About Dalhousie

Dalhousie is a hill station & a prominent tourist spot in the Dhauladhar range of Himachal Pradesh. This high-altitude town, established in 1854, is named after a British governor general, Lord Dalhousie, who developed it for a summer retreat. Also known as the gateway to the Chambal district, Dalhousie is built over five hills, Kathlog, Portreyn, Tehra, Bakrota, and Balun, and stretches over an area of 13 sq km. Dalhousie is home to colonial-era buildings & offers mesmerizing views of the snow-capped peaks.

Tourist Attractions In Dalhousie : 8

1: Kalatop Wildlife Reserve

Kalatop Wildlife Reserve is famous for Himalayan bears, spread over an area of 20 sq km & is about 6 km from Dalhousie. The sanctuary falls under the district of Chamba and spreads over an area of 1962 hectares, covered with thick deodar trees. The vegetation of this sanctuary includes blue pine, fir, and deodar trees. Animals and birds of different species reside in this sanctuary, making it a popular tourist destination in the state & is home to a variety of leopards, bears, deer, squirrel, barking goral, serow, langur, jackal, and the Himalayan black marten.

2: Panchpula

Panchpula means five bridges & is also known as the lifeline of Dalhousie, about 3 km from Dalhousie. Panchpula is famous for gushing streams, lush green surroundings, and boating facilities & is also known as the water source of Dalhousie. This stream originates from the northern side of Dayakund, which later cuts through an abyss and then flows into the different water bodies in Panchpula. A monument named Panchpula, built in memory of Sardar Ajit Singh, a renowned revolutionary leader, has been erected at the meeting point of the streams.

3: Dainkund Peak

Dainkund peak is the highest in Dalhousie, about 10 km from Dalhousie & offers mesmerizing views of the rivers Chenab, Ravi, and Beas. This peak gives tourists a 360° view of the entire valley. Flowing breezes produce a symphonic sound in the mountain, hence the peak's name, singing hill. Trekking across the valley offers scenic views and adventure for adventure lovers.

4: Ganji Pahari

The hill is known as Ganji Pahari because not a single tree is found here & is at a distance of 1-hour drive from Dalhousie. This place is perfect for trekking. Ganji Pahari is one of the noted nature walks in Dalhousie. The literal meaning of Ganji Pahari is a bald hill. At this place, travelers can enjoy the fresh air and the beautiful view of the mountains.

5: Chamera Lake

Chamera Lake is about 25 km from Dalhousie & has a water sports center established by Himachal Tourism & the lake is also a part of the hydel electric project.

6: Satdhara Falls

Satdhara is a beautiful waterfall that contains seven falls and has a large amount of sulphur in it. This waterfall lies close to Panchpula & is believed to bear medicinal properties by locals.

7: Mall Road Dalhousie

Mall road is the shopping street of Dalhousie selling local goods & other items of Dalhousie & a walkaway on mall road offers picturesque views of the Pir Panjal mountain ranges.

8: Rang Mahal

Rang Mahal, constructed by Raja Umaid Singh, has beautiful architecture with the main attraction being the 18-century inscriptions based on the life of God Krishna & has many shops inside.

How To Reach Dalhousie

By Air - Pathankot is the closest domestic airport, about 74 km from Dalhousie but is connected to New Delhi only. The second nearest airport is Gaggal airport in the Kangra district, about 140 km from the town & is well-connected to both domestic and international cities. A bus or private cab/taxi from Kangra to Dalhousie is available easily at affordable rates.

By Bus - The bus service from Dalhousie bus stand in the Moti Tiba area & is also available for most cities.

By Train - Pathankot railway station is the nearest railway station from Dalhousie, about 75 kilometers from Dalhousie.

By Self Drive - The road network in Dalhousie is quite good & one can easily venture out to Dalhousie from nearby cities. En route, one can enjoy stunning mountain beauty & the green environs.

Local Transport - For the beautiful town of Dalhousie, walking around carefree is the perfect way to enjoy time here. For longer trips around town, taxis are the best bet and are available easily.