If you wish to mesmerize yourself with the beauty that nature hides within itself, a Dalhousie travel is something you should plan for.
It is an amazing location with raw natural beauty and unprecedented greenery and forest. Also, you have places like Khajjiar and Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary in the vicinity, What else would any nature explorer want?
If you’re planning a trip to Dalhousie, here’s a handy guide to help you make the most of your vacation.
Dalhousie is a picturesque hill station located in the northern state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Nestled amidst the majestic Dhauladhar mountain range, Dalhousie is known for its serene surroundings, colonial-style architecture, and panoramic views of the Himalayas.
How to reach Dalhousie
1. By Bus
Traveling by bus is the cheapest option of all. Dalhousie is very well-connected to cities like Chamba, Amritsar, and Shimla, the exceptional bus services that are given by the State transport departments and private tour operators make a Dalhousie visit by bus a pleasurable one.
2. By Train
The second cheapest option is to travel by train. There are however no direct trains to Dalhousie. One needs to reach Pathankot which is the nearest railway terminal from Dalhousie and then the tourists can hire a taxi or bus that is regularly available from Pathankot to Dalhousie. It takes around 2 hours (87 KM) to reach Dalhousie from Pathankot by cab or car.
3. By Flight
Though air journeys are the most comfortable, there is no separate Dalhousie airport and no direct flights to Dalhousie. How to reach Dalhousie by flight then is not a tough task as the nearby cities have excellent facilities to reach Dalhousie. The nearest airport is Gaggal in Kangra district and Amritsar, and Jammu also other nearby terminals.
4. By Car/Cab
Planning a delightful Dalhousie travel can be easily pulled off by making a trip to Dalhousie by car. With well-maintained roads, one can easily reach Dalhousie as it is well-connected with major cities of the country. There are also other options such as taking a Dalhousie car rental from various private tourist houses to help one with cherishing the scenic locations of Dalhousie.
What is the best time to visit Dalhousie?
You can visit Dalhousie throughout the year. The only month which can be avoided due to monsoon is mid-July to Late August.
Dalhousie in summer
The weather is really good in summer and can provide you with a good respite from the severe heat in northern India.
Dalhousie in winter
Winters are chilling and it often starts snowing by the end of December.
Top places to visit when in Dalhousie
1. Khajjiar
Most likely that you would have already seen Khajjiar. This location has been used so many times in movies that you can often recall this destination with a breathtaking landscape view.
There is a reason Khajjiar is called the Mini-Switzerland in India. This is a destination that will be instantly recommended to you whenever you travel to Dalhousie. Khajjiar is a 21.7 KM drive from Dalhousie.
2. Kalatop wildlife sanctuary
Not many people know about this beautiful place near Khajjiar. Kalatop is actually a wildlife sanctuary where you go up to the forest rest house. The rest house is situated approximately 3 KM from the gate. You can stay in the rest house at quite a reasonable price.
There is also a jungle walk to Khajjiar from here which is 12 KM of the awe-inspiring jungle and the adventure of a lifetime. Adventure seekers and true nature lovers must visit the place at least once
3. Sach Pass
In all accounts, Sach pass is again one of the great destinations near Dalhousie and Khajjiar. It is approximately 70 KM from the district headquarter of Chamba. It is under 100 KM travel from Dalhousie. Sach pass is raw nature at its best. Snow-capped landscape with streams of water bodies and breathtaking views.
This place, however, is for extreme adventure travelers and you would need an SUV to conquer the treacherous roads. Do not expect urban amenities near this lap of the nature destination. It is, however, worth going for what it offers. Nature in its truest form.
Things to Do in Dalhousie
- Take a stroll through the charming streets of Dalhousie and marvel at the colonial-style buildings and houses.
- Visit Khajjiar Lake and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. You can also go for a horse ride or take a walk along the lake.
- Head to the Dainkund Peak for breathtaking views of the Himalayas. You can either hike up to the peak or take a taxi from Dalhousie.
- Visit St. John’s Church, an old church built in the 19th century. The church is a popular tourist attraction and offers beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.
- Go for a nature walk through the forests surrounding Dalhousie and spot a variety of flora and fauna.
- Take a walk through Mall Road and shop
Where to Stay in Dalhousie
Dalhousie has a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets. If you’re looking for luxury, you can stay at one of the many 5-star hotels in the area. For more budget-friendly options, there are plenty of guesthouses and homestays available.
Where to Eat in Dalhousie
Dalhousie has a range of restaurants and cafes offering a variety of cuisines. If you’re looking for local Himachali food, don’t miss out on the famous Madra dish, made with lentils and spices. There are also several bakeries in Dalhousie that serve delicious pastries and cakes.
Dalhousie is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and experience the beauty of nature. With its charming streets, stunning views, and peaceful surroundings, Dalhousie is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
