
The Qutub Minar has three different types of architectural styles. The construction of the minar was started by Aibak (who only made the basement). Later, Iltutmish added on three stories and then it was completed by Firoz Shah Tuglak, who constructed the last two stories. Quwwat-us-Islam Mosque, the first mosque ever to be built in India, is situated here.
Red fort
This enormous red sandstone fort is synonymous with Delhi and is testimony of the glory of the Mughal Empire. Built in 1638 by Shah Jahan, it took around ten years to be completed.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is octagonal in shape with walls adorned with flowers and calligraphy, typically in the style of beautiful Mughal era architecture.
JAMA masjid
The Jama Masjid is India’s largest mosque. With minarets on all four sides that reach the skies, Jama Masjid, Emperor Shah Jahan’s last architectural indulgence, was commissioned in 1650 and took six years to be built. The enormous courtyard of the Jama Masjid can hold around twenty-five thousand worshippers.
India gate
Situated in the heart of the city, India Gate is one of the most popular and well known monuments in India. It was designed by Edwin Lutyens. With lush green and well-manicured lawns around, the foundation of this historical structure was laid in 1920.
It was unveiled in 1933 and dedicated to all the Indian soldiers of the British Army that were killed in World War 1 .
Haridwar
Haridwar is also called the Gateway to God, considered to be among the seven holiest cities in India, is an ancient city located on the banks of River Ganga. Haridwar is place where the river Ganges enters in plain areas north India after flowing 250 kms from its origin Gaumukh (Gangotri Glacier). Haridwar is a famous Hindu temple town where millions of devotees come to take a dip in the holy Ganges. It's believed that taking a dip in the holy Har Ki Pauri relieves you of all your sins. Har Ki Pauri hosts a nightly Ganga Aarti (river-worshipping ceremony) in which tiny flickering lamps are floated off the steps.
Mussorie Mussorie located at a distance of about 35 kilometres from the state capital of Dehradun, is a famous hill station and also known as "Queen of the Hills.“ It is a favourite spot for both honeymooners and adventurers. Mussoorie attracts tourists with the magnificent views of its valleys, dense green forest and the view of the snow-clad Himalayas.
Chandigarh
Chandigarh is the best-planned city in India, with architecture which is world-renowned, and a quality of life, which is unparalleled. As the capital of the states of Punjab and Haryana, and the Union Territory of Chandigarh it is a prestigious city. The face of modern India, Chandigarh, is the manifestation of a dream that Pt. Jawahar Lal Nehru envisaged and Le Corbusier executed.
Serenity and a city are two diametrically opposite concepts, which however, get belied in the 'City Beautiful'. Chandigarh is a rare epitome of modernization co-existing with nature's preservation. It is here that the trees and plants are as much a part of the construction plans as the buildings and the roads. India’s first planned city, is a rich, prosperous, spic and span, green city rightly called “ THE CITY BEAUTIFUL ”
Rock Garden
if you are one among those who love visiting gardens, you must visit the Rock Garden of Chandigarh. Here's everything you should know about this garden.
The Rock Garden is a Sculpture garden in Chandigarh. It is also known as Nek Chand’s Rock Garden after its founder Nek Chand, a government official who started the garden secretly in his spare time in 1957. The garden is spread over an area of forty acres (160,000 sq.m.). What's interesting about this garden is the fact that it's entirely built of industrial and home waste and discarded items. Sculptures are made using bottles, glasses, bangles, tiles, ceramic pots, sinks and electrical waste. Apart from sculptures, this garden also has man-made interlinked waterfalls.
Sukhna lake
The manmade picturesque Sukhna lake in the foothills of Shivalik range is an idyllic place for quiet communion with nature and for offering .
Shimla
Shimla or Simla is the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is a very popular holiday retreat during the summer months and is well known for its Victorian architecture, which is reflected in certain areas of the Mall and the Ridge. It is also a famous holiday spot for honeymoon.
it is surrounded by green hills with snow capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era creates an aura which is very different from other hill. Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old uildings, charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the main attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala’s escapades, offers a view of distant snow clad peaks.
Viceroy lodge
The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) is a research institute based in Shimla, India. It was set up by the Ministry of Education, Government of India in 1964 and it started functioning from 20 October 1965.
The building that houses the institute was originally built as a home for Lord Dufferin, Viceroy of India from 1884–1888 and was called the Viceregal Lodge. It housed all the subsequent viceroys and governors general of India. It occupied Observatory Hill, one of the seven hills that Shimla is built upon.The building is designed in Indo-Gothic style.
