A Tapestry of Unforgettable Moments

A Family Journey Through the Heart of Punjab and Himachal

The winter of 2024 was not just a vacation for our family; it was a sensory journey that began with a drive into the heart of Punjab. Our journey from Noida started at night, and the drive to Amritsar was an ethereal experience. The landscape, shrouded in a thin, cold fog, was a mystical blur, a prelude to the sacred and grand experiences awaiting us.

We started early from our home in Noida and soon needed to stop for breakfast. Our favourite Sukhdev Dhaba at Murthal never fails to deliver the crispiest and fluffiest paneer parathas accompanied by a gigantic dollop of white butter. This heavy yet delightful fill ensured that we didnn't need to stop for a bite till we reach Amritsar, a beautiful drive of a little over 10 hours.

Our first stop in Amritsar was a pilgrimage to the Golden Temple. As we approached, its golden dome shimmered in the beautiful sunset light, casting a mesmerizing glow on the tranquil 'Sarovar' (holy tank). The atmosphere was one of profound peace and devotion. We also paid our respects at Jallianwala Bagh and experienced the powerful Beating Retreat ceremony at the Attari Border, an electric display of patriotic fervor.

Golden Temple, Amristar

From the plains, our journey took us to the mountains, and our first destination was Dalhousie. Our stay at the Snow Valley Hotel was perfect, offering us a sanctuary with breathtaking views of the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal ranges.

The view was a constant source of inspiration. The true highlight of our Dalhousie experience was the day trip to Khajjiar. The drive was a snowy wonderland, with large patches of thick snow covering the ground. Our car, with its solid traction control, handled the slippery roads with poise, a stark contrast to the local taxis that drove with effortless skill.

Khajjiar itself was pure magic. It was the perfect setting for a long, beautiful walk, where we photographed birds, had hot Maggi and chai, and played with a fat, friendly puppy in the snow.

Our final leg was the short drive to McLeodganj. The change in scenery was gradual yet distinct, and soon the colonial charm gave way to the vibrant energy of Tibetan culture. We immersed ourselves in the local life, enjoying the bustling markets and serene monasteries. Our culinary exploration continued with a focus on the Tibetan fare.

A definite highlight was our visit to the Namgyal Monastery, the main Tibetan Buddhist monastery in exile. Its beauty was captivating, and we felt a profound sense of peace within its sacred walls. Another truly memorable stop was the Norbulingka Institute. This monastery was a different kind of beautiful, showcasing traditional Tibetan art and culture. The intricate craftsmanship was awe-inspiring, and we enjoyed a quiet, reflective walk through its grounds. After our visit, we found ourselves at the Norbunkla Cafe within the complex, and the pizzas there were nothing short of amazing—a delicious, unexpected treat that perfectly complemented the day's spiritual journey.

Norbulinka Monastery, Dharamshala

We also made the drive to Dharamshala, where we visited the world's highest cricket stadium. Standing in the stands, surrounded by the towering, snow-dusted mountains, it was easy to get lost in imagination. I could almost hear the roar of the crowds and the chants of "Kohli, Kohli!" It was awe-inspiring to imagine two legends of Indian cricket, Virat Kohli and Dhoni, walking out to bat in a setting so majestic. We considered taking the ropeway from McLeodganj to Dharamshala, but after some thought, we decided it was a bit overpriced and didn't offer the value we were looking for. We were glad we stuck to the scenic drive instead.

But the true revelation of our trip was discovering the bohemian soul of Dharamkot, the so-called "Israeli village." A short walk uphill from McLeodganj, Dharamkot feels like a world away, a unique blend of Himalayan tranquility and Middle Eastern vibrancy. We savored authentic Israeli delicacies like creamy hummus, crisp falafel, and flavorful shakshuka in the charming cafes. The music scene was as vibrant as its food, with impromptu jam sessions and talented musicians creating an electric atmosphere.

And then came the final leg of our trip, the drive back home. The journey was smooth until we hit Jalandhar. As evening descended, a thick, heavy fog began to roll in, blanketing the highway and reducing visibility to almost nothing. The smart decision was to stop. We pulled off the highway and found a hotel in Jalandhar to stay for the night. This unexpected stop, while a slight delay, turned into its own mini-adventure. It was a moment of true road trip reality, a reminder that in winter, you must always be prepared for the whims of nature. We settled into our temporary home, grateful to be safe and warm, and enjoyed a quiet evening, a peaceful pause before the final drive home the next morning when the fog had lifted.

This trip was a beautiful journey of contrasts: from the spiritual sanctity of the Golden Temple to the patriotic energy of the Attari border; from the serene, snowy vistas of Khajjiar to the lively, multicultural streets of McLeodganj; and from the planned travel to the unplanned, foggy overnight in Jalandhar. It was a perfect holiday that gave Anuradha, Aratrika, and me memories to last a lifetime.