Dalhousie – A beautiful hill station

Dalhousie is a beautiful hill station in Chamba district in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, established by British Empire during their rule in India, Dalhousie served as a summer retreat for British troops and bureaucrats. Built on and around five hills namely Kathalagh, Potreyn, Terah, Bakrota and Bhangora.

The town has been named after Lord Dalhousie who was the British Governor-General of India when the town was established in 1854. Being located on the western end of Dhauladhar mountain range of the Himalayas, the entire place is surrounded by captivating snow-clad mountains.

Also known as the gateway to the Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh, Dalhousie has been one of the most visited hill stations of north India.

Major Attraction in Dalhousie

• Dainkund Peak – Hovering at a height of 2755 meters, Dainkund Peak is the highest peak of Dalhousie. Tourists can enjoy a complete view of the entire valley from this dazzling spot. This hill has also came to be known as ‘Singing Hill’ because of the pleasant sounds of breeze passing through the trees. The enchanting surroundings and picturesque ambience of this place is totally breathtaking. On the top of the hill is an ancient Pholan Devi Temple.

• Chamera Lake – Developed by Chamera Dam on river Ravi at Chourah, Chamera Lake, an artificial Lake is another one of the most popular tourist spots of Dalhousie. Located at a distance of about 30km from Dalhousie, this place is famous for water sports activities.

• Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary – One of the most prominent wildlife sanctuaries of Himachal Pradesh is the Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary. Besides the snow-clad mountains, valleys, villages and the rich greenery, tourists can also enjoy trekking from Dalhousie to Kalatop. Another adventure people enjoy on their visit to their sanctuary is the Jungle Safari. The wildlife which finds their house in the sanctuary includes Leopard, Deer, Serow, Jackal, Langour, Himalayan Black Marten, Squirrel, Barking Goral etc.

• Bara Pathar – On the way to Kalatop is another destination known as Bara Pathar. The place is at a distance of 4km from the General Post Office. Bara Pathar is a temple situated 60 meters ahead of Dalhousie water works. Also close to the temple is a Potato farm which is visited by all those who visit the temple.

• St John Church – Being the oldest church of the town, St. John’s Church holds immense significance in the history and tourism of Dalhousie. It is located amidst the most fascinating surroundings of Dalhousie. Also there is a British style building made up of bricks and wood in the church. Besides, there is a library adjacent to the church which has numerous books stacked and stored in it.

Other eminent and popular tourist spots of Dalhousie are – 

• Bharmour
• Bhuri Singh Museum
• Khajjiar Lake
• Satdhara Falls
• Jhandri Ghat
• Rang Mahal

Accommodation

Having over 600 hotels to suit all types of requirements and budget, Dalhousie has developed as a great hill station to spend holidays. While a distinct feature of the place is that besides the numerous hotels, one can also find a large number of independent villas and bungalows to stay here.

Best time to visit

Dalhousie is an all-year-round holiday destination. Every season in Dalhousie has something to offer to the tourists coming here. Summers that last from March to May are pleasant here. It is an ideal time for sightseeing and relaxing amidst the natural scenic beauty and soothing surroundings of the place.From June to September is the season of rains which brings along mild showers. This is the best time for couples and honeymooners to visit Dalhousie as the place turns all the more romantic and charming. October brings the winter.

How to Reach

Air – While the city does not have an airport of its own, the nearest airports are Pathankot (75km) and Gaggal (140km). Thereafter one can conveniently hire a bus/taxi.

Rail – Travelling by train is the most convenient and economical way to reach Dalhousie. The nearest railway station is Pathankot’s Chakki Bank railhead (71 km). It is well connected by way of express, deluxe and superfast trains with almost all the major towns and cities of the country. Thereafter one can easily hire a shared/private cab to reach Dalhousie.

Road − The roads that connect to Dalhousie are quite well-built and maintained. One can conveniently find state/private transport buses from all the major towns and cities of Himachal Pradesh and also from Delhi to reach this magnificent hill station. Alternatively, one can also self-drive to Dalhousie. The distance from Delhi, the nearest metropolitan is 590 kms (approx.).

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