Highlights of India's Himalayan Foothills

This wonderful itinerary guides you through the highlights of northern India, taking in the Punjabi capital of spiritual Amritsar, the heights of Shimla and some of Northern India's most famous cities. Over the 11 fantastic nights you’ll also get the chance to explore the colonial city of Delhi and the culturally impressive city of Jaipur. Slightly off the beaten track this is a fantastic itinerary allows you to explore both the highlights and hidden secrets of the Himalayan Foothills.

1. Days 1-3: Himalaya

   Start your journey in Amristar and the best way to reach the city is through a short flight, normally connecting in Delhi. The bustling city of Amritsar is famed for Sikhism's most holy temple. The Golden Temple, or Harmandir Sahib is a dazzling monument, gilded with 100kg of gold. Best visited during the 'Going to Bed' ceremony, around 9.30pm, the holy book containing the Sikhism scriptures is carried back to lay to rest for the night. Like the Ganges in Varanasi, this is a truly spiritual experience to behold and you’ll have a private guide here to help you uncover this spectacular site.

   Amritsar also holds much importance in the history of India and its colonial past. Here we suggest a visit to the poignant memorial garden which pays homage to the victims of the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

   Accommodation: Taj Swarna Amritsar (2 nights)

2. Days 3-5: Himalaya

   From Amristar you will head by road to Chandigarh which will take approximately four hours. Chandigarh is an Indian city like no other, designed by the architect Le Corbusier. Over the two nights here, we have included a private guide to show you the local highlights such as The Hussain Rose Garden, Sukhna Lake and the Palaces of Pinjore Garden.

   Accommodation: The Oberoi Sukhvilas Resort & Spa (2 nights)

3. Days 5-8: Himalaya

   Next it is on to Shimla, reachable by car, taking just over four hours. It is also possible to take the Toy Train which is popular, and whilst we feel that it is a beautiful experience, it is lengthy so we suggest driving instead. If the Toy Train is a must, then we feel it is much better to experience this when in Shimla itself. Shimla has changed a lot since independence, and it is now a bustling Himalayan town rolling down the hillside in all directions. You’ll have three nights here and, in this itinerary,, we have not included any guiding for you in Shimla as you may like to take the time to simply relax in your beautiful surroundings but of course if you would like a guide we can include this for you.

   Accommodation: Wildflower Hall, Shimla in the Himalayas an Oberoi Resort (3 nights)

4. Days 8-10: Delhi and the North

   From Shimla you will head to Delhi, reachable via a short flight either from Chandigarh or Shimla Airport. You’ll have two nights in Delhi to soak up all the colonial history being built by the British in 1934 it embodies the spirit of the Raj. On your full day in Delhi we have included a private guide for you, to explore the Lodhi Gardens, through the vibrant bazaars and to the city's most iconic landmarks including Humayun's Tomb. 

   Accommodation: The Imperial (2 nights)

5. Days 10-12: Rajasthan

   Finally, for your final two nights on your epic adventure, you’ll drive to Jaipur though the beautiful countryside. It is a quite a lengthy journey of just over five hours and it is possible to take a 50-minute flight if this would suit you better. You’ll spend your full day here exploring the capital of Rajasthan with your private guide, from its bustling markets to the ornate City Palace and Amber Fort. Jaipur was painted pink to welcome a visit of Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1876 and soon became known as the 'Pink City'.

   This itinerary can be altered to suit your needs and is a great way to see much of Northern India and the cities that make up the foothills of the Himalayas. Throughout your tour you will have your own private driver and expert guides, ensuring you make the most of this fascinating destination.

   Accommodation: The Oberoi Rajvilas (2 nights)

6. Fly home from Jaipur

Amritsar, Chandigarh, Shimla, Delhi & Jaipur