Description
India’s complex religious history is revealed in this arrangement for the returning traveller, examining the position of Sikhism, Buddhism and Christianity in the foothills of the Himalayas.
Sikhism, in Indian terms, is a relatively new religion. Founded by Guru Nanak in the 15th century as a reaction against the Hindu caste system, its holy shrine is the spectacular Golden Temple. Their holy book still moves daily in and out of the illuminated Temple in the devout Palki ceremony, whilst many thousands of pilgrims are fed daily in astounding volunteer kitchens.
McLeod Ganj (Upper Dharamsala), named after the Lieutenant Governor of Punjab, is the residence of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, who claimed asylum in 1960 after the Chinese invaded Tibet, and a Tibetan community has developed not far from their Himalayan homeland.
Shimla enjoys stunning scenery and was the summer resort of choice for the government of the British Raj. Once a totally ‘white’ paradise, with only Indians of rank allowed on its Mall, part of its charm today is that children munch chapatis in Tudor tea rooms and Hindus visit the Christian Church. All may now enjoy the unforgettable narrow gauge ‘Toy Train’ built by the British traversing countless bridges, tunnels and bends.
Amritsar
Amritsar historically also known as RÄmdÄspur and colloquially as Ambarsar, is a city in northwestern India.Amritsar is amongst the most revered sites of the world. It was founded as recently as the 16th century. Its name is a derivative of the Amrit Sarovar (pool of nectar) amidst which stands the Golden Temple, the most sacred of Sikh shrines.
Golden temple
The first Harmandir Sahib(famous with the name of Golden Temple) was built in 1604 by Arjan, the fifth Sikh Guru, who symbolically had it placed on a lower level so that even the humblest had to step down to enter it. He also included entrances on all four sides, signifying that it was open to worshippers of all castes and creeds. The foundation stone was laid by Mian MÄ«r, a Muslim divine of Lahore (now in Pakistan). The temple was destroyed several times by Afghan invaders and was finally rebuilt in marble and copper overlaid with gold foil during the reign (1801–39) of Maharaja Ranjit Singh. The structure thus became known as the Golden Temple
Golden Temple, the pride and soul of the Sikhs has been a centre of attraction among Indians as well as foreign travellers since ages. The golden body, mystic pond, mouth-watering halwa (desert) and overall myths make this religious site a delight of religious populace.
Durgiana Temple
Dedicated to Goddess Durga, this modern Hindu temple was built in 1921 in the architectural style of the Golden Temple.
the Durgiana Temples can be called as a Hindu version of the Golden Temple at Amritsar. The temple is also called as Lakshmi Narayan Temple, Durga Tirath and Sitla Mandir .
Jallianwala Bagh
Jallianwala Bagh is a public garden in Amritsar, and houses a memorial of national importance, established in 1951 by the Government of India, to commemorate the massacre of peaceful celebrants including unarmed women and children by British occupying forces, on the occasion of the Punjabi New Year (Baisakhi) on 13 April 1919 in the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Colonial British Raj sources identified 379 fatalities and estimated about 1100 wounded. Civil Surgeon Dr. Smith indicated that there were 1,526 casualties.The true figures of fatalities are unknown, but are very likely to be many times higher than the official figure of 379.
The 6.5-acre (26,000 m2) garden site of the massacre is located in the vicinity of Golden Temple complex, the holiest shrine of Sikhism.
Wagah or Wahga
Wagah or Wahga is a village and union council (UC 181) located in the Wahga Zone of Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. The town is famous for the Wagah border ceremony and also serves as a goods transit terminal and a railway station between Pakistan and India. Wagah is situated 600 metres (2,000 ft) west of the border and lies on the historic Grand Trunk Road between Lahore and Amritsar in India. The border is located 24 kilometres from Lahore and 32 kilometres from Amritsar. It is also 3 kilometres from the bordering village of Attari .
Border crossing ceremony
The Wagah-Attari border ceremony happens at the border gate, two hours before sunset each day. The flag ceremony is conducted by the Pakistan Rangers and Indian Border Security Force (BSF), similar to the retreat ceremonies at Ganda Singh Wala/Hussainiwala border crossing and Mahavir/Sadqi International Parade Ground border crossing.
