Let us tell you that this hill station was one of the favorite places of the British during summer, due to which the majestic Victorian style is visible in this area. Dalhousie is a one of its kind quaint town away from the crowded cities of the country which makes you feel in the lap of nature and offers a pollution free environment.
If you are going to visit Himachal Pradesh or its nearby places, then you must visit this natural beauty city of Dalhousie and its surrounding places.

History Of Dalhousie

The city of Dalhousie was established in 1854 by the Viceroy – Lord Dalhousie, which was a special place to escape the British heat. Due to the peaceful climate and pleasant weather, this place was a vacation spot for the British. The five neighboring hills Bhangora, Bakrota, Terah, Potrin and Kathalgarh were acquired by the rulers of Chamba to convert this region into a hill-station and after that the place became a popular hill tourist destination. Then in the year 1861, Dalhousie became a special part of Gurdaspur district. Ever since Dalhousie became a part of Himachal Pradesh in 1966, it has come to be known as a popular tourist destination of the world.

Top Tourist Places in Dalhousie

Dalhousie is famous for its beauty and attractive tourist places around. You can also take part in many adventure activities along with seeing the tourist places here. Here we are telling you about top tourist places of Dalhousie where you must visit.

Khajjiar
Khajjiar is a small town located near Dalhousie which is also known as ‘Mini Switzerland’ or ‘Switzerland of India’. One of the main places to visit in Dalhousie for couples is Khajjiar. Khajjiar is 24 km away from Dalhousie city, which is covered with its dense pine trees. Situated at an altitude of 6,500 feet, Khajjiar is one of the best places to visit near Dalhousie for its scenic beauty and picturesque landscape. You can do fun activities like paragliding, trekking, horse riding and zorbing at this place.

Satdhara Falls

Satdhara Falls is located in the Chamba Valley, surrounded by spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and fresh deodar trees. The meaning of ‘Satdhara’ is seven springs, this waterfall is named Satdhara because of the mixing of the waters of seven beautiful springs. The water of these springs meets at a point 2036 meters above the sea. This place is a special place for those people who want to experience peace by getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Satdhara Falls is also known for its medicinal properties as mica is found in the water here, which has properties to heal skin diseases.

Panchpula

Panchpula, a waterfall surrounded by green deodar trees, is one of the major tourist places in Dalhousie. Panchpula is the place where you can see five streams coming together. The main stream of Panchpula supplies water to various places around Dalhousie. This place is known for trekking and for its beautiful scenery. A samadhi (memorial) has been built in the memory of a great revolutionary Sardar Ajit Singh (uncle of Shaheed Bhagat Singh) near Panchpula, where he breathed his last. The pristine waters of this place are best enjoyed during the monsoon season, when the water falls, the atmosphere here makes the tourists happy.

Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary

Kalatop Khajjiar Sanctuary also known as Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Chambal district of Himachal Pradesh and is one of the top tourist places in Dalhousie. The meaning of the name Kalatop is ‘black hat’, which probably refers to the dense black forest on the highest hill in the sanctuary. Kalatop is quite rich in flora and fauna and its natural beauty attracts tourists immensely.

You can reach this sanctuary by trekking. This place has its own identity and this place is also very popular among the people. If both of you are wildlife lovers, then you can spot animals like black bear, partridge, leopard and Himalayan black marten here.

Chamunda Devi Temple

If you are planning to visit Dalhousie with your family and friends, then you must take the time to visit the ancient Chamunda Devi located at a distance of 130 kms from Dalhousie. Chamunda Devi Temple is an important religious center dedicated to Goddess Kali. It is said about this temple that Goddess Ambika killed the demons Munda and Chanda here. In this temple, the goddess is kept wrapped in a red cloth, tourists coming here are not allowed to touch the idol of the goddess. Tourists also get to see many beautiful scenes in this area.

Bakrota Hills

Bakrota Hills, also known as “Upper Bakrota”, is the highest point of Dalhousie and is a circle of a road called Bakrota Walk, which leads to Khajjiar. Even though this place does not have much to attract tourists, but taking a walk here and looking at the fascinating scenery all around gives immense pleasure to the eyes of the tourists. Let us tell you that this area is surrounded by deodar trees and green hills from all sides.

Sach Pass

If you love adventure, then Sach Pass, located near Dalhousie, is the right place for you. Sach Pass is a mountain pass situated at an altitude of 4500 meters above the Pir Panjal mountain range and connects Dalhousie with Chamba and Pangi valleys. Let us tell you that at a distance of 150 km from Dalhousie, this route is one of the most difficult routes to cross in North India. Those who love adventure often visit Sach Pass (when it is open) and enjoy the thrilling experience of driving a bike or car from here.

