Places To Visit In Dalhousie

Introduction

Nestled in the lap of Dhauladhar ranges of Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh this charming hill town of Dalhousie was named after the famous British governor Lord Dalhousie. This serene hill town, flooded by lush green mountains, glistening rivers, cool mountain breeze and a colonial architecture has a wonderful natural beauty and has been able to preserve its vintage charm over the course of time. The tranquil charm of this quaint hill town spreads over five hills namely- Bakrota, Tehra, Kathlog, Potreyn and Balun. Due to its picturesque snow- capped mountains, scenic views, Victorian Style majestic British mansions this natural beauty over the time has come to be popularly known as the Switzerland of India. Every year thousands of tourists visit Dalhousie for a refreshing break from the maddening city life and also because of its old- world charm and pristine air. Whether you are looking for an adventurous, relaxing vacation or want to admire natural and wildlife beauty, Dalhousie is a one stop vacation stop for all of your desires. Here, have a look at the various places you can explore here!

Video Of Dalhousie

1. Panchpula

Located at a distance of 2- 3 kms from Dalhousie, “Panch pulla” is one of the most beautiful place to visit. Literally meaning “Five Bridges”, it is a mother stream that flows through various parts of Dalhousie, blending and adding on water to several other water bodies. Owing to its treasure of torrential waterfalls, gushing streams and panoramic views of hills and forests surrounding the area, Panchpulla is one of the most loved tourist spots. Originating from the north of Dayakund, the place is popular for its mesmeric vistas and refreshing as well as rejuvenating climate. The place also holds historical significance and has a samadhi built as a tribute to the great revolutionary, Sardar Ajit Singh. The best time to visit this gorgeous place is during the monsoon season when the waterfall and the streams are gushing with full force of water and therefore being a treat to the eyes. A paradise for nature lovers, Panch pulla is also greets those people who have a adventurous streak in them.

Panchpula

2. Khajjiar

Situated at the foothills of Dhauladhar range of the western Himalayas, at a distance of 16 km from Dalhousie, Khajjiar is a beautiful hill station surrounded by a thick cover of deodar and pine trees with the majestic snow- capped Himalayas in the backdrop. Sporting a small plateau and a freshwater lake, Khajjiar is a preferred vacation spot among the tourists. The khajjiar lake adds on the natural beauty of this little town, make it a frequented picnic spot for friends and families. A rare combination of three ecosystems- Lake, Pasture and Forests, Khajjiar offers a variety of activities like Paragliding, Zorbing, Horse- Riding and Trekking. There is an old 12^th century Khajji Naga Temple having some ancient snake idols and images depicting the battle of Mahabharata. This place definitely is a not to miss vacation destination.

Also Read – Best Places To Visit In Mount Abu

Khajjiar

3. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

Spread over an area of 20 square kilometres, “Kalatop Wildlife Santuary” is among the best wildlife sanctuaries in Himachal Pradesh. Located at a distance of approximately 12 km enroute to “Khajjiar” from “Dalhousie” is one of the most popular places to visit in Dalhousie. The shadow of the stunning snow- clad peaks and the lush green dense oak, blue pine, deodar and coniferous trees provide a heavenly aura to the place. This nature and wildlife paradise is not only a home to a vast variety of wild residents like jackals, langurs, barking gorals, deer, bears and Himalayan black martens but also to countless colourful birds. The beautiful crystal- clear river Ravi that flows nearby not only provide the water supply to the park but also adds on to its picturesque beauty. Apart from the scenic beauty and lush terrain of the place, activities like wildlife spotting, jungle safaris, bird watching and nature photography attracts most of the tourists.

Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary

4. Dainkund Peak

Popularly known as the “Singing Hill”, Dainkund Peak is perched at a height of 2755 metres above sea level, thus making it the highest peak in Dalhousie and a frequented vacation spot among adventure enthusiasts and trekkers. The place offers refreshing views of the green hills, valleys and plains making the experience more memorable for its visitors. But the thing that makes this place stand out is the tale of the three rivers that this place tells, in other words, the enchanting view of the three rivers- Chenab, Ravi and Beas that weave through the greens below and enhance the beauty of the place manifolds. Even if you are not fond of trekking then you can easily hire a taxi to reach to the top. Once you reach the top focus your ears on listening the musical symphony created by the breeze flowing through trees and hills thus justifying the name “Singing Hills”. Before descending the peak make sure you offer your prayers at a small ancient temple dedicated to “Phoolan Devi”. Don’t even think of not going to this place during your visit to Dalhousie because you’ll surely be missing out on a great experience.

Dainkund Peak

5. St. John’s Church

This aesthetically beautiful chapel stands tall right at the heart of the main city centre. A trip to Dalhousie without seeing this gorgeous historical “St. John’s Church” is an incomplete trip. Holding the status of being the first chapel to be built in the city, the architecture holds a striking resemblance to the Roman Catholic’s Church of England. Inside the chapel one can see and appreciate some exotic stained- glass paintings while for the exterior there are the beautiful snowy Dhauladhar peaks as the backdrop to add on to the charm of the church. There is a library housed in the building where one can find collection of some rare books and pictures depicting the colonial history of the place. There are special prayer services held especially on Sundays, so even if you are not much of the religious kind then make sure to visit the place at least once to enjoy the peace, quietness and solace of this secret site.

St. John’s Church

Conclusion

Dalhousie is a place holding in many surprises and secrets hidden for all of its visitors to see and explore. Make sure you visit all these place and don’t forget to share your experience with us. So get, set and go and have a great trip in the hills!

Map Of Dalhousie