Mountains & Mystics

Leave Delhi by train and head out across the state of Punjab to Kalka (approx 4.5 hrs). From Kalka, board the World Heritage-listed 'toy train'. Prepare for a scenic journey as you travel along a railway line which snakes through many tunnels on its spectacular climb to Shimla (approx 6 hrs). It's a long travelling day but Shimla's faded colonial charm will win you over in no time. Once the summer capital of India, Shimla is where the British viceroys and their government would retreat during the monsoon months to escape the stifling heat of the plains. Set amongst spectacular rolling hills and spread acrossa number of peaks, Shimla offers an array of nature walks, ranging from gentle to challenging.

Head out and explore Mall Road - Shimla's most popular shopping stretch. A viewpoint also offers fantastic views of the Himalayas. Visit the Viceregal Lodge, originally the residence of British Viceroy Lord Dufferin, to see where the partition agreement that separated India from Pakistan and Bangladesh was drawn up.Discover the extravagance of a Bollywood blockbuster, with all the Hollywood-style elements of action, romance, drama and music (sometimes all rolled into one). Hotel - 2 nights

The journey into the mountains of India is an adventure in itself - travel in a public bus along rough roads to the next Himalayan town, Dharamsala (approx 6 hrs). Dharamsala is famous as the home of the exiled Dalai Lama - this hilltop retreat is full of monasteries, prayer flags and monks in crimson robes. Spend time exploring the many facets of Tibetan Buddhism, learning about the inherent spiritual beliefs of this peaceful religion, as well as soaking up the great mountain views. Visit the fascinating Norbulingka Institute which was developed to train Tibetan refugees in skills needed to preserve the traditional arts and crafts of Tibet.

Its peaceful grounds feature a beautiful temple with some amazing spiritual iconography, as well as some ornate statues. The surrounding area is dotted with workshops, where wood carving, metalwork and needlework are done, as well as an interesting thangka painting school where you can watch intricatepieces being created. The Losel Doll Museum features an exhibit of intricately detailed dolls illustrating the traditional clothing and daily life of the people in each region of Tibet, plus displays of religious events and festivals. Take part in a cooking demonstration by a local man who has been conducting these classes for years. Learn to make the popular 'momos', a speciality in Tibetian cuisine. Please check availability with your leader. Hotel - 2 nights

Next we take a tour of Rishikesh, the "Yoga Capital of the World". Here meditation and spirituality are common to see and the Beatles even stayed here in 1968. The area also offers white water rafting and is popular with backpackers alike. Camping - 1 night, Hotel - 1 night (Lx1, Dx1)