Golden Love trails

Hotels

Maidens
Imperial
The Oberoi

Activities

Private guided exploration of Delhi’s iconic Mughal monuments
Romantic rickshaw journey through Chandni Chowk
Fine dining experiences at Delhi’s most celebrated restaurants

Concierge Services

VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support

Hotels

Chapslee House
The Oberoi Cecil
Clarkes Hotel

Activities

Heritage toy train journey through the Himalayan foothills
Romantic walks along The Ridge and Mall Road
Private excursion to Chail Palace and scenic Himalayan viewpoints
Visit Jakhoo Temple amid tranquil cedar forests

Concierge Services

VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support

Hotels

The Lodge at Wah
Araiya Palampur
Lamrin Norwood Green

Activities

Scenic drive through Kangra Valley’s tea estates and pine forests
Explore McLeod Ganj and the Dalai Lama Temple
Visit Bhagsu Nag Temple and cascading Bhagsu Waterfall
Romantic walks through panoramic tea gardens

Concierge Services

VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support

Hotels

Taj Swarna
Ranjit’s Svaasa
Radisson Blu Hotel

Activities

spiritual visit to the Golden Temple at sunrise
Attend the deeply moving Palki ceremony at Golden Temple
Witness the dramatic Wagah Border sunset ceremony
Explore Jallianwala Bagh and vibrant heritage markets

Concierge Services

VIP airport handling
Private chauffeurs
English-speaking expert guides
Smooth intercity transfers
Personal concierge support

Cities Covered

Delhi – Shimla – Palampur – Amritsar

Best Time To Visit

October – march

Activity Level

Moderate

5-star accommodation
Flexible – extensions, room & flight upgrades
Express train travel in air conditioned executive class
Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
Experienced local tour manager

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival / Delhi

Your journey begins in Delhi, where ancient dynasties and modern elegance coexist effortlessly.

On arrival, you are privately welcomed and chauffeured to your hotel — a sanctuary of refined luxury in the heart of the capital. After time to unwind, begin an elegant introduction to India’s rich heritage with your private guide.

Discover the grandeur of Humayun’s Tomb, Qutub Minar, India Gate, and the majestic Red Fort, each revealing layers of Mughal and imperial history. In Old Delhi, step into a more intimate world as you glide through Chandni Chowk by luxury rickshaw, pausing to savour curated tastings of Delhi’s celebrated street cuisine and browse exquisite artisan crafts.

As evening falls, return to The Imperial, one of India’s most celebrated heritage hotels, where colonial elegance, candlelit dining, and impeccable service create a wonderfully romantic beginning to your honeymoon.

Day 2: Delhi

This morning unfolds at a leisurely pace, allowing time to enjoy the refined comforts of your hotel before continuing your discovery of the capital.

Your privately guided journey begins at Humayun’s Tomb, a magnificent Mughal masterpiece set within tranquil charbagh gardens. Continue to Lodhi Garden, one of Delhi’s most beautiful green spaces, where ancient domed tombs rise quietly among shaded pathways and flowering trees.

Later, visit the soaring Qutub Minar, a UNESCO World Heritage site whose intricate sandstone carvings reflect centuries of architectural brilliance.

As the day draws to a close, arrive at India Gate just as the city glows in soft evening light. Your evening concludes with a romantic dinner at one of South Delhi’s finest restaurants — an elegant celebration of India’s contemporary culinary artistry.

Day 3: Delhi / Shimla

This morning depart Delhi by private vehicle for the foothills of the Himalayas, where the landscape gradually transforms from fertile plains to forested mountains.

At Kalka, board the legendary Himalayan Toy Train, one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. The charming narrow-gauge train winds gently through more than 100 tunnels and 800 bridges, revealing spectacular mountain views, cedar forests, and traditional hill villages.

Arrive in Shimla, the former summer capital of British India, where colonial architecture and crisp Himalayan air create an atmosphere of timeless elegance.

Your home here is Chapslee House, a historic 19th-century mansion surrounded by fragrant pine forests. Antique interiors, candlelit dining, and warm hospitality evoke the refined charm of a bygone era.