Dharamshala & Mcloadganj
Experience a serene vacation exploring the exquisiteness of nature with a vacation in the picturesque Dharamshala. Situated at an average altitude of 1475 meters above sea level, Dharamshala lies on the scenic stretch of land of Kangra Valley making tourists spellbound for its spectacular beauty. Often cited as the ‘Little Lhasa of India’, Dharamshala is popularly known as the holy residence of the exiled Tibetan monk Dalai Lama. With the backdrop of the breathtaking Dhauladhar ranges, Dharamshala is the one of the most tranquil destinations which you will find in North India, the perfect amalgamation of natural beauty and culture. Surrounded by thick deodar cedar trees and the snow capped peaks which decorate the landscape, the quaint city is visited by thousands of tourists to beat the summer blues and explore the best places to visit in Dharamshala.
Dalai temple dharmshala
The town of the holy Dalai Lama, Mcleodganj in Dharamshala lures a lot of tourist from various parts of the globe. Amongst the numerous attractions that the town boasts of, it is the Dalai Lama Temple which draws the major attention of the tourists. Just a walking distance away from McLeodganj bus stand, the Dalai Lama Temple is situated at the main temple road. Right next to the temple is the residence of the holy Dalai Lama.
Usually open from sunrise to sunset, the renowned temple offers spiritual teachings of Buddhism, and several times his holiness Dalai Lama blessed the pilgrims. Quite fascinating are the morning prayers, of which one can be actively part of. Other than that, larger than life
statues of Lord Buddha, Avaloktwshwara and Padmasambhava, looks really captivating.
St. John church
An Anglican church, St John in the Wilderness or simply St John church is one of the popular tourist attractions in the region that one must not miss visiting. Built amidst deodar forests in the year 1852, the renowned church boasts of a Neo-Gothic architectural style. Highlighting part about the architecture is that it houses Belgian stained glass windows, that give it a certain degree of European look. These famed glass windows were donated to the church authorities by wife of British viceroy Lord Elgin.
Dedicated to Baptist St John, the wonderful church is just 8 km from the main town of Dharamshala. The beautiful architecture of the church plus the enchanting Kangra valley with its green foliage surrounding it, leaves the visitors spellbound. Right beside the church, there lies a graveyard which was built to bury British residents who died in the devastating 1905 Kangra valley earthquake.
Bhagsunath waterfall
Located on the main road which connects McLeodganj and Dharamshala, Bhagsunath waterfalls lures tourists who wish to relax in the lap of nature. Ideal for picnicking with friends and family, the Bhagsunath waterfalls are rated amongst the best tourist attractions in the region. It starts at the base of Dhauladhar valley, which is also considered a holy spot. Before cascading down at the famous spot, the stream makes its way through the sacred Bhagsunath temple. Thus,one can also consider bathing under the Bhagsunath waterfalls a holy one.
In order to enjoy the best of it, one must visit Bhagsunath waterfalls during monsoon season. It is during this time that the waterfall turns little mammoth. Falling from a height of around 30 ft, the waterfall looks really captivating. As a perfect picnic destination, the region provides for little food refreshments as well. There are several small cafes which let people enjoy a cup of coffee or tea as they watch the pristine Bhagsunath waterfalls.
Naddi village
Naddi is a village in the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh. It is located at an altitude of 2000 meters above sea level, in the upper reaches of the Kangra valley. The village is situated about 3 kilometers from Mc Leod Ganj, known worldwide for the presence of the Dalai Lama. On 29 April 1959, the 14th Dalai Lama (Tenzin Gyatso) established the Tibetan exile administration in the north Indian hill station of Mussoori .
Kangra Fort
The Kangra Fort is located 20 kilometers from the town of Dharamsala on the outskirts of the town of Kangra, India.
The Kangra Fort was built by the royal Rajput family of Kangra state (the Katoch Dynasty ), which traces its origins to the ancient Trigarta Kingdom , mentioned in the Mahabharata epic. It is the largest fort in the Himalayas and probably the oldest dated fort in India.
