Dalhousie Travel Guide
One of the most sought after hill stations in Himachal Pradesh is Dalhousie. Built on five hills, Dalhousie is located on the west of the Dhauladhar range of the Himalayas. The hill station of Dalhousie is full of old world charm and holds lingering echos of the Raj era. It covers an area of 14 sq. km. and is built on five hills – Kathlog, Patreyn, Tehra, Bakrota and Balun. It is named after the British governor General of the 19th century, Lord Dalhousie. The town’s heights varies between 525 m and 2,378 m, and is surrounded by varied vegetation – pines, deodars, oaks and flowering rhododendron.
Dalhousie has charming colonial architecture, including some beautiful churches. Its location presents panoramic views of the plains and like a long silver line, the river Ravi twists and turns below Dalhousie. The spectacular snow-covered Dhauladhar mountains are also visible form this enchanting town.
The lingering old-world charm of colonial era reminds us of the times when British took hold of the reins of this city from Raja of Chamba. Dalhousie is also famous for its public schools. The evergreens here include huge pine trees, deodars, oaks and rhododendron plants. Its old churches from British Raj are worth a visit.
Dalhousie Climate
In winter, the temperature can drop to freezing point when heavy woolens are required. The summer temperature are mild and light woolens / cottons are recommended.
Summers
Summer season in Dalhousie lasts from mid-March to mid-June. In this season, temperature is moderate and thermometer fluctuates between 15.5 deg C and 25.5 deg C. When rest of India experiences hot and humid weather, Dalhousie remains pleasant and cool. Thus, people who want some respite from merciless hot temperature opt for the hill resort.
Winters
Dalhousie experiences heavy snowfall and even rain in winters, which last from November to February. The winters are tough here. Being located at high altitude, the place experiences minus temperature in winters. So in winters required woolen cloths like like shawls, sweater, cardigans etc.
How to reach Dalhousie
By Air
The airport at Gaggal in Kangra is at a distance of 135 km, this is the nearest airport. It takers around four hours to reach Dalhousie from this place. As the flights are limited, and location is far off travelers generally avoid air travel
By Bus/ Taxi: Distance from Dalhousie
| Delhi | 570 Kms | Approximate travel time
Taxis and buses are easily available from these places. |
| Chandigarh | 335 Kms | |
| Pathankot | 80 Kms | |
| Shimla | 430 Kms | |
| Chamba | 52 Kms | |
| Khajjiar | 26 Kms |
By Rail
The nearest railhead is Pathankot, 80 km away. Pathankot is on Delhi Jammu Railway line and there are plenty of trains to choose from at different timings.
Tourist Spots in Dalhousie
Churches:
There are four beautiful churches in Dalhousie. These are St. Andrew’s Church and St. Patrick’s Church at Balun, St. Francis church at Subhash Chowk and St.John’s Church at Gandhi Chowk.
Subhash Baoli (1 km):
It was at this enchanting spot surrounded by majestic trees, that Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose spent time in 1937, contemplating and meditating. It is named after Subhash Chandra Bose, who is believed to have visited the place every time he traveled to Dalhousie. The spring of Subhash Baoli is situated at a height of 6,678 ft in Dalhousie and provides excellent views of snow-capped mountains.
Panchpula (3 km):
This is a picturesque spot where a stream feed a series of pools. A monument has been built here in memory of the freedom fighter, Sardar Ajit Singh. Located at a distance of 3 kilometers from Dalhousie, Panjpulla or a memorial with five bridges is a popular tourist attraction. It has a natural tank and calming surroundings. There are several small natural pools here that are fed by perennial streams.
Kalatop wildlife santuary(10 km):
This wild life sanctuary is a home to the Ghoral, Himalayan black bear and barking deer. The sanctuary is full of versatile flora and fauna. Kalatop Wildlife Sanctuary also offers good trekking & mountaineering opportunities to travelers, for further exploration of nature as well as adventure.
Shopping in Dalhousie
Gandhi Chowk and Subash Chowk
Both these spots are market places, full of attractions for shopping, with historical importance. Shops and restaurant situated near Gandhi Chowk show the lifestyle of Dalhousie. Similarly, Subhash Chowk houses Himachal Handloom Industry showrooms, where travelers shop for indigenous artifacts and products.
