All who wander are not lost....maybe overwhelmed, though

Namaste all,

I have about five days before I need to be back in delhi after a week in rishikesh starting Oct 19th. Return to Delhi 23rd to visit Jaipur/Agra/Vrindivan/Mathura.

Looking for places to visit when I leave rishikesh. Originally considered Leh, but this will cost a bit to fly from delhi and eat an entire day getting acclimated.Sooo, I am considering other options.

I am happy to get away from the touts and tourists and see smaller villages. I am interested in learning more about indian and tibetan culture/religion. I like to eat good food and I like to see beautiful places and meet beautiful people.(inner beauty, that is)

Any thoughts or suggestions on places not to miss my first time based on my interests would be greatly appreciated!!
Thanks for all your patience as I try to plan for something that will hopefully teach me to let go a little!

There are lots of Tibentas in both Dharamsala and Manali... as well as great views of the Himalayas.

Thanks wonderwomanusa,
I don't know if I should hire a driver to go from rishikesh to there or not. no idea how long it takes to get there by car. maybe i could use the train?

There may be more direct buses than trains; you'll have to do some research.