India Holidays
Stunning Himalayan landscapes, colonial history and the home of the Dalai Lama.
11 Night Itinerary from £2,949
Himalayas Tour
Discover India's colonial hill stations, magnificent Himalayan scenery and the magical city of Amritsar.
Select your Preferred Departure Date OR Default to Today's Date
Tour Route
- Delhi - 2 Nights
- Shimla - 3 Nights
- Pragpur - 1 Night
- Dharamshala - 2 Nights
- Amritsar - 2 Nights
- Return to Delhi - 1 Night
- Fly back to the UK - 0 Nights
Travel Highlights
- Discover colonial hill stations, magnificent Himalayan scenery and magical Amritsar
- Explore Delhi including the Red Fort, colourful bazaars and India's gate.
- Enjoy a guided tour of Old and New Delhi.
- Take the famous Kalka Toy train to Shimla, and famous and scenic colonial hill station
- Spend 3 nights in Shimla and relive the times of the British Raj.
- Experience the Himalayan Heritage village of Pragpur.
- Visit Dharamshala, the Indian home of the Dalai Lama, set in glorious mountain scenery.
- Admire the Golden Temple of Amritsar, the sacred Sikh sanctuary. Quite mesmerising.
This itinerary can be tailored to your preferences by our specialist advisors, who can provide a guaranteed price based on your choice of route, duration, flights, hotels, transport and excursions.
Tour Itinerary
Delhi - 2 Nights
Day 1 - Depart from the UK to Delhi
Day 2 - Arrive in Delhi
Day 3 - Guided tour of Delhi
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Friday, 19 April 2024
Fly from UK to Delhi
Depart from the UK on an overnight flight to Delhi.
Saturday, 20 April 2024
Arrive in Delhi
On arrival at Delhi airport, you will be met by your Veloso Tours guide and transferred to your chosen hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. Rest of the day is at leisure to relax and explore Delhi at your leisure.
Delhi is the capital city of India, the start of our journey across the fascinating history-markers of medieval north India.
Sunday, 21 April 2024
Guided tour of Delhi
Today you explore Delhi with your Veloso Tours guide. Old Delhi is the 300-year-old walled city built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jehan in 1648 as his capital. The focus of the city is the magnificent Jama Mosque built of red sandstone. Drive past the Red Fort from where the Prime Minister of India addresses the nation on India’s Independence Day. Visit Jama Masjid, the most elegant mosque in India that stands high on a hillock in between and around these two focal points of the 17th century city is a thriving modern city in a medieval setting. This area once had a tree-lined broad central avenue, with a canal dividing the thoroughfare. Later enjoy rickshaw ride. On our way back, we visit Raj Ghat, Mahatma Gandhi’s shrine.
New Delhi is the early 20th century British capital designed by Sir Edward Lutyen’s and Herbert Baker. Drive past the President’s House, the Rashtrapati Bhavan and the two flanking Secretariat buildings – the nerve centre of government activity. Driving down this hillock is the India Gate, the great memorial arch built to commemorate the slain heroes of World War-I and Indo-Afghan War. Around India Gate are palaces of some of the erstwhile Indian princely states that are now public offices and museums.
Visit the precursor to the Taj Mahal, Humayun’s Tomb built in 1565 AD by the widow of the second Mughal emperor Haji Begum. In the vicinity of Humayun’s Tomb is the grave of Delhi’s most revered Sufi Saint, Hazrat Nizamuddin. Humayun’s Tomb is a garden tomb and stands as a high point of early Mughal architecture and technology. The gardens of the Humayun’s Tomb have recently been restored and revitalized to their former glory by the Aga Khan Foundation for Culture.
Sheraton New Delhi
Delhi - First Hotel
Located in the centre of New Delhi, the Sheraton offers spacious rooms and an excellent choice of restaurants.
There are 220 air-conditioned rooms and suites, each with private bathroom, hair dyer, minibar, bottled water, coffee and tea maker, safe and sitting area. Rooms have panoramic views of the city.
Public facilities include a swimming pool, spa, gym and an Indian and Chinese restaurant. There is also a wide choice of Indian and International restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. as well as a major shopping mall.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Maidens Hotel, New Delhi
Delhi - Luxury Hotel
The Maidens Hotel was established in 1903 and remains a stately survivor of the golden age - the sweeping driveway and the grand façade give an inkling of its star-studded past. Its architecture is the most glorious illustration of old-world European charm with its colonial impressions. A stay at Maidens Hotel is a historically and culturally enriching experience! Every corner in the hotel has a story to tell, whether it's unraveling the majestic royals of the princely states, the Delhi Durbar with its pre-independence coronation, or the ruling times of The British Raj.
