Dharamsala Trek with Taj Mahal
- Duration : 11 Nights 12 Days
- Elevation : 3300 m
- Group Size : Min 4
- Difficulty : Moderate
4.7 (540) Reviews
★★★★★ Rated 4.7 out of 5
The Dharamsala Trek with Taj Mahal is a unique and unforgettable experience, combining the stunning natural beauty of the Himalayan foothills with the cultural splendor of one of India’s most iconic landmarks. This trek offers the opportunity to explore the charming village of Dharamsala, home to His Holiness the Dalai Lama and a vibrant Tibetan community. Participants will embark on scenic hikes through lush forests, passing picturesque waterfalls and serene streams along the way. The highlight of this adventure is undoubtedly visiting the Taj Mahal, a breathtaking architectural marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal, this timeless symbol of love and devotion is truly awe-inspiring to behold. With knowledgeable guides leading every step of the journey, travelers can expect a professionally organized and enriching experience that will leave them with lifelong memories.
Transfer to hotel. Free afternoon to relax or explore - why not take a tuc-tuc ride, out and about? In the evening we will go to see India Gate - brightly lit at night, this is a popular spot for locals to meet their friends and hang out.
Delhi streets can be crazy, but today we have a chance to visit some of the beautiful quiet spots in Delhi, such as the serene Akshardam Temple, and the peaceful Lohdi Gardens. In the evening we catch the overnight train to Pathankot. This authentic experience is a great adventure, but don't worry, we don't travel quite in the way you may have seen in the movies! We will have individual bunks in air-conditioned carriages.
Travel by road from Pathankot to Dharamshala through picturesque countryside, with delicious breakfast en route. On arrival in Dharamshala, take the opportunity to visit the home of the Dalai Lama and marvel at the amazing temple where he speaks to his devotees. Hotel stay and briefing, ready for the trek.
After breakfast we commence the first day of our trek which is an 11km walk towards Kareri village located at a height of 2000m above sea level. The first few kilometres covers undulating landscape until wereach Satobari Village, after that it is a descent through pine forests upto Ghere Village. The next two hours is a ascent till Kareri village where we set up camp next to the Laund River. Overnight stay in tents.
The next day's trek of 7 km from Kareri village to towards Reyot camp at an altitude of 2500 m is an easy to moderate trek with a few steep descents. This is a himalayan hamlet with a stream which arises from the Kareri Lake. Overnight stay in tents.
Today's trek of 7 km leads us to the popular attraction of the entire trek that is the Kareri Lake at 3100m above sea level. The lake is fed by the melting snow of the Dhauladhar Range and remains frozen from early December to March-April. There is a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Shakti on a hilltop overlooking the lake. The views here are simply stunning! Overnight stay in tents.
After breakfast we resume the trek and head towards Chandrala camp. The trek starts with crossing over an improvised bridge over a small stream and till Chandrala it is a gradual uphill and considered easy trekking. The 10km trek trail is along the river until we reach Chandrela dhaar. Overnight stay in tents.
1600mToday's trek of 7 km leads us to Salli village where you can enjoy the spectacular views of the snow clad mountain peaks and the stunning Khauli River that flows through the valley. From here transfer to hotel at Dharamshala (65km) and overnight stay at the hotel, with a well deserved hot shower.
An opportunity to do a little shopping in the delightful Tibetan-influenced town of McCleodganj is followed by a transfer to the railway station at Pathankot to take the overnight train to Delhi.
On arrival in Delhi, we will transfer to Agra and check into our hotel, where we can freshen up and have a tasty brunch. In the evening we will go to the Kalakriti Cultural and Convention Centre, where we will watch a fabulous sound and light show that explains the story behind the Taj Mahal, ready for our visit at sunrise tomorrow.
No visit to India would be complete without a visit to the Taj Mahal, the symbol of love eternal. Be warned - it is busy! For many Indian families, a visit to the Taj Mahal is a real highlight of their lives. Sit and take photos on Diana's bench, and marvel at the intricacies of the carvings, inlaid with semi-precious stones. After brunch we head back to Delhi. Tonight we will celebrate and dance the night away in style at one of Delhi's up-and-coming nightclubs
Today is free to enjoy - visit the stunning Hannuman Temple, go shopping for bargains in Connaught Place, or marvel at one of the beautifully preserved heritage buildings that Delhi is famous for. Late evening we will transfer to the airport for our flight back to Home.
10:30 AM – 8:00 PM (Mon to Sat)
Note: Customization available
Gaggal Airport or Kangra Airport at Dharamshala is about 20 km away from McLeod Ganj and is well connected to Delhi, Kullu, and Chandigarh. A number of state-owned and private buses connect McLeod Ganj with other cities like Delhi, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala. Pathankot Railway Station, situated approximately 90 km away, is the closest broad gauge railhead serving those headed to McLeod Ganj.