Dalhousie Tourism & Travel - Know Before you Go!

Dalhousie Tour & Travel Guide at WeAreHolidays

Named after Viceroy General Lord Dalhousie, Dalhousie is a tiny hill station but one of the prettiest in Himachal. Bearing significant influence of colonial architecture, it takes you back to the days of the Raj. Spread over five separate hills - Kathalagh, Potreyn, Terah, Bakrota and Bhangora, the place is full of tall deodars, pines and oaks. And to top it all, the snowy peaks of the Pir Panjal range in the distance provide a perfect backdrop to the town. Dalhousie is for those who are seeking a peaceful holiday, a break from city life, or anyone who loves the mountains.

Local Language

Pahari, Hindi, English, Tibetan are the languages most spoken here.

Zorbing

A thrilling adventure sport, the organizers wrap you in a cushioned plastic ball known as an orb and roll you down a hill. It is very popular, and if you want to try it head for Khajjiar.

Walking

Dalhousie is a paradise for nature lovers and people who love to walk. The winding trails, the thickets of pines and deodars, the cool breeze, the placid streams and the quiet atmosphere could do wonders to a tired soul.

Horse Riding

This is another popular activity that people indulge in at Dalhousie.

Saatdhara

As the name suggests is the point where seven streams flow. These streams are rich in mica content and are hence considered therapeutic.

Kalatop Wildlife Reserve

Kalatop has been named so because the vegetation here is extremely dense (there are claims it is the densest in the country) so much that even sun rays cannot penetrate the trees. On a diversion from the road that leads to Khajjiar, this sanctuary is an ideal place for people who enjoy adventure walks. You may not get to see many wild animals but the experience is eerily enjoyable. Dainkund, which offers great view of the valleys of Chenab, Beas and the Ravi rivers, as well as Bara Pathar and Lakkarmandi lie within this reserve. There is a time limit of 2 hours for each group, to visit Kalatop.

Ganji Pahadi

It derives its name from the bald patch that this hill top sports. The walk upto this can be a little tedious but is totally worth all the effort.

Upper Bakrota

The highest point in Dalhousie, it offers a beautiful view of the mountains. It is one of the most popular picnic spots here. A rich variety of wild flowers, trees, shrubs and grasses make this a treat to walk through.

Khajjiar

It derives its name from the ancient Khajinag temple. Known as the 'Switzerland of India', Khajjiar is a lush meadow, with fantastic Himalayan peaks in the backdrop. It almost feels as if the pines trees here as so tall that they can touch the skies.

When in Dalhousie, you must try the 'momo's available all over the hill station. Also, although there are a number of small restuarants in this town, the restaurants run by the hotels are usually much better. Kwality restaurant is one of the oldest in town and serves some great dosa and Indian food.

Summers are pleasant with warm afternoons. It might get chilly at night, so it is advisable to carry light woolens. Winters are cold, temperatures often drop down to freezing point, hence if you are visiting during that time, make sure you carry lots of warm clothes.

When To visit

The months from March - August are quite pleasant and it'll be a good idea to visit Dalhousie then.

Air

The closest airport is in Pathankot, approximately 75 kilometres from Dalhousie. From here, you can take a cab to the hill station.

Rail

The closest railhead is Pathankot or Chakki Bank. Dalhousie lies a three hour drive away, via a road that takes you through meadows and up the mountains.

Road

There are buses and taxis from Dharamshala, Kangra and New Delhi.

There are dozens of small shops in the main market, but it is the Tibetan market that is the most popular. Colourful as always, it has all kinds of knicknacks, electronics and toys and imported goods from across the border. There is a Tibetan Handicraft Centre on the way to Khajjiar. It has great carpets and other handicrafts.

Dharamshala

Home to the Holy Dalai Lama,. Dharamsala is arguably the most important Budhist centre in India. A popular destination, there are a number of tourists who visit it not just for a spiritual connection but also for the largely unspoilt beauty of the surroundings.

Vaishno Devi

Who hasn' heard of Vaishno Devi! Approximately 142 kilometres from Dalhousie, the cave temple is one of the most important pilgrim centres in the country and is renowned even internationally. Dedicated to goddess Vaishnodevi, this fabulous shrine allures millions of devotees from all over the world. Although it lies in the middle of snow clad mountain ranges, a largely pleasant climate and lovely natural surroundings, coupled with a deep sense of devotion and faith helps the devotees to mount the tedious journey have a darshan.

Jammu

One of the most important cities in J&K, Jammu is known for its ancient temples, imposing palaces and historically renowned places. Gauri Kund Temple, Bahu fort, Amar mahal, Surinsat Lake, Mubarak Mandi Palace complex, Gadhadharji Temple, Dogra Art museum are some of the main attractions here.