Day 4: Shimla

Today discover the romantic heritage of Shimla, once the glamorous summer retreat of the British Raj.

Your private walking tour begins at The Ridge, offering sweeping views across the Himalayan ranges. Nearby stands the elegant Christ Church, its stained glass glowing softly against the mountain sky.

Continue along the iconic Mall Road, where colonial buildings, cafés, and boutique shops preserve the nostalgic charm of the hill station. Pause at Scandal Point, one of Shimla’s most famous viewpoints, before ascending to Jakhoo Temple, perched high above the town among cedar forests. From here, breathtaking panoramas stretch across the surrounding mountains.

Return to your heritage residence for a peaceful evening by the fireplace or beneath the cool Himalayan stars.

Day 5: Shimla

Today venture into the quiet Himalayan countryside on a scenic excursion to Chail, a hidden hill retreat once favoured by the Maharaja of Patiala.

The journey winds through fragrant deodar forests and mountain landscapes, arriving at the graceful Chail Palace, a historic royal residence surrounded by tranquil gardens. Nearby lies the world’s highest cricket ground, dramatically perched at over 2,400 metres above sea level. The serene setting offers sweeping forest views and an atmosphere of remarkable calm. With its peaceful surroundings and regal heritage, Chail offers a beautifully romantic escape from Shimla’s lively streets.

Return to Shimla in the afternoon and enjoy a relaxed evening amid the timeless elegance of your heritage hotel.

Day 6: Shimla / Palampur

Today journey deeper into the Himalayas as you travel toward the serene Kangra Valley.

The scenic drive reveals dramatic landscapes of mountain rivers, forested slopes, and charming Himalayan villages before arriving in Palampur, a hidden gem known for its tea estates and breathtaking views of the Dhauladhar range. Your retreat here is The Lodge at Wah, an intimate boutique property nestled within a historic tea estate. Surrounded by emerald plantations and pine forests, the lodge offers panoramic mountain vistas and a wonderfully tranquil atmosphere.

Spend the afternoon strolling through the tea gardens, breathing in the fresh mountain air, or simply relaxing on the terrace as the sun sets behind the Himalayan peaks.

Day 7: Palampur

After a relaxed breakfast, travel to Dharamshala, spiritual home of the Dalai Lama and centre of Tibetan culture in India.

Explore the charming hillside town of McLeod Ganj, where prayer flags flutter above colourful markets and peaceful monasteries. Visit the serene Dalai Lama Temple Complex, a place of quiet reflection overlooking the mountains. Continue to Bhagsu Nag Temple and the nearby Bhagsu Waterfall, set amid pine forests and mountain cafés. Enjoy time to wander through Tibetan markets or relax in a hillside café overlooking the Dhauladhar mountains before returning to Palampur.

The evening invites relaxation back at your lodge, surrounded by tea gardens and the quiet beauty of the Himalayas.

Day 8: Palampur

Today is devoted to relaxation and the natural beauty of Palampur.

Wake to spectacular views of the Dhauladhar mountains, their snow-capped peaks rising above rolling tea plantations. Spend the day exploring the region’s celebrated Kangra tea estates, where emerald terraces cascade down gentle hillsides. Stroll through the plantations, visit charming local cafés, and enjoy moments of quiet reflection amid the tranquil landscapes.

The slower rhythm of Palampur invites you to pause and savour the simple pleasures of the Himalayas — crisp mountain air, breathtaking views, and the peaceful ambiance of your boutique lodge.

Day 9: Palampur / Amritsar

Leaving the mountains behind, journey south toward Amritsar, the spiritual heart of Punjab.

Upon arrival, check into Taj Swarna, a contemporary luxury retreat offering elegant rooms, fine dining, and exceptional hospitality. Amritsar is a city rich in culture, devotion, and vibrant Punjabi traditions. Colourful bazaars, historic landmarks, and the rhythms of daily life create a fascinating contrast to the tranquil Himalayas.

Spend the evening at leisure — perhaps enjoying a rejuvenating spa treatment or a gourmet dinner showcasing the bold flavours of Punjabi cuisine.