If you travel this route, don’t take any risk and take an experienced driver with you. It is the preferred way for people to reach Chamba or Pangi Valley and is a famous trekking point from Dalhousie.

Subhash Baoli

Subhash Baoli is located 1 km away from Gandhi Chowk in Dalhousie. This is a place named after the famous freedom fighter Subhas Chandra Bose. Subhash Baoli is known for its beautiful natural scenery, snowy mountain scenery and beauty spread far and wide. Subhash Baoli is the place where Subhash Chandra Bose had come in 1937 due to health issues and he stayed at this place for 7 months. Staying at this place, he was completely fine. There is also a beautiful waterfall for the tourists visiting here which flows in the glacial stream.

Dainkund Peak

Dainkund Peak also known as Singing Hill is situated at an altitude of 2755 meters above sea level in Dalhousie. Let us tell you that due to this being the highest place in Dalhousie, amazing views of valleys and mountains can be seen from here. For nature lovers, the serene place is like heaven. Situated in the Dalhousie region, Dainkund is truly a place to visit, which is famous for its beautiful snow-capped peaks and lush green surroundings. Dainkund Peak attracts a large number of tourists from all over the country every year.

Ganji Pahari

Ganji Pahari is a beautiful hill situated at a distance of 5 kms from Dalhousie city on Pathankot road. The name of this mountain Ganji hill was derived from its special feature because there is complete absence of vegetation on this hill. Being located near Dalhousie, this hill is a favorite picnic spot. During winters this area gets covered with thick snow which presents a panoramic view.

Rock Garden

Rock Garden is a beautiful garden and a popular picnic spot in Dalhousie. Apart from relaxing in this park, tourists can also enjoy the many adventure sports available in this area, which include zip lining etc.

Mall Raod

It is one of the most suitable places to buy handmade products of Himachal Pradesh. The handmade warm clothes and khadi wears found in Mall Road are very much liked by the tourists. The full name of Mall Road Market in Dalhousie is Mall Road Gandhi Chowk. In fact, Dalhousie does not have a mall road like Manali and Shimla.
The Gandhi Chowk market here is also known as Mall Road. The beauty of this market is worth seeing in the evening. If you have come to visit Dalhousie with your family or friends, then in the evening you can enjoy eating street food in the Mall Road Market of Dalhousie.

You can also buy dolls made in Dalhousie here very comfortably from this market. From this market, you can see very beautiful views of the mountain range of Pir Panjal. Mall Road located in Dalhousie is one of the most suitable places for shopping, street food, photography and relaxing with your loved ones.

Tibati Market Dalhousie

Mall Road Gandhi Chowk is very famous in the local markets of Dalhousie. Situated near Dalhousie’s most prominent market Mall Road Gandhi Chowk, Tibetan Market is the most suitable market for buying famous handicrafts made products and traditional clothes of Himachal.

In this market, you will find many products related to Tibetan culture and handicrafts in addition to items related to the culture of Himachal. You can also shop for a lot of home decor items in the Tibetan market located in Gandhi Chowk.

You can buy handmade carpets, warm clothes, Chamba’s famous chappals, shawls, local toys and jewelry made in the traditional way at reasonable prices. The Tibetan market is one of the best places to buy traditional items from Himachal Pradesh and Dalhousie.

Dalhousie Local Food

Dalhousie is one such tourist destination that offers you many options for food. You can enjoy exclusive North-Indian food at this place, apart from buying some fresh and Chinese snacks at local dhabas here at very low prices. Apart from all this, you can also taste some special dishes along with a variety of dishes found in the eateries associated with the hotels and resorts here. Himachali cuisine is very simple and simple which mainly consists of chapati, dal, gravy and curd etc.

Best Time To Visit Dalhousie

Due to its ideal climate, Dalhousie is a place that you can visit throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Dalhousie is between March-June. The snow starts melting here in the months of March and April and when the rays of the sun hit the snow-capped mountains and pastures, the place is worth seeing. The weather here is very pleasant at this time, you can experience cold in March and April and in the month of June the temperature starts rising slightly. Dalhousie has a pleasant weather even in the summer months, due to which it is like a paradise for nature lovers. Monsoon is also a pleasant weather here as moderate rainfall does not hinder your plans.

How To Reach Dalhousie
If you are planning to visit Dalhousie then here we are giving information about the ways to reach Dalhousie.

By Air

Gaggal airport in Kangra is the nearest domestic airport to reach Dalhousie by air. This airport is 13 km away from the city and taxis are easily available from here to reach Dalhousie Hill Station. Apart from this you can also take flight to other airports Chandigarh (255 kms), Amritsar (208 kms) and Jammu (200 kms).