The hotel is located in North Delhi within close proximity to the major attractions and has 54 rooms and suites all with high ceilings, air-conditioning, mini bar, tea-coffee maker, LCD TV, satellite channels, safe, hair dryer, FREE Wi-Fi and telephone.
Public areas include lush gardens, a gym and classic wining and dining in the Cavalry Bar, the elegant Curzon Room restaurant serving Indian dishes and the Garden Terrace restaurant.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Oberoi, New Delhi
Delhi - Deluxe Hotel
The Oberoi, New Delhi is located in the centre of New Delhi, close to the major attractions including India Gate.
The hotel has 220 air-conditioned and spacious rooms and suites with marble bathrooms, teak floors and oak desks. Each room has a safe, FREE Wi-Fi, TV, telephone, 24 hour butler service, goose pillows (with choice), Nespresso coffee machine, tea making facilities and hair dryer.
Public facilities include all day dining at 360 degrees signature restaurant serving international dishes, Omya serving contemporary Indian cuisine, Baoshuan serving chinese fayre and the magical Cirrus 9, a famous rooftop bar with panoramic views of Delhi. There is also a club bar and cigar lounge, patisserie and delicatessen. The hotel also has a luxury spa, gardens and outdoor swimming pool.
The rooms are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Shimla - 3 Nights
Day 4 - Train to Shimla
Day 5 - Walking tour of Shimla
Day 6 - At leisure in Shimla
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Monday, 22 April 2024
Train to Shimla
Transfer to Delhi railway station and take the train to Kalka. Here, we board the Himalayan Toy train which will take you through the Shivalik ranges to Shimla. On arrival, check into your chosen hotel for a 3 night stay on a room and breakfast basis.
Shimla – Queen of Hills – used to be summer capital of during British rule in India. It is at a height of 2200 meter above sea level. As the Summer Capital of the British in India, Shimla was the country’s focus for the better part of every year and now, is the state capital of Himachal Pradesh. Today, it has well developed facilities, easy accessibility and numerous attractions making it one of India’s most popular hill resorts. Situated in the lower ranges of the Himalayan Mountains, it is surrounded by pine deodar, oak and rhododendron forests. Towards the north lie the snow-covered high-ranges, while the valleys breathe whispering streams and swaying fields. Within the town are Host of splendid colonial edifices, quaint cottages and charming walks Shimla offers a variety of shopping, sport and entertainment activities.
Tuesday, 23 April 2024
Walking tour of Shimla
This morning after breakfast our local guide will help you discover Shimla, visiting the Mall, Shimla’s principal promenade which runs along a ridge. Much that is reminiscent of the Raj is found here - stately mansions, and curiosity shops, Observatory Hill, Kennedy House, built in 1822 by Major Kennedy of the British Army, Scandal Point, scene of a legendary elopement, Christ Church, Jakku Hill with a fine view of Shimla.
The rest of the day is at leisure.
Wednesday, 24 April 2024
At leisure in Shimla
Shimla is one of those special places you can relax and enjoy. Today is free to do your own thing, perhaps a trek into the countryside or a visit to the local market.
Clarkes Hotel
Shimla and the hill stations - Luxury Hotel
Located on Shimla’s Mall Road, Clarkes Hotel is an oasis of calm on the bustling promenade. Built in 1898, Clarkes is classed as a Grand Heritage Hoteland is one of the oldest hotels in Shimla. Clarkes Hotel embodies the elegance and charm of yesteryear, with all modern conveniences and world class service. Clarkes Hotel is just 10 minutes by car from Shimla Railway Station and is within walking distance of Shimla attractions - Gaiety Theatre, Gorton Castle, Rothney Castle, many churches and other colonial era buildings.
The hotel has spacious rooms and suites have a unique British colonial ambience, are elegantly furnished and offer spectacular views of the mountains or Shimla’s Mall Road. Each is air-conditioned with private bathroom, tv, tea/coffee maker, minibar and safe.
Public facilities include a dining room, bar, lounge and delightful roof terrace with amazing views of Shimla and the mountains.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Radisson Jass Hotel
Shimla and the hill stations - First Hotel
Situated in the Himalaya Mountains, Radisson Jass Shimla offers scenic vistas that are sure to inspire. Stay just minutes from popular area attractions like the Gaiety Heritage Cultural Complex, Jakhu Temple and Christ Church. Tour the historical Viceregal Lodge at the Indian Institute of Advanced Study, or shop for souvenirs at Shimla's popular Mall.
