Colonial Hill Station In North India 7 days

Day 1 Delhi - Chandigarh (250kms)

Pick up from your hotel or airport in Delhi & drive to Chandigarh, check in at the hotel. City tour of Chandigarh, the best-planned city in India, with world-renowned architecture and an unparalleled quality of life. The face of modern India, Chandigarh, is the manifestation of a dream that Le Corbusier executed. Chandigarh is a rare epitome of modernisation co-existing with nature's preservation. These have been planted with beautifully carved out lawns and flower beds. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 Chandigarh - Shimla (by toy train) (B)

Transfer to Kalka railway station to board the toy train to Shimla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that connects the Queen of Hills, Shimla, to the Indian plains. Built in 1903, this toy train ride is one of India`s most incredible feats of engineering, covering a staggering 102 tunnels, 864 bridges and 919 stunning curves, on a 60-mile journey. This journey runs on a narrow gauge, treating passengers with breathtaking views of rugged mountains, lush pine forests, waterfalls, valleys and picture-perfect hill stations along the way. On arrival at Shimla railway station, assistance and transfer to the hotel. Rest time is free to relax and spend time on The Mall, an ideal spot for shopping, besides a theatre and a number of good eating joints. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3 Shimla (B)

City tour of Shimla, once the summer capital of British India. Visit Jakhoo Temple, an ancient site dedicated to the monkey god Hanuman. Set amidst the lush green background of the Shivalik hill ranges on Jakhoo Hill, the highest point in Shimla, the Temple has the world`s largest Hanuman statue, which is visible from most parts of Shimla. The Christ Church is the second oldest church in the entire northern India. The church, which took 11 long years to complete, stands as a reminder of the British colonisation in India. Viceregal Lodge, built in 1888, is a story building constructed in Scottish Baronial style. Once served as the residence of Lord Dufferin, the British Viceroy of India, is a perfect place for history lovers. Today, this lodge houses several articles and pictures that will remind you of the British rule. Also visit The Ridge, a wide-open street located on the side of Shimla Mall Road. Best known for shopping, it is often the most photographed part of the hill station, covered with pine, firs, Himalayan Oak and Rhododendron trees. The Scandal Point, located on the Mall Road. It owes its interesting name to the fact that the King of Patiala abducted the daughter of the Viceroy, because he fell in love with her, from this very place. The Mall is an ideal spot for shopping, besides several good eating joints. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 4 Shimla (B)

Excursion to visit Chail - a small village situated at a height of 2250 m above sea level, known for its salubrious beauty and virgin forests. Surrounded by lush greenery and mesmerising views from such a great height, Chail is a hiker`s paradise. The Chail Palace, built as a summer retreat by the Maharaja of Patiala during the British Raj, is well known for its architecture. The cricket ground at an altitude of 2,444 m is the world's highest cricket ground. Next, head to Kufri, which offers breathtaking views, stunning locales and tranquil surroundings. Kufri has a Himalayan wildlife zoo which hosts rare antelopes, felines and birds, including the Himalayan monal. On the way back to Shimla, stop at The Green Valley, the beautiful mountain range that lies on the way to Kufri & Shimla. The Green Valley is surrounded by verdant hills on all sides that are covered with thick forests of pine and deodar. It is not uncommon to sight some Yaks wandering and grazing around in the valley. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 5 Shimla - Mussoorie (260kms) (B)

Drive to Mussoorie, check in at the hotel. Rest time is free to relax and spend time at The Mall renowned shopping district situated in the heart of Mussoorie. It is dotted with shops, cafes and a host of colonial remnants that point to Mussorie's past glories. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 6 Mussoorie (B)

Mussoorie, known as the Queen of the Hills, and famous for its scenic beauty, is a fascinating hill resort. It commands a wonderful view of the extensive Himalayan snow ranges in the north-west and glittering views of the Doon Valley. The town retains much of its colonial charm and is well worth a visit for its beautiful scenery and lovely walks. Visit Gun Hill, the second-highest point of Mussoorie, at an altitude of 2,024 m. Sir George Everest's House, also known as Park Estate, was built in 1832. It was the residence and laboratory of Sir George Everest, the Surveyor General of India. Lal Tibba, the highest point in Mussoorie, offers a panoramic view of the town and its surroundings. The place is famous for a Japanese telescope which was placed here in 1967. One can view Badrinath, Kedarnath, Banderpunch and other Himalayan ranges from this telescope. Kempty Falls, nestled at an altitude of around 4500 ft above sea level & surrounded by high mountain cliffs, the pond formed at the bottom of the falls makes an excellent spot for swimming and bathing. Rest time is free to relax. Overnight at the hotel.

Day 7 Mussoorie - Delhi (275kms) (B)

Drive to Delhi and drop off at your hotel or airport.