By Train

The nearest rail station to Dalhousie is Pathankot. Which is located 80 km away from this hill town and is well connected to various cities of India, such as Delhi, Mumbai and Amritsar via several trains. You will get taxis from outside to reach Dalhousie from Pathankot railway station.

By Road

Dalhousie is well connected by road to major nearby cities and places. State bus services and luxury coaches connect Dalhousie to all major nearby places and cities. Overnight luxury buses are also available from Delhi to Dalhousie. Taxis and private vehicles are also available on this route.

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Shimla :Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh and it is also the most popular hill station and beautiful place in northern India. Shimla’s mall road, ridge, toy train and colonial architecture are quite popular among tourists, honeymooners and families visiting here. Shimla is one of the most famous tourist places in the country situated at an altitude of 2200 meters. Shimla has many historical temples as well as colonial style buildings. Set amidst beautiful hills and mysterious forests, Shimla is said to be the erstwhile summer capital of British India, and the captivating natural beauty and atmosphere of this city makes any tourist come here again.

Manali : Manali is one of the most popular hill stations in the country situated amidst the snow-capped slopes of the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar ranges. Manali is situated at an altitude of 1950 meters above sea level which is a part of Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh. Manali is an extraordinary natural destination with its lush green forests, meadows dotted with flowers, blue streams and a constant scent of freshness. Manali is a paradise for nature-loving tourists and lovers. This Tibetan monastery and ancient temple attract tourists the most. The hill station has museums, river adventures, temples, trekking trails, from villages to bumpy lanes, the sound of water of flowing rivers and the sound of birds, a paradise for tourists and lovers.

Kullu :Kullu is a popular tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh along with Manali which is an open valley with its panoramic views and majestic hills covered with deodar trees. Kullu is a place situated at an altitude of 1230 meters which is like a paradise for nature lovers. Kullu’s greenery, pristine river and a wonderful climate make it extremely special. Generally, tourists visiting Himachal like to visit both Kullu and Manali together. Travelers visiting Kullu and Manali can take part in many adventure sports activities like river rafting, trekking, mountaineering etc. Raghunath Temple and Jagannathi Devi Temple are very famous in Kullu, if you go to visit here, do not forget to visit these temples.

Dalhousie : Dalhousie is a small town situated in the lap of Himachal Pradesh, which is like a paradise for the tourists visiting here. It is the epitome of old world charm, captivating everyone with its natural landscape, pine-clad valleys, mountains of flowers, meadows, fast-flowing rivers, spectacular mist. The air smell of Scottish and Victorian architecture and the surroundings will remind you of the British era. Dalhousie is one of the most visited places in Himachal Pradesh, which is famous for its natural beauty and ancient charm.

Dharamshala : Dharamshala is a very special tourist place in Himachal Pradesh, which is located at a distance of 17 kilometers from Kangra. Dharamshala is considered to be the gateway to the Kangra Valley. The snow-capped Dhauladhar mountain range makes this place very special. Dharamsala is also known as the holy abode of the Dalai Lama. Dharamshala is divided into upper and lower divisions with different elevations. Lower division is Dharamshala town and upper-division is located 3 km away and is popularly known as Mcleodganj. Dharamsala is visited for the bus connections and bustling market. Being a Tibetan hub, Dharamsala is a very special place in Himachal Pradesh to learn and learn about Buddhism and Tibetan culture.

Spiti Valley : Situated in Himachal Pradesh, Spiti Valley is surrounded by Himalayas on all sides which is situated at an altitude of 12,500 feet above sea level. The cold deserts, snow-capped mountains, winding roads and picturesque valleys of Spiti Valley enthrall the tourists visiting here. This is the only place in Himachal Pradesh that receives about 250 days of sunshine in a year, making it one of the coldest places in the country. You can go to Spiti by motor vehicle only during summer and this place is covered with thick snow for about 6 months of the year.

Kasauli : Kasauli is a small beautiful hill town situated at an altitude of 1900 meters in Himachal Pradesh and it is one of the most special tourist places of Himachal Pradesh. Kasauli is a hill town situated on the way from Chandigarh to Shimla, which is an ideal peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle of cities. Kasauli is a small town in the south-west part of Himachal, situated on the lower reaches of the Himalaya Mountains. Situated amidst beautiful deodar forests, Kasauli is also known for its mysteries for the grand Victorian buildings built by the British. Many endangered species of fauna are found in the dense forests of this region, the serene environment and charming serenity of Kasauli makes this place one of the most special tourist places in Himachal.

Kasauli, Solan is a region blessed with a pleasant climate throughout the year, Solan is the district headquarters and the famous temple of Shoolini Devi. Jatoli village and Lord Shiva temple in Solan and Buddhist Dolanji Bon Math can be seen on Rajgarh Road. Known as the “Mushroom City of India”, Solan has an old brewery and a huge Horticulture and Forestry University at Nauni. Rajgarh is full of orchards growing fruit like apricots and peaches, on the way to Kasauli, Solan you can stop for fishing at Gaura.