The building was designed by Henry Irwin, an architect in the Public Works Department. The Viceregal Lodge had electricity as early as 1888, much before the rest of the town of Shimla. The building also was equipped with a sophisticated firefighting mechanism through wax-tipped water ducts.
Many historic decisions have been taken in the building during the Indian independence movement. The Simla Conference was held here in 1945. The decision to carve out Pakistan and East Pakistan from India was also taken here in 1947.
The Mall Shimla
In Shimla, the Mall Road lies at the heart of all the action and activity. Buzzing with shops, cafes, theatres, restaurants and a whole bunch of merriment, it is close to all places of interest. The restaurants here offer a wide range of cuisines, and the Gaiety Theatre is the place to go for cultural activities in Shimla. If you’re looking to do a spot of shopping, the Mall offers a number of emporiums, showrooms and storehouses selling everything from shawls and woollens to jewellery, pottery and books. Extending from Barnes Court in the east to the Viceregal Lodge in the west, this is the place to go when you’re looking to be entertained.
Christ church
The second oldest church in North India after St John’s Church in Meerut, Christ Church in Shimla is the most famous church in the town. Built in 1857, the church or its silhouette can be seen for miles around its vicinity. The clock on the church was donated in 1860 by Colonel Dumbleton and no longer works while the porch was added much later in 1873. Constructed in the Elizabethan style, the church has an amazing collection of books and ancient scriptures that are worth taking a look at. The church is most beautiful at night when it is lit up by four strategically placed lights. It is also one of the few churches in India that has a pipe organ.
Gaitey Theatre Shimla
Shimla’s Gaiety Theatre was once part of the large town hall complex. Designed by the renowned English architect Henry Irwin, it was constructed in the Gothic style and opened its doors in 1887 to accommodate more than 300 people.
Manali
A gift of the Himalayas to the world, Manali is a beautiful township nestled in the picturesque Beas River valley. It is a rustic enclave known for its cool climate and snow-capped mountains, offering respite to tourists escaping scorching heat of the plains. The tourism industry in Manali started booming only in the early 20th century, mainly because of its natural bounties and salubrious climate.
Once a sleepy village, the modern town cocooned in its rich cultural heritage and age-old traditions is now one of the most popular destinations of India. The place is a classic blend of peace and tranquility which makes it a haven for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts, who want to get off the main tourist trails and experience nature up close.
The glacial water of River Beas after rushing down the slopes of Rohtang Pass allows adventure sport activities of rowing, white water rafting and river crossing as it meanders through the valley from Manali to Kullu.
The open valley with terraced fields dotted with hotels and resorts has tourists converge on this township in summer from April to July and in autumn to early winter from October to December.
If you have ever imagined of sitting by the gushing water of a snow-fed stream, or waking up to a glorious sunrise with breathtaking views to soak in, Manali is the place to be.
Rohtang paas
Located at a height of 3979 metres and at a distance of 51 kms from Manali, Rohtang Pass is on the highway to Keylong/Leh. In winters, the pass remains closed but is open from June to October for motor vehicles. This pass is a gateway to Lahaul Spiti, Pangi and Leh vall
In the month of May, Rohtang becomes a hotspot for adventure enthusiasts. Tourists can go for various thrilling activities like snow scooter, skiing and mountain biking. Nature lovers can enjoy beautiful views of glaciers, peaks and Chandra river that flows down in the Lahaul valley.
There is a waterfall named as Rahala, which is located at a distance of 16 kms from Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass. This waterfall flows down from an altitude of 2,500 metres.
Hidimba Devi temple
Hidimba Devi Temple, locally known as Dhungari Temple, also known variously as the Hadimba Temple, is located in Manali, a hill station in the State of Himachal Pradesh in north India. It is an ancient cave temple dedicated to Hidimbi Devi, wife of Bhima, a figure in the Indian epic Mahabharata. The temple is surrounded by a cedar forest called Dhungiri Van Vihar at the foot of the Himalayas. The sanctuary is built over a huge rock jutting out of the ground which was worshiped as an image of the deity. The structure was built in 1553 by Maharaja Bahadur Singh.
Old Manali
If you are looking for interesting and good places to visit in Manali, then you can consider Old Manali. Away from the rush and crowd of any hill station is this area of Old Manali. It is any backpacker’s haven with rustic and charming cafes and hostels for cheap stay options. It is a mere 2-3 km away from the main mall road but seems like an entirely different place. If you are visiting Manali with friends, then you can consider booking accommodation in Old Manali area. The ambiance is quite lively and energetic in this part of the city.
