This is a short break itinerary where guests combine a visit to hill stations of Dalhousie and Patnitop with a Vaishnodevi pilgrimage.
3 night(s) in Dalhousie
2 night(s) in Katra
2 night(s) in Patnitop
Day 01 : Arrive At Dalhousie .
Arrive at Pathankot and proceed to Dalhousie (7000+ ft asl - 80 kms - 2.5 hours). Time permitting visit local markets and local places to visit such as Churches in Dalhousie, Panchpula / Sat Dhara (confluence of 7 streams said to have medicinal effect).
Day 02 : Khajjiar, Chamera Lake Excursion
Full Day excursion to Khajjiar Meadows (22 kms), Chamba (riverside pilgrim center at 44 kms from Dalhousie can be visited with Khajjiar) and Chamera Lake (large lake with watersports center). Enroute visit Barkota hills. Back by late evening.
Day 03 : Kalatop Excursion
Walk Explore Kalatope Wildlife Sanctuary (The sanctuary is home to a variety of species including black bears and barking deer, abundant variety of bird life), Dainkund peak etc. Kalatope is an 8 km moderately uphill walk through pine forests. The hilltop offers excellent views of the area around and snow peaks. Paragliding is offered here in Summer. Guests looking to relax and not do walking may just enjoy snow peak views of Dalhousie and relax.
Day 04 : Dalhousie To Katra
Proceed to Katra (230 kms - 6.5 hrs) via Jammu. Time permitting visit Raghunath Temple at Jammu enroute.
Day 05 : Vaishnodevi Darshan
Early morning start for Vaishnodevi climb (Total 13 kms walk to the temple that takes about 4-5 hours). Enroute stops at Adhkwari Temple and darshan at Baba Bhaironath Temple is recommended). During Summer and peak travel season it may be advisable to start the climb previous evening. Once queue tickets are purchased the wait period could be half an hour to 3 hours depending on the rush. During season Yatra Parchi (entry tickets required to beging the uphill walk), it is recommended to purchase in advance to avoid delays. Guests looking for Helidarshan (Helicopter ride, darshan and back), morning flights are recommeded for best weather and least uncertainity. Return by late evening.
Day 06 : Katra To Patnitop
Transfer to Patnitop (95 kms - 3 hrs - 6000 ft asl), a relaxing hill station offering excellent views. Just walk around enjoy views around the area. Evening visit to Sanasar (20 kms - 1 way).
Day 07 : Patnitop And Around Sightseeing
Sightseeing / temple visit options around Patnitop comprise Manatalai, Gauri kund, Sansar (if not visited the previous day), Sudh Mahadev, The Nag Temple etc.
Day 08: Departure For The Onward Journey
Departure Travel to Jammu (112 kms - 3.5 hours). Depart for the onward journey.