Hello fellow travel enthusiasts! I cannot contain my excitement as I sit down to pen down the unforgettable experiences of my recent trip to the picturesque destinations of Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Dalhousie. This incredible journey was made possible by Oliput Holidays, a travel agency that turned my dream vacation into a reality. From the mesmerizing landscapes to the warm hospitality, every aspect of this trip left an indelible mark on my heart. So, let’s dive into the unforgettable memories of my trip!

Planning and Booking the Tour: In early May 2023, I found myself daydreaming about the serene beauty of Himachal Pradesh, a place I had been yearning to explore for years. After researching extensively, I stumbled upon Oliput Holidays, and their carefully curated Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Dalhousie Tour package instantly caught my eye. I reached out to their team, and the ever-smiling and patient Bhanu Verma guided me through the entire booking process. With her expert advice and attention to detail, I customized the perfect itinerary for a 10-day adventure.

Day 1: Welcome to Shimla – Queen of the Hills: As my flight landed at Chandigarh Airport, I was filled with anticipation and wonder. The Cab Driver from Oliput Holidays greeted me warmly, and we embarked on a scenic drive to Shimla. Upon arrival, the quaint charm of this hill station instantly captivated me. The check-in at our hotel was seamless, and the evening was spent strolling along Mall Road, soaking in the colonial architecture and vibrant ambiance.

Day 2: Shimla Sightseeing and Naldehra Excursion: The second day commenced with a visit to the iconic Christ Church, followed by the magnificent Viceregal Lodge and Jakhu Temple, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills. The highlight of the day was the excursion to Naldehra, where I enjoyed a leisurely game of golf at one of the highest golf courses in the country.

Day 3: Journey to Manali – The Valley of Gods: A picturesque drive through lush valleys and meandering rivers brought us to Manali. The charming town welcomed us with open arms, and I couldn’t wait to explore its enchanting alleys. In the evening, we visited the famous Hadimba Devi Temple and spent time by the serene Beas River.

Day 4: Rohtang Pass Adventure: One of the most thrilling days of the trip was the visit to Rohtang Pass. The breathtaking landscape and snow-capped peaks left me in awe of nature’s majesty. We indulged in adventure sports like skiing and snowboarding, making memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 5: Exploring Manali: The day was dedicated to exploring the hidden gems of Manali. We visited Vashisht Temple and the hot water springs, believed to have medicinal properties. Later, we ventured into Old Manali, where the bohemian vibes and cozy cafes charmed us.

Day 6: Manali to Dharamshala – Gateway to the Dhauladhar Range: A scenic drive led us to the serene town of Dharamshala. The picturesque landscapes and serene monasteries offered a sense of tranquility. The evening was spent exploring McLeod Ganj, home to the Tibetan government-in-exile and the famous Namgyal Monastery.

Day 7: McLeod Ganj and Bhagsu Nag: In the company of pious prayer flags fluttering in the wind, we explored McLeod Ganj further. The Dalai Lama Temple Complex exuded an aura of spirituality and peace. The Bhagsu Nag waterfall provided a refreshing escape, and the captivating views left me feeling rejuvenated.

Day 8: Dharamshala to Dalhousie – A Colonial Paradise: As we journeyed to Dalhousie, the old-world charm of this colonial-era town beckoned. The quaint cottages and meandering paths felt like stepping into a storybook. A visit to St. John’s Church and Panchpula was followed by a leisurely evening at Subhash Baoli, where we unwound by the enchanting stream.

Day 9: Khajjiar – The Mini Switzerland of India: Dubbed as “Mini Switzerland,” Khajjiar was a fairytale destination. The lush meadows surrounded by dense deodar forests offered a postcard-perfect setting. We enjoyed horse riding and clicked numerous photographs to cherish these moments forever.

Day 10: Farewell to the Himalayan Wonderland: The last day arrived, and it was time to bid adieu to the majestic Himalayas. As I looked back on my journey, I felt immense gratitude for the incredible experiences, the warm-hearted locals, and the expertly crafted itinerary by Oliput Holidays. This trip will forever hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the beauty and diversity our country has to offer.

As I conclude this blog, I can’t stress enough how grateful I am to have experienced the wonders of Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, and Dalhousie through the exceptional hospitality and seamless planning of Oliput Holidays. If you’re contemplating a Himalayan escape, I wholeheartedly recommend embarking on this incredible journey with them. Until my next adventure, keep exploring and discovering the beauty that lies within every nook and corner of our marvelous planet!

Happy travels!