If a town set amidst pine, deodar and oak forests, with charming architecture still exuding a colonial air, graceful churches in which you can hear the past whisper and a gentle pace of life, sounds appealing to you, head to Dalhousie, a popular hill station in western Himachal Pradesh. It is located at a distance of approx. 555 km from Delhi.
Dalhousie is a picturesque hill station located in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. It is situated in the Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas and is known for its stunning landscapes, pleasant weather, and colonial charm. Dalhousie was named after Lord Dalhousie, the British Viceroy of India during the 19th century, who was captivated by its beauty.
Tourist Attractions in Dalhousie
Compact and self-contained? Dalhousie, spreading over the hills of Kathiog, Patreyn, Tehra, Bakrota, and Balun, covers just 14 sq km. From its high-altitude setting, Dalhousie offers lovely views of the plains below, through which the river Ravi meanders, a silver thread in a blue-green vista. The snow-covered Pir Panjal range provides a dramatic backdrop.
Slow down, leave your city stress behind and explore the gorgeous town. Begin at its ancient churches - St. Andrew’s Church and St. Patrick’s at Balun, St. Francis Church at Subhash Chowk and St. John's Church at Gandhi Chowk.
Go to Panchpula. three km from Dalhousie. Here you will find a gushing stream that feeds a chain of limpid pools. The Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Himalayan black bear, and ghoral, is well worth a visit. From Dalhousie, you can visit Khajjiar, another beautiful romantic place. A glade, it lies surrounded by thick forests of deodar with the snow-line just above these deep woods. At Khajjiar, you can also visit the 12th-century Khajji Nag temple, famous for its life-size wooden images of the five Pandavas. Chamba is another getaway from Dalhousie enjoy your morning or evening leisure time sitting by the banks of river Ravi.
Khajjiar: Often referred to as the "Mini Switzerland of India," Khajjiar is a beautiful meadow surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped peaks. It is located just a short drive from Dalhousie and offers breathtaking views and opportunities for trekking and picnicking.
Dainkund Peak: It is the highest point in Dalhousie, providing panoramic views of the valley and nearby snow-clad mountains. There is a short hike to reach the peak, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary: Located near Khajjiar, this sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including various species of birds and animals. It's a great place for nature walks and wildlife spotting.
St. John's Church: This colonial-era church is one of the oldest in the region, known for its neo-Gothic architecture and beautiful stained-glass windows.
Panchpula: A picturesque spot known for its natural water springs, Panchpula is a great place for a leisurely walk and a refreshing picnic.
Subhash Baoli: This is a natural spring named after freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose, who is believed to have spent time here contemplating.
Chamera Lake: Located near Dalhousie, Chamera Lake is a man-made reservoir where visitors can enjoy boating and take in the serene surroundings.
Ganji Pahari: A popular trekking spot, Ganji Pahari offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding hills.
NAVIGATOR
Reach - It’s just under 600 km from Delhi to Dalhousie but utterly enjoyable, drive. Break it up with a mid-point stopover, it's your wish.
Stay - Splurge and check into the JK Clarks Exotica which sits amidst dense, green woods.
Eat For affordable food that hits the spot, try Kwality Restaurant in Dalhousie. Hare, you can try a variety of dishes from Chinese to Continental and Indian.