Offbeat Himachal – Toy Train, Apple Orchard and Trails
A journey through mountain rails, apple orchards and Himalayan trails.
Most travellers pass through Himachal. This trip goes into it.
The experience is anchored by the rhythmic charm of the UNESCO Toy Train, winding through pine‑clad ridges and mountain mist at a pace that feels less like transit and more like arrival. This is a journey that trades crowded malls for the deep, quiet soul of the mountains.
The road leads to Thanedar—barely on the tourist map, and all the better for it. Walk orchard rows with the families who tend them, pluck apples straight from the tree, and find the secluded Tani Jubbar lake before the crowds do. The journey peaks at Hatu Peak, where a carved wooden temple crowns the summit and a Himalayan panorama asks only that you stand still and look.
Unhurried by design. Himalayan by nature.
Spaces are few, and the season is short. Join us in the hills while the apples are still on the trees.
Can’t Make Our Dates?
Can’t make our scheduled dates? If you have a group of eight or more, we can organise this exact experience for you on your preferred dates. It’s the perfect itinerary for family reunions, milestone celebrations, or getaways with friends.
Flexible & Customised Itineraries
Looking for a more personalised touch? From boutique luxury stays to special activity inclusions, our travel experts can craft a bespoke itinerary tailored precisely to your interests.
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UNESCO Toy Train Ride: Scenic rail journey through Barog—pine forests, stone viaducts and tunnel‑cut views that feel timeless.
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Thanedar Experience: Stay in the birthplace of Himalayan apples, surrounded by expansive working orchards and estate living.
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Hatu Peak Vistas: 360-degree views of the snow-clad Greater Himalayas from an altitude of 3,400 meters.
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Orchard Harvesting: A hands-on experience learning about apple farming and participating in the harvest.
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Serene Trails: Quiet walks to the cedar‑fringed Tani Jubbar “nag” lake—perfect for easy forest time and birding.
Day 1: Arrival in Chandigarh – Drive to Barog
Assemble at Chandigarh and begin your journey with a curated breakfast at a specially selected spot en route, offering a perfect introduction to the region's warm hospitality. After breakfast, we leave the plains behind and begin our ascent into the Shivalik foothills. Our destination is Barog, a serene hill station nestled amidst thick pine and oak forests. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and spend a relaxed afternoon acclimatising. The evening is yours to relax, settle in, and enjoy the cool mountain air.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 2: The Toy Train Journey to Shimla – Drive to Thanedar
Today, we board the legendary Kalka-Shimla Toy Train (KLK SML Express / Train No. 52459) from Barog station at 9:00 AM, arriving in Shimla by 12:20 PM. This slow, beautiful ride takes you through historic tunnels and over high mountain bridges, evoking a nostalgic sense of how travellers first journeyed to the hills. After reaching Shimla, we will enjoy a delicious lunch before meeting our vehicles. From here, we drive further up into the mountains to Thanedar. This beautiful town is the historic heart of the region's apple belt, and your stay tonight is nestled right in the middle of peaceful fruit orchards.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 3: Apple Orchards & Colonial Heritage
We begin our morning walking through beautiful, fruit-laden apple estates. You will walk between rows of trees, hear the fascinating story of how apples transformed this region, and even try your hand at picking and sorting fruit alongside local farmers.
After a relaxed lunch, we pivot to the area's rich history. We will visit a historic local church and explore the famous Grandma Stokes House, learning about the legacy of the family that first introduced delicious American apples to these hills. It is a perfect, relaxed day to experience the local lifestyle and heritage firsthand.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 4: Hatu Peak Views & Tani Jubbar Lake
This morning, we take a scenic drive straight up to Hatu Peak (no long trekking required). Winding through thick forests of oak and pine, our vehicle brings us right near the 11,200-foot summit. Here, we will explore the beautifully carved wooden Hatu Mata Temple—steeped in ancient Mahabharata folklore—and take in breathtaking 360-degree views of the snowy Himalayan peaks.
After a gentle stroll and photos at the summit, we head down to Tani Jubbar Lake. Cradled by tall cedar trees, this quiet lakeside shrine is perfect for a peaceful walk and light bird watching.
Next, we head into the village for a delicious lunch at a local café, sampling authentic Himachali flavours. The rest of your afternoon and evening are completely at leisure to relax at the resort before a warm, hearty dinner.
(Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
Day 5: Drive back to Chandigarh for Departure
After a final breakfast overlooking the valley, we begin our drive back down to Chandigarh. We aim to reach the airport or station by late afternoon, saying goodbye to the mountains and heading home with plenty of stories and a bit of that fresh hillside air still with us.
(Meals included: Breakfast and Lunch)
Travel Arrangements to and from Chandigarh:
When booking your travel, please plan to arrive in Chandigarh by 8:00 AM on the first day.
For your return journey, please book your flight or train from Chandigarh for any time after 7:00 PM on the last day.
If you’re having trouble finding the right flights or need help with bookings, just let us know. Our team is happy to help you figure it out!
What is included in the tour
- Surface transport in a comfortable AC vehicle from Ex-Chandigarh.
- Accommodation on a Twin-sharing or Triple-sharing basis in boutique hotels and orchard retreats.
- All meals as mentioned in the itinerary.
- One-way Toy Train tickets from Barog to Shimla.
- Guided walks through the apple orchards.
- Excursion and permit fees for Hatu Peak and Tani Jubbar Lake.
- All park permit fees and local guide charges.
What is NOT included in the tour
- Any Airfare or train tickets to reach Chandigarh.
- Personal expenditure of any kind (Porterage, Telephone, Laundry, room service, etc.).
- Tips to drivers, guides, and hotel staff.
- Expenses that are incurred due to reasons beyond the control of the organisers.
- Camera fees or charges levied by any local department.
- Anything not specifically mentioned under ‘Charges include’.
- Goods and Services Tax (GST).