At least three rulers sought to conquer the fort and plundered the treasures of its temples: Mahmud Ghazni in 1009, Firuz Shah Tughluq in 1360 and Sher Shah in 1540. The fort of Kangra resisted Akbar's siege. Akbar's son Jahangir successfully subdued the fort in 1620. Kangra was at the time ruled by Raja Hari Chand Katoch of Kangra (also known as Raja Hari Chand II)Mughal Emperor Jahangir with the help of Suraj Mal garrisoned with his troops. Under Jahangir, Murtaza Khan the governor of Punjab was directed to conquer Kangra, but he failed on account of the jealousy and opposition of the Rajput chiefs who were associated with him. Then Prince Khurram was put in charge of the command. The siege of Kangra was pushed on for weeks. Supplies were cut off. The garrison had to live on boiled dry grass. It was faced with death and starvation. After a siege of 14 months, the fort surrendered in November, 1620. In 1621, Jahangir visited it and ordered the slaughter of a bullock there. A mosque was also built within the fort of Kangra .
Shimla Shimla or Simla is the capital of the state of Himachal Pradesh in India. It is a very popular holiday retreat during the summer months and is well known for its Victorian architecture, which is reflected in certain areas of the Mall and the Ridge. It is also a famous holiday spot for honeymoon.
it is surrounded by green hills with snow capped peaks. The spectacular cool hills accompanied by the structures made during the colonial era creates an aura which is very different from other hill. Bulging at its seams with unprecedented expansion, Shimla retains its colonial heritage, with grand old uildings, charming iron lamp posts and Anglo-Saxon names. The Mall, packed with shops and eateries, is the main attraction of the town, and Scandal Point, associated with the former Maharaja of Patiala’s escapades, offers a view of distant snow clad peaks.
Viceroy lodge The Indian Institute of Advanced Study (IIAS) is a research institute based in Shimla, India. It was set up by the Ministry of Education, Government of India in 1964 and it started functioning from 20 October 1965.
The building that houses the institute was originally built as a home for Lord Dufferin, Viceroy of India from 1884–1888 and was called the Viceregal Lodge. It housed all the subsequent viceroys and governors general of India. It occupied Observatory Hill, one of the seven hills that Shimla is built upon.The building is designed in Indo-Gothic style.
The building was designed by Henry Irwin, an architect in the Public Works Department. The Viceregal Lodge had electricity as early as 1888, much before the rest of the town of Shimla. The building also was equipped with a sophisticated firefighting mechanism through wax-tipped water ducts.
Many historic decisions have been taken in the building during the Indian independence movement. The Simla Conference was held here in 1945. The decision to carve out Pakistan and East Pakistan from India was also taken here in 1947.
The Mall Shimla In Shimla, the Mall Road lies at the heart of all the action and activity. Buzzing with shops, cafes, theatres, restaurants and a whole bunch of merriment, it is close to all places of interest. The restaurants here offer a wide range of cuisines, and the Gaiety Theatre is the place to go for cultural activities in Shimla. If you’re looking to do a spot of shopping, the Mall offers a number of emporiums, showrooms and storehouses selling everything from shawls and woollens to jewellery, pottery and books. Extending from Barnes Court in the east to the Viceregal Lodge in the west, this is the place to go when you’re looking to be entertained.
Christ church The second oldest church in North India after St John’s Church in Meerut, Christ Church in Shimla is the most famous church in the town. Built in 1857, the church or its silhouette can be seen for miles around its vicinity. The clock on the church was donated in 1860 by Colonel Dumbleton and no longer works while the porch was added much later in 1873. Constructed in the Elizabethan style, the church has an amazing collection of books and ancient scriptures that are worth taking a look at. The church is most beautiful at night when it is lit up by four strategically placed lights. It is also one of the few churches in India that has a pipe organ.
Gaitey Theatre Shimla Shimla’s Gaiety Theatre was once part of the large town hall complex. Designed by the renowned English architect Henry Irwin, it was constructed in the Gothic style and opened its doors in 1887 to accommodate more than 300 people.
Delhi is very beautiful and ancient city in india . it is located on the edge of Yamuna in Northern india. Delhi, the capital of India has a strong historical background. It was ruled by some of the most powerful emperors in Indian history.
Travelling in Delhi isn’t just limited to history but it’s a step to take past and present hand in hand. Blended with modern advancements, Delhi is the modern-day city of Troy. The amalgamation of all religion and spiritual hubs of different faiths coexisting together in peace is the testament of the unity in diversity. Delhi offers numerous tourist attractions ranging from monuments, museums, shrines to modern day markets. Exploring the city is like witnessing a mini-India, with Delhi Tourism being a reflection of rich culture of India.
