Named after the British viceroy Lord Dalhousie in 1850s, Dalhousie is surrounded by pine-clad valleys and spread over the five hills at the foot of Dhauladhar mountain ranges. Today also, the atmosphere of the place will remind you of the British and what they left in this hill station for tourists to see. You will find the town have neatly planned streets, colonial and Victorian style architecture in the midst of the lush green surroundings and snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas in the backdrop. If you are a nature lover and wish to spend a few days in a serene and peaceful atmosphere, in the middle of Himalayas, then Dalhousie is the best place to visit.
Best time to visit
Summer is the best to visit as the skies are clear and the weather is also moderate making it the best time for tourists to visit and enjoy the scenic view of nature. Apart from summer, you can visit Dalhousie anytime as you wish. If you wish to experience the snowfall, you can go in the winters and enjoy the chilly nights and bonfires. During the monsoons, the slow drizzling of rain creates a romantic and serene mood.
How to reach?
Dalhousie is well-connected by roads. You can have a road trip from Shimla, Delhi, etc. the nearest airport is Gaggal Airport (Kangra) which is 110 km away and the railway station is Pathankot, 87 km away.
Top attractions in and around Dalhousie
Bakrota Hills
The mesmerizing sight of snow-capped mountains glistening like diamonds at Bakrota Hills will leave you astonished. Covered with deodar forests where you can go trekking or can take a walk in the middle of the hills. This place is worth seeing.
Satdhara Falls
Situated in the Chamba valley with lush green landscapes, snow-covered mountains, trees touching the fog tinted sky in the backdrop, is this stunning Satdhara falls. Satdhara means 'a blend of seven streams'. You can plan a day picnic with your family over here. It is a prominent tourist spot.
Chamera Lake
An artificial lake at the outskirts of Dalhousie. It is a sight to behold. The lake receives water from river Ravi all-round the year and is a perfect place to do all the water sports and adventures like canoeing, kayaking, fishing, etc. You can come around during the evening to enjoy a beautiful sunset and peaceful surroundings.
St. John’s Church
Built around 1863, it is the oldest church in the town. Beautiful paintings of St. Peter and St. Francis adorns the chapel of the church. The church is a part of the colonial heritage of the town.
Khajjiar
Known as the mini Switzerland of India, is a small town at a short distance from Dalhousie. Surrounded by thick deodar and pine trees. The natural beauty and the picturesque landscapes of this place attract tourists. While you are in Khajjiar, you can visit the Khajji Nag temple that dates back to the 12th century AD.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary
Take a walk through the coniferous trees in the midst of the mountains and explore this fascinating wildlife sanctuary. It is a perfect destination for nature and animal lovers and for those who love trekking can go to one in the middle of the forests. Explore the exotic flora and fauna like the Himalayan black bear, leopard, ghoral deer, monal pheasant, and others. Capture every Kodak moment.
Dainkund Peak
It is often termed as singing peak due to winds which softly strikes the chords of the woods at Dainkund. The sight of the peak through the fog-tinted sky is mesmerizing. The major attraction is the core of the valley which belongs to the Indian Air Force. Visit this magnificent peak and relish the beautiful gifts of nature.
Dalhousie is a charismatic hill station in the midst of the trees and mountains which offers its tourist the best views of nature one can ever see.