Dalhousie Sightseeing
About Dalhousie
A tiny hamlet Dalhousie was founded in 1850s by British Viceroy, Lord dalhousie. Dalhousie is perched at at height of 1970 m in the western ranges of Himalaya. It is quite a famous tourist destination for its elegant mansions and churches known for their Scottish and Victorian styled architecture providing majestic views of Dhauladhar Ranges, enchanting pine-clad forests, crystal clear rivers, and enchanting misty – mountains hence making it a must -visit destination in Himachal for every tourist.
Best Time To Visit Dalhousie
To get a cool and pleasant break from scorching summers, months of March, April and May are the perfect months to spend pleasant time in Dalhousie. This is the peak season for tourism in Dalhousie. From the month of June to September, Dalhousie witnesses mild rainfalls hence the perfect time for honeymooners to visit and enjoy the romantic misty weather. There are chances of road blocks owing to occurrence of landslides. To experience the pristine white winters, December and January are the apt months to visit.
Dalhousie Day – Night Temperature
Major Attractions near Dalhousie
Khajjiar
Khajjiar, a heaven for nature lover is situated at a height of 6500 feet in the Chamba district at a distance of around 23 km from Dalhousie and 24 km from Chamba of Himachal. It is often referred to as “Mini-Switzerland” of India. It is a picturesque meadow which is bound to leave and everlasting impression on the tourist owing to the combination of everything one can dream of,for a perfect landscape- deodar forest, lakes, snow – laden mountains and pastures.The meadow also attracts avid adventure seekers for its paragliding, trekking, horse riding ,zorbing etc. Zorbing, which involves rolling downhill from inside a plastic ‘zorb’, is a popular recreational activity during April and May. Khajiar is a not to be missed place for everyone coming to Dalhousie. It attained the name Mini-switzerland because it is one of the 160 places in the world which bear tropical resemblance to Switzerland.
Khajjinag Temple
One of the oldest temples of Himachal Pradesh, the Khaji Nag temple dedicated to Naga,the Lord of serpents. This temple was built in the 12th century. The entire structure is made using wood and patterns of Mughal and Hindu architectural designs cam be seen in this temple.The temple has idols of snakes, Lord Shiva, Goddess Hadimba, as well as hanging images of Pandavas defeating the Kauravas in the battle of Mahabharata.
Kalatop Sanctuary
The term Kalatop means ‘black hat’ which refers to the thick black forest draping the sanctuary.It is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Khajiar.If you get lucky while on a hike, you can spot or even come across Himalayan black marten, jackal, leopard, barking goral, deer, bear or langur.The little streams on you hike in the nature walk is definitely an added bonus to your experience here. The trekking trails offers a pristine pathway into its mesmerizing nature.
Daikund Peak
The highest peak in Dalhousie, mighty Daikund Peak overlooking the snow -clad mountains is a great place to visit near Khajjiar. It hibernates inside a white paradise during winters and comes alive to welcome the tourists during summers. Daikund Peak is definitely a go-to destination in Khajiar.
Satdhara Falls
‘Satdhara’ means seven springs, so as the name suggests, the water in the waterfall brings together the water of seven springs meeting and this beautiful amalgam happens at a height of 2036 m and then falls together bountifully as one. The water in the Satdhara Spring is said to have medicinal properties for it containing mica. It is also known as ‘Gandhak’ which is an ayurvedic medicine used to cure skin diseases. The aura of the place amidst of the fragrance of wet mud and the sound of gushing water is awe-strucking and a sight to behold.
Shopping in Dalhousie
Dalhousie market offers a colorful blend of Modern India and Old time’s charm.Located in the Gandhi Chaunk, Tibetian Market is the best place to buy handicrafts, and souvenirs for your home.
Bakrota Hills
The highest area in Dalhousie known as Bakrota Hills or Upper Bakrota is circled by a road called Bakrota walk which leads to Khajjiar. This is not a particular tourist attraction but from the hustles and bustle of city, this is the perrfect location for a stroll to amaze you with its surroundings or morning walk to view the beautiful sunset amongst the enchanting mountains.
St. Francis Church
St. Francis Church is the perfect attraction to steal some serenity and calmness within the city. Built in the year 1894, this church is said to be the oldest and most beautiful one in the town. It was funded entirely by the army and civilians of the town. The beautiful belgium glass found here is a unique sight to behold.
Chamera Lake
A perfect location for honeymooners to spend some quality time in a serene atmosphere is the artificial Chamera Lake and the site of Chamera dam. It is located in the outskirts of Dalhousie and receives a continuous supply of water from Ravi river.
Panchpula/Panjpulla
Panchpulla as the name suggests is a waterfall where five streams come together and unite into one and falls magnanimously. A sight to behold, Panchpulla is known for trekking amidst its tall and green Deodar trees and a beautiful trail. A monument in the memory of revolutionaist Sardar Ajit Singh who was the uncle of Martr Bhagat Singh is built here.