Sleep well in one of our welcoming guest rooms and suites, which offer comfortable furnishings and beds. Each room offers free Wi-Fi, iron, hair dryer, tv and tea/coffee making facilities.
Public areas include a restaurant, bar and fitness centre.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Wildflower Hall
Shimla and the hill stations - Luxury Hotel
Wildflower Hall is the former residence of Lord Kitchener, commander in chief of the British army, and exudes the ambience of a grand stately home with stunning mountain views and glorious country gardens.
The spacious air-conditioned rooms are elegantly furnished with private bathroom, sitting area, choice of garden, valley or mountain view, teak floors, tea/coffee making facilities and other amenities.
The public areas include a welcoming lounge, snooker and billiards room, tennis court, well stocked library, spa, swimming pool, the Cavalry bar and fine dining restaurant.
There is much to do from the hotel including a Heritage Tours, mountain biking, yoga, trekking and if you are travelling in the winter - ice skating.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Pragpur - 1 Night
Day 7 - Drive to Pragpur
- Full Description
Thursday, 25 April 2024
Drive to Pragpur
This morning after breakfast we leave Shimla and drive to drive to the heritage village of Pragpur located in the Kangra Valley and home of the famous Kangra School of painting; probably the world's oldest ruling lineage comes from here. The area was part of the Principality of Jaswan whose chief, in the late 16th or early 17th Century charged a band of learned men, led by a Kuthiala Sood, to find a suitable place to commemorate Princess 'Prag' of his royal lineage. The core area of Pragpur is a notified "Heritage Village". Founded about 3 centuries ago Pragpur has held onto the essence of an earlier era - unchanged shops, cobbled streets, ornamental village tank, mud plastered and slate roofed houses. The Indian National Trust for art and cultural Heritage jointly with the government of Himachal Pradesh is developing and preserving Heritage Village Pragpur. On arrival check in at your chosen hotel for an overnight stay.
Dharamshala - 2 Nights
Day 8 - Drive to Dharamshala
Day 9 - Guided tour of Dharamshala
- Full Description
Friday, 26 April 2024
Drive to Dharamshala
This morning after breakfast we leave Pragpur and drive to Dharamshala where will will stay at your chosen hotel for 2 nights on a bed and breakfast basis.
Dharamshala is a small hill station lying on the spur of the Dhauladhar range about 18 Kms north east of Kangra town. The hill station is wooded with oak and conifer trees and snow-capped mountains enfold three sides of the town while the valley stretches in front. The snow line is perhaps more easily accessible at Dharamshala than at any other hill resort and it is possible to trek to snow point after an early morning's start. The town of Dharamshala is divided into two distinct parts. Lower Dharamshala has civil offices and business establishments with courts, Kotwali Bazar and Upper Dharamshala compose of places with names which bear witness to its History like McLeod Ganj and Forsythe Ganj Since 1960, when it became a temporary headquarter of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Dharamshala has risen to international fame as "The Little Lhasa in India". Here, you will observe many Tibetan buddhist monks who have made this special place their home. The town has a light, magical feel that makes it hard to leave.
Saturday, 27 April 2024
Guided tour of Dharamshala
Enjoy a guided tour of Dharamshala today. Visit McLeod Ganj named after Sir Alan McLeod, Governor of Punjab. Dharamshala came into existence in 1860 after it was selected as a site to accommodate the 1st Gorkha Rifles, of ‘The bravest of the brave’ legend. Also visit the Dalai Lama's residence and if lucky, an opportunity of an audience with him at McLeod Ganj where a large Tibetan population now lives. The waterfall of Bhagsunath is also within walking distance. Spend some time in the Tibetan colony and visit their local market & temples.
Amritsar - 2 Nights
Day 10 - Drive to Amritsar
Day 11 - Guided tour of Amritsar
- Full Description
Sunday, 28 April 2024
Drive to Amritsar
Today, after breakfast we leave Dharamshala and drive to Amritsar. On arrival, check in to your chosen hotel for a 2 night stay on a bed and breakfast basis. The rest of the day is at leisure in Amritsar.