Day 10: Amritsar

This morning visit the extraordinary Golden Temple, one of the most spiritually uplifting places in India.

The temple’s gilded domes shimmer above the sacred pool, creating an atmosphere of profound serenity. Walking through its marble pathways offers an unforgettable glimpse into the devotion and hospitality of the Sikh faith. Later visit Jallianwala Bagh, a historic memorial garden reflecting India’s journey to independence.

In the afternoon travel to the Wagah Border, where soldiers from India and Pakistan perform the dramatic daily flag-lowering ceremony — a vibrant display of pageantry and national pride.

For those seeking a deeper spiritual experience, the evening offers the option to witness the Palki Ceremony at the Golden Temple, an intimate and moving ritual.

Day 11: Amritsar / Delhi

This morning transfer to the station for the Vande Bharat Express, India’s premier high-speed train, for your comfortable journey back to Delhi.

Relax in air-conditioned comfort as the train glides through the countryside before arriving in the capital early afternoon. You are met on arrival and transferred to ITC Maurya, a landmark luxury hotel renowned for its elegant design, exceptional dining, and world-class hospitality.

Spend your final evening in India at leisure — perhaps enjoying a farewell dinner or a rejuvenating spa experience.

Day 12: Delhi / Departure

After breakfast, you are privately transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

As your journey concludes, you leave India with vivid memories of majestic palaces, vibrant cities, wild landscapes, and timeless cultural traditions.

Contact an India specialist

The specialist who designs your trip to India will have explored the country many times and, in some cases, lived there. Their first-hand knowledge gives us the belief that no other travel company can match our expertise in helping you plan your trip.

When To go

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

13 °C

23 MM

Shimla

15°C

69 MM

Palampur

8 °C

84 MM

Amritsar

12 °C

20 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

17 °C

09 MM

Shimla

12 °C

65 MM

Palampur

10 °c

119 MM

Amritsar

14 °C

30 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

22 °C

12 MM

Shimla

16 °C

73 MM

Palampur

14 °C

90 MM

Amritsar

20 °C

60 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

29 °C

04 MM

Shimla

21 °C

44 MM

Palampur

19 °C

61 MM

Amritsar

26 °C

40 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

33 °C

11 MM

Shimla

25 °C

59 MM

Palampur

23 °C

50 MM

Amritsar

30 °C

20 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

38 °C

38 MM

Shimla

26 °C

150 MM

Palampur

24 °C

133 MM

Amritsar

31 °C

40 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

31 °C

200 MM

Shimla

22 °C

394 MM

Palampur

23 °C

440 MM

Amritsar

29 °C

190 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

30 °C

233 MM

Shimla

21 °C

314 MM

Palampur

22 °C

385 MM

Amritsar

29 °C

120 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

29 °C

108 MM

Shimla

21 °C

168 MM

Palampur

20 °C

140 MM

Amritsar

27 °C

70 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

25 °C

25 MM

Shimla

19 °C

44 MM

Palampur

17 °C

23 MM

Amritsar

23 °C

20 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

20 °C

03 MM

Shimla

16 °C

13 MM

Palampur

13 °C

17 MM

Amritsar

18 °C

20 MM

City

Temperature

Rain

Delhi

15 °C

05 MM

Shimla

12 °C

30 MM

Palampur

10 °C

36 MM

Amritsar

13 °C

20 MM

What They're Saying

Susan Kind

United Kingdom, Tailor made Tiger Safari tour

We are home now after our wonderful tiger safari holiday. We were very pleased with all the aspects of the arrangements. The hotels, the drivers and the care you took to make sure it all went smoothly – everything was excellent.

Kim OppenHeim

Switzerland, Tailor made Kerala Group Tour

My husband and I, along with our 2 daughters and a group of 5 students from the international high-school where we teach in Switzerland, just returned from a two-week tour of Kerala organized by Newton Singh at Royal India Holidays.

Hannah Oustroumoff

United Kingdom, Tailor made tour of North India

The itinerary as perfect, two nights in each and 1 night in Pushkar gave us enough time to see the interesting sites and places and gave us enough time to relax.