When To Travel Attractions Hotels How To Reach
Dalhousie is named after Lord Dalhousie who founded this small charming town in 1854. He was attracted by the peaceful ambiance and natural setting of Dalhousie. Soon this small hill resort in Himachal Pradesh became a summer retreat for Britishers in India. The tradition has followed till date as people travel Dalhousie to escape the ruthless summer of India.
Dalhousie has a natural setting that will win over your heart. Traveling to Dalhousie feels like strolling around in haven. The town is nestled in the backdrop of majestic Himalayan mountains, snow-capped Pir Panjal range to be precise with pine and deodar tree forest surrounding the hill resort. Beautiful valleys and breathtaking waterfalls are icing on the cake. It is enough to attract any nature lover to travel Dalhousie.
The town itself is wonderful. It is a nice fitting to the beautiful natural setting. Dalhousie is place for people looking for some peace. Whether you are looking to recreate romance in your life or just tired of city noise, Dalhousie is the place for you. Honeymooners always had a soft spot for Dalhousie. Despite the emergence of several honeymoon destinations in India, Dalhousie still rules the heart of romantic couples. A romantic stroll through the streets of Dalhousie is as romantic as taking a gondola ride in Venice.
Well it's not all about romance, Dalhousie is also recommended as a health resort. The fresh air mixed with perfume of trees and flowers is enough to rejuvenate your body and mind. Not to mention that families can also have fun in Dalhousie. There are several picnic spots in Dalhousie at your service alternatively you can go for easy family hiking. There is just plenty to see and do in Dalhousie.
WHEN TO VISIT
Dalhousie is a summer retreat where you should visit between April and August. Summer vacations in school is ideal time to travel Dalhousie. However if you are in love with snow, months of December and January may suit you as well. The town remains less crowded during winter and it looks picture perfect in the blanket of snow.
TOURIST ATTRACTIONS
Khajjiar - This valley was identified as mini Switzerland by the Swiss ambassador to India. Khajjiar is located 22km from Dalhousie. It is the most popular day trip from Dalhousie. This small town is covered with forest making it a beautiful and well worthy place to visit. The main attraction here is the Khajiang temple, an 12th century shrine dedicated to Hindu goddess. Horse riding and Zorbing are other popular activities in Khajjiar.
Satdhara Falls - At a height of 2036 meter, Satdhara Falls is a treat for the tourists. It lies on the way to Panchpula. Satdhara is named after its seven springs which believed to possess medical ability. The water of these springs can cure several skin diseases.
St. Francis Church - The church is located on the Subhash Chowk, the most crowded area of Dalhousie. The beautiful glass work of the church is classic example of British architecture. It was built in 1894.
St. Patrick's Church - The biggest church in Dalhousie region with capacity of more than 300, St. Patrick's Church was constructed with the help of British soldiers during British Raj in India. The weekly service at the church on Sunday is attended by tourists in mass. It is located 2km from main bus stand of Dalhousie. Ideally you can cover, Church of Scotland and St. Patrick's Church is one visit.
St. John's Church - Easily the oldest church in Chamba region, St. John's Church is a well maintained church in Dalhousie. The main attraction of the church is well maintained library that contain books about the history and Chamba region and British Era in India. On display are some rare photographs from the British Era.
Church of Scotland - Founded in 1903, Church of Scotland is one of the rare churches in India that are built in Scottish architecture. Mostly Churches in India are made in Portuguese, Italian and British architecture. Church of Scotland is a rare sight. The church has been renamed to St. Andrew's Church. It is 1.5 km from Dalhousie.
Bhuri Singh Museum - The museum is named after great local ruler, Bhuri Singh who was the ruler of Chamba district of Himachal Pradesh. He actively contributed several of his precious paintings and other family belonging to the museum. The other main exhibit of the museum is culture of Chamba. This dedicated section showcase traditional costumes, paintings and jewelry from this region.
Rang Mahal - Once official residence of Raja Umed Singh is now a famous shopping center. Rang Mahal is located few km from Dalhousie in Surara Mohalla. It is a rare architectural marvel. Never before any palace in India was built in combination of Mughal and British architecture that too by a Hindu ruler. The walls of the Mahal feature paintings showcasing Krishnaleela. The palace has been turned into Emporium by the Himachal government. Tourists visit the palace to buy local hand-made shawls, footwear, handkerchief and much more.
Chamunda Devi Temple - As the name suggest it is dedicated to Goddess Kali, the destructer. Hindu believe that Goddess Ambika killed two demon at this very place some thousand of years ago. However temple is not more than 700 years old. Devotees line up to pay obeisance at the temple during the summer.
Hariraya Temple - Standing next to the Central Park of Chamba, the Hariraya Temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. It is from same era as the Lord Jagannath Puri temple. According to some archeologists, both temples were built around the same period. The temple is carved out of a stone in a very rare Shikhara style. You won't find many temples left in India of Shikhara style.
Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary - The main wildlife reserve in the Chamba district, Kalatop is located 6km from Dalhousie. It can easily be covered in a day trip from Dalhousie. The entire sanctuary is dominated by deodar and pine trees. It is home to several wildlife species such as leopard, langur, bear, deer etc.
PanchPula - This place is a gift of nature to the Chamba district. PanchPula means five bridge. It's a scenic place where you can enjoy the best of nature like snow peaked mountains, thick forest and several small but delightful waterfall. Consider PanchPula as an ideal picnic spot in the region.
HOTELS IN DALHOUSIE
There are variety of accommodation options available at Dalhousie. You can stay at Guest house, some of which are maintained by Himachal Tourism Department. Several tourist bungalows and houses are also on offer but they tend to be very expensive.
As far as hotels are concerned, there are plenty of hotels in Dalhousie, ranging from budget to mid range. There aren't high-end hotels in Dalhousie. Most of the hotels are soft on the pocket. If you are coming during peak tourist season, please book the hotel in advance, else you won't find much choices to choose from. Some best hotels in Dalhousie are Hotel Pearl, Mongas Hotel, Hotel Dalhousie Heights, Kumars Hotel Dalhousie and Alps Spa Resort. Here is the complete list of hotels in Dalhousie.
HOW TO REACH
By Air - Due to absence of airport in Dalhousie, your best options are Pathankot (75)km and Jammu (180)km. Both airports have frequent flights from Delhi. On reaching these destinations you can take a taxi or bus to Dalhousie.
By Train - The nearest railway station is at Pathankot. You can take Delhi-Chakki Bank or Delhi-Pathankot train. Both are overnight trains that reach Pathankot in 10 hours. From railway station you can take taxi or bus to Dalhousie. The taxi would take around 2-3 hours while bus would take little more time but would be cheaper.
By Bus - Himachal Pradesh Road Transportation connects Dalhousie to major cities in Himachal like Dharamshala, Shimla, Kangra, Khajjiar, Chamba etc.
