Highlights of Himachal Tribal Circuit
Himachal tribal circuit Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Chandigarh to Shimla
Embark on a scenic journey through Himachal Pradesh, starting from Shimla, the Queen of Hills. After a convenient pick-up from Chandigarh Airport or Railway Station, enjoy a comfortable 4-hour drive to Shimla. Arrive at your hotel and settle in for the evening. Immerse yourself in Shimla’s captivating blend of colonial architecture and breathtaking natural beauty, a legacy preserved since the British Raj.”
Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Local Tour of Shimla
“Upon arrival in Shimla, you’ll be warmly welcomed by our representative and escorted to your hotel. Check-in and check-out times are at 12:00 noon, with early check-in subject to availability. After a brief rest, explore the historic Jakhu Temple, believed to be the resting place of Hanuman during his search for the Sanjivini herb according to the Mahabharata. Then, visit the Vice Regal Lodge, a former residence of the British Viceroy of India now dedicated to academic pursuits. Spend the night in your comfortable hotel.”
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: A Day of Exploration in Shimla (Kufri)
Morning: After a nourishing breakfast, embark on a scenic excursion to Kufri. Known for its world-class skiing facilities in winter, Kufri transforms into a popular tourist destination during the warmer months. Enjoy the breathtaking views and serene atmosphere before returning to Shimla.
Afternoon: Upon your return, immerse yourself in the vibrant heart of Shimla. Explore the bustling Mall Road, the iconic Scandal Point, the serene Ridge, the charming Lakkar Bazaar, and the historic Christ Church. Experience the unique blend of colonial architecture, local culture, and stunning natural beauty that Shimla has to offer.
Evening: Conclude your day with a restful night’s sleep at your hotel, ready for the adventures that await you tomorrow.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: A Scenic Drive to Sarahan
Morning: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive from Shimla to Sarahan. Pass through picturesque villages like Kufri, Theog, Fagu, Narkanda, and Rampur, enjoying the breathtaking mountain landscapes along the way.
Afternoon: Take a break for a delicious lunch in Rampur before continuing your journey to Sarahan. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and admire the stunning views of the Srikhand Mahadev Peak. Sarahan is renowned for its 800-year-old Bhimkali Temple, a magnificent example of Himalayan architecture.
Evening: After freshening up, explore the serene Bhimkali Temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peeths. Witness the captivating evening Aarti ceremony, a spiritual experience that will leave a lasting impression. Enjoy a delightful dinner and a restful night’s sleep in your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: A Spiritual Start to the Day in Sarahan
Morning: Begin your day with a serene Aarti at the Bhimkali Temple, seeking blessings and spiritual enlightenment.
Afternoon: After a satisfying breakfast, check out of your hotel and embark on a scenic drive to Sangla, passing through the picturesque town of Karcham. Your journey will lead you to the enchanting Baspa Valley, often hailed as the most beautiful valley in Himachal Pradesh.
Evening: Upon arrival in Sangla, check into your hotel and unwind after the day’s travel. Enjoy a leisurely lunch and rest in the comfort of your accommodation. As the day comes to a close, savor a delicious dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep in your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Day Trip to Chitkul: The Last Inhabited Village
Morning: After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Chitkul, a picturesque village nestled near the Indo-Tibet border. Located approximately 20 kilometers from Sangla, Chitkul is the last inhabited village along the right bank of the Baspa River.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Chitkul, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this remote Himalayan village. Explore the charming local market, where you can find unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Visit the revered temple of Chitkul Maathi, also known as Mata Devi, a popular attraction in the region. The temple is dedicated to the local goddess and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Evening: After a day of exploration, return to your hotel in Sangla. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep, preparing for your next adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: A Journey to Kalpa: A Timeless Himalayan Haven
Morning: Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast before checking out of your hotel in Sangla. Embark on a scenic drive to Kalpa, the district headquarters of Kinnaur and a former retreat for Lord Dalhousie.
Afternoon: Upon arrival in Kalpa, check into your hotel and immerse yourself in the timeless charm of this historic town. Kalpa, once known as Chini, has preserved its traditional character for centuries. Legend has it that Lord Dalhousie would escape the hustle and bustle of Shimla by horseback to this tranquil haven.
Evening: After a leisurely lunch, explore the captivating surroundings of Kalpa. Marvel at the breathtaking views of Jorkanden and the Kinner Kailash Peaks, considered mythical abodes of Lord Shiva. Discover the unique 79-foot rock formation resembling a Shivlinga, which changes color throughout the day and is visible to the naked eye under clear skies.
Night: Visit the Hu Bu Lan Kar Buddhist Gompa, a serene spiritual center. As the day comes to a close, enjoy a delicious dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep in your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Exploring the Enchanting Villages of Kalpa and Roghi
Morning: Begin your day with a nourishing breakfast before venturing into the picturesque villages of Kalpa and Roghi. Nestled amidst dense pine forests, these villages are renowned for their delicious apricots and apples.
Afternoon: Enjoy a leisurely stroll through Kalpa and Roghi, taking in the breathtaking views of the majestic Mt. Kinner Kailash Mountain (6000 meters). Witness the awe-inspiring spectacle of the rising sun casting its crimson and gold hues upon the snow-capped peaks, creating a truly magical scene.