Kinnaur : Kinnaur also known as “Land of God” is situated at a distance of about 235 kms from Shimla. Kinnaur is a place situated between Sutlej, BSP and Spiti river which is quite famous for the beauty of its lush green and rocky mountains. It shows the existence of a different kind of culture rather than the brotherhood of Hinduism and Buddhism. Any Hindu tourists who come to this place definitely go to see the famous Kinnar Kailash. It is said that Kinnar Kailash belongs to Lord Shiva and Shivling and along with it, it is also related to the stories of Pandavas. There are also old Buddhist monasteries and temples nearby in Kinnaur which have a different significance in their own right and are also worshiped by Buddhists.

Rewalsar Lake Mandi : Mandi is a historical city of Himachal Pradesh situated on the banks of Beas river. It has long been an important commercial center and the sage Mandava is said to have meditated here. It is the one time capital of the princely state of Mandi and a rapidly developing city which still retains its original charm and character. Today, it is a district headquarters. Mandi is famous for its 81 old stone temples and exquisite carvings, often referred to as the ‘Varanasi of the Hills’.

The city has old palaces and many examples of ‘colonial’ architecture. The temples of Bhootnath, Trilokinath, Panchavaktra and Shyamkali are more famous in Mandi, Rewalsar. The week-long International Shivratri fair is the main attraction of the region every year. In the year 2013, this fair was started in March. Cultural programs like exhibitions, sports etc., which take place in the fair attract a lot of tourists.

Bir Billing Valley Adventures : Bir Billing is a small town located in the state of Himachal Pradesh which is known for thrilling sports like paragliding, trek and meditation. Bir Billing is one of the best places in the world for paragliding which also hosts the World Paragliding Championships every year. In this, the take-off site is called Billing and the landing site is called Bir. The city of Bir in Himachal Pradesh is also known for meditation and is also a major center of meditation.

Kufri Hill Station : Kufri is one of the most special tourist places in Himachal Pradesh which is one of the most sought after holiday destinations. Kufri is about 10 km from Shimla. If you are coming to Shimla then definitely go to visit this place. Due to Kufri being at a high altitude, snow is visible everywhere during winters. Although there is not much to see in Kufri, but the temples and panoramic views here make this place very special. Kufri is known as a support for tourists visiting Shimla, hence it is relatively crowded.

Palampur : Palampur is a very special tourist destination of Himachal Pradesh, which is surrounded by deodar forests and tea plantations. Several rivers flow through the city of Palampur and the city is also known for its wonderful amalgamation of water and greenery. Situated amidst the majestic Dhauladhar ranges, Palampur is famous worldwide for its tea gardens and good quality of tea. Palampur was first visited by the British after which it was transformed into a center of trade and commerce. The Victorian style mansions and palaces located in this city look very beautiful. If you are going to visit Himachal Pradesh then do not forget to visit Palampur.

Solang Valley:  The name Solang Valley is derived from the combination of the words Solang and Valley. It is a tourist side hike at the top of the Kullu Valley in Himachal Pradesh, 14 km west of the resort town of Manali on the way to Rohtang Pass, and is known for its summer and winter sports activities.
The sports most enjoyed by the tourists are parachuting, paragliding, skating and zorring.
Apart from these special tourist places of Himachal Pradesh, you can visit Nako Lake, Beas Kund, Bhrigu Lake, Chandratal Suraj Tal, Manalidshahri Lake, Kareri Lake, Prashar Lake, Manimahesh Lake, Lama Dal, Shri Mani Karan Sahib, Hidimba Devi Temple, Bijli Mahadev Temple One can also visit Arjun Cave, Jagtsukh Shiva Temple, Manu Temple, Beas Kund, Bhrigu Lake, Chandrakhani Pass, Manali Wildlife Sanctuary, Great Himalayan National Park.

Famous & Local Food Of Himachal : The state of Himachal Pradesh has the thali of all the states of India with styles, food habits, ingredients and cuisines. But the food here is more influenced by Punjabi and Tibetan cuisines. Talking about the famous and local food of Himachal Pradesh, the staple food in the state includes pulses, rice, broth, roti and vegetables. Meat, especially red meat, is also a favourite, and almost all the dishes here are prepared with aromatic gravy made with local aromatic spices and herbs. Sidu, Patande, Chowk, Bhagjeri, Sesame Chutney, Khatta, Black Dal, Aloo Palda, Auria Kadu, Spicy Lotus are the attractions here. Along with traditional You can have food of your choice in prominent places here.

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