Mall Road Manali Mall Road is an unavoidable place to visit at any hill station. Manali too has its Mall road which is a busy part of the city. One can find all the tourists strolling here during the evenings. Enjoy ice cream in the winters or a plate of sizzling momos when here. One can also buy some wooden handicrafts and woolens here. Mall Road has some family restaurants and sweet shops for those craving for tasty food.
Naggar village At a short drive from Manali, Naggar Village is another beautiful destination that nature lovers must visit. Situated on the left bank of River Beas, the village is only 19 km from the main city of Manali. It boasts of amazing views of the Beas Valley, that makes it one of the best tourist places in Manali. The highlight of this attraction is the famous Nicholas
Palampur
Like other hill stations in North India, Palampur rarely vies for attention with gimmicks and that’s where its charm lies. A small town nestled in the lap of the snow-covered Dhauladhar range,
The picturesque natural beauty, tea gardens, deodar forests, gurgling mountain streams, ancient temples, hidden monasteries and warm people welcome you to this heaven. It has something to offer to everyone—amazing landscape and lush green tea gardens for photographers and nature lovers, serene pine forests for those looking for some moments of quietude, old temples and monasteries for religious souls and activities like paragliding and trekking for the adventurous lot. Weather is pleasant throughout
the year. Winter months, from November to February, offer amazing views of the beautiful Dhauladhar range covered in snow. You can snow trek to places like Billing and enjoy splendid views of Kangra Valley from up there. And if you want to relax in the pleasant weather away from the crowd and heat the city, visit during summers. With greenery all around, the valley is at its natural best during monsoons.
Sherabling monastery
Situated in the foothills of Kangra Valley is Palpung Sherabling Monastic Seat in Upper Bhattu region. A quiet walk through the pine forest with colourful Buddhist prayer flags on the sides of the road takes you to the gompa. The monastery has shrine halls, a monastic college, a school, a library, a museum, an exhibition hall and a dispensary, and all these are nestled deep inside the pine forest. It’s like a different world altogether in the middle of serene nature where cheerful kids, youth and old seem to be celebrating life. There is a small canteen behind the main prayer hall where you can have noodles, thukpa, tea etc. Be there during sunset to enjoy an amazing view, when the golden rays engulf the entire forest, fields and villages.
Billing
Billing is a beautiful hilltop from where you get stunning views of Dhauladhars and Kangra Valley. It is also one of the world’s best paragliding sites. A picturesque zig-zag uphill route from Bir takes you to Billing. If you are visiting the place during winters, you can snow trek from Bir to Billing. Sitting at a height of 2290 m above sea level, admiring the surroundings and relishing a cup of hot tea in the cold weather are some of the things that be enjoyed here. If you love adventure then go for paragliding
Baijnath
Rediscover history at an ancient Lord Shiva Temple in Baijnath. This 13th-century shrine reflects early medieval north Indian temple architecture known as Nagara style. During the festival of Maha Shivaratri, there is a grand 5-day celebration held at the temple. The whole complex is decorated with marigold flowers and is thronged by devotees from all over the country. From behind the temple stairs, one can reach Binwa stream. There is a lot that one can do here, such as relaxing on the banks of this mountain stream or picnicking with loved ones.
Experience a serene vacation exploring the exquisiteness of nature with a vacation in the picturesque Dharamshala. Situated at an average altitude of 1475 meters above sea level, Dharamshala lies on the scenic stretch of land of Kangra Valley making tourists spellbound for its spectacular beauty. Often cited as the ‘Little Lhasa of India’, Dharamshala is popularly known as the holy residence of the exiled Tibetan monk Dalai Lama. With the backdrop of the breathtaking Dhauladhar ranges, Dharamshala is the one of the most tranquil destinations which you will find in North India, the perfect amalgamation of natural beauty and culture. Surrounded by thick deodar cedar trees and the snow capped peaks which decorate the landscape, the quaint city is visited by thousands of tourists to beat the summer blues and explore the best places to visit in Dharamshala.
Dalai temple dharmshala
The town of the holy Dalai Lama, Mcleodganj in Dharamshala lures a lot of tourist from various parts of the globe. Amongst the numerous attractions that the town boasts of, it is the Dalai Lama Temple which draws the major attention of the tourists. Just a walking distance away from McLeodganj bus stand, the Dalai Lama Temple is situated at the main temple road. Right next to the temple is the residence of the holy Dalai Lama.
Usually open from sunrise to sunset, the renowned temple offers spiritual teachings of Buddhism, and several times his holiness Dalai Lama blessed the pilgrims. Quite fascinating are the morning prayers, of which one can be actively part of. Other than that, larger than life
statues of Lord Buddha, Avaloktwshwara and Padmasambhava, looks really captivating.
