Excursions in Muscat

North India Tour

Essential Journey Through North India

Trip Duration

12 days

Recommended season:

May - October

India - Trip Summary

A customized 12-day North India tour begins with our arrival in Delhi, India’s capital, from where we head to Amritsar, the spiritual center of Sikhism. Here, we’ll visit the renowned Golden Temple before continuing to Dharamshala, the Tibetan exile capital and home of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Buddhism. We’ll explore Dharamshala, visit the Dalai Lama’s monastery, and take in the scenic surroundings. Our journey continues through the beautiful Kullu Valley to Manali, a picturesque town surrounded by charming villages and hot springs. Returning to Delhi, we’ll explore both New and Old Delhi, then conclude in Rishikesh, known for its holy sages and revered temples. This North India tour offers an immersion in colorful, spiritual India, where vibrant culture and rich traditions create a unique, timeless experience. With a private English-speaking guide and dedicated driver, you’ll enjoy a memorable journey, customized to your pace and style.

Culture • Himalaya • Spirituality

Day 1

Day 1: Arrival - Delhi - Amritsar

Upon arrival in Delhi, we will continue with a domestic flight to Amritsar. Once we land, we will meet our representative at the airport and transfer to the hotel.

 

Amritsar, meaning “Pool of Nectar,” is home to the Golden Temple, which serves as the spiritual and leadership center for the Sikh faith.

 

In the afternoon, we will witness the colorful flag-lowering ceremony at the India-Pakistan border, a lively event with Indian soldiers facing off against their Pakistani counterparts, accompanied by enthusiastic crowds cheering for their respective sides.

 

Later in the evening, we will head to the Golden Temple for the traditional Palki Sahib ceremony, held twice daily. During this event, the holy scripture of Guru Granth Sahib is carried into the temple in a procession accompanied by traditional singing and dancing.
Overnight in Amritsar.

Day 2

Day 2: Amritsar – City Tour - Dharamsala

After breakfast, we will return to the Golden Temple, where we can admire its stunning beauty, stroll around and inside the temple, and encounter Sikh pilgrims coming to purify themselves in the holy waters of the pool. You will experience the sacred atmosphere that envelops this special place.

 

Next, we will visit the Jallianwala Bagh memorial, which commemorates the tragic events of the massacre that took place there in 1919.

 

Following our visit, we will embark on a approximately 6-hour drive to Dharamsala, located in the Kangra Valley’s mountainous region. The city is divided into two distinct areas: the lower city at 1,250 meters and the village of McLeod Ganj at 1,800 meters. This is the capital of the Tibetan exiles in India and the residence of the Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Buddhism, who resides at the Namgyal Monastery.

 

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Dharamsala.

Day 3

Day 3: Dharamsala and Surrounding Villages

After breakfast, we will visit the Namgyal Monastery, the official residence of the Dalai Lama. Nearby, we’ll explore the main cathedral and the vibrant Tibetan market. Following that, we will head to the Tibetan Library to view ancient manuscripts and a collection of original texts.

 

Next, we will visit the beautiful Bhagsu Waterfalls, where we can enjoy the serene environment. After exploring the waterfalls, we will continue to the picturesque village of Dharmkot.
Overnight in Dharamsala.

Day 4

Day 4: Dharamsala to Manali via Kullu

After breakfast, we will drive to Manali (approximately 8 hours, 270 km), passing through the beautiful narrow valley of Kullu, which is renowned for its fruit orchards and cannabis cultivation.

 

Nestled between towering mountains, coniferous forests, and rushing rivers lies Manali, a picturesque town surrounded by charming villages and hot springs.

 

Upon arrival, we will transfer to the hotel.
Overnight in Manali.

Day 5

Day 5: Manali - Hiking Day to Vashisht and Old Manali

After breakfast, we will drive to the village of Vashisht, located at the foothills of Manali. Here, we will visit the local temple and see the hot springs where locals enjoy bathing and washing dishes.

 

Next, we will embark on a hiking trail towards Old Manali. We will pass by the beautiful Jogni Falls, crossing the river and the main road until we reach Old Manali. There, we will visit the Manu Temple and continue through wooded paths to the Dhamba Temple—an exquisite wooden temple built in 1553 AD.

 

As we make our way through the village of Nasogi, we will stop at a Tibetan temple established in 1969. Here, you can admire stunning wall paintings, woven carpets, and traditional handicrafts available for purchase.

 

Afterward, we will explore the vibrant market of Old Manali, located near the temple, which features restaurants and cafes. This market is a popular destination for backpackers and local visitors alike.
After enjoying some free time in the market, we will drive back to the hotel.
Overnight in Manali.

