SHIMLA Situated in the north-west Himalayas, Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh. Spread across 12 kms along a ridge that overlooks terraced hillsides and cultivations, Shimla is magnificently robed in dense forests of oak and pine, fur and rhododendron, and it is best to travel here on the slow train from Kalka. Shimla also is a convenient base for variety of adventure sports such as Skiing, Trekking, Fishing and Golfing etc.
MANALI Once called the "end of the habitable world," Manali is an important Shimla Hillshill station of northern India and is the destination of thousands of tourists every year. Its cool atmosphere provides a perfect haven for the ones afflicted by the hot Indian summers. Besides offering quite a few places for sightseeing, Manali is also famous for adventure sports like skiing, hiking, mountaineering, paragliding, rafting, trekking, kayaking, and mountain biking. In brief, Manali-the veritable "valley of the Gods"-is an ideal place for the ones in search of both adventure and comfort.
AGRA The city of Taj Mahal was established in 1475 by
Badal Singh. Agra finds mention in the Mahabharata as
Agraban. This city in those days was considered to be
the sister city of Mathura which was more prominent than
Agraban. Agra came into its own when the Lodhi Kings
chose this place beside the Yamuna to be their capital
city. Sikander Lodhi made Agra his capital but Babar
defeated the Lodhis to capture not only Agra but also
laid the foundation of the Mughal empire.
The coming of Babar heralded a new era which was to see
Agra at its zenith during the reign of Akbar, Jehangir
and Shah Jahan. It was during Akbar's period that Agra
became the center of art, culture and commerce and
learning. This trend reached its height when Shah Jahan
became the ruler.
In the mid 16th century and earlier 17th century Agra
witnessed a frenzied building activity and it was during
this time when the symbol of love Taj Mahal was built.
The buildings made during this era were purely in the
contemporary Mughal style and of very high quality which
is still reflected in what ever monuments remain in
Agra.The narrow lanes of Agra filled with aroma of
Mughlai cuisine, the craftsman who are busy in crating
master pieces with their skill all remind of the Mughal
royalty which this city had once experienced. Today
whatever remains, has become a major tourist attraction
which has taken Agra again to the heights of glory but
this time as a major tourist destination of India.
Day 01 - DELHI to AGRA (4/5hrs. Road Journey)
On Arrival in Delhi drive to Agra by Road, Checkin
at Hotel after freshenup we proceed for
TAJ MAHAL - Built by Shah Jahan, the Taj is a white
marble memorial to his beautiful wife Mumtaz Mahal. This
monument took 22 years to be completed and was designed,
and planned by Persian architect Ustad Isa. Apart from
its stunning design balance and perfect symmetry, the
Taj is also noted particularly for its elegant domes,
intricately carved screens and some of the best inlay
work ever seen.
AGRA FORT - Fort built in red sandstone with its
magnificent palaces, halls of public and private
audience and the beautiful gardens. This is where
Emperor Shah Jahan was kept under house arrest by his
third son Aurangzeb and spent the last year of his life
viewing the Taj Mahal from across the river Jamuna.
Overnight
at Agra.
Day 02 - AGRA TO CHANDIGARH (500kms / 11hrs)
After breakfast we proceed for Chandigarh by Road.
Overnight at Chandigarh.
Day 03 - CHANDIGARH TO SHIMLA (370kms)
After breakfast we checkout from hotel and drive to
Shimla . Situated at a panoramic location, this hilly
town is surrounded by green pastures and snow-capped
peaks. Arrive at Shimla & check in at the hotel. Rest of
the day is free. Overnight stay at hotel.
Day 04 - SHIMLA
You depart for the winter sports capital - Kufri,
where you can photograph yourself in hired Pahari or
Himachali outfits, enjoy horse riding or yak riding (on
own). Proceed to Naldhera, which is famous for its golf
course and scenic beauty. Later in the evening you can
visit the famous Mall Road of Shimla, where you could
shop or just stroll around the Ridge. Overnight at the
hotel.
Day 05 - SHIMLA TO MANALI (260kms)
Arrive Manali and check-in at your hotel. The rest
of the day is at leisure. Overnight at hotel.
Day 06 - MANALI
Morning proceed for Manali visiting Hadimba Devi
Temple - built in the tranquil and serene woods, Vashist
Bath, Tibetan Monastery, and Roerich art Gallery. In the
afternoon half day tour of Naggar Castle and local Bazar
Ping. Return to the hotel for Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 07 - MANALI
Full day tour of Rohtang Pass
(AT OWN COST)- The majesty of the
mountains and the glaciers can be seen at their best,
you have next two hours to enjoy this snowy haven. Take
a sledge ride down the slopes, try your luck climbing
the little snow hills. On your descent to Manali, halt
at the Rahalla falls and Solang Valley. The Magnificent
views and natural beauty are a never-ending source of
delight. Also halt at Marhi, Rahla falls, Nehru Kund.
Return to the hotel for Overnight stay in Manali.
Day 08 - MANALI TO CHANDIGARH / PARWANOO (320kms)
Morning drive to Chandigarh / Delhi. Drop at Airport
/ Railway Station. TOUR END
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