Monday, 29 April 2024
Guided tour of Amritsar
Today, we explore Amritsar with your Veloso guide. We firstly visit the Golden Temple - the sacred Sikh sanctuary spread out in a vast complex around a huge water tank in the midst of which stands a marble sanctum where the holy book of the Sikhs, the Guru Granth is reverently placed. The roof of the sanctum is gold-leafed. The community kitchen provides free meals to up to 10,000 pilgrims or visitors in a day. And then take a walk by the busy bazaars of the city; visit the historic Jallianwalah Bagh where General Dyer’s bullets killed hundreds of innocent Indians. Later we visit the Durgiana Hindu temple which looks like a replica of the golden temple.
In the late afternoon we visit the border town of Wagah to see the change of guard ceremony. It is a spectacle comparable to 'Change of Guards' in London. The pomp and pageantry of the Beating Retreat and the Change of Guard within handshaking distance of the Indian and Pakistani forces makes for a most charming spectacle.
Return to Delhi - 1 Night
Day 12 - Fly to Delhi
- Full Description
- Accommodation
Tuesday, 30 April 2024
Fly to Delhi
Transfer to Amritsar Airport and fly back to Delhi. Transfer to your chosen hotel on a bed and breakfast basis for your last night's stay in India. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Sheraton New Delhi
Delhi - First Hotel
Located in the centre of New Delhi, the Sheraton offers spacious rooms and an excellent choice of restaurants.
There are 220 air-conditioned rooms and suites, each with private bathroom, hair dyer, minibar, bottled water, coffee and tea maker, safe and sitting area. Rooms have panoramic views of the city.
Public facilities include a swimming pool, spa, gym and an Indian and Chinese restaurant. There is also a wide choice of Indian and International restaurants within walking distance of the hotel. as well as a major shopping mall.
The rates are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Maidens Hotel, New Delhi
Delhi - Luxury Hotel
The Maidens Hotel was established in 1903 and remains a stately survivor of the golden age - the sweeping driveway and the grand façade give an inkling of its star-studded past. Its architecture is the most glorious illustration of old-world European charm with its colonial impressions. A stay at Maidens Hotel is a historically and culturally enriching experience! Every corner in the hotel has a story to tell, whether it's unraveling the majestic royals of the princely states, the Delhi Durbar with its pre-independence coronation, or the ruling times of The British Raj.
The hotel is located in North Delhi within close proximity to the major attractions and has 54 rooms and suites all with high ceilings, air-conditioning, mini bar, tea-coffee maker, LCD TV, satellite channels, safe, hair dryer, FREE Wi-Fi and telephone.
Public areas include lush gardens, a gym and classic wining and dining in the Cavalry Bar, the elegant Curzon Room restaurant serving Indian dishes and the Garden Terrace restaurant.
The rates are on a room and breakfast basis.
Oberoi, New Delhi
Delhi - Deluxe Hotel
The Oberoi, New Delhi is located in the centre of New Delhi, close to the major attractions including India Gate.
The hotel has 220 air-conditioned and spacious rooms and suites with marble bathrooms, teak floors and oak desks. Each room has a safe, FREE Wi-Fi, TV, telephone, 24 hour butler service, goose pillows (with choice), Nespresso coffee machine, tea making facilities and hair dryer.
Public facilities include all day dining at 360 degrees signature restaurant serving international dishes, Omya serving contemporary Indian cuisine, Baoshuan serving chinese fayre and the magical Cirrus 9, a famous rooftop bar with panoramic views of Delhi. There is also a club bar and cigar lounge, patisserie and delicatessen. The hotel also has a luxury spa, gardens and outdoor swimming pool.
The rooms are on a bed and breakfast basis.
Fly back to the UK - 0 Nights
Day 13 - Fly back to the UK
- Full Description
Wednesday, 01 May 2024
Fly back to the UK
Transfer to the airport and fly back to the UK on a daytime flight.
Price Guidelines
| Season | High Season | |
|---|---|---|
| Travel Dates | October - March | |
| Room Arrangement | Tourist | First |
| Multiple Travellers - Twin Room | £2,949 | £4,143 |
| Single Traveller - Own Room | £4,287 | £5,519 |
Prices are a guideline and per person. Please request a quote for Special Events, Christmas, New Year's Eve & Easter.
What's Included
- Guidelines prices are per person based on 2 people sharing a twin room
- 12 Days / 11 Nights
- International flights (1 overnight)
- Domestic flight from Amritsar to Delhi
- 11 breakfasts
- Transfers to and from airports
- Transport throughout the itinerary
- Excursions listed, all with expert, English-speaking guides
- Entrance fees
- Delhi / Kalka by shaatabdi express in Executive class
- Toy Train from Shimla to Kalka by Toy Train
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