Itinerary:
Delhi - Amritsar - Dharamsala
Travel duration:
4 days / 3 nights
Travel fee:
€335,- p.p. for 2 persons
This building block will introduce you to two completely different cultures: that of the Sikhs and that of the Buddhist monks. From Delhi you will travel by train through a fresh green landscape to Amritsar, the holy city of the Sikhs. Here you will find narrow streets and bazaars lined with merchants. This is the familiar India of colours and smells. The Golden Temple is the centrepiece of this vibrant city.
Then it's time for rest and reflection in Dharamsala. Here, it is possible to take a yoga course in July and August, where you will become totally 'zen' again during your journey through India. In Dharamsala, you will see Buddhist monks, temples and prayer flags. Learn more about Tibetan culture, walk through the forests or enjoy views of the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayan mountains from your own balcony.
Your journey doesn't have to end in Dharamsala though. The energy of Bangalore, with its thriving tech scene and bustling markets, might be your next stop. Luxurious accommodations await you in this dynamic city. For the best comfort and convenience, you can book here >>, promising a stay as diverse and vibrant as India itself.
Day 1 - By train to the Golden Temple in Amritsar
Today starts early with a transfer from your hotel in Delhi to the train station. From the comfortable train, you will see the green landscape passing by. After about six hours you will arrive in Amritsar, the ancient holy city of the Sikhs: followers of Sikhism, recognisable by their colourful turbans and long beards. The Golden Temple complex is the biggest attraction. Set in a large pond, the gleaming golden temple is fairy-tale-lit in the evening.
In the narrow streets surrounding the complex, you will find several bazaars, each with its own speciality. For gold jewellery, the Guru bazaar is worth a visit, or go off on the scents of the Katra Kathian bazaar for typical local products. You have the afternoon to wander the streets of Amritsar. You will sleep in a hotel in a quiet part of the city.
Day 2 - From the Sikh to the Monk
After breakfast, a private transfer follows uphill to Dharamsala, a place also known as 'Little Tibet'. You will arrive here mid-afternoon. The town of Dharamsala is known for the Dalai Lama who sits here. Here, Tibetans, monks and Buddhist monasteries define the street scene. Dharamsala lies at the foot of the Himalayan Mountains. The cool climate will delightfully surprise you after busy and hectic places like Delhi and Amritsar. Walk a short pilgrimage route (kora) around the main temple, past stupas, small temples and prayer flags in the pine forests.
In the centre of town is your hotel, which exudes a homely atmosphere. The rooms have Tibetan details and from your balcony you can watch the sun rise over the mountains. The hotel is in a quiet neighbourhood, within walking distance of the Dalai Lama's main temple.
Day 3 - Monks in Dharamsala
This day is free to spend; there is plenty to do in the area. There are several temples and monasteries, which you will automatically come across as you walk through the streets of Dharamsala. The monks mumbling their prayers here in low tones evoke typical Tibetan images. We also recommend visiting the Norbulingka Institute, a centre for Tibetan culture and traditional art. If you want to do something more active, take a brisk walk in the hills, through pine forests and past fresh green tea fields.
Dharamsala is the designated place for rest and contemplation. In July and August, it is possible to take a yoga class. Ask your travel specialist about the possibilities.
Day 4 - Dharamsala, end of building block
After your last night in Dharamsala, this building block ends after breakfast. From here, you can travel back to Delhi. You will then have a transfer of about three hours to Pathankot where you will then board the night train to Delhi.
Still haven't had enough of Tibetan life the mountains beckoning in the distance? Then you can head deeper into the Himalayan mountains. During the building block Tibetan style through India, you will travel via Manali to the mountain region around Leh (Ladakh). We then arrange a transfer from Dharamsala to Manali for you, a drive of about 8 hours.
For this trip, we offer the following variants
About 30 kilometres west of Amritsar is the border between India and Pakistan. Here you can witness the ceremonial opening and closing of the border every day at sunset. You will be picked up at your hotel in Amritsar and taken to the border in about an hour. You certainly won't be the only one; large stands on either side of the border gather Indians and Pakistanis to witness this spectacle. Soldiers in colourful uniforms throw their legs high in the air and open the gate between the two rival countries with much fanfare. You sit with the Indians in the stands as they sing, cheer and wave flags. After the ceremony, you will be taken back to the hotel.