Day 6

Day 6: Manali - Exploring Parvati Valley and Kasol

After breakfast, we will embark on a two-hour drive to Parvati Valley, nestled between towering mountain ranges, where we will enjoy a pleasant climate and breathtaking scenery. This valley is home to beautiful and tranquil villages.

 

Our first stop will be the hot springs in Manikaran, a sacred town known for its unique atmosphere, natural hot springs, and a beautiful Sikh temple. Here, you can experience the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters.

 

Next, we will continue our visit to Kasol, a quaint backpacker town in the Parvati Valley. This vibrant village is known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning landscapes, and friendly locals, making it a popular stop for travelers.

 

In the afternoon, we will make our way back to Manali.
Overnight in Manali.

 

Day 7

Day 7: Manali - Kullu - Delhi - City Tour

Early in the morning, we will transfer to Kullu Airport for a flight to Delhi. Upon arrival, you will meet our representative and be transferred to the hotel.

 

Delhi, the capital of India and the gateway for most travelers in the country, is a vibrant blend of culture, attractions, shopping, and great food. It’s where you first encounter India and begin to fall in love with it.

 

After freshening up, we will visit the Lotus Temple, an impressive Bahá’í temple designed in the shape of a lotus flower.
We will then continue to visit Akshardham Temple, the largest Hindu temple in the world, followed by a visit to Gurudwara Bangla Sahib, a significant Sikh temple.
Overnight in Delhi.

 

Day 8

Day 8: Delhi - The Old and New Capitals

After breakfast, we will embark on a tour that explores both Old and New Delhi. We will start in Old Delhi with a visit to the Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning Mughal architecture. From there, we will take a rickshaw ride through Chandni Chowk, the main street of Old Delhi, bustling with markets, street performances, and unique shops. Our next stop will be Raj Ghat, the memorial dedicated to Mahatma Gandhi.

 

Continuing to New Delhi, we will reflect on the city’s evolution over the years. Our first stop will be the Qutub Minar, a historical minaret built from red sandstone. We will also visit significant British-era buildings from the 1930s, including the Presidential House and the Parliament. The tour will include a visit to Humayun’s Tomb, a beautiful structure surrounded by gardens, which began construction in 1564 by the emperor’s widow. We will conclude our day in the Main Bazaar, a vibrant area frequented by backpackers, featuring guesthouses, cafes, and restaurants.
Overnight in Delhi.

Day 9

Day 9: Delhi - Rishikesh

After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for a flight to Dehradun.
Upon arrival, you will meet our representative and drive for approximately an hour and a half to your hotel in Rishikesh.

 

Rishikesh, a haven for ancient sages and saints, is located on the right bank of the Ganges River, surrounded by the majestic Himalayas. It is a sacred religious center for Hindus and serves as the gateway to the realm of the gods, along with numerous ashrams and retreats that generously accommodate visitors to the city.

 

In the evening, enjoy the mesmerizing Ganga Aarti ceremony, which features prayers, hymns, fire offerings, and the ringing of bells.
Overnight in Rishikesh.

 

Day 10

Day 10: Rishikesh - Sacred Explorations

After breakfast, we will embark on a tour of Rishikesh, visiting local ashrams and temples.

 

We will explore the Swarg Ashram, walk across the iconic Ram Jhula bridge, and visit the Gita Bhawan Ashram and the famous Beatles Ashram, where the legendary band once sought inspiration.

 

Additionally, we will spend time at the Triveni Ghat, the largest and most renowned bathing ghat in the city, known for its serene atmosphere and evening aarti ceremonies.
Overnight in Rishikesh.

Day 11

Day 11: Rishikesh - Haridwar - The Pilgrim's Path - Rishikesh

After breakfast, we will drive to Haridwar, located on the right bank of the Ganges River. The name translates to “Gateway to the Gods,” and this sacred city is known for its rituals of purification through bathing in the holy river.

 

Upon arrival, we will visit the Chandi Devi Temple, dedicated to the goddess Chandi Devi and built in 1929 during the reign of the Kashmiri king. Next, we will head to the Mansa Devi Temple, perched atop a hill and offering stunning views, attracting countless pilgrims.

 

We will continue our journey to the Sapta Rishi Ashram and visit Har Ki Pauri, a famous ghat known for its spiritual significance. Finally, we’ll explore the Pawan Dham, Bhooma Niketan, and Bharat Mata Mandir as part of our cultural immersion.
Overnight in Rishikesh.

Day 12

Day 12: Rishikesh - Delhi - Departure

After breakfast and depending on your flight schedule, we will drive approximately 1.5 hours to the Dehradun airport for your flight to Delhi. From there, you will continue your journey back home.

 

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