Blog · India
Amritsar, Dalhousie and Dharamshala: a 6-day circuit
This circuit pairs the Golden Temple and the Wagah Border ceremony with two of Himachal's quieter hill towns.
Amritsar
Amritsar is for the Golden Temple (Harmandir Sahib), the langar, Jallianwala Bagh and the Beating Retreat ceremony at the Wagah Border in the late afternoon. Our itineraries start with Wagah on day 1 and the city on the way out.
Dalhousie and Khajjiar
Dalhousie is a calm, pine-covered hill station. The day trip to Khajjiar, often called India's "mini Switzerland", is the highlight: a meadow ringed by deodar forest. Two nights in Dalhousie gives you time for both.
Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj
Dharamshala and McLeod Ganj are home to the Tibetan community and the Tsuglagkhang complex, with Bhagsu falls, the Dharamshala cricket stadium and short walks. The food and cafes are a highlight.
How many days
- 4 nights: Amritsar, Dalhousie and Dharamshala at a quick pace.
- 5 nights: the comfortable version.
- 6 nights: adds Chandigarh on the way back to Delhi.
When to go
October to March is best for Amritsar's weather; March to June is lovely in the hills. Summers in Amritsar are very hot, so plan the Golden Temple for early morning or night.
