Bookable as a motorcycle tour or jeep safari.
This tour takes us through unfamiliar and small valleys of the Indian Himalayas. Himachal is famous for its cultural and natural diversity. The rides are mostly on small well paved highways, which allow us to gain an insight into the lifestyle of the rural population, and various nomadic groups (Gaddis and Gujjars) that reside here. All hotels on this trip are charming little jewels. All who know me, know what I mean. 🙂
This trip is highly recommended for “Himalayan beginners” because there will be no wild passes, rough tarmac or extreme driving. Any driving day is followed by a day off to relax, conduct small walks and village visits enabling us to lern more about the surroundings we traverse.
Day 1, 25.10: Arrival in India.
Transfer to the hotel.
Day 2 : Delhi – Chandigarh – Shimla.
Early in the morning, we leave Delhi by train to Chandigarh, then we go by car towards the Himalayan foothills, which slow but steadily arise before the traveler. Shimla is perched at 2200 meters altitude and has long been the colonial summer capital of the British. In the late afternoon we stroll through the old and charming colonial capital.
Day 3 : Shimla – Thanedar
Today we drive along the scenic mountain roads to the little-known place Thanedar. Here we stay at Banjara Orchard Retreat Hotel, its wonderful views remain unforgettable. Sunset at Hatu Top over 3400mts.
Day 4 : Thanedar – Sarahan
Our route takes us further along mountainsides and valleys to the small village of Sarahan. The Bhimkali temple in Sarahan is one of the masterpieces of Kinnauri architecture and also gives us the opportunity to study.
Day 5 : Sarahan – Ghushaini
We start early and drive through scarcely traveled valleys over the spectacular Jalori Pass (3120m) to the small village of Ghusheini. Here we stay in a Heritage Cottage at the foot of Tirthan River.
Day 6 : Ghushaini
This day we use to explore the lovely Tirthan valley. If desired, a small hike in the Great Himalayan National Park is possible or even a bike ride along the river Tirthan. The villages reflect the old traditional architecture still very well.
Day 7 : Ghushaini – Jhatingri – Andretta
Again, it goes to small untracked roads into scenic hairpin curves and lovely rural villages over into the Kangra Valley. We live in Andretta, a small artists’ colony, which was set up in the early 20th century. It’s a sleepy little village with a lot of charm.
Day 8 : Andretta – Billing – Andretta
From Andretta we take a trip to the mountain pasture of Billing (above 3000mts), currently one of the most popular paragliding places in the world. In nearby Bir we can already admire the influence of Tibetan culture. On request, we can take part in the evening ritual at a nearby Buddhist monastery.
Day 9 : Andretta – Dharamshala
Today we have a short drive through the green and lovely Kangra valley in front of us. A highlight is the carved stone temple of Baijnath . This architectural gem with various deities on its outer walls is particularly impressive as it is still beign worshiped and therefore seems very luminous.
Day 10 : Dharamshala – The Tibetan exile.
Dharamshala, home to the Tibetan exile and the 14th Dalai Lama is a great attraction for travelers from all over the world, as well as for locals. The small town is beautifully situated at the foot of the Dhauladhar mountain range. We use the day to explore the area and to learn about Tibet and its political and religious situation.
Day 11 : Dharamshala – Jotpass (2800m) – Chamba
It continues into Chamba valley, historically seat of an independent himalayan kingdom, that never joined the British. We live in a small village in the middle of terraced fields, thus experiencing unique rural atmosphere.
Day 12 : Chamba valley.
Local visits and small trips.
Day 13 : Chamba – Amritsar.
Visit to the Golden Temple, the important religious sanctuary of the Indian Sikh community.
Day 14 : Amritsar – Delhi – Europe.
Drive to Delhi and flight to Europe.
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Price 2650 € minimum 6 participants.
Included services: German-speaking tour guide, motorcycle Royal Enfield or jeeps, gasoline, mechanics, baggage car, best hotels (13 nights), half board, 2x Train.
Not included services: gratuities for baggage car-drivers and mechanics, alcoholic beverages, other purchases.