Jama Masjid
The Jama Masjid is India’s largest mosque. With minarets on all four sides that reach the skies, Jama Masjid, Emperor Shah Jahan’s last architectural indulgence, was commissioned in 1650 and took six years to be built. The enormous courtyard of the Jama Masjid can hold around twenty-five thousand worshippers.
India gate
Situated in the heart of the city, India Gate is one of the most popular and well known monuments in India. It was designed by Edwin Lutyens. With lush green and well-manicured lawns around, the foundation of this historical structure was laid in 1920.
It was unveiled in 1933 and dedicated to all the Indian soldiers of the British Army that were killed in World War 1 .
Humayun’s Tomb
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Humayun’s Tomb is a stunning piece of Persian architecture built in the Mughal era. It was commissioned in 1526, nine years after Humayun’s death, by his widow Hamida Banu Begum. This beautiful monument is made of red sandstone.
The tomb is in the centre of Charbagh-style of gardens with pools that are connected to canals. It has two entrances: a southern side and a western side. The high central arch and the octagonal shape of the structure are important aesthetics of Mughal architectures
Red fort This enormous red sandstone fort is synonymous with Delhi and is testimony of the glory of the Mughal Empire. Built in 1638 by Shah Jahan, it took around ten years to be completed.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Fort is octagonal in shape with walls adorned with flowers and calligraphy, typically in the style of beautiful Mughal era architecture.
Itinerary
Day 1 Delhi – Amritsar
Welcome. Your sojourn of Hill & Soul of India starts with your arrival in New Delhi. You’ll be genially received from the airport and transfer to Amritsar by flight. On arrival, you’ll be escorted to hotel, In Evening attend the Plaki Ceremony at the Golden Temple Return to Hotel, Overnight Stay.
Day 2 Amritsar
After breakfast Visit the Golden Temple, volunteer kitchens and Jallianwala Bagh, scene of the 1919 massacre. Optional early evening Wagah Border ‘Changing of the Guard’ ceremony at the India/Pakistan border ($20, bookable locally). Overnight Saty.
Day 3 Amritsar – Dharamsala
After Breakfast Drive to Dharamsala (5 hrs/1,700m) Stay Overnight at Your Hotel.
Day 4 Dharamsala
After Breakfast Visit the Tibetan monastery, museum, library and Norbulingka, which preserves Tibetan arts and crafts. Return to Hotel and Overnight Stay.
Day 5 Dharamsala – Pragpur
After Breakfast Visit Kangra Fort and Museum. Later Continue Drive to Pragpur village. Evening Local village walk. Overnight at the heritage hotel Judge’s Court, a country manor built for Justice Sir Jai Lal. Overnight Stay.
Day 6 Pragpur village – Shimla
After Breakfast Drive to Shimla (7 hrs/2,000m).Evening Free for Leisure. Overnight Stay at Your Hotel.
Day 7 Shimla
After Breakfast Start your Morning tour of Shimla including the Vice Regal Lodge, museum and the Mall. or optional tour to the surrounding area including high tea at Wildflower Hall and a gentle walk along Mahasu Ridge (50$ bookable locally).Return to Hotel and Overnight Stay.
Day 08 Shimla – Delhi
After Breakfast Take the Himalayan Queen ‘Toy Train’ to Kalka (5 hrs). Later on Join the Shatabdi Express train to Delhi (4 hrs), with dinner on board. On arrival, you’ll be escorted to hotel Overnight Stay.
Day 09 Delhi
After breakfast enjoy your Full day tour of Delhi including Jama Majid, Raj Ghat, India Gate, President House, Parliament and Humayun Tomb. Return to Hotel and Overnight Stay.
Day 10 Delhi-Home (Next Destination)
Transfer to Delhi International Airport.
Inclusions
Included
All Transportation and , Hotel accommodation in Delhi, Amritsar, Dharamsala, Pragpur,and Shimla, with everyday Breakfast. Drop off to Delhi airport .
Not included
Monument Entry Fees, Mineral Water Bottle and any kind of personal expenses .