St. John church
An Anglican church, St John in the Wilderness or simply St John church is one of the popular tourist attractions in the region that one must not miss visiting. Built amidst deodar forests in the year 1852, the renowned church boasts of a Neo-Gothic architectural style. Highlighting part about the architecture is that it houses Belgian stained glass windows, that give it a certain degree of European look. These famed glass windows were donated to the church authorities by wife of British viceroy Lord Elgin.
Dedicated to Baptist St John, the wonderful church is just 8 km from the main town of Dharamshala. The beautiful architecture of the church plus the enchanting Kangra valley with its green foliage surrounding it, leaves the visitors spellbound. Right beside the church, there lies a graveyard which was built to bury British residents who died in the devastating 1905 Kangra valley earthquake.
Bhagsunath waterfall
Located on the main road which connects McLeodganj and Dharamshala, Bhagsunath waterfalls lures tourists who wish to relax in the lap of nature. Ideal for picnicking with friends and family, the Bhagsunath waterfalls are rated amongst the best tourist attractions in the region. It starts at the base of Dhauladhar valley, which is also considered a holy spot. Before cascading down at the famous spot, the stream makes its way through the sacred Bhagsunath temple. Thus,one can also consider bathing under the Bhagsunath waterfalls a holy one.
In order to enjoy the best of it, one must visit Bhagsunath waterfalls during monsoon season. It is during this time that the waterfall turns little mammoth. Falling from a height of around 30 ft, the waterfall looks really captivating. As a perfect picnic destination, the region provides for little food refreshments as well. There are several small cafes which let people enjoy a cup of coffee or tea as they watch the pristine Bhagsunath waterfalls.
Naddi village
Naddi is a village in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level, in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley. The village is situated about 3 kilometers from Mc Leod Ganj, known worldwide for the presence of the Dalai Lama. On 29 April 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama (Tenzin Gyatso) established the Tibetan exile administration in the north Indian hill station of Mussoori .
Pragpur Village is situated in the Kangra city of Himachal Pradesh. Pragpur is a legacy town arranged close Kangra and houses the Judge's Court Manor. The to a great extent unaltered town, finish with an old world appeal of little red block shops and conventional provincial houses is administrator for an undisturbed town tourism alternative.
It is a most famous village in this city. The Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage are chipping away at protecting and running the town in a similar ethnic country background for an opportunity to come. An assortment of pocket well disposed settlement alternatives are accessible in the town.
Amritsar
Amritsar historically also known as RÄmdÄspur and colloquially as Ambarsar, is a city in northwestern India.
Amritsar is amongst the most revered sites of the world. It was founded as recently as the 16th century. Its name is a derivative of the Amrit Sarovar (pool of nectar) amidst which stands the Golden Temple, the most sacred of Sikh shrines.
Golden temple
The first Harmandir Sahib(famous with the name of Golden Temple) was built in 1604 by Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, who symbolically had it placed on a lower level so that even the humblest had to step down to enter it. He also included entrances on all four sides, signifying that it was open to worshippers of all castes and creeds. The foundation stone was laid by Mian MÄ«r, a Muslim divine of Lahore (now in Pakistan). The temple was destroyed several times by Afghan invaders and was finally rebuilt in marble and copper overlaid with gold foil during the reign (1801–39) of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The structure thus became known as the Golden Temple
Golden Temple, the pride and soul of the Sikhs has been a centre of attraction among Indians as well as foreign travellers since ages. The golden body, mystic pond, mouth-watering halwa (desert) and overall myths make this religious site a delight of religious populace.
Durgiana Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this modern Hindu temple was built in 1921 in the architectural style of the Golden Temple.
the Durgiana Temples can be called as a Hindu version of the Golden Temple at Amritsar. The temple is also called as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Durga Tirath and Sitla Mandir .
Jallianwala Bagh
Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden in Amritsar, and houses a memorial of national importance, established in 1951 by the Government of India, to commemorate the massacre of peaceful celebrants including unarmed women and children by British occupying forces, on the occasion of the Punjabi New Year (Baisakhi) on 13 April 1919 in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Colonial British Raj sources identified 379 fatalities and estimated about 1100 wounded. Civil Surgeon Dr. Smith indicated that there were 1,526 casualties.The true figures of fatalities are unknown, but are very likely to be many times higher than the official figure of 379.
The 6.5-acre (26,000 m2) garden site of the massacre is located in the vicinity of Golden Temple complex, the holiest shrine of Sikhism.