Evening: Return to your hotel in Kalpa Valley, where you can relax and savor the tranquility of this idyllic mountain retreat. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep, preparing for the next leg of your journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: A Scenic Drive to Nako: A Hidden Gem of Kinnaur
Morning: Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before checking out of your hotel in Kalpa. Embark on a scenic drive to Nako, a picturesque hamlet nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Kinnaur.
Afternoon: En route to Nako, visit the serene Nako Lake, a captivating gem of the region. This charming village, built around the tranquil lake, is slated to be declared a heritage site. Explore the important Buddhist Gompa and the small temple located within the village. Discover the unique footprint-like impression on a rock, attributed to the revered saint Guru Padmasambhava.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Journey to Tabo Monastery
Morning: Begin your day with an early breakfast and participate in the serene morning prayers at the Tabo Monastery.
Afternoon: Explore the historic Tabo Monastery, a renowned spiritual center not only in Spiti but throughout the Tibetan Buddhist world. Constructed in 996 AD, the monastery is known as Chogs Khor, meaning “Doctrinal Circle” or “Doctrinal Enclave.”
Evening: Discover the intricate complex of nine temples, 23 chortens, a monk’s chamber, and an extension housing the nun’s chamber. Marvel at the series of caves carved into the sheer cliff-face above the monastery, once used as dwellings by the monks and featuring an assembly hall. Admire the vast collection of scriptures, art pieces, wall paintings, and stucco within the monastery. Visit the modern gompa and painting school founded by the Dalai Lama.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11: Tabo to Kaza
Today morning, after an early breakfast, I embarked on a scenic drive to Kaza, the capital of Spiti Valley. En route, visit the historic Dhankar Gompa, the former capital of Spiti, perched atop a hill overlooking the valley. This ancient hilltop fort, which once served as a jail, is now home to over 160 lamas. The monastery, dating back to the 7th century, boasts a captivating statue of Dhyan Buddha featuring four complete figures sitting back to back. Upon reaching Kaza, check into your hotel for the evening. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12: Conquering the Kunnzum Pass: Gateway to Spiti Valley
This morning, after a fortifying breakfast, embark on an exciting journey towards the majestic Kunzum Pass. Nestled at a staggering altitude of 4,551 meters, Kunzum Pass is one of the highest motorable mountain passes traversing the Kunzum range. It serves as the gateway to the enchanting Spiti Valley from Lahaul.
Legend speaks of Goddess Kunzum, an incarnation of Durga or Parvati, residing in a temple atop the pass. She is believed to guard the pass and ward off evil spirits. As you reach the summit, be prepared to be awestruck by the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Tonight, you’ll rest comfortably at a camp nestled amidst the grandeur of the Himalayas. Enjoy a delicious dinner under the star-studded sky before drifting off to sleep, ready for your next adventure in Spiti Valley.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13: Journey to Chandratal: The Moon Lake
Today, we’ll embark on a scenic drive to Chandra Tal, a breathtaking lake nestled at an altitude of approximately 4,300 meters. Known as the “Moon Lake,” Chandra Tal offers stunning views of the surrounding Himalayan peaks. Visitors often circumambulate the nearby temples to seek blessings and soak in the serene atmosphere.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey towards Manali. Along the way, we’ll pass through picturesque locations such as Rani Nala, Marhi, Waterfalls, Gulaba, Kothi, Palchan, and Nehru Kund. These spots offer stunning vistas and opportunities for photography.
As the day concludes, we’ll arrive in Manali, a charming hill station renowned for its natural beauty. Check-in to your hotel, savor a delicious dinner, and rest for the night, preparing for the adventures that await you tomorrow.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 14: A Day of Adventure and Spirituality in Kullu and Manikaran
Morning: After a nourishing breakfast, embark on a thrilling river rafting adventure in Kullu (own expense). Immerse yourself in the excitement of navigating the rapids and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Afternoon: Following your rafting adventure, visit the renowned Pashmina Shawl Factory, where you can witness the intricate process of creating these exquisite shawls. Explore the bustling local market, where you’ll find a variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, and local delicacies.
Evening: Continue your journey to Manikaran, a significant pilgrimage site renowned for its religious Ram Temple and impressive Gurudwara. En route, visit the Vaishno Devi Temple. Upon arrival in Manikaran, marvel at the hot water springs, known for their ability to boil rice, dal, and other food items within minutes. This natural wonder never fails to impress visitors.
Night: Return to Manali for the evening, where you can relax and unwind after a day filled with adventure and spirituality. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a restful night’s sleep at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 15: Departing From Manali: A Farewell to the Himalayas
Morning: After a satisfying breakfast, bid farewell to the enchanting Manali valley. Embark on a scenic drive towards Delhi, where your Himalayan adventure concludes.
Evening: Alternatively, if you prefer an earlier departure, you can opt for a direct drive to Chandigarh. Upon arrival, we will assist you with your transfer to the Chandigarh railway station or airport, where you can board your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Memories of Himachal Tribal Circuit
