Duration: 8 Days
Cities Covered:
Shimla – Pragpur – McLeodganj – Dalhousie
Culture And Heritage Trail in Himachal
Culture And Heritage Trail in Himachal
Overview
Highlights
- Scenic journey on the UNESCO World Heritage Kalka–Shimla Toy Train
- Exploration of colonial-era hill stations: Shimla & Dalhousie
- Visit to India’s first certified heritage village – Pragpur
- Immersion in Tibetan culture and Buddhist traditions in McLeodganj
- Excursion to Khajjiar and Chamba’s ancient temples and serene landscapes
Tour Plan
Scenic Journey Uphill:
Begin your journey early morning as you board the Shatabdi Express from New Delhi Railway Station at 0740 hrs to Kalka. Enjoy a comfortable ride with onboard breakfast and tea. Upon arrival at Kalka by 1200 hrs, board the historic toy train to Shimla—a century-old marvel passing through 103 tunnels and across numerous bridges. On reaching Shimla, check in to your hotel for an overnight stay.
The Summer Capital of Colonial India:
Spend the day exploring the colonial charm of Shimla, once the summer capital of British India. Visit iconic sites like the Christ Church, Jakhu Temple, and the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies (formerly the Viceregal Lodge). In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along Mall Road.
Heritage Village:
After breakfast, drive to Pragpur, India's first heritage village, established nearly 300 years ago. Check in and relax in the serene surroundings of this historically rich village.
Rendezvous with Indian Culture:
Spend the day immersing yourself in traditional Himachali culture. Walk through lush orchards, sample authentic local cuisine, and wander cobbled lanes among mud-plastered, slate-roofed houses. Admire the ornamental village tank and timeless architecture that reflects India's vibrant rural heritage.
The Little Lhasa:
Head to McLeodganj, known for its strong Tibetan influence. En route, visit the sacred Jwalaji Temple, one of India’s 51 Shaktipeeths, famous for its eternal flames. Arrive in McLeodganj—home to the Dalai Lama and numerous Tibetan monasteries. This peaceful hill town truly resembles a “Little Lhasa.”
Residence of the Dalai Lama:
Explore key spiritual and cultural sites: St. John in the Wilderness Church, Bhagsunag Temple, Namgyal Monastery, Norbulingka Institute (dedicated to Tibetan art preservation), and Masrur’s unique rock-cut temples. Spend the evening soaking in the ambiance of the Tibetan community.
Cool Retreat:
Drive to the charming hill station of Dalhousie, another British legacy nestled in the Dhauladhar range. Visit colonial-era churches, Bakrota Hills, and Kalatop viewpoint. Enjoy the serene environment and explore at leisure.
Nature’s Bounty:
Take an excursion to Khajjiar, often called the 'Mini Switzerland of India', and to Chamba, known for its historic Laxmi Narayan temple complex. Later, drive to Pathankot to board the train for Delhi, concluding your culturally immersive Himachal journey.