Wagah or Wahga
Wagah or Wahga is a village and union council (UC 181) located in the Wahga Zone of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. The town is famous for the Wagah border ceremony and also serves as a goods transit terminal and a railway station between Pakistan and India. Wagah is situated 600 metres (2,000 ft) west of the border and lies on the historic Grand Trunk Road between Lahore and Amritsar in India. The border is located 24 kilometres from Lahore and 32 kilometres from Amritsar. It is also 3 kilometres from the bordering village of Attari .
Border crossing ceremony
The Wagah-Attari border ceremony happens at the border gate, two hours before sunset each day. The flag ceremony is conducted by the Pakistan Rangers and Indian Border Security Force (BSF), similar to the retreat ceremonies at Ganda Singh Wala/Hussainiwala border crossing and Mahavir/Sadqi International Parade Ground border crossing.
Itinerary
Day 1 Delhi(Arrival)
You will be arrive at Delhi airport and transferred to the hotel.the first day you will be take rest and over night in your hotel.
Day 2 Delhi
After breakfast you will be exploring for full day the historical walled city of Delhi. The sightseeing tour of Delhi will include the Jama masjid, Red fort (drive past only), Raj Ghat, Gurudwara Bungalow sahib, Humayun Tomb, India gate & President House (drive past only) Over night stay in your Hotel.
Day 3 Delhi- Haridwar
Early morning train to Haridwar. After arrival our representative will take you to visit famous Hindu Temple and Har ki Pauri Ghat of River Ganges. Later on drive to Risikesh and check in at Hotel. In evening witnessed of Aarti Ceremony of Holy River Ganges. Overnight stay in hotel.
Day 4 - Haridwa- Mussorie
After breakfast drive to Mussorie. In the city visit the Landour market and take a walk to Lal Tibba. Leisure at Hotel.
Day 5-Mussorie-Chandigarh
Early morning drive to Chandigarh (8hours approx). In evening enjoy the sunset view at Sukhna lake. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 6 Chandigarh-Shimla
After breakfast visit to Rose Garden. Then continue by road to Kanda Ghat. From Kanda Ghat to Shimla by Toy Train. Check in at hotel and overnight stay.
Day 7 Shimla
After Breakfast Start your Morning tour of Shimla including the Vice Regal Lodge, museum and the Mall. or optional tour to the surrounding area including high tea at Wildflower Hall and a gentle walk along Mahasu Ridge (50$ bookable locally).Return to Hotel and Overnight Stay.
Day 8 Shimla-Manali
After Breakfast Drive to Manali(248km/7 hours) stay overnight.
Day 9 Manali
After breakfast visit the attractions of Manali city. Start off with the Old Manali area and pay a visit to the Hadimba temple, the Manu temple, the Vashisth Village, and the Tibetan monastery Return to hotel and overnight Stay.
Day 10 Manali- Palampur
After breakfast drive to Palampur (180km/5.30 hours) Evening free for Leisure, Stay Overnight.
Day 11 Palampur- Dharmshala
After breakfast enjoy joy ride in local Toy Train with scenic view along with Dhauladhar range of Himalaya. Then en route visit Norbulingka Monastery later drive continue to Dharmshala. Stay Overnight.
Day 12 - Dharmshala
After Breakfast Visit the Tibetan monastery, museum, library Return to Hotel and Overnight Stay.
Day 13 - Dharmshala-Paragpur
After Breakfast Visit Kangra Fort and Museum. Later Continue Drive to Pragpur village. Evening Local village walk. Overnight at the heritage hotel Judge’s Court, a country manor built for Justice Sir Jai Lal. Overnight Stay.
Day 14 - Paragpur- Amritsar
After breakfast Drive to Amritsar(Holy City).Check in at Hotel In evening visit Jalianwala Bagh and enjoy the palki ceremony in Golden Temple. Overnight Stay at Hotel.
Day 15 - Amritsar
After breakfast visit Golden Temple return to hotel then proceed to India-Pakistan Border for ‘Changing of Guard’ Ceremony, Return to Hotel and Overnight Stay.
Day 16 - Amritsar-Delhi-Home/Next Deestination
Transfer to Delhi International fight to Back Home Or Further Destination.
Inclusions
Included :
All Transportation and , Hotel accommodation in Delhi , Haridwar, Risikesh, Mussorie, Chandigarh, shimla, manali, palampur , Dharmshala, Paragpur,and Amritsar, with everyday Breakfast, Drop off to Delhi airport .
Not included :
Monument Entry Fees, Mineral Water Bottle and any kind of personal expenses .