This time, scorching heat of summer took us to Himachal Pradesh. Lazy moments with nature was top on the list when deciding the locations. Himachal Pradesh was the chosen one. Flight landed at Kangra Airport, Gaggal and as soon as we got out were awestruck by the view of Dhauladhars Ranges.
Himachal Pradesh
Day 1 - Dharamshala
The drive from airport to Dharamshala was even better. The road and ranges went almost parallel. The cedar forest and the tress by the side calmed us down to serenity. Dharamshala was originally named as Bhagsu. It took almost couple of hours to reach Indraprastha Resort and Spa The view outside the bedroom and swimming pool was just breathtaking. Lunch was at one of the most famous restaurant MCLio Restaurant which was famous for its Tibetan and Chinese food. And yes of course we ordered some Chinese.
The next stop after lunch was The Dalai Lama’s Residence and temple. The larger than life statue of Buddha, meditating and chanting Monks filled the atmosphere with peace. The experience was out of the world. Along the way we visited Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsunag waterfall. Day was almost over. Dinner was at hotel and early to bed.
The next stop after lunch was The Dalai Lama’s Residence and temple. The larger than life statue of Buddha, meditating and chanting Monks filled the atmosphere with peace. The experience was out of the world. Along the way we visited Bhagsunath Temple and Bhagsunag waterfall. Day was almost over. Dinner was at hotel and early to bed.
Day 2 - More of Dharamshala
Day 2 was equally exciting. After finishing authentic North Indian breakfast, went to visit HPCA stadium. Following that, Kunal Pathari Temple and Tea Gardens.
The next stop was interesting Norbulingka Institute which is heart of Tibetan culture. It demonstrates and preserves Tibetan art and culture. We had authentic Tibetan lunch at one of its cafeteria with fresh watermelon juice.
It was little sunny and hot by the time we reached back to the hotel. Girls jumped right into the swimming pool. After an hour of swimming there was a sudden drop in temperature and it started raining with some large pieces of ice. Such type of weather changes is very normal. The experience was one of its kind.
Dinner was at hotel so that we could retire early.
Day 3 - Dalhousie
Next day was to pack bags and checkout early morning towards Dalhousie. We left right after breakfast and by late noon, reached Snow Valley resort. We were already craving some gujrati food found a gujrati place and had our famous thali.
The view out of the hotel was just as beautiful as it could get. Awesome snow covered mountain ranges.
Day 4 - Best of Dalhousie
Day 4 was happening. Had early breakfast and left for one of the most beautiful places - Khajjiar, this is called Switzerland of India. It is favorite location for shooting movies. The trees and mountain ranges takes your breath away. Feels like heaven.
Next on the way was Chamera lake and Dam. The boating experience became special since we snacked on Hot Maggie while sailing. Kids were just awestruck with the beauty around and melting Maggie in mouth.
Last stop of the day was Rock Garden.
We were welcome at Hotel with DJ parties. Yes Kids were still not tired and enjoyed the dance party. Goes without saying that good night were said quite early since a very eventful day.
Day 5 - Little adventures in Dalhousie
Day 5 started lazy but then we left for Kala Top Sanctury. If lucky you can find snow leapord, Black and brown bear and many other animals. We didn’t but one of my 8 year old braved and did Rappelling. Yes you heard it right. The other one was not left far behind. She did zip lining and had unlimited fun. On the way back, we stopped at local strip Mall Road. Here I had my chance to indulge into most famous local dish - momos. Yum!!! Retired back to resort with some more swimming, gaming and a good night sleep.
Punjab
Day 6 - Punjabi Food and Golden Temple
Day 6 was starting our journey towards home but not before we visit Amritsar. Checked into Golden Tulip Hotel.
Immediately left for lunch to one of the most famous Punjabi Dhabha – Bharawan Da Dhaba. Chole kulcha, Lassi and Firni. Yes my mouth is still watering.
The next stop was the most famous and the holiest Gurudwara of Sikhism, Sri Darbar Sahib also known as The Golden Temple. The four entrances (representing the four directions) to get into the temple also symbolize the openness of the Sikhs towards all people and religions. There are strict rules to enter. The head should be covered all the time and hands and legs should be washed before entering. The queue was so long at the entrance but the constant chanting of mantras called Gurwani made the wait so peaceful. It has its own importance for Prasad. Over 100,000 people visit the holy shrine daily for worship, and also partake jointly in the free community kitchen and meal (Langar) regardless of any distinctions. The day ended with golgappas at the busiest street outside the temple.
Day 7 - Jallianwala Bagh and Wagah Border
Day 7 started with breakfast and straightway to Jallianwala Bagh. The history of the massacare is well known. As soon as you step into the area, it gives you goose bumbs even today. It is one of the most significant landmarks in the vicinity of Golden Temple. So much is said and written about it but to visit the same place reminding us the brutality of British Raj draws you to utter unrest. It was almost impossible for me to spend more than 30 minutes before I bailed out.
Lunch was lassi from famous Ahuja Milk Bhandar. Out of this world! One glass was enough to substitute a meal.
Now the last and the most important historic visit were to visit The Wagah Border Ceremony. Wagah is the border that lies on the Grand Trunk Road between the cities of Amritsar in Punjab, India and Lahore in Punjab, Pakistan. It is the only road border which crosses between India and Pakistan. The border is at a distance of 20 kms from Amritsar and 22 kms from Lahore. The feeling was so so patriotic and filled with enthusiasm. The sun was so hot but the real heat came from the constant chanting of “vandi mataram” and “Hindustan Jindabad”. The patriotic songs were constantly playing before the parade to build the tempo. When the parade started, the feeling was just so awesome giving Goosebumps. Display by the military of both India and Pakistan are superb. Must Visit.
And we ended our trip. Checked out next morning, bought some sweets and reached airport. The journey back was uneventful and tiresome. Everything slowed down almost came to a standstill. Soon the normal life was going to start. Mind was trying to calm down and try to get the most out of the last few relaxing moment. The trip was filled with historic and scenic experiences. I can still feel the taste of the North indian food, momos, chole and not to forget lassi…..